The best camping in Yampa River State Park, CO

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Yampa River State Park

Headquarters

1. Headquarters

Campground in Yampa River State Park · 48 sites · Tents, RVs
Five minutes outside Hayden, the Yampa River State Park Headquarters features both RV and tent camping, plus a few group sites
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires

Top-rated campsites near Yampa River State Park

Cabin on the river at Welder Ranch

1. Cabin on the river at Welder Ranch

97%
(75)
32mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
Our 100 acre ranch property and cabin is nestled along the banks of beautiful White River and is surrounded by the White River National Forest and Flat Tops Wilderness. The cabin has been in the family for over 35 years. There are 100's of miles of streams and trails for hiking, riding, and OHV's trails. Private fishing on the river is available Pets are welcome as long as they stay off the furniture. Along with ranching, we operate a guide and outfitting service from the ranch and provide horseback rides and back country trips in the Summer and snowmobiling in the Winter. The cabin has a main bedroom , full bathroom, living area, and kitchen with a loft above. It uses electric heat and has a wood stove.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Ute Lodge - At the End of the Road

2. Ute Lodge - At the End of the Road

97%
(157)
33mi from Yampa River State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Ute Lodge was homesteaded in the 1930’s by Joe Fox who after leaving the military came west to settle in the White River valley. Joe was known for his friendliness, hospitality and wild stories. Today you might find much of the same. From Joe’s day to today it is a place where families come together to get away. The Ute Lodge is now owned by Karl and Mona Maser who celebrated 20 years of ownership summer of 2019! All summer our cabins are filled with guests from all over the US as well as international travelers. One of our favorite things about the summer is our weekly potlucks where we all share an outdoor meal. All of our visitors have a standing invitation to join us around the community campfire at night. From our beautiful private lake (where you can paddle-board, kayak and fish), to immediate access to the Papoose and Crooks Park Trails on National Forest land, as well as the vast variety of wildlife that roams around, you can find what you need here to unplug and get away from it all.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Riverfront Retreat

3. Riverfront Retreat

91%
(11)
34mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
Nearly 7 acres overlooking the White River on the edge of White River National Forest. Bordering a wildlife preserve which offers nearly a mile of public fishing on the White River and Coal Creek. Take your UTV/ATV to town or for a day ride upriver directly from the campsite as the camp is situated on the OHV trail that extends from town (2 miles from the campsite) to the White River National Forest (more than 40 miles up the river). Incredible views and wildlife galore. Turkeys often rest in the trees across the river, and it is not uncommon to watch deer tangle antlers during the rut. Eagles nest in the trees across the river and are often seen fishing from the trees directly across from the campsite. The sunsets from this campsite will leave you breathless. Nothing better than camping, relaxing or fishing on the White River!
Pets
Trailhead Cabins and Lodging

4. Trailhead Cabins and Lodging

100%
(10)
35mi from Yampa River State Park · 6 sites
STAY YOUR WAY All of the convenience and charisma of a classic roadside motel, with a modern twist. Our 15 room Motel features many types of rooms, including single queen, double queen, king suite, and rooms with kitchenettes. All of our motel rooms have charming touches and comfortable beds to make you feel at home. CREATE MEMORIES AT TRAILHEAD IT’S NEVER BEEN EASIER FOR YOU TO FEEL RIGHT AT HOME WHEN YOU’RE ON THE ROAD At Trailhead Cabins and Lodging, guests enjoy all of the convenience and charisma of a classic roadside motel, with anything but typical interiors and experiences. Located in the heart of Meeker, guests have the choice of staying in thoughtful and beautiful cabins, a-frames, or motel rooms. The legacy of this property continues with the addition of the Trailhead Lounge, a place for travelers and locals to unwind with drinks and light snacks after a full day of work or play.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Valley of the Bear Ranch

5. Valley of the Bear Ranch

99%
(47)
44mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This land has been my family's ranch since the early 70's. We love it here and are happy to share it with campers that wish to enjoy the valley and respect the land. More about this campsite: The site is in a small ranch pasture along the Bear River near willow, birch, and large cottonwood trees. From the campsite there are views of the Flat Top mountains and ancient volcanic necks. Very quiet except for ranch activity and the friendly livestock guardian dogs (who will visit, and they bark to protect the sheep and goats at night) - it's a working ranch and you may have to contend with talkative sheep or dodge the occasional cow pie!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Tunatua RV Resort

