Routt National Forest · Colorado

Private campsites & glamping in Clark, CO

Clark is barely a town - a post office, a general store, and wide-open ranch country in the Elk River Valley, 20 minutes north of Steamboat Springs. This is working-ranch Colorado: hay meadows, the Elk River threading through, and trailheads into the Mount Zirkel Wilderness where the crowds thin to almost nothing.

There are no real services in Clark, so plan to stock up in Steamboat. What you get in return is silence, dark skies, and immediate access to some of northwest Colorado's best horseback riding, fly-fishing, and fall elk country. Winter brings deep snow and a true off-the-grid feel.

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Clark, CO

Vista Verde Guest Ranch

An AAA Four-Diamond, all-inclusive luxury dude ranch on thousands of acres north of Steamboat Springs, pairing private log cabins (many with hot tubs) with guided…

Cabins

Questions, answered

Camping in Clark: FAQs

Is Clark too remote for a first-time visitor?

Not if you plan ahead. Steamboat Springs is 20-25 minutes south with everything you'll need. Think of Clark as the quiet base and Steamboat as the supply run.

When do the aspen turn?

Usually the last two weeks of September in the Elk River Valley - it's one of Colorado's best and least-crowded color shows.

Can I access the Mount Zirkel Wilderness?

Yes - trailheads like Slavonia and the Encampment Meadows routes leave from the Clark area. Bring bear-aware food storage and check conditions; snow lingers into July at high elevations.

What about winter access?

County roads are plowed, but storms can close US-40 over Rabbit Ears Pass. AWD/4WD with good tires is essential November-April.

Is there cell service?

Spotty. Verizon is best; download offline maps before you leave Steamboat.