How much does camping cost at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Camping fees at Sylvan Lake State Park range from $10-$28/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Sylvan Lake State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Sylvan Lake State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Sylvan Lake State Park before I book?

Yes! Sylvan Lake State Park has 12 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Sylvan Lake State Park?

Sylvan Lake State Park is open Summer months are noted as peak for reservations; fall is popular for hunting.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Yes, Sylvan Lake State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Fire policies at Sylvan Lake State Park: Campfires allowed in designated areas with fire rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Sylvan Lake State Park have?

Sylvan Lake State Park has 44 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Sylvan Lake State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Sylvan Lake State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Sylvan Lake State Park?

Popular activities at Sylvan Lake State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Sylvan Lake State Park

4.53

73 reviews

PO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States

Top 22% in COFall

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$10 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

44 campsites

Season

Winter camping is av...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Sylvan Lake State Park Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$10 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

44 campsites

Season

Winter camping is av...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Sylvan Lake State Park Management Official Website

Get Directions

Sylvan Lake State Park

$10.00 - $28.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Pass Campsite Description Single campsite (max 6 occupants) Duration 1 Night Cost $14 to $28

Standard Site Fee$28.00

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9703282021

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Campground Map

PO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States

Sylvan Lake State Park

PO. Box 1475 <br> 10200 Brush Creek Road, Eagle, Colorado, 81631, United States

Nearby places

Eagle (approx. 14 miles driving distance)

Nearby supplies

Supplies, fuel, and groceries can be found in Eagle, Colorado, about 14 miles from the campground.

Driving directionsTo Sylvan Lake, Cabins, Campsites: Take I-70 to Eagle (Exit 147). Turn south through the Eby Creek roundabouts, under the railroad and across the river, then west on US HWY 6 (Grand Ave) for 0.9 miles. At the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto Sylvan Lake Road for 1.7 miles. Turn south on Brush Creek Road and travel 9 miles to the Visitor Center. Continue on Brush Creek Road until the road forks and becomes dirt. At the fork stay right and travel 5 miles to the lake, campground and cabins. To Brush Creek Yurts: Follow above directions until fork in road. Take left fork and travel 4.5 miles. The Yurts are on the left at the top of the switchbacks. The Yurts are 9.5 miles from the lake.

The road to Sylvan Lake State Park includes sections of Brush Creek Road that become unpaved at the fork. Some user reviews describe the access road as rough, particularly for camping trailers, but manageable with patience.

Weather at Sylvan Lake State Park

Best Time to Camp at Sylvan Lake State Park

Summer delivers the most reliable access and warmest conditions. Daytime highs run 60–75°F with cool nights around 30–45°F, so pack layers. Afternoon thunderstorms are common on warm days. This is peak season for boating, fishing, hiking, and biking, with all facilities open including flush toilets and showers. July and August bring higher weekend crowds, so reserve ahead. Winter transforms the park into snow country, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but with frigid temperatures. Spring brings wildflowers as the snow melts.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 22% in CO

Fall popular for foliage and pleasant conditions; many positive reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer months are noted as peak for reservations; fall is popular for hunting.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Winter camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited amenities are available during the winter months. Please pay the $10-per-night camping fee at the self-serve station at the entrance to the park. Winter camping dates are November 1–May 14.

About Sylvan Lake State Park

Sylvan Lake State Park sits at 8,500 feet in White River National Forest, offering 44 campsites plus 9 cabins and 3 yurts. The park charges $10–28 per night and accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs up to 120 feet depending on site. Visitors consistently praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and lack of cell service. A feature most appreciate for the chance to disconnect.

Sylvan Lake State Park accommodates a broad range of camping preferences, including tent and RV camping, primitive options, group camping, and cabin and yurt rentals.

Historical Significance

The park underwent extensive renovation in 2019, including complete replacement of the dam and campsite updates. Each fall, the park becomes a popular destination during Colorado's hunting season when aspens turn gold and elk bugle through the valleys.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the most reliable access and warmest conditions. Daytime highs run 60–75°F with cool nights around 30–45°F, so pack layers. Afternoon thunderstorms are common on warm days. This is peak season for boating, fishing, hiking, and biking, with all facilities open including flush toilets and showers. July and August bring higher weekend crowds, so reserve ahead. Winter transforms the park into snow country, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but with frigid temperatures. Spring brings wildflowers as the snow melts.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,500 feet above sea level, Sylvan Lake State Park offers visitors a true high-altitude experience. This lofty elevation creates refreshingly cool evening temperatures even during summer's warmest days, making it an ideal escape from lower elevation heat. The thin mountain air adds a crisp clarity to views and creates those brilliantly blue Colorado skies that photographers dream about, while reminding visitors to take it easy their first day as they adjust to the altitude.

Natural Features and SceneryThe lake sits in a glacially carved basin surrounded by forested slopes and mountain peaks. Aspens and evergreens cover the hillsides, and the lake reflects the surrounding mountains on calm days. Wildlife includes moose along the shoreline and hummingbirds in the meadows. The park's setting creates a natural amphitheater with 360-degree views, and the elevation means crisp, clear air even in summer.

Geological RegionSylvan Lake State Park sits like a jewel within the expansive White River National Forest, showcasing the geological wonders of the Colorado Rockies. This remarkable landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient tectonic forces thrust these mountains skyward and glacial activity carved out the perfect basin for today's picturesque lake. The surrounding peaks and forested slopes create a natural amphitheater that not only provides stunning 360-degree views but also shelters the park from harsh weather, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the greater Rocky Mountain region.

