Elkhead Reservoir State Park: An Oasis in the High Desert
Discover northwest Colorado's high desert oasis: boating, camping, hiking, and wildlife at Elkhead Reservoir State Park.
Elkhead Reservoir State Park, nestled in the Yampa Valley near Craig, Colorado, is a 900-acre reservoir offering diverse recreational activities. From boating and fishing to hiking and wildlife watching, this high desert oasis provides a refreshing escape with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
A brief summary to Elkhead Reservoir State Park
- 135 Co Rd 28, Craig, Colorado, 81625, US
- +1970-276-2061
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Purchase a daily vehicle pass or annual pass for park entry at the self-service station.
- Bring cash or check for self-pay stations, as credit cards are not accepted at the campground.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly in the high desert.
- Reservations are required for camping and can be made up to six months in advance.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Craig, travel east on Highway 40 for approximately 7 miles until you reach Moffat County Road 29. Turn left onto County Road 29 and continue north for 4 miles. Turn right onto County Road 28 to enter the park. Continue on County Road 28 across the dam to reach Bear's Ears Campground. A daily vehicle pass costs $10. Parking is available in several lots throughout the park.
Discover more about Elkhead Reservoir State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Colorado Historic Marker
6.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of Colorado at the Colorado Historic Marker, a serene glimpse into the region's past amidst stunning landscapes.
Wyman Museum
9.9 km
Discover the captivating history of the American West at Wyman Museum in Craig, Colorado, where artifacts and stories come to life.
Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works
31.5 km
Explore the winter wonderland of Steamboat Springs with an unforgettable dog sledding experience at Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works.
Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday
43.7 km
Discover the beauty of Colorado at Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday, where adventure meets comfort in a stunning natural setting.
Historic Mad Creek Barn
43.7 km
Explore the Historic Mad Creek Barn in Steamboat Springs, a captivating landmark showcasing Colorado's rich agricultural heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Steamboat Lake State Park
44.2 km
Explore the breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures at Steamboat Lake State Park in Colorado, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Big House Burgers
45.5 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers in Steamboat Springs at Big House Burgers, where flavor and fun come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge
45.5 km
Experience the harmony of nature and music at the James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs
45.6 km
Discover the soothing natural hot springs of Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs, Colorado—your ultimate relaxation destination amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Storm Peak Brewing Company
45.6 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Storm Peak Brewing Company in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where every sip tells a story.
Steamboat Springs Community Center
46.1 km
Explore the heart of Steamboat Springs at the Community Center, where recreation, culture, and community come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Sulphur Cave Spring
47.2 km
Experience the healing waters and breathtaking scenery at Sulphur Cave Spring in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Yampa Valley Brewing Company Hop House
47.2 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer scene at Yampa Valley Brewing Company Hop House in Steamboat Springs, where local flavors and community spirit come alive.
Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails
47.3 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Steamboat Springs at Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails, where innovative small plates and craft cocktails await.
the press.
47.4 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at The Press, Steamboat Springs' top bar for craft drinks and unforgettable performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yampa River State Park
10.3 km
Discover the beauty of the Yampa River Valley with boating, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a diverse natural setting.
Museum of Northwest Colorado
14.4 km
Discover the captivating history of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers at the Museum of Northwest Colorado in Craig.
Lithia Spring
46.5 km
Discover the natural serenity of Lithia Spring in Steamboat Springs, a historic mineral spring offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Black Sulphur Spring
47.0 km
Discover the unique, dark waters of Black Sulphur Spring, a key landmark in Steamboat Springs' rich history and geological tapestry.
Steamboat Spring
47.0 km
Relax and rejuvenate in the heart of Steamboat Springs at the historic and family-friendly Old Town Hot Springs.
Little Toots Park
47.2 km
A charming riverside park in Steamboat Springs with a playground, picnic spots, and river access for family fun and relaxation.
Howelsen Hill Ski Area
47.4 km
Discover historic Howelsen Hill Ski Area in Steamboat Springs: Home to Olympic legends and North America's oldest continuously operating ski area.
Emerald Mountain
47.5 km
Explore Emerald Mountain in Steamboat Springs: hiking, biking, and stunning views await on accessible multi-use trails.
Off the Beaten Path Bookstore and Café
47.5 km
Discover a curated collection of books, delightful coffee, and a warm community atmosphere at Steamboat Springs' favorite independent bookstore and café.
Pine Moon Fine Art
47.6 km
Discover local talent at Pine Moon Fine Art, downtown Steamboat Springs' vibrant showcase of diverse artistic styles and mediums.
Steamboat Art Museum
47.6 km
Discover fine art in the heart of the Rockies at the Steamboat Art Museum, showcasing the culture and heritage of Northwest Colorado.
The Tread of Pioneers Museum
47.7 km
Explore Steamboat Springs' vibrant past at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, featuring exhibits on skiing, ranching, and local heritage.
Crooked Key Escape Rooms
48.0 km
Experience thrill and teamwork at Crooked Key Escape Rooms in Steamboat Springs, where every puzzle unlocks a new adventure.
Dr. Rich Weiss Park
48.3 km
A scenic riverside park in Steamboat Springs offering relaxation, recreation, and a tribute to local Olympian Dr. Rich Weiss.
Old Town Hot Springs
48.3 km
Steamboat Springs' historic hot springs and recreation center, offering year-round relaxation, fitness, and family fun in a downtown setting.
Essential places to dine
Moe's Original BBQ - Steamboat
45.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Moe's Original BBQ in Steamboat Springs, where delicious flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Cinco De Mayo Restaurant
45.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Cinco De Mayo Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Primrose
47.3 km
Discover Primrose in Steamboat Springs: A Culinary Haven Showcasing Locally Sourced Ingredients and Innovative Dishes.