6. Tunatua RV Resort

1.6mi from Yampa River State Park · 7 sites
OPENING June 1st, 2026! At Tunatua RV Resort, we provide a welcoming and well-equipped basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts and road trippers alike. Nestled in the heart of northwest Colorado’s prime hunting territory and just minutes from the Yampa River, our resort offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ensuring that every guest has a basecamp to set out to hunt, to float or fish the river, or explore other outdoor adventures; even if they are just passing through. We strive to foster a community where families share stories, adventurers can find respite, and every traveler can experience the beauty of nature with the warmth of true hospitality. Whether chasing elk or chasing sunsets, we are the basecamp for adventure.
Pets
Full hookups
Sagebrush Solitude

7. Sagebrush Solitude

100%
(1)
18mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌿 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
The Painted Bluff Camp

8. The Painted Bluff Camp

24mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
Escape to your own private wilderness at the base of a stunning, sun-washed bluff. Find your perfect spot to pitch a tent in a sprawling meadow of sage and native grasses, with the magnificent sandstone cliffs as your constant backdrop. This is a true backcountry camping experience, offering unparalleled peace, quiet, and privacy. Spend your days exploring the unique geological formations and your nights marveling at a brilliant canopy of stars, completely free from city lights. The cliffs come alive with color at sunrise and sunset, providing a spectacular show you won't forget. Perfect for: Stargazers, hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Please Note: This is primitive camping. There are no facilities, water, or electricity. Campers must be self-sufficient and practice strict Leave No Trace principles.
Buffalo Ranch

9. Buffalo Ranch

86%
(22)
25mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
35 acres with access off highway 40, 30 amp electrical hookup available, 15 miles to Steamboat Springs and the 20 miles to the ski resort. Property is directly across from yampa river and the nature conservatory land. Welding fabrication shop based on property but we are happy to help with any repairs . Large flat meadows in the front by the highway with wolf creek and trails on the west side of the property. Just a short 7 mile drive to Hayden and the Yampa Valley Airport
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Ripple Creek Pass Overlook Yurt

10. Ripple Creek Pass Overlook Yurt

32mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
Embark on an unparalleled winter journey at the Ripple Creek Yurt, Nestled 12 miles deep in the wilderness at a breathtaking altitude of 10,000 feet, this yurt offers not only staggering panoramic views but also positions itself as the ultimate hub for your winter escapades. Enveloped by vast, awe-inspiring snowmobile terrain, you can choose to immerse yourself for a day or extend your adventure overnight in this secluded paradise. With the capacity to comfortably host up to five, the yurt features two bunk beds. A woodstove, with an ample supply of firewood, promises to keep you warm. Cook a hearty meal in the equipped basic kitchen. This is not just any getaway; it's a self-sufficient, off-grid haven designed for those seasoned in navigating winter conditions. Don't just witness the winter; live it at Ripple Creek Yurt. Overnight use : Arrive - 2:30pm / Check out – 10:30am Rate: $150/ night Day Use: 11:00am – 2:00pm Rate: $50 Discounted snowmobile rentals through Paragon Snowmobile Adventures for overnight guests. $275/day – 850cc Snowmobiles $200/day 600cc Snowmobiles What you need to bring when staying at the yurt: Yurt door lock combination, Yurt confirmation packet, Sleeping Bag, Pillowcase Phone, Phone charger, Food ,Water (If you do not want to melt snow for water), Head lamp or flashlight Amenities: Kitchen: The yurt comes equipped with a two-burner propane cook stove. ( Pot, Pans, Dishes, Silverware, Measuring cups, cooking utensils, water and coffee cups, coffee percolator and filters, paper towels and trash bags, soap, scrub pads, and cook Spices). Lighting: The yurt comes with a solar light system and USB charge ports. Power is limited and lighting takes priority. Sleeping: The yurt is equipped with 2 bunk beds. 2 twins. 1 twin xl and 1 full size. Heat: A wood stove and firewood is provided Water: Water is by snowmelt. There is 1 large pot, to put on the woodstove to melt snow for cooking, drinking, and doing dishes. It is recommended that water is boiled before ingestion. This is a self-sufficient overnight trip. In order to keep prices down, guests are responsible for cleaning up before they leave. Please be sure dishes are washed and put away. firewood and kindling is stocked. And the floor is swept. Ready for the next guests
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
Mystic Valley Farm

11. Mystic Valley Farm

34mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Lodges of Oak Creek

12. The Lodges of Oak Creek

100%
(3)
37mi from Yampa River State Park · 15 sites
The Lodges of Oak Creek is a family owned boutique motel and resort in Oak Creek, CO. Our location is perfect for guests looking to enjoy Steamboat Springs and all the Yampa Valley has to offer. Clean, Affordable Lodging Near Steamboat Springs Our resort offers an affordable, clean, and cozy place to relax in between whatever adventures you decide to embark upon in the area. The boutique motel rooms are fully updated and well maintained. We offer standard, deluxe, double kitchenette, king kitchenette rooms and cottages. Additionally, our resort offers a limited number of sites for RVs. Please contact us to learn more about pricing for the RV sites.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
Savery Landing

