Wolford

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Wolford Trail System covers an extensive area with more than 100 miles of multi-use trails in the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area just north of Kremmling, CO. The recreation site is overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, a federal government agency that preserves the integrity of natural environments on public lands. Among the activities visitors enjoy, OHV riding, hiking, boating, and fishing are the most popular. Many of the trails at Wolford Mountain are also open for horseback riding and mountain biking. Bureau of Land Management camping is permitted in the recreation area, though there are no designated campsites. Dispersed RV and tent camping is available off designated roads and trails throughout the Wolford Mountain Area. If you're up for more outdoor adventure, Rocky Mountain National Park is less than 80 miles east of Wolford.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Little Wolford Mountain Trail

The Little Wolford Mountain Trail is a scenic loop trail that winds through several evergreen tree groves that wrap around the right side of the trail as you ascend. Much of the dirt path in between groves is open, with beautiful views of the surrounding valley. A moderate elevation gain of less than 1,000 feet and a few rocky areas make this trail somewhat challenging. Dogs are permitted on the trail, though leashes should be used in forested areas due to coyote sightings. This trail is also open for mountain biking during peak season and snowmobiling in the winter.

Length: 3.1 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing & Boating

Wolford Mountain Reservoir has excellent fishing waters that are home to brown and rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon — the reservoir's most common catches, though some anglers have also hooked Chinook salmon and northern pike. If you prefer to fish in cooler temperatures, the reservoir allows ice fishing during the winter months. Access to the boat ramp is available seasonally from mid-May to mid-October for motorized watercraft and hand-powered vessels.

Climbing

Traditional and sport rock climbing routes are located north of Wolford in the Sarvis Creek Domes area of Steamboat Springs. Climbers can explore seven routes on The Dome and five on The Shield. Popular multi-pitch climbs include Fat Lip and NW Face.

Wildlife Viewing

Elk, deer, and moose are commonly seen grazing in the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area. Smaller inhabitants such as chipmunks, prairie dogs, foxes, coyotes, and whistle pigs are frequently spotted scurrying through the underbrush. Black bears and mountain lions also roam the foothills and mountainous areas near Wolford Mountain, though sightings are infrequent. Above, hawks, bald eagles, and osprey dot the skies while bluebirds and goldfinches make their nests in trees along the trails.

Picnicking

Picnicking is permitted in the day-use area in the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area. Visitors enjoy access to picnic tables and restrooms located near the swimming beach. More organized picnic areas can be found at the Wolford Mountain Campground & Marina, which is located on the opposite side of the reservoir.

OHV Riding

The trail system throughout the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area is comprised of 120 miles of trails designated specifically for OHV use. Full-size 4-wheel-drive vehicles, dirt bikes, and ATVs can enjoy an open OHV play area along with roads that traverse various types of terrain for riders of all skill levels.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Though Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are limited near Wolford, BLM RV camping is available in the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area. The vast area allows visitors to enjoy dispersed camping at pull-offs along the main roads. Conditions are primitive, so be prepared to park your rig on low to medium-high grass. Camp on sites that have already been disturbed as some may have fire pits left from previous campers. If you're looking to stay somewhere less rustic, the Wolford Campground & Marina features 72 RV campsites, restroom facilities, a fish cleaning station, and beach access. Electric hookups are provided at 48 sites. The remaining campsites are non-electric. A dump station with potable water is also available.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is limited to the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area, though there is another free area for camping located 30 minutes southeast of Wolford Mountain at the William's Fork Reservoir Campground. At William's Fork, visitors have access to rustic campsites that can accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 40 feet. Most sites have fire pits, though it's necessary to bring your own firewood. Along with camping, you can enjoy fishing, boating, and walks around the reservoir. If you're looking for more free BLM campgrounds, search for "BLM camping near me."

RV Rentals Near Wolford Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Wolford BLM trip

Plan your BLM trip, knowing that BLM campgrounds in Wolford are rustic and don't provide hookups or access to water. Make sure to load your RV with extra water bottles, snacks, and cooking supplies. Take safety precautions by storing food in airtight containers to prevent wildlife from entering your campsite. Sunscreen, bug repellent, flashlights, and batteries should also be included on your list of necessities in addition to the gear you'll need to enjoy activities available on the trails and the nearby reservoir. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

While you're enjoying BLM land, be sure to keep your campsite clear of trash and dispose of waste properly. Use pre-existing fire rings with wood that you've packed in or that's been collected from dead or downed trees nearby. Do not disturb the wildlife. If you see bears in the area, keep a distance of at least a quarter of a mile, and carry bear spray. Stick to designated trails and roads for recreation. Many trails are multi-use, so be aware and respectful of other visitors as you explore the area.

Wolford Location

From Kremmling, go east on US Highway 40, and then turn north when you get to County Road 22. Along this road, you can enter the Wolford Mountain Recreation Area from several different access points. To reach the OHV open play area, go one mile north of US 40 to County Road 224.

Ready to visit Wolford? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.