Elk walking across mossy ground is the kind of sight that greets campers who push a quarter mile or so down FR 251, away from the highway noise that affects spots closer to the road. Situated within Routt National Forest at roughly 9,500 feet elevation, this free dispersed area gives access to dense conifer coverage and multiple sites spread along the forest road. No amenities here. Campfires are permitted when no ban is in effect, and Forest Service workers do make rounds to remind campers of active restrictions.
Vehicle clearance matters on this road. Low-clearance vehicles can find a few spots near the entrance, but those sites have limited tree cover and catch more road noise. High-clearance or 4x4 rigs have the run of the road past the gate, where sites open up with heavier shade and more separation from neighboring campers. Mosquitoes are active, particularly around evening hours, so bug spray is worth packing.
Campers exploring campgrounds near Steamboat Springs will find several options in this corridor, including Rabbit Ears Pass Dispersed — Routt NF FR-19 and Dumont Campground within a short distance. Cell service is listed as available. "We even saw elk walking around the mossy ground," noted one reviewer, underscoring that wildlife sightings are common enough to expect rather than hope for. This spot works best for self-sufficient campers with capable vehicles who want elevation, tree cover, and room to spread out without a fee.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy for sensitive groups.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251 is located in Colorado near Steamboat Springs
Coordinates
40.38707057854657 N
106.63582318989495 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/1/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 8/1/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/1/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/1/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 8/1/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/1/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 21 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 31 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 42 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 3 hrs 3 min from Greeley, CO