13. Savery Landing

100%
(2)
38mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
Come away and quiet your soul in the peaceful meadows of Savery, Wyoming. Located right off the Battle Pass Scenic Byway and at the entrance to the Sierra Madre Mountains, you will find a sweet place to rest and enjoy the quiet.
Pets
Full hookups
River Camp RV Park

14. River Camp RV Park

81%
(13)
38mi from Yampa River State Park · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
River Camp RV Park is located directly on a beautiful bend of the famed White River near the base of the iconic Flat Tops Wilderness near Meeker, Colorado. The park is nestled in a scenic valley, surrounded by beautiful ranches and mountains. The 13 acre property is well laid out and provides spacious sites that afford great privacy and quiet. Mature trees on the property offer great shade and the grounds are covered with a beautiful lawn. The RV park is well maintained and always clean. There is an abundance of wildlife in the area. Turkeys and deer wander through the park and the bird watching is stellar. Keep your speed at 10 mph upon entry and 5.5 mph once you enter the RV sites. We MUST keep our wildlife and guests safe! The Speed Limit begins at the Park entry gate and all through the park. River Camp RV Park offers 20 well-situated RV sites, each with a level gravel pad. Each site has full hook ups, including water (with great water pressure), sewer, and 30 and 50 amp outlets. Most sites will accommodate a 38' RV and Class A, B, and C Motorhomes. A majority of the sites will also accommodate a 44' RV. In addition to the RV Sites with full hook-ups, we also offer dry camping and can accommodate large groups. We can provide water for our campers that are in the dry camp areas and we have a dump station area for you before you leave. Water is also provided for those that are in their tents or small camper trailers. Please note: we do not have a bathhouse. Porta-potties are near the dry camp area marked 20A-20E. Each site, including dry camp, has a picnic table and fire pit. Firewood is available for purchase. WiFi is also provided. Please keep in mind we are in a rural location and can NOT promise perfection when it comes to the WiFi. There is NO public boat launch for the river. Guests do have access to the river for leisure fishing with fly's and lures only. ATV's and Side-by-Sides; we do not have a trail from the park, however, we do have trailers for rent and we will guide you to get you to the trails with the available trailers. Please see our "Things to Do" page for more information. Camp Managers, James and Amy are onsite at site 13. They are always available to help.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Rio Blanco Beautiful View!

15. Rio Blanco Beautiful View!

38mi from Yampa River State Park · 1 site
If Rio Blanco near the town of Meeker Coloraodo, is where you are headed out to, there's a Beautiful view from this "Dry cabin" with a cute and rustic feeling screen porch, by an interesting mountain with a rocky wall and hillside right outside the door, and overlooking the White River, and Beautiful green hills and mountains and much of the time- prettier and blue skies. We offer a peaceful, humble and quiet, furnished, yet not insulated just yet, 12X30, new structure that is categorized presently as a dry cabin with two full beds that are both working as hide-a-beds, where there are two screened windows and a fun screen room attached to the small but comfortable little covered porch. While we have plans for more developing in the future, we ourselves are in the process of working into our own plans for the overall site. Right now, a peaceful night's sleep is much of the idea of this stay. While there is some noise from the highway that runs near the property, it gears much towards agricultural travel, such as semi trucks headed to and from from the area. While we always will have handwashing water and a bottle of drinking water, we are in the process of developing, which REQUIRES that anyone who reserves is ALREADY equipped with sufficient drinking, any cooking water- and any necessary washing water for their overnight staying. There is a plug, small coffeemaker, and microwave which are within the structure. Some paper towels or napkins and a tissue box are provided. While much of the time, there are ample hand towels for some convenience and extra older sleeping bags, it is not our responsibility at this time to "provide linens". Trained pet may accompany a guest, and are not the responsibility in ANY WAY of the management. Parents or guardians are completely responsible for any children or guest that accompanies them. At this time, this structure is only for people who can walk up a 100 foot, small hill without any assistance that is not already accompanying them. Owners are not responsible for providing night time bright lights. While there is always a lamp it doesn't always provide enough light for some. There is no cooling system within the structure, and only overnight is cool in the summer-(Checkout is before 10 AM).
Pets
Toilets
Boyer YL Ranch

16. Boyer YL Ranch

100%
(1)
45mi from Yampa River State Park · 5 sites
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Maybell Park

