The best camping in Pearl Lake State Park, CO

·
100% (3)

The best camping in Pearl Lake State Park, CO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Looking at the RV spot from above and the Sleeping Giant mountain is in the background.

5. Mystic Valley Farm

14mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Steamboat Springs, CO
Horse Ranch RV Site Near Steamboat Springs & Ski Resort Description: Park your RV on our peaceful horse ranch just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We’re tucked away next to Sleeping Giant Mountain, near the private airport on the west side of town off Hwy 129 — only 12 miles from the world-famous Steamboat Ski Resort (the second largest in the U.S.). You’ll have a private, level, finished site with an electric hookup, gray water disposal, and access to a toilet in the heated barn. Wake up to mountain views, watch horses graze, and enjoy the tranquility of ranch life while still being minutes from skiing, hot springs, hiking and biking trails, and downtown Steamboat. Just north of this location is Clark, Colorado — a popular outdoor recreation area known for hiking, mountain biking, gravel riding, hunting, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, and more. There are three state parks in the area, all with lakes, and the Elk River runs down from the Zirkel Mountain region — a popular destination for fly fishing. What We Offer: • Level, finished RV pad with electric hookup • Gray water disposal • Toilet access in the heated barn • Beautiful ranch setting with horses on site • Easy access on plowed roads Perfect For: • Ski season adventurers looking for a unique base • RV travelers seeking peace and a quiet setting • Anyone who loves wide-open views, dark skies, and a ranch lifestyle • Longer stays — monthly rates available
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Sagebrush Solitude

9. Sagebrush Solitude

100%
(1)
32mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hayden, CO
🌿 Sagebrush Solitude Where the Sky is Wide and the Silence is Sacred ⸻ 📝 Overview Welcome to Sagebrush Solitude, your off-grid escape in the heart of Colorado’s high country. Perched on open land with sweeping views, rugged sagebrush, and rolling hills, this peaceful retreat invites you to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking a small camper, this site offers privacy, stillness, and the kind of wide-open space that’s hard to come by. Please note: We live on this land and care deeply for it. While your campsite is private and peaceful, this is also our home. We kindly ask that all guests respect the land, the space, and our presence here. Getting here takes a little effort — the rough dirt road is best suited for high-clearance vehicles — but the reward is pure Colorado quiet, just minutes from Hayden. ⸻ 🌟 What’s Included • Expansive views and serene surroundings • Incredible stargazing — no light pollution • Room for tents, vans, and small RVs • Wildlife sightings (elk, deer, coyotes, hawks) • Fully off-grid: no hookups, no water, no toilet ⸻ 🚙 Know Before You Go • Rough road access — high-clearance vehicle strongly recommended • Located about 15 minutes from Hayden (exact directions sent after booking) • High winds are common, especially in the afternoons — please secure your tent and gear • Bring your own water, food, and supplies • 4WD is suggested, especially in wet conditions • Pack in, pack out — follow Leave No Trace principles • We live on-site — please be mindful and respectful • Pets are welcome, but must be kept under control (wildlife nearby)
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Bear Mountain Outfitters

10. Bear Mountain Outfitters

100%
(1)
34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Steamboat Springs, CO
Nestled within a secluded 18,000-acre ranch, Grizzly Camp offers a serene and tranquil camping experience. The camp features three sleeping cabins, each furnished with two full-sized beds, a table, chairs, and a dresser for guests' convenience. A dedicated shower cabin provides hot and cold water, enhancing the comfort of the stay. Guests can gather in a separate dining cabin, which is equipped with a propane stove, oven, refrigerator, and seating for up to twelve. The second floor of the dining cabin serves as an ideal retreat for children, featuring two twin beds and three sleeping cots. While the camp benefits from running water sourced from a nearby spring, it does not have indoor plumbing, allowing guests to embrace the rustic charm of outhouses as part of their experience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$150
 / night
Golden hour always puts on a show at Basecamp. Here you can see the shared game room, the Hitchin' Post and our newest cabin, Valleyview.

