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Yampa River Headquarters
Overview
Yampa River State Park Headquarters serves as the central hub for travelers exploring the wild and scenic Yampa River corridor. This park is uniquely positioned to offer access to one of the last free-flowing rivers in the American West. It provides a tranquil environment where RVers can settle into the high desert landscape while enjoying well-maintained facilities. It is more than just a quick stopover; it serves as a gateway to the natural wonders found throughout the Yampa Valley.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a few miles west of Hayden, the park is nestled in a broad valley surrounded by rolling hills and vibrant riparian forests. The scenic Yampa River winds gracefully nearby, creating a lush green corridor that provides a beautiful contrast to the surrounding sagebrush hills. Its location along Highway 40 makes it easily accessible for those traveling between Steamboat Springs and Craig, offering a peaceful retreat far from the more crowded mountain resort areas.
Amenities & Park Features
The headquarters area features 35 electric hookup sites designed to accommodate a variety of modern RV sizes. Guests have access to essential comforts that make life on the road easier. Notable features at this location include:
- Clean, heated showers and modern laundry facilities
- A visitor center with educational exhibits on local wildlife
- A convenient dump station and potable water access
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers will appreciate the proximity to Gold Medal fishing waters, while rafters and kayakers use the park as a primary launch point for river trips. Just a short drive away, Elkhead Reservoir offers additional boating, swimming, and hiking opportunities. The nearby town of Steamboat Springs provides world-class dining and famous hot springs, making it easy to balance rugged outdoor adventure with comfortable small-town amenities.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an excellent choice for river enthusiasts and families who enjoy a mix of water activities, photography, and nature study. It is ideal for travelers who prefer a quiet, organized setting over primitive dispersed camping options. Because of its central location in the valley, it also serves as a perfect base camp for hunters, birdwatchers, and road trippers looking to explore the diverse habitats of Northwest Colorado.
Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Rentals
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Sandra D
The park is so beautiful! The river runs along the edge that has a boat ramp down to it. There are picnic tables all around (some have a BBQ stand), camping areas with covered picnic tables, just over a mile walking track all around the park, a play area for children, shower house for campers and a wonderful and interesting visitors center.
Carl Crabtree
Nice level lots, great walking trail, nice shower house and laundry.
Rosalva Gonzalez
Amazing campground. Rangers were helpful and kind. Loved that the showers and flush toilets were accessible 24/7 so we didn't have to sleep in the days grossness when coming back from our nearby adventures. The location is great for day trips to Craig and Steamboat Springs. Lots of fishing holes nearby. And we were able to check out a hammock from the visitor center that made afternoon naps amazing!
Dell Hart
It's a nice enough camp site. The spots are level with rock, fire pits/grills and a covered picnic bench. There is a free shower and coin laundry for guests. We didn't see any sewer or water hookups and their dump station is out of service. There is water available just not at our site. It's pretty close to the road and you hear traffic noise all the time.
steve moynihan
What a great day destination! I enjoyed the walking trail and learned a few new things from the interpretive signage. A big shout out to Ranger Kirk who went above and beyond with courteous help and the knowin' of all things Yampa river...
