Pearl Lake State Park
00 reviewBox 750, Clark, Colorado, 80428, United States
Pearl Lake State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees range from $25 to $35 depending on the type of site reserved. The cancellation policy details fees retained based on timing of cancellation or changes.
About this campground
Nestled in Colorado's majestic northwest mountains, Pearl Lake State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine 166-acre alpine lake—a hidden gem that Reserve America has crowned as one of the nation's top 25 canoeing destinations. Here, crystal-clear waters mirror towering peaks while anglers cast flies into waters teeming with trout. Sun-drenched campsites offer front-row seats to nature's amphitheater, where each dawn brings panoramic views of shimmering waters framed by rugged mountain silhouettes. Whether you're paddling across glassy morning waters, hiking through wildflower meadows, or simply watching eagles soar overhead, Pearl Lake delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain escape.
Pearl Lake State Park offers various camping options, including sunny campsites with lake and mountain views, as well as two yurts for rental.
Historical SignificanceWhile Pearl Lake's recorded history may be brief, its untouched wilderness speaks to timeless stories of Colorado's high country—a place where nature's rhythms have remained unchanged for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the high country, where winter blankets the landscape in deep, powdery snow and temperatures plummet, creating a pristine wonderland for the hardy few. As summer unfolds into autumn, the park reveals its gentler side—crisp mountain air, brilliant blue skies, and comfortable temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Late summer through early fall offers the sweet spot for visitors, with warm days ideal for paddling and cool nights perfect for campfire stories under star-studded skies.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's mountain country, Pearl Lake sits at an elevation where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath reminds you that you've escaped to the roof of the Rockies.
Natural Features and SceneryPearl Lake serves as the sparkling centerpiece of this mountain sanctuary, its pristine waters creating a natural playground surrounded by peaks that scrape the sky. Dense forests give way to alpine meadows where wildflowers dance in summer breezes, while rocky outcroppings provide perfect perches for spotting elk, deer, and occasional moose coming to drink at water's edge. The interplay of water, mountain, and forest creates an ever-changing canvas—misty mornings reveal themselves to golden afternoons, while evening alpenglow paints the peaks in shades of rose and amber.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged backbone of northwest Colorado's Rocky Mountains, Pearl Lake occupies a geological wonderland where ancient forces carved valleys and sculpted peaks. This corner of Colorado showcases the raw beauty of the Southern Rockies, where continental uplift and glacial artistry have created a landscape of dramatic contrasts—soaring granite faces plunging to gentle lake shores, all testament to millions of years of Earth's patient sculpture work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features are provided.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that campsites have 'plenty of space,' but no exact measurements or detailed descriptions of sizes are provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels for campsites are not explicitly detailed in the source materials.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLower Loop spot #36 is noted as narrow and steep, unsuitable for trailers.
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay details not explicitly provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Details about group sites, such as capacity and allowances, are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 36 campsites and two yurts. Layout details not explicitly provided but user reviews mention steep and narrow spots.
Open and Closed SeasonNull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online 24/7 or through the Aspira Call Center (1-800-244-5613).
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28 days or more before arrival result in a 25% retention for one night. Cancellations 8-27 days retain 50%; less than 7 days retain 100%. Changes in reservations demand fees ranging from 10% to 20%, depending on timing. No refunds for bugs, bad weather, campfire bans, or water conditions.
Accomodation available
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pearl Lake offers a variety of recreational activities, both during summer and winter. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. In winter, activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available.
Hiking
The park provides access to hiking trails that lead into a large National Forest. Specific trail lengths or difficulty levels are not described.Fishing
Excellent fly and lure fishing opportunities are available. The native cutthroat trout is a highlight for anglers, noted for its dramatic red throats.Boating
The park features a boat launch ramp, and its 166-acre lake is recognized as one of America’s top 25 for canoeing by Reserve America.Wildlife viewing
A wildlife viewing deck overlooking the lake is available, offering opportunities to observe local species. Specific animals to watch for are not listed.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretative programs are available, but the topics covered or schedules are not specified.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.Water Sports
In addition to boating, water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing are highlighted given the park's recognition for canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsUsers warn of narrow and steep campsite layouts, particularly spot #36, which damaged a trailer.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Ranger Station contact available at 970-879-3922. No details on hospitals or police stations provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresPearl Lake is central to the park, offering canoeing and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews note challenges with campsite layouts, such as steep and narrow spots unsuitable for trailers.
HostUser reviews praise camp hosts as excellent.
Campground Map
Box 750, Clark, Colorado, 80428, United States
Driving directionsFrom Steamboat Springs go west 2 miles on Hwy 40 to County Rd 129. Turn north and go 23 miles to Pearl Lake Rd. Go east 2 miles to park entrance.
No specific challenges noted in official materials, but user reviews highlight potential challenges with specific campsite layouts. Lower Loop spot #36 was described as narrow and steep, potentially unsuitable for trailers.Nearby places
Steamboat Springs: approximately 25 miles west (driving time not specified).
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Pearl Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users praise the natural beauty and tranquility of Pearl Lake, as well as the spacious campsites. However, there are concerns about specific site conditions, such as the narrowness and steepness of site #36.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users highlight the park's scenic views, spacious campsites, and positive interactions with camp hosts. For example, one review states, 'Great campsites with plenty of space!'
Common Concerns
One user mentioned that site #36 on the Lower Loop is 'too narrow and too steep for a trailer,' resulting in damage to their trailer upon departure.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should avoid site #36 if using a trailer due to its steep and narrow design.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not specifically address seasonal variations in experience.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Been going here for years. Great place with great camp hosts.' (Paul Vorreiter) 2. 'Great campsites with plenty of space!' (Jay McKane)
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #36 on the Lower Loop is specifically noted as problematic for trailers due to its narrow and steep design.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences are available.
Last updated August 10, 2025