Sheriff Reservoir Campground

For Colorado residents yearning for a tranquil escape into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where the sounds of nature replace city noise and stunning vistas are your everyday backdrop, Sheriff Reservoir Campground offers an idyllic retreat. Nestled within the expansive Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, this small yet incredibly charming campground near Meeker, CO, provides a classic Colorado outdoor experience. This article is crafted specifically for locals, guiding you through the peaceful ambiance, recreational opportunities, and practical details that make Sheriff Reservoir Campground a perfect choice for your next adventure in our beautiful state.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground stands out for its serene lakeside setting and its focus on a more traditional, rustic camping experience. It's an ideal spot for those who appreciate the simplicity of nature, the thrill of fishing, and the quiet joy of non-motorized boating on a pristine mountain reservoir. While it offers essential amenities, its true appeal lies in its natural beauty and the abundance of outdoor activities right at your doorstep. We’ll explore its specific location, the services it provides, and the unique features that make it a cherished spot for many Colorado locals seeking peace and an authentic connection with the wilderness. Get ready to discover why Sheriff Reservoir Campground could be your next favorite go-to for rejuvenation.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground is located on Forest Rd 959, near Meeker, CO 81641, USA. This address places it approximately 15 miles west of Yampa, CO, deep within the scenic Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests. The setting is quintessentially Colorado, surrounded by dense forests and offering stunning views, particularly around the reservoir itself.

Accessibility to Sheriff Reservoir Campground is generally straightforward, though it requires navigating forest roads. The main access road is Forest Road 959. While the campground is described as being on Forest Road 959, it's also noted that there are "large dispersed camping opportunities leading towards the campground" along a "4-mile stretch," suggesting that the road leading in may be a well-traveled forest service road. For Colorado locals, familiar with forest service roads, this indicates a gravel or dirt road that is typically suitable for most vehicles, though slower speeds are advised. Those with campers and trailers should be aware that the campground itself is small and "best suited for tents," suggesting limited space for larger RVs within the main campground loop. However, the availability of dispersed camping spots on the approach means that larger rigs still have options in the vicinity. The campground's operational hours are generally from "mid to late June through late September/early October," depending on snow conditions, indicating seasonal accessibility. Always check with the Yampa Ranger District for current road conditions and opening/closing dates before planning your trip, especially early or late in the season.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground, while offering a rustic experience, provides essential services to ensure a comfortable stay. It’s designed for campers who appreciate nature's simplicity without requiring extensive modern amenities. Here’s a breakdown of the services available:

• Individual Campsites: The campground is small, featuring 5 to 6 single sites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a firegrate, providing basic necessities for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Vault Toilets: There are vault toilets available within the campground. These are basic, non-flush restroom facilities, which are standard for many Forest Service campgrounds and provide a necessary amenity in a natural setting.
• No Potable Water: A crucial point for campers is that Sheriff Reservoir Campground does not have potable water. Visitors must "pack in plenty of their own water" for drinking, cooking, and hygiene needs.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites at Sheriff Reservoir Campground are available on a "first-come, first-served" basis. There are "no reservations," meaning campers should plan to arrive early, especially during peak season or on weekends, to secure a spot.
• Affordable Fees: The camping fee is generally $14 per site per night (some sources mention $10, it's best to confirm current rates). Payment is typically "exact cash or check only," as there is no option for change back. This makes it an affordable option for many locals.
• No Permit Required: Camping at Sheriff Reservoir Campground does not require a special permit beyond the standard camping fee.
• Tent-Friendly Focus: While some sources indicate it can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, others note it's "best suited for tents" due to its small, tightly forested loop. This suggests that while RVs might fit, larger rigs could find maneuvering challenging within the primary campground. However, ample dispersed camping is available nearby for those with bigger setups.
• Dog-Friendly (Leashed): Dogs are allowed at the campground but "must remain on a leash at all times." This is important for pet owners to note for compliance and safety.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for Colorado locals seeking an authentic outdoor experience:

