Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland. Sites at higher elevations typically don't open until July due to snow conditions, with most closing by early October. Most campgrounds in the Snowy Range sit above 9,000 feet where temperatures can drop below freezing even during summer months. Daily thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August.
What to do
Fishing in alpine lakes: Brooklyn Lake Campground connects to several fishing spots where campers catch trout throughout summer. "We brought our kayaks and stand up paddle boards, and really enjoyed doing this in the lake. We literally just walked a few steps and put our boards and kayaks in the water," reports Drew W.
Hiking glacier-fed lakes: Trails from Sugarloaf Campground lead to pristine alpine lakes with wildflowers. "Lots of lakes and very peaceful. Only open a short window of the year due to being high altitude and road closes in the winter," notes Liz S. The area features multiple short hikes suitable for day trips from camp.
Wildlife viewing: Deep Creek Campground offers regular moose sightings right in camp. "We had six moose, one with a very tiny baby come through our site at night and in the morning and the site next to us to feed in the big meadow," writes Bryan P. Morning and evening provide best viewing opportunities from a safe distance.
What campers like
Night sky views: The Snowy Range provides exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. Madison D. from Sugarloaf Campground explains: "We were treated to a gorgeous sunset and once the sun went down, the clearest skies that we've seen in a while. We bundled up and stargazed and felt so lucky to have detoured to this spot."
Dispersed options: Free camping exists along Forest Road 103 with varying accessibility levels. "When you first pull onto FS RD 200 you will wind down past many easy to reach sites with 2wd. Small RVs should be fine as well. As you continue on, you will come across multiple splits in the road leading to more sites," advises slowicagt.
Value camping: Most established campgrounds in the area charge modest fees. At Libby Creek Pine Campground, "America the Beautiful pass gets you this place for only $7 per night. Paved road all the way to and through. Pit toilet and dumpster in common area," says johny R.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Strong winds affect many campsites year-round. Connor B. from Sugarloaf Campground warns, "The wind was consistently 25mph+ the whole weekend, but the hiking and alpine lakes just off the campground were great."
Mosquito precautions: Insect pressure can be intense, especially near water. "The mosquitoes were HORRID. Very little privacy," notes Melanie Z. about Libby Creek Willow Campground. Bug spray with DEET provides best protection.
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Regarding Forest Service Road 318, Megan V. advises: "4WD and decent clearance is a must. The road is in rough shape and sections had standing water and mud with deep ruts."
Campground availability: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. Casey L. observed at Brooklyn Lake: "Great place to camp! It's a little tricky to get a campsite because people come and go throughout the day. We didn't get a site about 1pm on a Thursday but came back first thing Friday morning and got a spot for the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: North Fork Campground offers easier access with creek proximity. "Great spot super close to the river. Lots of dispersed camping just outside this established campground. Spots are a pretty good distance apart," writes Stacy L.
Plan for temperature swings: Even summer days can have freezing nights at higher elevations. Maya G. from Sugarloaf Campground advises: "Got below 30 degrees at night so come prepared!"
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer safe wading areas for children. Melanie G. from Brooklyn Lake explains, "Even when the parking lot and campground are full it doesn't seem crowded. Fun kayaking and fishing at the lake."
Short hiking options: Multiple short trails suitable for children start directly from campgrounds. "There are some great trails which lead up to a glacial lake with some incredible views," Dave reports from Brooklyn Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest roads restrict larger rigs. Donna H. cautions about Brooklyn Lake: "Beautiful campground, fills up fast! Rock road up to the campground! Narrow turns, big rigs not recommended. We pulled an 18-foot trailer and saw only a few spots that would work for us!"
Leveling considerations: Dispersed sites require extra preparation. At Laramie Overlook Dispersed Camping, Izzy T. notes: "There are a couple of loops right as you enter, which are the most level places to park a rig. Then another path leads about a half a mile to a few other sites that are more secluded, but not very level."
Seasonal access: Higher elevation campgrounds have limited accessibility. Check conditions before traveling, as Sarah H. from Sugarloaf Campground points out: "16 spots some reserved some first come first serve, we got lucky and got someone's canceled reserved spot."