11. Rabbit Ears Basecamp Near Steamboat

34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Kremmling, CO
Tucked at the base of Rabbit Ears Pass and just 30 minutes from Steamboat Springs, Rabbit Ears Basecamp is your jumping-off point for alpine adventure and cozy mountain stays. Set on 21 private acres with big sky views and aspen-covered hills, our property is home to three unique cabins, a welcoming Ranch House, and plenty of space to explore, unwind, and reconnect. THE STAYS 🏡 The Boondocker Cabin (sleeps 8) Perfect for bigger crews who don’t mind sharing space. This cabin features 1 queen bedroom, a roomy loft with 3 queen beds, a cozy living room with a gas fireplace, and a “hidden” Little Tracks Loft play area just for kids. 🏕️ The Trapper Cabin (sleeps 2 + 1) Rustic and peaceful, this studio is great for solo travelers or couples who want to unplug. Small but mighty, with everything you need for a quiet mountain escape. 🏠 The Ranch House (sleeps 7) A full-sized home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a kitchen made for coffee lovers. It’s got western flair, plenty of room to spread out, and sweeping views from every window. 🌄 The Valleyview Cabin (coming late summer 2025) Still under construction, but we’re already in love. This two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin may just have the best views on the property. Stay tuned! THE HITCHIN’ POST All guests are welcome to kick back at our communal hangout space, The Hitchin’ Post. Here you’ll find a hot tub, grill, fireplace, pool table, darts, horseshoes, and enough mountain charm to end your day just right. WHAT YOU'LL LOVE ⛰️ Quick access to Rabbit Ears Pass, just a 5-minute drive to parking and trails 🚡 30 minutes to Steamboat Springs for hot springs, food, shopping, and skiing 🏞️ Lakes, rivers, hiking and off-road trails all close by 🌌 Stargazing and wildlife sightings right from your porch 🐶 Dog-friendly! 🚤 Plenty of trailer parking for snowmobiles, ATVs, boats, or horses 📶 Wi-Fi throughout the property PERFECT FOR: - Family getaways and reunions - Small retreats or creative workshops - Elopements and microweddings - Hikers, bikers, sledders, paddlers, hunters and peace-and-quiet seekers We’ve put our hearts into creating a stay that feels like home, with space to roam and plenty of mountain magic to go around. Come stay wild with us. We can’t wait to host you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$189
 / night
Boyer YL Ranch

12. Boyer YL Ranch

100%
(1)
34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Dixon, WY
Our Mission & Story The YL Ranch is a welcoming and inclusive restorative guest ranch seeking to reestablish our connection to one another, community, nature, and the outdoors. The YL is a sanctuary for the weary, a retreat, and a place to be whole again, inspiring creatives and explorers. In 2018, Jock and Kimberly opened the ranch gate to guests, reunions, retreats, camps, and other special events. In 2022, we welcomed the launch of the Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route and the many adventure motorcyclists from around the world! In 2017, Jonathan Boyer and his wife, Kimberly Coats, returned to their ranch in Wyoming. The YL was Jock’s childhood home. They had spent the previous decade in Rwanda running the Rwandan National Cycling Team. Jock’s boyhood dream has always been to return to the ranch and share its special gifts with friends and guests from around the world. The YL Ranch has been in the Boyer family since 1905. Jock and Kimberly look forward to welcoming you with their own unique style of warm Wyoming hospitality. The YL is open year-round and can accommodate up to 25-30 guests in summer and 20 in winter. Enter the YL and experience all the joys of ranch life and outdoor adventure – cycling (road, mountain, and gravel), fishing, tennis, swimming, and gourmet (sometimes fireside) meals.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$119
 / night
Vista Verde Guest Ranch

14. Vista Verde Guest Ranch

3.6mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 13 sites · Clark, CO
At Vista Verde Ranch, you’ll discover a unique blend of adventure and genuine hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family. This isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s your home in the heart of the West. From the moment you step onto our expansive property, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles and a commitment to ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Owners Chris and Laura Jones emphasize that the true essence of Vista Verde lies in its people. Each season, we assemble a vibrant team of enthusiastic and service-oriented individuals, many of whom come seeking adventure and leave with lifelong friendships. Our dedicated year-round management team, along with these remarkable staff members, meticulously attends to every detail of your visit, ensuring it is personalized and filled with unforgettable experiences. We take great joy in witnessing our team grow and forge connections with our guests. We’re confident that you’ll come to appreciate them just as much as we have over the years. Before each season kicks off, we share staff bios and photos, giving you a glimpse of the friendly faces that will enhance your ranch experience. At Vista Verde, it’s not merely about the stunning surroundings; it’s about the relationships you build along the way. Come and immerse yourself in the magic of the West, surrounded by a community
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
High Tide Ranch

