Map showing campground location near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, Colorado

Camper submitted image from Sandbeach Lake Backcountry Campsite — Rocky Mountain National Park

Sandbeach Lake Backcountry Campsite — Rocky Mountain National Park

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Sitting at the end of the Sandbeach Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin area, this backcountry site requires an 8.7-mile round-trip hike that climbs steadily over loose, rocky terrain. Four designated sites sit along the lakeshore. A sandy beach fronts the lake, where swimming is permitted, but fishing is not. A creek feeding the lake from the right side of the trail provides a water source; treat all water before drinking. Reservations are required through Recreation.gov under "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits," and a hard-sided bear canister is mandatory from April through October. The permit costs $36. Campers exploring campgrounds near Rocky Mountain National Park will find this one of the more committing approaches in the park, so plan to book well in advance during summer months.

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Map & DirectionsSandbeach Lake Backcountry Campsite is located in Colorado near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

Public Campground

Coordinates

40.21929762 N
105.60070597 W

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Access

Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

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General Info

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Drive Time

56 min from Boulder, CO
1 hr 19 min from Fort Collins, CO
1 hr 20 min from Greeley, CO
1 hr 23 min from Denver, CO

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Sandbeach Lake Backcountry Campsite

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2 Reviews

K W.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 4, 2022

Inaccurate

This site (and all Rocky Mountain National Park wilderness sites) is reservation only. Reservations can be made by searching "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits" on Recreation.gov. The price per permit is $36. There is no dispersed camping within the park.

Hard-sided bear canisters are required for storage of food and all other scented items from April 1st-October 31st.

For more information on wilderness camping in Rocky Mountain National Park visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping.htm

Molly Y.

Ranger

Reviewed Aug. 20, 2019

Great Spot for a Rocky Mountain Tan

Sandbeach Lake Trail is in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail is approximately 8.7 miles roundtrip. The trailhead is in the Wild Basin area. The hike in is mainly uphill and it very rocky (loose baseball size rocks at times).

There are 4 backcountry campsites at Sandbeach Lake. We camped at the final backcountry site (you just follow the path alongside the lake to the left when you arrive).

The sandy beach is amazing! We were able to spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the beautiful views. (Fishing is not allowed here)

There is a creek that flows into Sandbeach Lake. You go to the right when you arrive to find this. We were able to fill up on water at the creek (just remember to treat your water!).

Month of VisitAugust

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp at Sandbeach Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Yes, camping is available at Sandbeach Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are four designated backcountry campsites at the lake. These sites are located in the Wild Basin area of the park and require advance reservations. No dispersed camping is permitted within Rocky Mountain National Park. The backcountry campsites offer a secluded wilderness experience, but campers should be prepared for the challenging hike to reach them.

What permits are required for camping at Sandbeach Lake?

Wilderness permits are required for camping at Sandbeach Lake. These permits cost $36 and must be obtained through Recreation.gov by searching for "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits." All backcountry camping in Rocky Mountain National Park requires advance reservations - no walk-up permits are available. Hard-sided bear canisters are mandatory for food storage at these backcountry sites. Be sure to secure your permit well in advance, especially during peak summer months when availability is limited.

What is the trail like to Sandbeach Lake in Colorado?

The Sandbeach Lake Trail is a challenging 8.7-mile roundtrip hike located in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail is predominantly uphill on the way to the lake with considerable elevation gain. The path is quite rocky throughout, with sections of loose baseball-sized rocks that can make footing difficult. Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous journey, wear appropriate footwear, and allow plenty of time to reach the lake. The trail's difficulty makes reaching the lake's scenic beauty all the more rewarding.

What activities can you do at Sandbeach Lake besides camping?

Sandbeach Lake offers numerous activities beyond camping. Hiking is the primary attraction, with the lake serving as a rewarding destination or a base for further exploration. Photography opportunities abound with scenic mountain views and possible wildlife sightings. Fishing is permitted (Colorado fishing license required), and the alpine lake setting is perfect for nature observation and stargazing. During warmer months, some visitors enjoy wading along the shoreline, though the water remains cold year-round. Bird watching and wildflower identification are popular in season.

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