Sylvan Lake State Park
00 reviewPO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States
Sylvan Lake State Park
$10.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites cost $28 per night, which includes basic amenities. A day pass is $10. Group sites and premium cabins may have higher fees.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Sylvan Lake State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine alpine setting and exceptional recreational opportunities. This mountain sanctuary features 44 thoughtfully positioned campsites, 9 cozy cabins, and 3 unique yurts, each offering a different way to experience the wilderness. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear lake, exploring miles of scenic hiking trails, or capturing the perfect photograph of the dramatic mountain landscape, this impeccably maintained park delivers an unforgettable Rocky Mountain adventure. Visitors consistently praise the park's peaceful atmosphere, spotless facilities, and perfect balance of modern conveniences with untouched natural beauty.
Sylvan Lake State Park accommodates a broad range of camping preferences, including tent and RV camping, primitive options, group camping, and cabin and yurt rentals.
Historical SignificanceIn 2019, Sylvan Lake State Park underwent a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into this beloved mountain retreat. The extensive renovation project included the complete replacement of the historic dam and thoughtful updates to campsites, ensuring the park's legacy continues for future generations. Each fall, the park takes on special significance as it becomes a cherished destination during Colorado's hunting season, when the aspens turn gold and elk bugle echoes through the valleys—a tradition that connects modern visitors to the region's rich outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Colorado's changing seasons at Sylvan Lake, where each time of year paints the landscape in different colors. Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland with frigid temperatures that create perfect conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. As spring arrives, wildflowers begin their colorful display, leading into mild summer days ideal for hiking and fishing—though wise campers pack warm layers for those crisp mountain evenings. The park's high-altitude climate means temperatures can shift quickly, creating an ever-changing atmospheric canvas that keeps every visit unique.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,500 feet above sea level, Sylvan Lake State Park offers visitors a true high-altitude experience. This lofty elevation creates refreshingly cool evening temperatures even during summer's warmest days, making it an ideal escape from lower elevation heat. The thin mountain air adds a crisp clarity to views and creates those brilliantly blue Colorado skies that photographers dream about, while reminding visitors to take it easy their first day as they adjust to the altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up to the sight of morning mist rising from a mirror-like mountain lake, surrounded by dense forests of quaking aspens and stately evergreens. This is the daily reality at Sylvan Lake State Park, where the landscape reads like a love letter to the Colorado Rockies. The park's diverse ecosystem supports an incredible array of wildlife—from majestic moose browsing along the shoreline to tiny hummingbirds darting between wildflowers. Every trail reveals new vistas of towering peaks and hidden meadows, while the lake itself serves as the park's sparkling centerpiece, reflecting the surrounding mountains in its calm waters.
Geological RegionSylvan Lake State Park sits like a jewel within the expansive White River National Forest, showcasing the geological wonders of the Colorado Rockies. This remarkable landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient tectonic forces thrust these mountains skyward and glacial activity carved out the perfect basin for today's picturesque lake. The surrounding peaks and forested slopes create a natural amphitheater that not only provides stunning 360-degree views but also shelters the park from harsh weather, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the greater Rocky Mountain region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible sites are available, including the Sylvan Lake Elk Run 016HD Basic site, which is specifically designated as an accessible option. Pathways to certain cabins may involve short walks from parking areas, such as a 20-meter walk to Cabin #8, as noted by reviewers.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Maximum equipment lengths range from 20 to 120 feet depending on the site.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some cabins and yurts providing a remote and secluded experience. Cabin #8, for instance, is noted as being 'the furthest one up and away from everything,' while other areas like Elk Run provide clustered camping spaces.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin #8 offers exceptional privacy and scenic views. Tent site #31 is next to a creek, ideal for fishing.
Best CampsitesCabin #8 and Tent site #31 are frequently praised for views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time rules are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out rules are unclear.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit rules not included in the provided data.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard campsites allow up to 6 guests, while cabins vary from 5 to 12 guests.