15. High Tide Ranch

20mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 2 sites · Steamboat Springs, CO
High Tide Ranch stands out as a unique working cattle ranch nestled just outside the picturesque town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. With over 25 years of dedicated stewardship by Larry and Mary Kay Monger, this ranch is steeped in history and tradition, sitting beneath the majestic Elk Mountain, also known as Sleeping Giant, in the scenic lower Elk River Valley. This thriving cattle ranch has been operational for over a century, originally established as a sheep ranch by Larry’s family in the early 1900s. Transitioning to cattle ranching under Larry’s father, the ranch has evolved into a successful cow/calf operation that keeps the Mongers busy year-round. The cattle are divided into two groups, with one herd grazing at the Carpenter Ranch in Hayden, managed by the Nature Conservancy, while the other remains on the hay meadows during winter, receiving daily hay feed. As calving season approaches in March, Larry and Mary Kay diligently check on the cows, ensuring that any needing assistance receive help. Once calving is complete, branding day arrives, where each calf is marked with the H-connected-T brand and given necessary immunizations.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Sentinel Mountain RV & Quick Stop

16. Sentinel Mountain RV & Quick Stop

32mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 11 sites · Cowdrey, CO
Sentinel Mountain RV stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of recreational activities and natural beauty. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground provides easy access to a variety of adventures, including fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, hunting, and bicycling. The stunning night sky viewing opportunities make it a perfect spot for stargazers, while the nearby ATV and UTV trails invite thrill-seekers to explore the rugged terrain. In addition to its prime location, Sentinel Mountain RV is equipped with essential amenities to enhance your stay. The park features convenient laundry and shower facilities, as well as full hookup sites that cater to all types of campers. Pet owners will appreciate the campground's pet-friendly policy, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the fun. Don’t forget to stop by the on-site store, where you can find propane, ice, and other essentials you might need during your visit. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Sentinel Mountain RV offers the perfect base for your outdoor adventures.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
The Lodge and Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

17. The Lodge and Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

40mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 27 sites · Saratoga, WY
Brush Creek Ranch stands out as a unique destination where the breathtaking beauty of Wyoming's landscape harmonizes with luxurious accommodations. Nestled in a region rich with history, this ranch offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Guests can choose from an extensive selection of lodging options, including exquisite luxury cabin rentals, elegant lodge rooms, and spacious log cabin suites. The facilities are meticulously designed to provide high-end experiences, ensuring that every visitor feels pampered and comfortable. Options include 13 Trailhead Lodge rooms, 10 two- and three-bedroom Log Cabin Residences, and 9 charming cabin suites. For those desiring ultimate privacy, the Magee Homestead presents a secluded retreat featuring a private lodge and a collection of seven historically restored cabins, located just five miles from the Trailhead Lodge. Each accommodation is thoughtfully furnished with premium bedding, luxury amenities, and a refined Western charm, making Brush Creek Ranch the perfect getaway for nature lovers and luxury seekers alike.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Saratoga Lake Campground

18. Saratoga Lake Campground

46mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 1 site · Saratoga, WY
Experience the charm of our unique campground, where the beauty of nature meets a welcoming atmosphere, and camping is offered on a first-come, first-served basis without the hassle of reservations. This allows you to embrace spontaneity and enjoy the great outdoors at your own pace. Our campground features 25 sites equipped with electrical hookups, along with an additional 25 non-electrical sites perfect for traditional camping or tent setups. Guests can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing at our well-stocked waters, utilizing the convenient boat dock, or relaxing on the sandy beach area. Families will appreciate the playground, providing a safe space for children to play and explore. For your convenience, there are four restroom facilities located throughout the campground, ensuring easy access for all visitors. The area is patrolled daily by the Saratoga Police Station, offering peace of mind during your stay. Conveniently situated just one mile north of Saratoga along Highway 130/230, our campground is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, including stunning natural features, swimming holes, and local restaurants and shops. Come and create unforgettable memories in this serene outdoor haven!
Pets
Toilets
The Hitchin' Post RV Park And Cabins