Seedz (Steamboat Springs)
47.3 km
Discover the delightful fusion of New American and Pacific Rim cuisine at Seedz in Steamboat Springs – where healthy meets delicious.
Sumatera Restaurant
47.3 km
Experience authentic Indonesian flavors at Sumatera Restaurant in Steamboat Springs – where every dish tells a story.
Creekside Café & Grill
47.4 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Creekside Café & Grill in Steamboat Springs - your go-to spot for breakfast and brunch with stunning views.
Ocean Dragon Chinese & Sushi Restaurant
47.5 km
Experience the best of Asian cuisine at Ocean Dragon Chinese & Sushi Restaurant in Steamboat Springs—where flavor meets tradition.
Mazzola's Italian Restaurant
47.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mazzola's Italian Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Harwigs
47.5 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Colorado at Harwigs Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where every dish tells a story.
O'Neil's Tavern & Grill
47.6 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at O'Neil's Tavern & Grill in Steamboat Springs—where good food meets great company!
Yampa Valley Kitchen
47.6 km
Experience fresh flavors and local ingredients at Yampa Valley Kitchen in Steamboat Springs – where every meal is crafted with care.
Sunpie's Bistro
47.6 km
Experience the best of Steamboat Springs at Sunpie's Bistro with fresh local flavors and a lively bar atmosphere.
Besame Steamboat
47.6 km
Experience authentic Latin American cuisine at Besame Steamboat, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition in a vibrant setting.
Taco Cabo
47.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taco Cabo in Steamboat Springs—where fresh flavors meet vibrant culture.
8th Street Steakhouse
47.6 km
Experience exquisite flavors at 8th Street Steakhouse in Steamboat Springs - where premium steaks meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LiftUp Thrift Store
45.4 km
Explore unique finds and support local social services at LiftUp Thrift Store in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Steamboat Hatter
47.3 km
Discover unique hats and exceptional service at Steamboat Hatter, the ultimate destination for headwear enthusiasts in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Roots & Roost, Co.
47.4 km
Explore the unique charm of Roots & Roost, Co. in Steamboat Springs – a treasure-filled antique store offering distinctive vintage finds and local history.
The Breckenwitch
47.4 km
Explore The Breckenwitch in Steamboat Springs, where magic meets well-being through unique gifts and enchanting supplies.
Embellishments of Steamboat Springs
47.5 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and artisanal treasures at Embellishments of Steamboat Springs, where creativity meets charm.
Faherty Steamboat Springs
47.5 km
Discover sustainable fashion at Faherty Steamboat Springs, where style meets adventure in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
The Y-Not Shop, Steamboat Springs
47.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Y-Not Shop in Steamboat Springs, your one-stop destination for souvenirs and novelty items.
Ohana
47.6 km
Explore Ohana in Steamboat Springs for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's vibrant culture.
Upcountry
47.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Upcountry, a charming gift shop in Steamboat Springs, perfect for souvenirs and special finds.
The Homesteader
47.6 km
Discover The Homesteader in Steamboat Springs, CO—your destination for quality kitchen supplies and gourmet ingredients.
F M Light & Sons
47.6 km
Discover the spirit of the West at F M Light & Sons, your ultimate destination for authentic western apparel and accessories in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Moose Mountain Trading Co
47.6 km
Explore Moose Mountain Trading Co, a delightful gift shop in Steamboat Springs, offering unique home goods and local treasures for every traveler.
Steamboat Trading Co
47.6 km
Discover unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the charm of Steamboat Springs at Steamboat Trading Co.
Steamboat Apparel Co
47.6 km
Explore Steamboat Apparel Co for a unique collection of t-shirts that embody the spirit of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Chrysalis
47.6 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and high-quality cosmetics at Chrysalis in Steamboat Springs, where fashion meets local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Foxes
47.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails at Foxes, a must-visit bar in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
West End Sports Grill
47.3 km
Discover a vibrant sports bar in Steamboat Springs, perfect for families and sports fans, offering delicious American cuisine and exciting game-day atmosphere.
The Common Bar
47.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and wide selection of drinks at The Common Bar in Steamboat Springs, the perfect hangout for relaxation and fun.
The Barley Tap and Tavern
47.8 km
Experience the best craft beers and a warm ambiance at The Barley Tap and Tavern in the heart of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Vintage Bar
50.8 km
Discover Vintage Bar, a charming wine bar in Steamboat Springs offering an extensive selection of wines and a cozy atmosphere for all occasions.
The Collective Wine Bar Steamboat
50.9 km
Explore a curated selection of wines at The Collective Wine Bar in Steamboat Springs, where every sip tells a story of flavor and adventure.
T Bar At Steamboat
51.0 km
Experience the ultimate après-ski atmosphere at T Bar At Steamboat, where great drinks and a cozy ambiance await in Steamboat Springs.
Thunderhead Red's
53.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Thunderhead Red's, a must-visit bar in Steamboat Springs, CO, offering local flavors and craft drinks.
307 Pub & Grub LLC
87.5 km
Experience the heart of Wyoming at 307 Pub & Grub LLC, where delicious grill fare meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Divide Restaurant & Lounge
87.6 km
Discover the flavors of Wyoming at The Divide Restaurant & Lounge, where exceptional dining meets a cozy lounge atmosphere in Encampment.
The Mangy Moose Roadside Bar
89.0 km
Experience the rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Mangy Moose Roadside Bar in Riverside, Wyoming, where great food and local culture meet.