Groups
The Elk Run Group Site accommodates up to 60 people and is described as having 'really cool hangout areas that are better than the normal campsites.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutElk Run Campground features lake views and Brush Creek Valley sites. Fisherman's Paradise Campground offers pull-through and back-in sites near the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but facilities like flush toilets and showers are only available during the summer.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/Parks/sylvanlake or through Aspira Call Center at 1-800-244-5613.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest that walk-up availability may be limited during summer due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyAs per the authoritative content, cancellation fees vary depending on the timing of cancellation. Changes made closer to the reservation date incur higher penalties, with 100% retention for cancellations within 7 days of arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sylvan Lake State Park offers an extensive range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are also popular on the lake. While swimming is prohibited, the park's trails and natural beauty make it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The park features a variety of trails, including an easy one-mile loop around the lake and more challenging trails leading into the surrounding White River National Forest. A reviewer noted, 'The lake trail is a nice, easy 1-mile loop,' while another said, 'We went on a trail about 1.6 mi with my 4 y.o. he loved it.'Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Sylvan Lake, with opportunities for both shore and boat fishing. Species include rainbow trout, and fishing access points are abundant. One user mentioned, 'We caught some beautiful rainbows,' and another described it as 'Fun fishing for the kids.'Biking
Biking is allowed within the park, and trails cater to various skill levels. Specific details about the biking terrain are not provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed on the lake, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Rentals are sometimes available, although not during the COVID-19 pandemic. One reviewer said, 'The waters were very calm, despite there being a breeze around the lake.'Wildlife viewing
The park is rich in wildlife, including moose, mule deer, and bears. Hummingbirds are frequently seen around the campground, and one reviewer noted, 'Love the not-shy hummingbirds around the campground.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The Visitor Center offers interpretive programs and a well-stocked gift shop. One visitor stated, 'The gift shop at the Visitor Center is nice, clean, well stocked with nice gifts at a great price.'Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing, making it a year-round destination. A reviewer noted, 'We loved the cabins on the hill because it felt remote like you were almost alone in the woods.'Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are popular at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated areas with fire rings.
- Quiet hours include restrictions on generator usage during nighttime.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks reported in user reviews. Road conditions are rough, especially during mud season.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include facilities in Eagle, Colorado, approximately 14 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months are noted as peak for reservations; fall is popular for hunting.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their location and pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground surrounds Sylvan Lake which offers fishing and paddleboarding opportunities.
Common complaintsRoad access and uneven campsites were noted by users as concerns.
HostUser reviews mention friendly and informative staff at the Visitor Center.
Campground Map
PO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States
Driving directionsTo Sylvan Lake, Cabins, Campsites: Take I-70 to Eagle (Exit 147). Turn south through the Eby Creek roundabouts, under the railroad and across the river, then west on US HWY 6 (Grand Ave) for 0.9 miles. At the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Sylvan Lake Road for 1.7 miles. Turn south on Brush Creek Road and travel 9 miles to the Visitor Center. Continue on Brush Creek Road until the road forks and becomes dirt. At the fork stay right and travel 5 miles to the lake, campground and cabins. To Brush Creek Yurts: Follow above directions until fork in road. Take left fork and travel 4.5 miles. The Yurts are on the left at the top of the switchbacks. The Yurts are 9.5 miles from the lake.
The road to Sylvan Lake State Park includes sections of Brush Creek Road that become unpaved at the fork. Some user reviews describe the access road as rough, particularly for camping trailers, but manageable with patience.Nearby places
Eagle (approx. 14 miles driving distance)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, fuel, and groceries can be found in Eagle, Colorado, about 14 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Sylvan Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Sylvan Lake State Park consistently receives praise for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and wide range of activities. Visitors frequently highlight the friendly and helpful park staff, as well as the well-maintained facilities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes the stunning lake views, well-maintained facilities, and abundant recreational opportunities. Activities such as fishing, hiking, and kayaking are commonly praised,...
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Common Concerns
Some visitors noted issues such as uneven campsites and the rough access road leading to the park. Swimming restrictions and the lack of shade at some campsites were also mentioned.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving spots in advance, bringing lanterns or additional lighting, and preparing for cold nights with proper gear. Dog owners should take precautions against ticks.
Seasonal Insights
Summer and fall are highlighted as the best seasons for camping due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Winter offers unique activities like snowshoeing and sledding, but visitors should prepare...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms and showers were really clean, but showers cost $1.00 for 4 minutes, totally worth it.' 2. 'The cabins are especially lovely here.' 3. 'Sylvan Lake is a photographer's dream.' 4. 'We...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Cabin #8 is noted as the most remote and private, while cabins #6, #7, and #9 are closer to amenities like vault toilets. Site #31 by the creek received positive remarks for its scenic location.
Accessibility Features
The park offers ADA-accessible sites and facilities. Visitors appreciated the availability of accessible options, though some pathways may be challenging for mobility-impaired individuals.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at most sites, but owners should be vigilant about ticks, as noted by one reviewer who found a tick on their dog after a visit.
Last updated August 10, 2025