17. Maybell Park

25mi from Yampa River State Park
Nestled in the picturesque Northwest corner of Colorado, Maybell is a unique destination that captures the essence of the Wild West. Known for its annual Horse Drive, hosted by the Sombrero Ranch, this charming town offers visitors a glimpse into a world where real cowboys still roam. Maybell embodies simplicity and community, with a one-room schoolhouse where children in grades K-5 learn together, participating in the innovative Colorado SOLE program. During the summer months, Maybell becomes a hub for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the Yampa and Green Rivers. It serves as a gateway to stunning natural attractions such as Sandwash Basin, Irish Canyon, Browns Park, and the renowned Dinosaur National Monument. In the hunting season, the town's population swells from 75 to nearly triple, as hunters find a welcoming home away from home. Every May, Maybell Heritage Days draws crowds from around the globe for the largest horse drive in North America, where 600-800 horses are herded through the heart of town. This 60-year-old tradition keeps the cowboy spirit alive, inviting participants to experience the thrill of the West. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a taste of history, your unforgettable journey in the Wild West begins in Maybell.
Fritzlans Guest Ranch

18. Fritzlans Guest Ranch

32mi from Yampa River State Park
Fritzlan’s Guest Ranch stands out as a unique family-run campground with over 30 years of experience in providing exceptional hospitality in the heart of Colorado. Nestled along the picturesque White River, just 29 miles east of Meeker, our location on the Flat Tops Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views and easy access to the stunning White River National Forest and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a wealth of activities at their fingertips, with several trailheads nearby, including Big Ridge and The Marvines. These trails lead to scenic fishing spots, excellent backpacking routes, and prime hunting grounds, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. In addition to our beautiful natural surroundings, Fritzlan’s Guest Ranch features full-service campground facilities, including a shower house and waste dump for your convenience. Our serene outdoor space is perfect for hosting weddings and family reunions, providing a memorable backdrop for your special occasions. We invite you to come visit us soon and experience the charm and adventure that awaits at Fritzlan’s Guest Ranch!
High Tide Ranch

19. High Tide Ranch

33mi from Yampa River State Park
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.
Meeker River Bend RV Park

20. Meeker River Bend RV Park

36mi from Yampa River State Park
Discover the charm of our RV Park in Meeker, Colorado, uniquely situated along the picturesque shores of the White River, just a stone's throw from downtown. This prime location offers campers a serene escape while providing easy access to local attractions and amenities. Our park is perfect for families, retirees, hunters, and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're casting a line in the river, exploring the stunning Flattops area, or enjoying classic Meeker events, there's something for everyone. Snowmobile enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities for adventure in the winter months. With spacious sites that ensure privacy and comfort, our RV Park is designed to enhance your outdoor experience. Enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you, with nearby swimming holes and a variety of outdoor activities to keep you engaged. Plus, you'll find local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, making it easy to enjoy the best of Meeker. Come and experience all that our RV Park has to offer!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Yampa River State Park camping guide

Overview

About

Stretching for 134 miles along the Yampa River, this state park attracts boaters, hunters, anglers, and whitewater rafters, particularly in the warm summer months. There are 12 river access points in the park, seven of which have boat ramps, plus a handful of primitive camping areas. The developed Headquarters campground is set right by the visitor center near Hayden, Colorado. Overnight options include a mix of drive-in electric sites suitable for RVs, and walk-in tent sites, plus a couple of tipis. Other facilities include a dump station, coin-operated showers, and laundry facilities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Campsites and tipis at Headquarters can be reserved through Colorado Parks and Wildlife online reservation system or over the phone.
  2. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
  3. If you can't get a reservation at Yampa, enquire about one of the four primitive camping sites available along the river—these are located 12 to 32 miles away from the Headquarters campground.
  4. More camping is also available at Elkhead Reservoir State Park, Moffat County's Loudy Simpson Park, and at privately owned Hip camps in the area.

 

When to go

Yampa River State Park is best visited from May through September, when the weather is generally warm and pleasant; just be aware that low water levels in late summer can lead to voluntary fishing closures. The campground at Headquarters usually stops taking reservations around the beginning of November, depending on hunting season, although the water supply is sometimes cut off earlier if temperatures drop too low. The campground generally reopens for the year by Memorial Day Weekend, or earlier if the weather is hot enough.

Know before you go

  • You can fill up your gas tank and pick up basic supplies in the town of Hayden, a five-minute drive from the Headquarters campground.
  • There's a Visitor Center with a bookstore and a nature trail with an observation deck near the Headquarters campground.
  • During periods of high fire risk, the use of campfires and charcoal grills may be restricted or prohibited. The segment of the Yampa River that flows through the park offers mostly Class I and II rapids, though there are some Class III-V rapids in stretches.
  • Parking fees are not included in the price of camping reservations.  Daily and annual parking passes are available for purchase online or in person.

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