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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Hinman Campground (CO)

Clark, Colorado · Routt County · Campground

Overview Hinman Campground is a gateway to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness along the Elk River Corridor with plenty of opportunities for hiking, hunting, biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, river rafting and more. There are 12 campsites, 6 of which may be reserved. Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. At a…

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About Hinman Campground (CO)

Overview Hinman Campground is a gateway to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness along the Elk River Corridor with plenty of opportunities for hiking, hunting, biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, river rafting and more. There are 12 campsites, 6 of which may be reserved. Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. At an elevation of 7,700 feet, Hinman lies in the mountains of the Park Range in the heart of the Routt National Forest near the Elk River which flows south to join the Yampa River. Hinman Campground offers the unique opportunity to observe forest succession in progress and will eventually return to a native lodgepole, spruce, and fir forest. Recreation Provides a great gateway for hiking, biking and hunting. Trout fishing is accessible on the river as well as several mountain streams. Facilities There are 12 campsites, 6 of which may be reserved. Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. Each site is spacious and equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. Natural Features At an elevation of 7,700 feet, Hinman lies in the Rocky Mountains in the heart of the Routt National Forest near the South Fork of the Elk River. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland encompass nearly three million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands. Nearby Attractions Visitors might also enjoy stopping by Steamboat Lake State Park and Hahns Peak Lake Day Use, only a short drive away. Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback and off-road vehicle riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (970) 870-2299.

How to Get There

From downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado, take U.S. Highway 40 west and turn right on Routt County Road 129, locally known as Elk River Road. Continue north 17 miles, cross the Elk River just beyond the Clark Store, and turn right along the river on RCR 64, which becomes Forest Road 400/Seedhouse Road. Continue for 6 miles. Turn right, south on Forest Road 440 over the bridge on the south fork of the Elk River about 1 mile to Hinman Campground on the right, .

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Hinman Campground (CO)

Heading to Hinman Campground (CO)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Hinman Campground (CO)?

No central reservation system listed for Hinman Campground (CO). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10168473) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Hinman Campground (CO)?

From downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado, take U.S. Highway 40 west and turn right on Routt County Road 129, locally known as Elk River Road. Continue north 17 miles, cross the Elk River just beyond the Clark Store, and turn right along the river on RCR 64, which becomes Forest Road 400/Seedhouse Road. Continue for 6 miles. Turn right, south on Forest Road 440 over the bridge on the south fork of…