20. The Hitchin' Post RV Park And Cabins

535mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 9 sites · Plainview, TX
Experience the charm of West Texas at The Hitchin' Post RV Park and Cabins, where hospitality meets adventure in a unique setting. Our campground offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal getaway for everyone. Whether you’re staying for a night or planning an extended retreat, our spacious RV sites come equipped with full hook-ups, including 20/30/50 amp electricity and high-speed internet. If you prefer a cozy cabin experience, we have fully furnished cabins available for your stay. Relax on the porch and gaze at the stars, creating unforgettable memories under the vast Texas sky. For those who enjoy the simplicity of tent camping, we have ten designated tent sites, each featuring a convenient nightlight and outlets for charging your devices. This way, you can enjoy the great outdoors without completely disconnecting from the world. With nearby attractions such as natural swimming holes, hiking trails, and local restaurants and shops, The Hitchin' Post RV Park and Cabins is the perfect base for your West Texas adventures. Come and discover the beauty and hospitality that awaits you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
100% (3)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Pearl Lake State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Pearl Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Mystic Valley Farm

14mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Steamboat Springs, CO
Horse Ranch RV Site Near Steamboat Springs & Ski Resort Description: Park your RV on our peaceful horse ranch just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We’re tucked away next to Sleeping Giant Mountain, near the private airport on the west side of town off Hwy 129 — only 12 miles from the world-famous Steamboat Ski Resort (the second largest in the U.S.). You’ll have a private, level, finished site with an electric hookup, gray water disposal, and access to a toilet in the heated barn. Wake up to mountain views, watch horses graze, and enjoy the tranquility of ranch life while still being minutes from skiing, hot springs, hiking and biking trails, and downtown Steamboat. Just north of this location is Clark, Colorado — a popular outdoor recreation area known for hiking, mountain biking, gravel riding, hunting, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, and more. There are three state parks in the area, all with lakes, and the Elk River runs down from the Zirkel Mountain region — a popular destination for fly fishing. What We Offer: • Level, finished RV pad with electric hookup • Gray water disposal • Toilet access in the heated barn • Beautiful ranch setting with horses on site • Easy access on plowed roads Perfect For: • Ski season adventurers looking for a unique base • RV travelers seeking peace and a quiet setting • Anyone who loves wide-open views, dark skies, and a ranch lifestyle • Longer stays — monthly rates available
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

Sagebrush Solitude

100%
(1)
32mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hayden, CO
🌿 Sagebrush Solitude Where the Sky is Wide and the Silence is Sacred ⸻ 📝 Overview Welcome to Sagebrush Solitude, your off-grid escape in the heart of Colorado’s high country. Perched on open land with sweeping views, rugged sagebrush, and rolling hills, this peaceful retreat invites you to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking a small camper, this site offers privacy, stillness, and the kind of wide-open space that’s hard to come by. Please note: We live on this land and care deeply for it. While your campsite is private and peaceful, this is also our home. We kindly ask that all guests respect the land, the space, and our presence here. Getting here takes a little effort — the rough dirt road is best suited for high-clearance vehicles — but the reward is pure Colorado quiet, just minutes from Hayden. ⸻ 🌟 What’s Included • Expansive views and serene surroundings • Incredible stargazing — no light pollution • Room for tents, vans, and small RVs • Wildlife sightings (elk, deer, coyotes, hawks) • Fully off-grid: no hookups, no water, no toilet ⸻ 🚙 Know Before You Go • Rough road access — high-clearance vehicle strongly recommended • Located about 15 minutes from Hayden (exact directions sent after booking) • High winds are common, especially in the afternoons — please secure your tent and gear • Bring your own water, food, and supplies • 4WD is suggested, especially in wet conditions • Pack in, pack out — follow Leave No Trace principles • We live on-site — please be mindful and respectful • Pets are welcome, but must be kept under control (wildlife nearby)
Pets
from 
$30
 / night

