Closed
— Closed for the season. Typically operates from late spring through early fall depending on snow conditions.
About
Located at 7,700 feet elevation in the heart of the Routt National Forest, Hinman Campground provides access to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness along the South Fork of the Elk River. The campground features 12 spacious sites, each equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. Six sites are available for reservation through Recreation.gov, while the remaining sites operate as first-come, first-served.
The area recently underwent timber management and cleanup to remove hazard trees affected by the mountain pine beetle outbreak. This has resulted in reduced shade at some sites but offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe forest succession as the area returns to native lodgepole, spruce, and fir forest. The South Fork Trailhead is located just 0.25 miles from the campground, providing immediate access to wilderness hiking and horseback riding trails.
The Elk River and surrounding mountain streams offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. The campground serves as an ideal base for mountain biking, hunting, and exploring the broader Elk River Corridor. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound with black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer, and moose inhabiting the area. Steamboat Lake State Park and Hahns Peak Lake are a short drive away for additional recreation options.
Directions
From downtown Steamboat Springs, take U.S. Highway 40 west and turn right on Routt County Road 129 (Elk River Road). Continue north 17 miles, cross the Elk River just beyond the Clark Store, and turn right on RCR 64, which becomes Forest Road 400 (Seedhouse Road). Continue for 6 miles, then turn right (south) on Forest Road 440 over the bridge on the south fork of the Elk River. The campground is about 1 mile on the right.
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