Dry Lake Campground (Co)

Star4.46
38 reviews
Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District, 925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Quick Facts

8,277 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

7 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Dry Lake Campground (Co)
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping costs $10 per night without discounts, but discounts may apply for certain programs or Interagency Passes.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
970-870-2299
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 38 reviews

34 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerypeacefulhikingwell-maintained

Some mention

mosquitoestrain

"Overall, Dry Lake Campground receives positive feedback for its quiet, scenic setting and proximity to recreational activities. Common themes include the cleanliness of vault toilets, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the abundance of wildlife."

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Campground Map

Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District, 925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Dry Lake Campground (Co)

Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District, 925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Driving directionsTravel 4 miles north of Steamboat Springs on Routt County Road #36 (Strawberry Park Rd), then 3.6 miles east on Routt County Road #38 (Buffalo Pass Rd). The campground is located to the north of the road.
The campground is accessible via paved and dirt roads (Buffalo Pass Rd). No seasonal closures are explicitly mentioned, but the elevation of 8,277 feet may affect accessibility during winter.
Nearby places
Steamboat Springs (8 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes driving time)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Steamboat Springs, approximately 8 miles away, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Dry Lake Campground (Co)

Summer transforms Dry Lake into a mountain paradise, where crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above and gentle breezes carry the scent of wildflowers through comfortable, moderate temperatures. As autumn approaches, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen backdrop. Winter, however, cloaks the campground in deep snow and brings arctic conditions that can make the winding Buffalo Pass Road challenging or impassable, creating a seasonal sanctuary accessible primarily during the warmer months.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is a mountain paradise with many trails; mosquito activity reported as a downside.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 25% in US

Fall reviews note quieter conditions and fewer bugs, making it a preferred season.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring access possible but limited seasonal detail; transition season with mixed conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but high-elevation accessibility may be limited; winter use unclear.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: No specific peak season dates are listed, but summer is likely busiest due to favorable weather conditions and recreational activities.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round but accessibility may be affected in winter due to high elevation.

About Dry Lake Campground (Co)

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness just 8 miles northeast of Steamboat Springs, Dry Lake Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude in Colorado's high country. This hidden gem along Buffalo Pass Road welcomes adventurers with 7 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each furnished with sturdy tables and fireplace grates perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water, it compensates with direct access to scenic hiking and biking trails that wind through the surrounding forest. The compact size accommodates trailers up to 20 feet, making it ideal for smaller rigs and those who prefer a more secluded camping experience away from the crowds.
Dry Lake Campground caters to tent camping and small trailer camping. Primitive facilities include vault toilets, campfire rings, and picnic tables. The campground offers an experience tailored for campers seeking a more natural, less commercialized setting.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 14:00 (2 PM).
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 (noon).
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Dry Lake Campground is a gateway to numerous recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby trail system offers opportunities for both beginner and advanced mountain biking and hiking experiences. Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are accessible via the Dry Lake Trailhead.
HikingThe campground provides access to popular trails, including Panorama, Flash of Gold, and Spring Creek. These trails are suitable for a range of skill levels.
BikingThe area is well-regarded for mountain biking, with access to trails that cater to all skill levels. The Continental Divide Trail and other single-track trails are accessible from the nearby Dry Lake Trailhead.
Wildlife viewingVisitors frequently encounter wildlife such as moose, elk, and mule deer. One review highlights a close encounter with a "huge moose on the nearest trail."
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are present in the area, requiring visitors to follow strict food storage guidelines. Mosquitoes are reported to be an issue during certain seasons, particularly in summer.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Dry Lake Campground (Co)

Reviews

4.5
38 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Dry Lake Campground (Co) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Dry Lake Campground receives positive feedback for its quiet, scenic setting and proximity to recreational activities. Common themes include the cleanliness of vault toilets, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the abundance of wildlife.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the well-maintained facilities, and the proximity to hiking and biking trails. Reviewers frequently commend the camp hosts for their friendliness and the...
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Based on 38 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water is a frequent point of criticism. Other issues include full trash dumpsters, mosquitoes, and the limited number of campsites, which can make securing a spot challenging. The...
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Based on 38 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, mosquito repellent, and a shovel for cleaning fire pits. Consider reserving a site in advance, as availability is limited. Smaller trailers are better suited for this...
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Based on 38 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight heavy mosquito activity but praise the abundance of nearby trails. Fall reviews mention quieter conditions and fewer bugs, making it a preferred time for some visitors.
Based on 38 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful area to camp. If you have a STURDY and LIGHT 4x4, you can make it up the mountain and boondock for free." - Halie Noble. "Was perfect for us easy car/tent spots with a little privacy for...
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Based on 38 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #3 is noted for its challenging maneuverability, especially for trailers. Sites #1 and #2 offer more privacy, making them preferred by some visitors.
Based on 38 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 38 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews explicitly mention pet experiences or policies.
Based on 38 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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