Bear Mountain Outfitters

100%
(1)
34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Steamboat Springs, CO
Nestled within a secluded 18,000-acre ranch, Grizzly Camp offers a serene and tranquil camping experience. The camp features three sleeping cabins, each furnished with two full-sized beds, a table, chairs, and a dresser for guests' convenience. A dedicated shower cabin provides hot and cold water, enhancing the comfort of the stay. Guests can gather in a separate dining cabin, which is equipped with a propane stove, oven, refrigerator, and seating for up to twelve. The second floor of the dining cabin serves as an ideal retreat for children, featuring two twin beds and three sleeping cots. While the camp benefits from running water sourced from a nearby spring, it does not have indoor plumbing, allowing guests to embrace the rustic charm of outhouses as part of their experience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$150
 / night

Rabbit Ears Basecamp Near Steamboat

34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Kremmling, CO
Tucked at the base of Rabbit Ears Pass and just 30 minutes from Steamboat Springs, Rabbit Ears Basecamp is your jumping-off point for alpine adventure and cozy mountain stays. Set on 21 private acres with big sky views and aspen-covered hills, our property is home to three unique cabins, a welcoming Ranch House, and plenty of space to explore, unwind, and reconnect. THE STAYS 🏡 The Boondocker Cabin (sleeps 8) Perfect for bigger crews who don’t mind sharing space. This cabin features 1 queen bedroom, a roomy loft with 3 queen beds, a cozy living room with a gas fireplace, and a “hidden” Little Tracks Loft play area just for kids. 🏕️ The Trapper Cabin (sleeps 2 + 1) Rustic and peaceful, this studio is great for solo travelers or couples who want to unplug. Small but mighty, with everything you need for a quiet mountain escape. 🏠 The Ranch House (sleeps 7) A full-sized home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a kitchen made for coffee lovers. It’s got western flair, plenty of room to spread out, and sweeping views from every window. 🌄 The Valleyview Cabin (coming late summer 2025) Still under construction, but we’re already in love. This two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin may just have the best views on the property. Stay tuned! THE HITCHIN’ POST All guests are welcome to kick back at our communal hangout space, The Hitchin’ Post. Here you’ll find a hot tub, grill, fireplace, pool table, darts, horseshoes, and enough mountain charm to end your day just right. WHAT YOU'LL LOVE ⛰️ Quick access to Rabbit Ears Pass, just a 5-minute drive to parking and trails 🚡 30 minutes to Steamboat Springs for hot springs, food, shopping, and skiing 🏞️ Lakes, rivers, hiking and off-road trails all close by 🌌 Stargazing and wildlife sightings right from your porch 🐶 Dog-friendly! 🚤 Plenty of trailer parking for snowmobiles, ATVs, boats, or horses 📶 Wi-Fi throughout the property PERFECT FOR: - Family getaways and reunions - Small retreats or creative workshops - Elopements and microweddings - Hikers, bikers, sledders, paddlers, hunters and peace-and-quiet seekers We’ve put our hearts into creating a stay that feels like home, with space to roam and plenty of mountain magic to go around. Come stay wild with us. We can’t wait to host you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$189
 / night

Boyer YL Ranch

100%
(1)
34mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Dixon, WY
Our Mission & Story The YL Ranch is a welcoming and inclusive restorative guest ranch seeking to reestablish our connection to one another, community, nature, and the outdoors. The YL is a sanctuary for the weary, a retreat, and a place to be whole again, inspiring creatives and explorers. In 2018, Jock and Kimberly opened the ranch gate to guests, reunions, retreats, camps, and other special events. In 2022, we welcomed the launch of the Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route and the many adventure motorcyclists from around the world! In 2017, Jonathan Boyer and his wife, Kimberly Coats, returned to their ranch in Wyoming. The YL was Jock’s childhood home. They had spent the previous decade in Rwanda running the Rwandan National Cycling Team. Jock’s boyhood dream has always been to return to the ranch and share its special gifts with friends and guests from around the world. The YL Ranch has been in the Boyer family since 1905. Jock and Kimberly look forward to welcoming you with their own unique style of warm Wyoming hospitality. The YL is open year-round and can accommodate up to 25-30 guests in summer and 20 in winter. Enter the YL and experience all the joys of ranch life and outdoor adventure – cycling (road, mountain, and gravel), fishing, tennis, swimming, and gourmet (sometimes fireside) meals.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$119
 / night

