Yampa River State Park: A Northwestern Colorado Oasis
Discover the beauty of the Yampa River Valley with boating, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a diverse natural setting.
Yampa River State Park, nestled in the Yampa Valley, offers a diverse landscape and a range of outdoor activities. With access to 134 miles of the Yampa River, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is composed of three distinct areas, including the headquarters near Hayden, Elkhead Reservoir, and various river access points, making it a versatile destination for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Yampa River State Park
- 6185 U.S. Hwy 40, Hayden, Colorado, 81639, US
- +1970-276-2061
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:15 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:15 pm
Local tips
- Visit the headquarters near Hayden for visitor information, camping facilities, and access to a nature trail.
- Explore the 13 access points along the Yampa River for boating, fishing, and primitive camping opportunities.
- Check water levels and weather conditions before planning boating or rafting trips.
- Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing, especially bird watching, along the river and at Elkhead Reservoir.
- A daily vehicle pass or annual parks pass is required for entry into the park.
Getting There
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Driving
Yampa River State Park Headquarters is located on US Highway 40, approximately 27 miles west of Steamboat Springs and 17 miles east of Craig. From Steamboat Springs, take US-40 W. The park entrance will be on your right. From Craig, take US-40 E. The park will be on your left. A daily vehicle pass costs $10.
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Public Transportation
While there is no direct public transportation to Yampa River State Park, Yampa Valley Transportation and Steamboat Mountain Town Rides offer services in the region. From Steamboat Springs, you can take a shuttle or ride service towards Hayden. From Hayden, it is a short taxi ride to the park headquarters. Shuttle costs vary, so confirm pricing and availability in advance.
Discover more about Yampa River State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Colorado Historic Marker
6.0 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
15.0 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
23.6 km
Explore the winter wonderland of Steamboat Springs with an unforgettable dog sledding experience at Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works.
Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday
36.8 km
Discover the beauty of Colorado at Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday, where adventure meets comfort in a stunning natural setting.
James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge
38.5 km
Experience the harmony of nature and music at the James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Big House Burgers
38.5 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers in Steamboat Springs at Big House Burgers, where flavor and fun come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Historic Mad Creek Barn
38.7 km
Explore the Historic Mad Creek Barn in Steamboat Springs, a captivating landmark showcasing Colorado's rich agricultural heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Storm Peak Brewing Company
38.7 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
39.0 km
Explore the heart of Steamboat Springs at the Community Center, where recreation, culture, and community come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs
39.9 km
Discover the soothing natural hot springs of Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs, Colorado—your ultimate relaxation destination amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Sulphur Cave Spring
40.0 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
40.1 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
40.2 km
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the press.
40.2 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at The Press, Steamboat Springs' top bar for craft drinks and unforgettable performances.
Mountain Tap Brewery
40.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Elkhead Reservoir State Park
10.3 km
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Museum of Northwest Colorado
20.0 km
Discover the captivating history of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers at the Museum of Northwest Colorado in Craig.
Lithia Spring
39.3 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
39.8 km
Discover the unique, dark waters of Black Sulphur Spring, a key landmark in Steamboat Springs' rich history and geological tapestry.
Steamboat Spring
39.9 km
Relax and rejuvenate in the heart of Steamboat Springs at the historic and family-friendly Old Town Hot Springs.
Little Toots Park
40.0 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
40.2 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
40.2 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
40.3 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
40.4 km
Discover local talent at Pine Moon Fine Art, downtown Steamboat Springs' vibrant showcase of diverse artistic styles and mediums.
Steamboat Art Museum
40.4 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
40.5 km
Explore Steamboat Springs' vibrant past at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, featuring exhibits on skiing, ranching, and local heritage.
Crooked Key Escape Rooms
40.7 km
Experience thrill and teamwork at Crooked Key Escape Rooms in Steamboat Springs, where every puzzle unlocks a new adventure.
Yampa River Botanic Park
41.0 km
Discover serenity in Steamboat Springs at the Yampa River Botanic Park, featuring diverse gardens, art, and peaceful pathways. Open May to October.
Dr. Rich Weiss Park
41.0 km
A scenic riverside park in Steamboat Springs offering relaxation, recreation, and a tribute to local Olympian Dr. Rich Weiss.
Essential places to dine
Moe's Original BBQ - Steamboat
38.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Moe's Original BBQ in Steamboat Springs, where delicious flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Cinco De Mayo Restaurant
38.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Cinco De Mayo Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Primrose
40.1 km
Discover Primrose in Steamboat Springs: A Culinary Haven Showcasing Locally Sourced Ingredients and Innovative Dishes.
Seedz (Steamboat Springs)
40.1 km
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Sumatera Restaurant
40.2 km
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Creekside Café & Grill
40.2 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
40.3 km
Experience the best of Asian cuisine at Ocean Dragon Chinese & Sushi Restaurant in Steamboat Springs—where flavor meets tradition.
Mazzola's Italian Restaurant
40.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mazzola's Italian Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Harwigs
40.3 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Colorado at Harwigs Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where every dish tells a story.
Sunpie's Bistro
40.4 km
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O'Neil's Tavern & Grill
40.4 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at O'Neil's Tavern & Grill in Steamboat Springs—where good food meets great company!
Taco Cabo
40.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taco Cabo in Steamboat Springs—where fresh flavors meet vibrant culture.
Besame Steamboat
40.4 km
Experience authentic Latin American cuisine at Besame Steamboat, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition in a vibrant setting.
Yampa Valley Kitchen
40.4 km
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8th Street Steakhouse
40.4 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
38.5 km
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Steamboat Hatter
40.2 km
Discover unique hats and exceptional service at Steamboat Hatter, the ultimate destination for headwear enthusiasts in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Roots & Roost, Co.
40.2 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
40.2 km
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Embellishments of Steamboat Springs
40.3 km
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Faherty Steamboat Springs
40.3 km
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Ohana
40.3 km
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The Y-Not Shop, Steamboat Springs
40.4 km
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Upcountry
40.4 km
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The Homesteader
40.4 km
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F M Light & Sons
40.4 km
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Moose Mountain Trading Co
40.4 km
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Steamboat Trading Co
40.4 km
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Steamboat Apparel Co
40.4 km
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Chrysalis
40.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Foxes
40.0 km
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West End Sports Grill
40.1 km
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The Common Bar
40.5 km
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The Barley Tap and Tavern
40.5 km
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Vintage Bar
43.2 km
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The Collective Wine Bar Steamboat
43.3 km
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T Bar At Steamboat
43.4 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
45.8 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
90.9 km
Experience the heart of Wyoming at 307 Pub & Grub LLC, where delicious grill fare meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Divide Restaurant & Lounge
91.0 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
92.4 km
Experience the rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Mangy Moose Roadside Bar in Riverside, Wyoming, where great food and local culture meet.
