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Steamboat Lake

Overview

Steamboat Lake State Park is a high-altitude gem located at the base of the spectacular Hahn's Peak. Sitting at approximately 8,100 feet, this park offers some of the most photographed scenery in northern Colorado. It is centered around a massive 1,100-acre reservoir known for its crystal-clear waters and Gold Medal fishing status, making it a bucket-list destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a true mountain escape.

Location & Surroundings

Situated about 27 miles north of Steamboat Springs in the quiet community of Clark, the park feels worlds away from the bustle of the city. The landscape is defined by rolling wildflower meadows and dense forests of aspen and evergreen. The park is bordered by the Routt National Forest, providing a vast wilderness backdrop that ensures quiet nights and frequent wildlife sightings, including sandhill cranes, foxes, and elk.

Amenities & Park Features

The park provides several camping loops, with many sites offering 30-amp electric hookups suitable for various RV sizes. While full hookups are not available, the park features a convenient dump station and fresh water fill sites. The camper services building provides seasonal coin-operated showers and laundry facilities for comfort. For those bringing watercraft, the full-service marina offers slips, fuel, and rentals to help you get out on the water easily.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Activity revolves around the water, where visitors enjoy trout fishing, paddleboarding, and sailing. Hikers can explore the Willow Creek Trail for easy loops or tackle the challenging climb up Hahn’s Peak nearby for 360-degree views. Just a short drive away, Pearl Lake State Park offers a quieter, wake-less experience for kayakers. For a bit of civilization, Steamboat Springs offers world-class dining and the famous Strawberry Park Hot Springs.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is ideal for RVers who prioritize natural beauty and outdoor recreation over urban luxuries. It is a haven for families wanting a classic summer lake vacation and for photographers seeking the perfect shot of the alpine sunset. If you enjoy water-based activities and want a peaceful home base for exploring the Routt National Forest, this is widely considered one of the finest camping spots in Colorado.

Amenities

- Tenting

• Dedicated Tenting Area

- Recreational Facilities

• Lake
• Boating
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Dock
• Ramp
• Boat Rental
• Boat Marina
• Body Of Water (Steamboat Lake)
• Planned Activities
• Horseback Riding
• Nature Trails
• Rec Open to the Public

- Policies

• Folding Tent Campers Allowed
• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Rentals

• Cabin/Cottage Rentals (10)

- Other Amenities & Services

• Road Condition (Good)
• Road Type (Paved)
• Restroom and Showers
• Restroom/Showers ($)
• Laundry
• Snack Bar
• Guest Services
• Onsite Rentals (10)

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating
• Mountain Biking
• Watersports

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Dump Station
• Partial Handicap Access
• Limited Facilities - Winter

- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)

• Season: Winter,Spring,Fall

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (188)
• Width (10)
• Max Length (50)
• Gravel Sites (188)
• 30 Amp
• 50 Amp
• Shaded (Some)
• Electric (74)
• No Hookups (114)
• Max Amps (50)
• Pull-thrus (99)
• Pull-thru Size (10 x 50)
• Back-ins (10 x 35)
• Room for Slideouts (Yes)
• Site Length (50)
• Fire Rings
• Table at Site
• Tent-Only Sites (114)

User Reviews

Pamela Nickel

July 27, 2025

Beautiful place to paddle or kayak and it's dog friendly. We stayed at the campground and enjoyed the Steamboat Lake during the day. The lake never gets too crowded, but the small swim beach did have a lot of folks on the weekend. We saw pelicans, deer, cranes, geese, ducks, and lots of hummingbirds. Such a picturesque area.

Kathryn Day

July 16, 2025

We went back two days in a row because it was so fantastic! The self-pay permit kiosk worked perfectly and was super easy to use. We used the shower & bathroom facilities and beach, but would definitely come back to camp in those cute cabins!

Kensey Farrington

July 02, 2025

This is an absolutely stunning state park. Our campsite was entirely surrounded by wildflowers. It was very serene and we even had deer come right up to our site. There are flushable toilets and showers. The sky was so clear you could see millions of stars.

E M

July 01, 2025

June stay--Beautiful scenery of snow capped mountains, water was awesome for kayaking and clean. Most waterfront sites had small private trails directly to the water. One of the best locations to camp with kids in CO by far. Short drive to Steamboat Springs. Edit: Added photos, cheers!

Joe Trujillo

June 14, 2025

GREAT PLACE TO FISH! If you're looking for Quality trout this a great lake to visit. Camping looks great as well I am looking forward to doing that sometime soon! The Staff are also really friendly. Sites are clean as are the restrooms. There is a dump site here as well. Great place to beach, kayak, fish, boat, fly fish and hike.

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Map for Steamboat Lake

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