Chapman Reservoir Campground
4.596 reviewsForest Service Road 940, between Yampa and Meeker, CO
Chapman Reservoir Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
$20 per site, exact cash or check only. No change is available if paying cash, and credit cards are not accepted.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness outside Yampa, Colorado, Chapman Reservoir Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty. This hidden gem along the spectacular Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway offers 12 intimate campsites nestled within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with picnic tables, fire grates, and vault toilets (bring your own water), it compensates with unmatched tranquility and jaw-dropping scenery. Perfect for smaller RVs and trailers up to 22 feet, this peaceful retreat near Dunckley Pass promises an authentic Colorado mountain experience.
Chapman Reservoir Campground provides traditional camping facilities for tents and small RVs/trailers. It also allows dispersed camping along Forest Service Road 940, but no group or luxury camping options are available.
Historical SignificanceThe Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway, which cradles Chapman Reservoir Campground, tells the story of Colorado's untamed wilderness heritage. This historic route has long served as a corridor through some of the state's most spectacular and remote country, connecting communities and carrying the tales of early settlers, hunters, and explorers who first ventured into these rugged mountains. While the campground itself remains a quiet observer to this rich history, its location along this storied byway connects modern visitors to generations of wilderness travelers.
Weather and SeasonsFrom June through October, Chapman Reservoir transforms into a high-altitude paradise where mild summer days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. The campground awakens each season as winter's snow melts away, revealing wildflower-dotted meadows and sparkling waters. Summer temperatures hover in the comfortable range, making it ideal for hiking, fishing, and simply breathing in the mountain air. As autumn approaches, golden aspens paint the landscape before winter's arrival blankets the area in snow and frigid conditions, closing this mountain sanctuary until the following summer.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,300 feet above sea level, Chapman Reservoir Campground offers a true high-country experience. At this elevation, the air is crisp and thin, the stars seem close enough to touch, and morning frost can dust your tent even in summer. Visitors should take time to acclimatize to the altitude—drink plenty of water, take it easy the first day, and prepare for cooler temperatures that can drop significantly after sunset. The reward? Breathtaking vistas and that invigorating feeling of being on top of the world.
Natural Features and SceneryChapman Reservoir Campground sits like a jewel amid towering evergreen forests and dramatic mountain peaks. The shimmering waters of Chapman Reservoir reflect the surrounding Little Flat Tops, creating picture-perfect moments at sunrise and sunset. Dense stands of spruce and fir provide natural privacy between campsites while opening to reveal stunning vistas of rugged mountain terrain. Wildlife thrives here—keep your eyes peeled for deer grazing in nearby meadows, eagles soaring overhead, and the occasional elk moving through the forest shadows. This is nature's amphitheater, where every view deserves a standing ovation.
Geological RegionSituated on the dramatic Dunckley Pass within the vast Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Chapman Reservoir occupies a landscape sculpted by ancient geological forces. The mountainous terrain surrounding the campground showcases the raw power of tectonic activity and glacial carving that created the Flat Tops region. This scenic byway traverses some of Colorado's most geologically fascinating territory, where exposed rock faces tell stories millions of years in the making, and alpine meadows nestle in valleys carved by long-vanished glaciers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in either official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are designed to accommodate trailers up to 22 feet in length, making them suitable for smaller recreational vehicles and setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, but no specific information addresses whether sites are secluded or clustered.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offering reservoir views and those with easy access to trails are recommended. Early arrival suggested for best selection.
Best CampsitesCampsites with views of Chapman Reservoir are user favorites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No explicit check-in time provided.
Check-out
No explicit check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
- No explicit information provided
- regulated by standard Forest Service policies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- No explicit information provided
- regulated by standard Forest Service policies.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned as an available option.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout12 sites dispersed around the vicinity of Chapman Reservoir. No detailed layout provided.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open June through October, dependent on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is entirely first-come, first-serve with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo explicit information provided regarding cancellations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Chapman Reservoir Campground offers outdoor recreation opportunities including fishing, hiking, and wakeless boating. The reservoir is ideal for trout fishing and is also frequented by paddle boarders and canoeists. Hunting is a seasonal activity, particularly popular during big game season. The location is scenic, providing stargazing opportunities with 'phenomenal' night skies, as one reviewer noted.
Hiking
Some small trails are available for hiking in the area. While these trails are not extensively detailed, they allow visitors to explore the surroundings, including the reservoir.Fishing
Fishing at Chapman Reservoir is a highlight, with opportunities to catch trout. The reservoir's fishing appeal is confirmed by several visitors, though one noted that the water was not as clean as expected.Boating
Wakeless boating is permitted at the reservoir, and common watercraft include paddle boards, rafts, and canoes. There is no mention of docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant in the area. Visitors have reported spotting deer and finding bear tracks around the reservoir. Campers are reminded that they are in bear country.Winter Activities
This campground has no specific mention of winter activities. It is typically open from June to October, making it inaccessible during the winter months.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized activities such as paddle boarding and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated rings. Fire grates available at each site.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity noted in user reviews. Wildlife such as deer and other fauna present. Lack of potable water emphasizes need for preparation.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 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
Yampa Ranger Station for minor emergencies; major services may require travel to larger towns.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo explicit peak season pricing provided; operates June through October, coinciding with summer and early fall.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available at the campground for waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresShort walk required for reservoir access; no drive-up access allowed.
Common complaintsCrowding on weekends noted by users despite being listed as light usage. Lack of potable water and reservoir cleanliness also mentioned.
HostCamp host available during summer months, described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
Forest Service Road 940, between Yampa and Meeker, CO
Driving directionsFrom Yampa, drive 5 miles on County Road 17, turn left on County Road 132 which turns into County Road 8. Continue on for 7 miles, then turn left on Forest Service Road 940 and continue for 1 mile.
The campground is accessible via Forest Service Road 940. Roads are unpaved and may require caution during inclement weather. Seasonal closures or rough terrain may present challenges.Nearby places
Yampa (approximately 13 miles, ~20 minutes drive), Meeker (distance unspecified)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries and fuel can be found in Yampa, CO, approximately 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
6 reviews
Chapman Reservoir Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to Chapman Reservoir, and the serene atmosphere. The site is particularly favored for its stargazing opportunities and as a base for fishing and hunting. However, some users noted overcrowding during weekends and the lack of potable water as minor drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful Campground with a small but still pretty lake for fishing or paddle boarding." "The night skies are phenomenal and great for astrophotography." "Clean campsites, camp host was great & most...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Gets really crowded on weekends." "Potable water is not available at this site." "The reservoir wasn’t as clean as expected."
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply as potable water is not available. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends. Stay mindful of wildlife, including bears, and bring bear-proof storage if needed.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is busiest in late summer and early fall, particularly during big game hunting season and leaf-changing season. Visitors recommend visiting in September for...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"I love this campground! It’s first come first serve, but you can’t beat the views and how close you are to the reservoir!" "Go now if you want the same experience!" "Another reminder that we're in...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were reviewed, but several users recommended arriving early as the campground can get crowded, particularly on weekends.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific user reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"My friends and I camped out for 2 nights with two dogs." "Most campers had dogs (not all were leashed)." However, no official pet policy is detailed.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025