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: A primary highlight is its direct proximity to Sheriff Reservoir. Reviews mention "the lake is right against the sites" and provides a "beautiful place to stay" with "peaks of the water" from some sites. This offers stunning scenic views and easy access to the water.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The area is known for "fabulous lake and stream fishing for trout," including Rainbow Trout, Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, and Brook Trout. This makes it a prime spot for anglers.
• Non-Motorized Boating Access: The reservoir's shore and dam are "easily accessible by foot or by car" and can accommodate "canoes, belly boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and non-motorized fishing boats." This opens up a range of peaceful water activities.
• Secluded and Small Campground: With only 5 to 6 sites, the campground offers a more intimate and less crowded experience than larger facilities, contributing to its peaceful atmosphere.
• Tent-Friendly Environment: While accommodating various camping types, its suitability for tents makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer traditional tent camping in a natural setting.
• Dispersed Camping Opportunities Nearby: For those who arrive when the campground is full or prefer an even more primitive experience, "plenty of dispersed camping opportunities" exist on the roads leading to the campground. This provides flexible options for campers.
• Hiking Trails: The area offers "beautiful hiking from the main trailhead over the Sheriff Reservoir dam that goes to several little lakes." Specific trails like Sand Creek #1123, Bunker Basin #1109, and Black Mountain Creek Trail #1117 provide ample opportunities for exploration.
• Wildlife Viewing: Visitors might spot "deer wandering near the water in the evenings," adding to the charm and natural experience. The remote setting also makes it conducive to viewing other local wildlife.
• Hunting Popularity: During big game season, the area is very popular among hunters, indicating a rich natural environment that supports diverse wildlife populations.
• Affordable Camping: With a modest fee per site, it remains a budget-friendly option for enjoying Colorado's natural beauty.

For inquiries, the primary source of information for Sheriff Reservoir Campground is the U.S. Forest Service, which manages the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests where the campground is located. There isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself, as it's a first-come, first-served site.

Address: Forest Rd 959, Meeker, CO 81641, USA (This indicates the general geographic location)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Sheriff Reservoir Campground, including current operational status, road conditions, fire restrictions, fees, and general area information, Colorado locals should contact the Yampa Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests. This is the closest and most relevant Forest Service office responsible for the area.

Contact information for the Yampa Ranger District:

• Phone: (970) 638-4516
• Alternative Phone: (307) 745-2300 (General Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests number)
• Address: 300 Roselawn Ave, Yampa, CO 80483
• Website: The official U.S. Forest Service page for Sheriff Reservoir Campground can be found by searching "fs.usda.gov Sheriff Reservoir Campground" which provides detailed "At a Glance" information.

It's always recommended to call ahead, especially during the shoulder seasons (early June or late September/October), to confirm accessibility and conditions before planning your trip.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground truly embodies the essence of a Colorado outdoor escape, making it an excellent choice for local residents seeking a genuine and peaceful camping experience. Its location near Meeker, nestled within the vast Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, places it within a manageable drive for many Coloradans, offering an accessible wilderness retreat without extensive travel. For those who cherish the state's natural beauty, this campground provides an authentic opportunity to disconnect and immerse themselves in the quiet serenity of the mountains.

The campground’s first-come, first-served policy, combined with its relatively small size, fosters a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere compared to larger, reservation-based parks. This allows for spontaneous adventures and provides a sense of discovery for those who prefer to explore without rigid plans. The affordability of the nightly fees further enhances its suitability for regular use by local families and individuals seeking cost-effective ways to enjoy Colorado's bountiful outdoor recreation.

Perhaps the most compelling reasons for locals to choose Sheriff Reservoir Campground are its direct access to the beautiful reservoir and the wealth of recreational opportunities it offers. Anglers will delight in the "fabulous lake and stream fishing for trout," while enthusiasts of non-motorized water sports can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the pristine waters. The surrounding hiking trails, combined with ample wildlife viewing opportunities (including deer), ensure that there's always something to explore and appreciate. While the lack of potable water means self-sufficiency is key, this encourages responsible camping and a deeper connection to the natural environment, aligning perfectly with the values of many seasoned Colorado outdoor enthusiasts. In short, Sheriff Reservoir Campground is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of tranquility, recreation, and genuine wilderness, making it an ideal destination for your next local Colorado adventure.

Sheriff Reservoir Campground

Forest Rd 959, Meeker, CO 81641, USA