Dispersed camping near Yampa, Colorado offers remote sites at elevations between 7,500-10,500 feet with rapid temperature changes common even in summer months. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest provides multiple rustic camping options with varied road conditions that frequently deteriorate after rainfall or snowmelt. Nighttime temperatures can drop to mid-30s Fahrenheit even during July and August camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing at nearby reservoirs: Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed provides access to multiple fishing opportunities through trail #1181. "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," notes one camper at Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed.
Wildlife observation: The higher elevation areas around Buffalo Pass offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Saw evidence of moose elk deer and bear (and horses) but no sightings," reports a camper at FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass. Sites along forest roads provide opportunities to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Hiking from campsites: Many camping areas connect directly to trail systems. At Allen Basin Reservoir, one reviewer appreciated "access to the trail directly behind our camp spot." Similarly, campers at FR-302 noted, "We enjoyed walking and exploring and could go quite a ways straight from the site without having to go out to the road."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The more remote areas provide true isolation. "We camped at this spot for 3 days, and 2 nights and loved it! Plenty of coverage from the close by trees," shares a camper about Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed. This seclusion is a primary draw for rustic camping near Yampa.
Natural amenities: Many sites feature natural features that enhance the camping experience. At Rock Creek Rec Area, campers appreciate that "sites have mountain grass. creek runs next to sites on west side. #5 is my favorite," and another notes "Most if not all sites are right next to the creek." These natural features make Rock Creek Rec Area particularly popular.
Early season accessibility: Buffalo Pass provides camping options with varying seasonal accessibility. "Buff pass gate is open and you can mob over it if you have high clearance, 4wd, and definitely winter tires. It gets sketchy at some points, but you have your pick of camp sites," shares one early-season visitor to Buffalo Pass Dispersed.
What you should know
Fees and facilities: Despite being described as dispersed, some areas actually charge fees. At Bear River, a camper clarifies: "Not free, not dispersed. All sites are first come, first served and have nightly rates from $10-$20 per night. No reservations allowed." Similarly, at Yamcolo Reservoir Dispersed Camping and Boat Ramp, "Sites here are developed designated sites for $10-20 per night. Each site has a picnic table and a permanent fire grate."
Road conditions: Many sites require significant vehicle capability. One camper describes Buffalo Pass as having an "extremely rough road up, in a sprinter 4x4, not a lot of great options. seems better for tent camping. did see one or two RVs up, shocked they made it."
Site acquisition strategy: Popular areas fill quickly during peak season. For Bear River sites, one reviewer advises: "Plan to arrive early afternoon during the week as it typically fills up by Thursday."
Tips for camping with families
Temperature preparation: Pack appropriate clothing for cold nights, even in summer. "Bring lots of layers and warm clothes as summer temps at night and in the mornings at this elevation throughout the summer are very chilly around 35 degrees Fahrenheit," advises a camper at Bear River Designated Dispersed Camp Sites.
Insect management: Mosquitoes are a significant concern throughout the Yampa area. At FR-302, one camper suggests: "Some mosquitos but it was quite dry when we were there. I would imagine you'd need bug spray in wetter/marshier conditions, but worth it for the chance to see a moose!"
Accessibility considerations: Some areas provide easier access for families. "Red Dirt Reservoir" offers toilet facilities and reasonable access, though a visitor notes: "there is a ranch nearby with a lot of cows on the road up and near the sites that tend to make some noise but never got too close."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For travel trailers, scout ahead before committing. A camper at FR-302 advises: "You can get a small TT into the first 4-5 sites. I would not continue after what I think is site 5 on the right that has a fairly large rock fire pit and good loop for when leaving. Great parking area to drop and go scout with your vehicle first."
Leveling requirements: Many roadside pullouts require significant leveling. At the Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40, an RVer notes: "It's all uphill and unlevel. We had a truck tent and it wasn't terrible but you could feel it wasn't level."
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. One full-time RVer at FR-302 reported: "AT&T coverage was poor without a booster, with 0-2 Bars of 3G service, but nearly no data throughput. With our weboost, it got a little better with 1-3 bars of 3G and speeds up to about 0.4 MB/s, but the speed varied considerably. T-Mobile service was nonexistent."
