Routt County is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering an incredible variety of landscapes ranging from the high-alpine peaks of the Continental Divide to the winding, lush corridors of the Yampa River.

While Routt County does not have a federally designated National Park, National Monument, or National Wildlife Refuge strictly within its county lines (it serves as a major gateway to places like Dinosaur National Monument to the west and Rocky Mountain National Park to the east), it is absolutely packed with State Parks, National Forests, State Wildlife Areas, and world-class campgrounds.

Here is your guide to the public lands and protected areas that make Routt County a premier Colorado destination.

National Forests

Routt County is heavily forested, offering millions of acres of pristine wilderness, legendary snowfall, and endless trails.

• • Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests: This massive expanse dominates the eastern half of the county. It features the rugged Mount Zirkel Wilderness, which boasts over 70 alpine lakes, and the secluded Sarvis Creek Wilderness, a heavily wooded sub-alpine paradise. Visitors flock here for world-class hiking, OHV riding, hunting, and winter snowmobiling (especially around Buffalo Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass).

  • White River National Forest: A portion of this 2.3-million-acre forest touches the southern edge of Routt County, providing access to the sprawling Flat Tops Wilderness Area—famous for its volcanic cliffs, vast plateaus, and pristine fishing.

Colorado State Parks

Routt County is uniquely blessed with four incredible state parks, each centered around water and offering distinct recreational vibes.

1. Steamboat Lake State Park

Located at the base of the spectacular Hahn’s Peak, this is the crown jewel of northern Routt County.

• • The Vibe: High-energy summer water sports and stunning mountain views.

  • Activities: The 1,100-acre reservoir features a full-service marina, a swim beach, and motorized boating. In the winter, it transforms into a hub for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

2. Pearl Lake State Park

Just down the road from Steamboat Lake lies this smaller, quieter retreat at the base of Farwell Mountain.

• The Vibe: Peaceful, serene, and wake-free.

• Activities: Motorized boats are not allowed, making it a paradise for stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and fly-fishing (especially for cutthroat trout).

3. Stagecoach State Park

Located south of Steamboat Springs in the town of Oak Creek, this park is built around an 820-acre reservoir.

• • The Vibe: A local favorite for fishing and wakeboarding.

  • Activities: Known for phenomenal tailwater fishing (especially for fast-growing pike and rainbow trout). It features extensive hiking and biking trails, plus great winter ice fishing.

4. Yampa River State Park

Rather than a single lake, this park encompasses a 134-mile stretch of the Yampa River.

• The Vibe: A river runner’s sanctuary.

• Activities: The park headquarters near Hayden offers a nature trail and visitor center, while 13 different access points along the river provide excellent put-ins for rafters, kayakers, and anglers casting for smallmouth bass and northern pike.

State Wildlife Areas & Preserves

While federal Wildlife Refuges are found in neighboring counties, Routt County offers several critical state and privately protected habitats.

• Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area: Located just south of Steamboat Springs along the Yampa River, this is a premier spot on the Colorado birding trail. Look for bald eagles, sandhill cranes, American dippers, and various waterfowl.

• Adams State Wildlife Area: A 650-acre parcel that provides critical habitat for elk, mule deer, and dusky grouse. It requires a valid hunting or fishing license (or SWA pass) to enter and is popular for seasonal hunting.

• Yampa River Preserve: Managed by The Nature Conservancy near Hayden, this sanctuary protects a rare, lush riparian forest of narrowleaf cottonwood and box elder. It’s an excellent, quiet spot for a nature walk to spot river otters, mink, and eagles.

Campgrounds

Whether you prefer full RV hookups or a rugged tent pad off a dirt road, Routt County has you covered.

State Park Campgrounds (Reservations highly recommended)

• Steamboat Lake: 196 campsites with flush toilets, laundry, and marina access.

• Stagecoach: 92 campsites ranging from basic tent pads to electrical hookups.

• Pearl Lake: 38 campsites nestled in the pines, plus yurts available for rent.

• Yampa River: 45 campsites at the Hayden headquarters, including unique teepee rentals.

National Forest Campgrounds (Rustic & Scenic)

The US Forest Service operates numerous campgrounds, mostly featuring vault toilets and no electrical hookups. Highlights include:

• Seedhouse Campground: Deep in North Routt County, offering fantastic access to the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness.

• Dumont Lake & Summit Lake: High-altitude camping situated atop Rabbit Ears Pass, known for incredible summer wildflowers.

• Hahn’s Peak Lake: A quiet, 25-site campground north of Steamboat Springs, perfect for non-motorized boating and fishing.

• Dry Lake: Located up Buffalo Pass, a favorite for mountain bikers looking for immediate access to epic trail networks.

Private & In-Town Camping

• Steamboat Springs KOA: The only campground located right in Steamboat Springs, offering full RV hookups, a pool, and easy access to town amenities.

• Routt County Fairgrounds: Located in Hayden, offering budget-friendly sites and RV hookups.