Vista Verde Guest Ranch

3.6mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 13 sites · Clark, CO
At Vista Verde Ranch, you’ll discover a unique blend of adventure and genuine hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family. This isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s your home in the heart of the West. From the moment you step onto our expansive property, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles and a commitment to ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Owners Chris and Laura Jones emphasize that the true essence of Vista Verde lies in its people. Each season, we assemble a vibrant team of enthusiastic and service-oriented individuals, many of whom come seeking adventure and leave with lifelong friendships. Our dedicated year-round management team, along with these remarkable staff members, meticulously attends to every detail of your visit, ensuring it is personalized and filled with unforgettable experiences. We take great joy in witnessing our team grow and forge connections with our guests. We’re confident that you’ll come to appreciate them just as much as we have over the years. Before each season kicks off, we share staff bios and photos, giving you a glimpse of the friendly faces that will enhance your ranch experience. At Vista Verde, it’s not merely about the stunning surroundings; it’s about the relationships you build along the way. Come and immerse yourself in the magic of the West, surrounded by a community
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

High Tide Ranch

20mi from Pearl Lake State Park · 2 sites · Steamboat Springs, CO
High Tide Ranch stands out as a unique working cattle ranch nestled just outside the picturesque town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. With over 25 years of dedicated stewardship by Larry and Mary Kay Monger, this ranch is steeped in history and tradition, sitting beneath the majestic Elk Mountain, also known as Sleeping Giant, in the scenic lower Elk River Valley. This thriving cattle ranch has been operational for over a century, originally established as a sheep ranch by Larry’s family in the early 1900s. Transitioning to cattle ranching under Larry’s father, the ranch has evolved into a successful cow/calf operation that keeps the Mongers busy year-round. The cattle are divided into two groups, with one herd grazing at the Carpenter Ranch in Hayden, managed by the Nature Conservancy, while the other remains on the hay meadows during winter, receiving daily hay feed. As calving season approaches in March, Larry and Mary Kay diligently check on the cows, ensuring that any needing assistance receive help. Once calving is complete, branding day arrives, where each calf is marked with the H-connected-T brand and given necessary immunizations.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

Other options near Pearl Lake State Park

The best camping in Pearl Lake State Park, CO guide

Overview

About

Just outside of Steamboat Springs, this snug state park provides a quieter alternative to the better known Steamboat Lake State Park, a 10-minute drive down the road. Pearl Lake attracts anglers and water-sports enthusiasts with its wakeless lake in the summer, while the wintertime draws in folks looking for a laid-back spot to snowshoe, cross-country ski, snowmobile, and ice fish. There are 33 seasonal campsites and two year-round yurts at the park plus flush and vault toilets,  and while you won’t find hookups or showers at the park, those camping at Pearl Lake are welcome to use the robust facilities at Steamboat Lake.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for glamping: Upper Loop has two yurts, one of which is ADA accessible
  • Best for quick trips to the lake: Lower Loop offers a prime location, and all sites are within 10 to 50 yards of Pearl Lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve a campsite or yurt through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife online reservation system or over the phone.

  2. Reservations can be made up from six months in advance up to your day of arrival.
  3. Yurts are available year-round, but campsites close in the winter due to snow.
  4. If you can’t find a site in the park, you may want to see what’s available at Steamboat Lake State Park,  a 10-minute drive west of Pearl Lake. Privately owned Hipcamps in the area are also worth considering.

When to go

Pearl Lake State Park is open throughout the year, and is at its busiest in July and August, when the weather is ideal for watersports and camping. The best times to fish are in mid-to-late May and again in the autumn. Note that the campgrounds close during the snowy season (usually around the middle of October) and don’t usually reopen until the end of May.

Know before you go

  • Hahns Peak Village, about a 10-minute drive from the park, is the closest place to get supplies and groceries or fill up on gas.
  • Pets are allowed at campsites and elsewhere in the park, but must be kept leashed. Pets are allowed in yurt #16 for a small daily fee.
  • Swimming is prohibited in Pearl Lake.
  • You can leave your boat along the shore or in the boat ramp parking lot.
  • Parking passes are required for all guests and are not included in the price of camping or yurt reservations.
  • The park offers one accessible yurt (#6) and one accessible campsite (#35).

100%
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