Scenic ViewsLake views and mountain vistas are commonly praised in user reviews, with one describing the area as 'a photographer's dream.'

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park provides 9 cabins and 3 yurts as additional lodging options. Cabins range from small standard types to premium three-bedroom accommodations. Yurts are located off a separate road, offering a more secluded experience. Reviewers praised the cleanliness and views, with one stating, 'The cabins are especially lovely here,' and another mentioning, 'Moose and mule deer grazed right outside of my yurt.'

Programs & ActivitiesThe Visitor Center offers interpretive programs and a well-stocked gift shop. One visitor stated, 'The gift shop at the Visitor Center is nice, clean, well stocked with nice gifts at a great price.'

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time rules are not specified.

Check-out

Check-out rules are unclear.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit rules not included in the provided data.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard campsites allow up to 6 guests, while cabins vary from 5 to 12 guests.

Groups

The Elk Run Group Site accommodates up to 60 people and is described as having 'really cool hangout areas that are better than the normal campsites.'

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutElk Run Campground offers lake views with sites closer together. Brush Creek Valley and Fisherman's Paradise Campground sit near the lake, with Fisherman's Paradise featuring both pull-through and back-in sites. Some sites are uneven, a common complaint in reviews. Privacy varies widely. Cabins and yurts can feel remote while other areas cluster campers together.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/Parks/sylvanlake or through Aspira Call Center at 1-800-244-5613.

Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest that walk-up availability may be limited during summer due to high demand.

Cancellation PolicyAs per the authoritative content, cancellation fees vary depending on the timing of cancellation. Changes made closer to the reservation date incur higher penalties, with 100% retention for cancellations within 7 days of arrival.

AccessibilityADA-accessible sites are available, including the Sylvan Lake Elk Run 016HD Basic site, which is specifically designated as an accessible option. Pathways to certain cabins may involve short walks from parking areas, such as a 20-meter walk to Cabin #8, as noted by reviewers.

Site SizeCampsites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Maximum equipment lengths range from 20 to 120 feet depending on the site.

PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some cabins and yurts providing a remote and secluded experience. Cabin #8, for instance, is noted as being 'the furthest one up and away from everything,' while other areas like Elk Run provide clustered camping spaces.

Total Campsites44 campsites

Recommended SitesCabin #8 offers exceptional privacy and scenic views. Tent site #31 is next to a creek, ideal for fishing.

Best CampsitesCabin #8 sits furthest up and away from everything, offering seclusion and privacy. Tent site #31 draws praise for views and privacy. Elk Run Campground provides lake views, though sites are more clustered there.

Need help booking Sylvan Lake State Park?

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Amenities available

Amenities include: ADA-accessible campsites Vault toilets Camper Services Building Flush toilets (summer only) Coin-operated showers (summer only) Dump station Water Water spigots There are no individual site hook-ups.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Sylvan Lake State Park offers an extensive range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are also popular on the lake. While swimming is prohibited, the park's trails and natural beauty make it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTicks reported in user reviews. Road conditions are rough, especially during mud season.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in designated areas with fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours include restrictions on generator usage during nighttime.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include facilities in Eagle, Colorado, approximately 14 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their location and pickup schedules are not provided.

Water FeaturesThe campground surrounds Sylvan Lake which offers fishing and paddleboarding opportunities.

Camp HostUser reviews mention friendly and informative staff at the Visitor Center.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

73 reviews

Top-Rated

Sylvan Lake State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Sylvan Lake State Park consistently receives praise for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and wide range of activities. Visitors frequently highlight the friendly and helpful park staff, as well as the well-maintained facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes the stunning lake views, well-maintained facilities, and abundant recreational opportunities. Activities such as fishing, hiking, and kayaking are commonly praised,...

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Some visitors noted issues such as uneven campsites and the rough access road leading to the park. Swimming restrictions and the lack of shade at some campsites were also mentioned.

Based on 73 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Cabin #8 is noted as the most remote and private, while cabins #6, #7, and #9 are closer to amenities like vault toilets. Site #31 by the creek received positive remarks for its scenic location.

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend reserving spots in advance, bringing lanterns or additional lighting, and preparing for cold nights with proper gear. Dog owners should take precautions against ticks.

Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and fall are highlighted as the best seasons for camping due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Winter offers unique activities like snowshoeing and sledding, but visitors should prepare...

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms and showers were really clean, but showers cost $1.00 for 4 minutes, totally worth it.' 2. 'The cabins are especially lovely here.' 3. 'Sylvan Lake is a photographer's dream.' 4. 'We...

Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park offers ADA-accessible sites and facilities. Visitors appreciated the availability of accessible options, though some pathways may be challenging for mobility-impaired individuals.

Based on 73 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at most sites, but owners should be vigilant about ticks, as noted by one reviewer who found a tick on their dog after a visit.

Based on 73 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Cabin-seekers and tent campers who want real disconnection: no hookups, no signal, and cold nights even in July. Book Cabin #8 for maximum solitude, or Site #31 by the creek if you're tenting. Fishing families do well here, kids catch rainbows from shore.

Skip if

Swimmers will be turned away at the water's edge, the lake is off-limits for it. RV owners with leveling issues should know some sites are genuinely uneven, and the access road off Brush Creek is rough enough to matter in wet conditions.

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Yeoman Park Campground

Forest Road 415, Yeoman Park, Eagle, CO

Yeoman Park sits at 9,000 feet in White River National Forest, where Brush Creek winds through wetland meadows backed by spruce forest and Craig Peak's 11,902-foot summit. The 24 sites ($8/night) accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet, with six sites handling longer rigs. No water on-site, no cell service, and genuinely clean vault toilets.