Bear Lake Campground
05 reviewsForest Service Road 900, 11 miles outside Yampa, CO
Bear Lake Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$20/single site, $30/double site, $40/triple site per day. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Service Road 900 cost $10/day.
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About this campground
Nestled high in the Colorado wilderness at 9,500 feet, Bear Lake Campground offers 43 thoughtfully designed campsites where towering evergreens create natural privacy screens between neighbors. This mountain sanctuary features spacious single sites along with 3 double-sites and 1 triple-site perfect for group adventures. Three interconnected loops wind through the dense forest, each site equipped with picnic tables and surrounded by nature's own walls of spruce and fir. Modern vault toilets, fresh potable water, and regular trash services ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. While the campground welcomes trailers up to 30 feet, the intimate forest setting makes it equally appealing for tent campers seeking solitude. Four-legged companions are welcome on leash, and savvy visitors come prepared with insect repellent for the enthusiastic summer mosquito population.
Bear Lake Campground caters to campers with tents, trailers, and RVs, and offers single, double, and triple sites. There are also designated dispersed campsites outside the main campground along Forest Road 900.
Historical SignificanceBear Lake Campground sits at the doorstep of the legendary Flat Tops Wilderness, a region steeped in Colorado's rich hunting heritage. For generations, these lands have drawn outdoorsmen seeking trophy elk and deer, following in the footsteps of early settlers and Native Americans who recognized this area's abundant wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty. Today's campers continue this tradition of wilderness appreciation, whether pursuing big game or simply soaking in the timeless mountain majesty.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings refreshingly cool mountain air to this high-altitude retreat, with temperatures that provide welcome relief from lower elevation heat. The alpine climate transforms dramatically with the seasons - from wildflower-dotted summers to snow-blanketed winter wonderlands. During peak summer months, the pristine mountain environment also hosts nature's less welcome guests - mosquitoes thrive in these conditions, making quality insect repellent as essential as your sleeping bag.
ElevationPerched at 9,500 feet above sea level, Bear Lake Campground offers the authentic high-country experience. This elevation brings crisp, clean air and noticeably cooler temperatures - a blessing on hot summer days but requiring warm layers even in July. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy their first day, staying hydrated and allowing their bodies to adjust to the thinner air. The elevation rewards adapters with stunning vistas, pristine air quality, and access to true alpine ecosystems.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of Engelmann spruce and Subalpine fir creates an enchanting forest canopy throughout the campground, punctuated by groves of shimmering Aspen and stately Lodgepole pines. Bear Lake sparkles nearby, while Yamcolo Reservoir offers additional waterfront exploration. This verdant mountain ecosystem provides endless opportunities for nature immersion - from morning birdsong concerts to evening wildlife watching. The dense forest creates a sense of intimate seclusion at each campsite while maintaining easy access to the area's stunning lakes and wilderness trails.
Geological RegionSituated within the magnificent Routt National Forest, Bear Lake Campground occupies a prime location where dense mixed conifer forests meet the dramatic landscapes of the nearby Flat Tops Wilderness. This unique geological position creates a diverse ecosystem where Engelmann spruce and Subalpine fir dominate the canopy, interspersed with bright patches of Aspen that glow golden in fall and resilient Lodgepole pines that speak to the forest's fire-adapted history. The surrounding terrain tells the story of ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving that shaped these mountains into today's recreational paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has no information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates trailers up to 30 feet in length, and specific sites are described as decently sized and level. The parking aprons are dirt.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are surrounded by trees which provide good separation and privacy between the campsites.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure the best sites with privacy and scenic views. Bring effective mosquito repellents.
Best CampsitesSites with views of the black cliffs near the wilderness boundary are highly rated.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site: 8
Groups
No information provided about group campsites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into three overlapping loops with dense tree cover providing privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day through October 1, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations can be made in advance; sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 43 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is recommended, especially during peak season.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Lake Campground offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It is also popular for big game hunting in the fall.
Hiking
There are nearby hiking options including the Mandall Creek Trail #1121, Smith Lake Trailhead, and Stillwater Trailhead. These trails provide access to the Flat Tops Wilderness, with Mandall Creek Trail extending 5 miles for foot and horse traffic.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available for brook and rainbow trout in Bear Lake and nearby reservoirs.Boating
Boating is limited to non-motorized options such as kayaks, belly boats, and canoes. Boaters are cautioned to avoid the bridge at the dam due to safety concerns.Wildlife viewing
The area is surrounded by dense trees and is likely to offer excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife, with the added attraction of scenic views of the Flat Tops Wilderness.Winter Activities
The area does not have specific information about winter recreation activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are permitted on Bear Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire grates.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito swarms are a significant concern during summer months as noted by user reviews. Potential wildlife encounters include bears. Road washboard conditions could pose challenges for vehicles.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest hospital and police services are located in Steamboat Springs, approximately 30 miles west. Ranger services are available within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-June to early-mid October.
Trash and recyclingTrash services are provided on-site. Campers are reminded to use bear-proof storage techniques for food.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Bear Lake and near Stillwater and Yamcolo Reservoirs. Bear Lake allows non-motorized boating and trout fishing.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations during summer. Rough washboard roads leading to the campground.
HostHosts are reported to be helpful and restrooms are maintained clean as per user reviews.
Campground Map
Forest Service Road 900, 11 miles outside Yampa, CO
Driving directionsFrom HWY 131, exit at Yampa on Moffat Street, next to the Sinclair Gas Station. Go a few blocks through downtown Yampa to Montgomery's General Store and Antlers Bar & Cafe, then follow CTY Rd 7 and signs towards Yamcolo Reservoir. Follow CTY Rd 7 for 7 miles, where the road turns to dirt, and becomes Forest Service Road 900, go past Yamcolo Reservoir to the Bear Lake Campground entrance.
Road access includes approximately 7 miles of rough washboard dirt road on Forest Service Road 900. Seasonal closures may occur depending on weather conditions.Nearby places
Yampa (11 miles, approximately 30 minutes travel time)
Nearby supplies
Montgomery's General Store and Antlers Bar & Cafe in Yampa provide basic supplies and fuel. Additional camping and grocery supplies can be found in Steamboat Springs.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Bear Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Bear Lake Campground praise the scenic surroundings, privacy, and affordability. However, the thick presence of mosquitoes and rough access roads are frequently mentioned as major drawbacks. Some guests highlight the seclusion and cleanliness of the facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the scenic beauty, privacy between campsites, and the reasonable pricing. The campground's proximity to recreational activities and clean bathroom facilities are also appreciated.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most frequent complaints include the extremely thick mosquitoes described as 'clouds and hordes,' the rough and washboard-like Forest Road 900 leading to the campground, and the cramped ground...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring strong insect repellent. Those with longer trailers (over 30 feet) may find designated dispersed sites outside the campground more suitable. It's also recommended to...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that during the mosquito season (likely summer), campers should be particularly prepared with repellents. The campground is more enjoyable during cooler months when mosquitoes are...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camp sites are beautiful and thick with trees, so you don't see your neighbors much.' 2. 'Make sure you bring bug spray because the mosquitoes are brutal!' 3. 'The drive to the campground is...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews mention particular site numbers as best or worst, but users generally report that the sites have good separation and privacy.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information provided about pet-related experiences, though pets are allowed in the campground.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025