Dry Lake Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Colorado locals seeking a peaceful and accessible mountain camping experience near the vibrant town of Steamboat Springs, Dry Lake Campground offers a perfect blend of convenience and rustic charm. Tucked away in the beautiful Routt National Forest, this "tiny campground" with about 6 to 8 spots is a favorite for those who appreciate a quiet retreat. It provides essential amenities, including clean pit toilets and well-maintained fire pits, ensuring a comfortable yet authentic outdoor adventure. Dry Lake Campground is ideally situated for outdoor enthusiasts, offering direct access to numerous "family friendly hiking trails" and a major staging area for both motorized and pedal bikes. While its popularity as a trailhead can lead to some daytime activity, the nights are generally peaceful, providing a serene environment for rest and stargazing. The affordability of the sites, coupled with the natural beauty of the surrounding aspen, spruce, and fir trees, makes it an attractive option for Colorado residents looking to "unplug and relax" amidst the stunning landscapes of the Rocky Mountains.

Location and Accessibility

Dry Lake Campground is conveniently located at 32586 Forest Rd 60, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, USA. This places it approximately 8 miles northeast of downtown Steamboat Springs, making it easily accessible for locals looking for a quick getaway. The primary access route from Steamboat Springs involves traveling 4 miles north on Routt County Road #36 (Strawberry Park Rd), then turning east onto Routt County Road #38 (Buffalo Pass Rd) for about 3.6 miles. The campground is situated to the north of this road. While the road leading to the campground is generally in good condition, it serves as a "major staging area for bikes, Motor & pedal," which can lead to "lots of dust & noise" during peak daytime hours, particularly on weekends. However, the location offers exceptional access to a vast network of trails. Due to its elevation of 8,277 feet, the campground is typically open seasonally, from late May through October, depending on snowmelt and snowfall. It is always advisable to check current road conditions and seasonal closures with the local Forest Service office before planning your trip to ensure smooth and safe access to this popular spot.

Services Offered

• Limited Campsites: Dry Lake Campground offers 6 to 8 individual campsites.
• First-Come, First-Served and Reservations: While some sites are first-come, first-served, four of the seven campsites may be reserved two weeks in advance through Recreation.gov.
• Affordable Fees: Camping is available for $10 per night without discounts, with discounts available for participants in certain programs. (Note: Future improvements project starting in Summer 2024 aims to triple campsites to 23 and increase fee to $26/night once completed, likely in 2025).
• Clean Pit Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained pit (vault) toilets, which are consistently noted by visitors as being clean.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit for campfires. (Always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a picnic table for comfortable outdoor dining.
• Trash Collection: Trash services are available on-site, contributing to the cleanliness of the campground.
• Suitable for Tents and Small RVs/Trailers: Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers, and small RVs, with a maximum recommended length of 20 feet due to site sizes and access.
• No Potable Water: Campers must bring their own drinking water, as no water sources are available at the campground.
• No Electricity or Showers: Dry Lake Campground offers a primitive camping experience, with no electrical hookups or shower facilities.
• Bear Aware Area: Visitors are advised to be "bear aware" and practice proper food storage due to wildlife presence.

Features / Highlights

• Quiet Nights: Despite its popularity as a daytime trailhead, visitors consistently report enjoying "good rest here" and finding the "night sky was pretty," indicating a peaceful environment after dark.
• Access to Extensive Trail Network: Dry Lake Campground is a gateway to a wealth of "family friendly hiking trails" and mountain biking routes in various directions. Trails like Panorama, Fiddlehead, Flash of Gold, and Spring Creek are easily accessible, making it a prime spot for outdoor recreation.
• Clean Facilities: The presence of "clean pit toilet" and regular cleaning by rangers (as noted by a reviewer) significantly enhances the comfort and appeal of this small campground.
• Beautiful Forest Setting: The campground is surrounded by a lovely forest of Aspen, Spruce, and Fir trees, providing shade and a picturesque backdrop for camping. The "sunset colors over the Aspens" can be particularly "gorgeous."
• Affordable and Accessible: With a modest nightly fee and proximity to Steamboat Springs, Dry Lake offers a budget-friendly and convenient option for a quick mountain escape.
• Wildlife Observation: Being in a natural forest environment, there's a good chance to spot various animals. Visitors are reminded to "be bear aware here," indicating the presence of local wildlife.
• Spacious Campsites: Despite being a "tiny campground," reviewers note that the "campsites are large enough," and individual sites can vary in size and setup, with some offering more privacy.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground is a "short drive away" from the many attractions of Steamboat Springs, including dining, shopping, and the famous Strawberry Park Hot Springs, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
• On-site Ranger Presence: The presence of a ranger cleaning fire pits and seemingly taking "good care of this little place" suggests a well-managed and cared-for campground.

Contact Information

Dry Lake Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests & Thunder Basin National Grassland, specifically under the Hahn's Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District.

Address: 32586 Forest Rd 60, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, USA (This address refers to the general location on Buffalo Pass Road).

Phone: (307) 745-2300 (This number typically connects to the main Forest Service office for the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests.)

Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-2300

For more specific local information, it is highly recommended to contact the Hahn's Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District directly at (970) 870-2299. Colorado locals planning a visit should call ahead to confirm current operating status, fees (especially with ongoing improvement projects), road conditions, fire restrictions, and to inquire about reservation availability for specific dates.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Dry Lake Campground is an excellent choice for Colorado locals seeking an accessible, affordable, and authentic mountain camping experience near Steamboat Springs. Its prime location in the Routt National Forest makes it a convenient "gateway" for both weekend adventurers and those looking for a longer stay, with "family friendly hiking trails" right at their doorstep. For residents, the blend of primitive amenities (clean pit toilets, fire pits) with well-maintained grounds offers a comfortable entry point to wilderness camping without being overly rustic. The "quiet" nights, often accompanied by a "pretty" night sky, provide a true escape from city noise, allowing for genuine rest and rejuvenation. While it serves as a bustling "staging area for bikes" during the day, the evenings bring tranquility. The affordability, coupled with potential discounts, makes it a budget-friendly option for regularly enjoying Colorado's stunning outdoors. The opportunity to witness wildlife and explore numerous trails directly from the campground appeals to the active, nature-loving spirit of Coloradoans. Dry Lake Campground perfectly embodies the local desire for accessible, natural beauty, offering a convenient and peaceful base for exploring the vibrant Steamboat Springs area and its surrounding recreational opportunities.

Dry Lake Campground

32586 Forest Rd 60, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, USA