Best Dispersed Camping near Yampa, CO

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and cabin users. The region includes both developed sites with electric hookups and more primitive options, with many campgrounds situated near lakes, rivers, and glaciers. Proximity to natural attractions like Mendenhall Glacier, Denali National Park, and Chugach State Park makes these locations popular bases for exploring Alaska's renowned landscapes.

Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, though with limited services. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months when tourism surges. Road conditions can vary significantly, with some areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities," noted one visitor about Cooper Creek.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with lakeside and oceanfront sites often filling quickly. Campgrounds near Seward offer views of Resurrection Bay, while inland options provide access to salmon fishing, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Bear activity is a common consideration throughout Alaska's camping areas, with proper food storage essential. Several visitors mentioned the quality of facilities varies widely, from primitive sites with pit toilets to developed campgrounds with showers and electric hookups. A review highlighted: "We really enjoyed camping here. This was our first place we camped in Alaska and it was very clean. It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active." Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent during summer months, particularly in areas near water, so bug protection is recommended for comfortable camping experiences.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Yampa, Colorado (74)

    1. Bear River Designated Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Yampa, CO
    9 miles
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Please make sure you are leaving no trace! There are a lot of people around this area, please do your part to keep the land as natural as possible. The poop fairy does NOT live here- pack it out!"

    2. Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed

    1 Review
    Yampa, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Allen Basin Reservoir is roughly 1 mile from Crosho Lake. The only way to access this reservoir is by using trail #1181 and either hiking in, or using an ATV/dirtbike."

    3. Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40

    5 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    16 miles
    Website

    "I stayed at another pull off a little higher up on the hlll and with that pull off you can get a little more down the mountain and hence away from the noise."

    "Quick stop overlooking Lake Catamount. This is actually a pull off from the highway but noticed people had camped here so we did too."

    4. FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass

    9 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "We went 2.7 miles up from the turn off of 40 and found a great spot on the left. There is a spot right there off the road but if you go in another 100 yards or so it's a great spot."

    "Very nice spot close to Steamboat Springs. (Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest) We arrived a little before noon on a Saturday in July."

    5. Pleasant Valley Roadside Camp on Hwy 40

    5 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "As it says in the name is RIGHT off the highway so be ready for lots of car noise and close quarters with other campers."

    "Summer is over, Labor Day evening, nobody except me here. 5-6 potential spots all in a row, lined up on dirt road that parallels 40 and far enough away to be quiet. Convenient to Steamboat 15 min."

    6. Off Highway 40 Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    16 miles

    "Stayed on a Saturday night and the road traffic wasn’t too terrible keeping us up at night, but you could hear the traffic pick up around 6:30 AM."

    8. Rock Creek Rec Area

    2 Reviews
    Kremmling, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Some are more accessible than others, but main road is well maintained. Definitely buggy during the summer, but manageable. Most if not all sites are right next to the creek."

    "secluded and quiet, sites have mountain grass. creek runs next to sites on west side.  #5 is my favorite. fishing, wildflowers, hiking.. love."

    9. Buffalo Pass Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    27 miles

    "I had just done Rock Creek's drive up to dispersed near Dillon and thought that was bad, but this was worse. "

    "Good camping right close to the road. Secluded and private with beautiful views. Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed."

    10. Red Dirt Reservoir

    3 Reviews
    Kremmling, CO
    18 miles

    "Spots for dispersed camping around the reservoir are only around the one end of the road and there are a good half dozen or so but they are all pretty good sized."

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Showing results 1-10 of 74 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Yampa, CO

156 Reviews of 74 Yampa Campgrounds



Guide to Yampa

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Yampa, Colorado, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Yampa

  • Enjoy fishing at the Red Dirt Reservoir, where you can catch trout while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Explore the hiking trails near Allen Basin Reservoir, which provides access to beautiful scenery and wildlife sightings, including elk.
  • Experience the serenity of FSR-296 - Dispersed Campsite, where you can set up camp and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Rabbit Ears Pass

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Yampa, Colorado

  • Always bring bug spray when camping at spots like Bear River Designated Dispersed, as mosquitoes can be quite bothersome during warmer months.
  • If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting Falls Road Dispersed Campsite during the week when fewer campers are around.
  • Ensure your vehicle has adequate clearance when accessing areas like Base Camp Trailhead, as some roads can be rocky and uneven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Yampa, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Yampa, CO is Bear River Designated Dispersed with a 3.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Yampa, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 74 dispersed camping locations near Yampa, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.