Sheriff Reservoir Campground
03 reviewsSheriff Reservoir Campground, Yampa, CO
Sheriff Reservoir Campground
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
$14 per site. Exact cash or check only as there is no option for change back if paying cash. NO CREDIT CARDS accepted. Payment instructions are found on the kiosk.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Tucked away in a serene forest loop, Sheriff Reservoir Campground offers an intimate mountain escape with just five tent-only sites. This cozy retreat invites campers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the tranquility of Colorado's high country. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table and fire grate for evening campfires under starlit skies. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilet facilities and no running water, this back-to-basics approach ensures a genuine wilderness experience where the loudest sounds are crackling fires and rustling pine needles.
Sheriff Reservoir Campground is a small, primitive campground ideal for tent camping. It features five sites in a shaded, forested location and is not suited for large RVs due to rough terrain.
Weather and SeasonsThe camping season at Sheriff Reservoir runs from mid-June through early October, when snow finally releases its grip on these high-altitude meadows. Summer brings warm days perfect for fishing and cool nights ideal for sleeping under the stars. However, this mountain paradise comes with its own seasonal challenge—mosquitoes can be particularly abundant during peak summer months. Savvy campers pack multiple types of insect repellent to ensure these persistent residents don't dampen the outdoor experience. As one recent visitor noted, the mosquitoes have been 'exceptionally thick,' making bug protection an essential part of any packing list.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,700 feet above sea level, Sheriff Reservoir Campground offers a true alpine experience where the air is crisp, the nights are cool even in summer, and the views stretch endlessly across mountain peaks. This elevation brings refreshing temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer heat, though visitors should remember that altitude can affect some people and staying hydrated is essential.
Natural Features and SceneryRising nearly two miles above sea level, this mountain sanctuary sits nestled among towering spruce trees that whisper ancient stories in the wind. The nearby Sheriff Reservoir sparkles like a sapphire jewel, home to feisty Rainbow and Brook Trout that tempt anglers with promises of fresh mountain dinners. The surrounding alpine landscape paints a masterpiece of emerald forests, wildflower meadows, and distant peaks that change color with each passing hour. Wildlife watchers might glimpse deer browsing at dawn or hear the haunting call of elk echoing across the water at dusk.
Geological RegionThe campground rests on the edge of the legendary Flat Tops Wilderness Area, where ancient volcanic activity created one of Colorado's most distinctive landscapes. This unique geological wonderland features dense spruce forests that carpet the rolling terrain, creating a natural cathedral of evergreens around Sheriff Reservoir. The area's alpine ecosystem supports a rich tapestry of life, from delicate wildflowers that bloom in brief summer glory to the hardy conifers that stand sentinel through harsh mountain winters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility details provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as well-defined but primarily suited for tents due to rough terrain.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are shaded and located in a tightly forested loop, offering some level of privacy.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMost sites are shaded and back-in only. Sites are suitable for tents and smaller trailers but not pull-through setups.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned. Regulations for dispersed camping may differ.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit stated, but space is suitable for small groups.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTightly forested loop with defined back-in sites.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open from June to October depending on snow conditions. Reachable only by snowmobile during winter months.
Reservation PlatformsOn-site payment only at kiosk. No advance reservations are available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up. No reservations are accepted. Dispersed camping options are available when sites are full.
Cancellation PolicyNo online reservation system or cancellation policy mentioned. Payment instructions are provided on-site.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Sheriff Reservoir Campground offers activities like fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating. The reservoir is home to Rainbow Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, and Brook Trout. Multiple trails departing from the main trailhead provide scenic hiking opportunities. Seasonal hunting is another popular activity in the area.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several hiking trails, including Sand Creek #1123, Bunker Basin #1109, and Black Mountain Creek Trail #1117. According to one user, the Sand Creek Trail leads to Sand and Crater Lakes, which is a 'shady trail' (<4 miles round trip) offering scenic views and additional fishing opportunities.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the reservoir and nearby streams. The lake accommodates shore fishing and non-motorized fishing boats. Fish species include Rainbow Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, and Brook Trout. One reviewer mentioned catching rainbows from shore or canoe, even when the reservoir was low.Boating
Non-motorized boating is supported, with canoes, belly boats, paddle boards, and kayaks permitted on the reservoir.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area features alpine scenery and is lightly used, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter access is limited to snowmobiles, but no specific winter activities are outlined.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Open fires are currently banned.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos, altitude sickness potential, and a lack of potable water are among common hazards. "At 9,700 feet, dress accordingly," according to user reviews.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 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 emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Yampa, CO, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune through October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresSheriff Reservoir is within walking distance and offers fishing for Rainbow Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, and Brook Trout.
Common complaintsComplaints include mosquito infestations and the lack of potable water. "Campers should come prepared with a variety of different insect repellents as the mosquitos are exceptionally thick this year."
Campground Map
Sheriff Reservoir Campground, Yampa, CO
Driving directionsFrom Yampa, Follow County Road 17 (Scenic Byway "Flat Tops Trail" - following all signs pointing towards Dunckley Pass) for 5.2 miles. Then follow County Road 132 (which turns into County Road 8) for 8.7 miles. Then turn left on Forest Service Road 959 and follow 3.6 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved and unpaved roads. Forest Service Road 959 includes sections suitable for smaller trailers but is back-in only. Seasonal access limitations apply due to snow.Nearby places
Yampa (15 miles, ~30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Yampa, CO for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Sheriff Reservoir Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for tent camping, its excellent fishing opportunities, and its secluded setting, but note the lack of potable water and shower facilities. The reservoir's low water levels during late summer and the heavily used area by hunters in the fall are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the defined sites, shaded forest setting, and proximity to the reservoir for fishing and boating. One review states, 'Absolutely beautiful camping trip!'
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
The absence of potable water and the vault toilet facilities are common drawbacks. Mosquito activity is described as 'exceptionally thick this year,' and the terrain is unsuitable for larger RVs....
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water and insect repellent due to the lack of potable water and high mosquito activity. Early arrivals are advised to secure a site, especially during hunting...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Late summer sees lower reservoir levels, which reduces the aesthetic appeal but does not hinder fishing success. The area is heavily frequented by hunters in the fall, making it busy during that...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Have done day and camping trips here for 10 years. Always catch rainbows from shore or a canoe.' 2. 'The spaces look well defined and they come with fire rings but not cooking grates.' 3....
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback mentions that the campground is mostly suited for tents due to rough terrain. While the campground is often lightly used, it can become busy during hunting season.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash. Reviewers note families and dogs enjoying the shoreline despite the reservoir's low water levels.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025