Glamping locations near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests offer unique overnight experiences at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 10,500 feet. The region features dramatic rock formations, alpine meadows, and dense forests with distinct seasonal changes. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during days but drop significantly at night, even in July and August.
What to do
Hiking the Continental Divide Trail: Access points near Pearl Lake State Park Campground provide connections to extensive trail networks. "We enjoyed kayaking around the lake and hiking nearby on the CDT," notes one visitor about their experience at Pearl Lake.
Rock climbing at Vedauwoo: The unique granite formations offer climbing opportunities for various skill levels near Vedauwoo Wagon Road. "We stayed a week and enjoyed watching the climbers throughout the day. Our 27' TT fit easily into the site," reports Sarah F.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife spotting times. "We saw a badger, mama moose and baby. Heard some coyotes at night overall 10/10," shares Makenzie S. about their Vedauwoo experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer significant separation between campsites. At Laramie River Road Dispersed, "Tons of dispersed camping along the road, but it can be busy. Wildlife is abundant with tons of deer and moose in the area. Topography is Aspen wetlands and is beautiful," according to Justin D.
Creek-side camping: Several sites feature waterfront positions with natural sound barriers. One camper at North Fork Poudre Campground notes, "A great little campground with only 7 campsites that are first come first served. The beautiful Kilpecker Creek runs through the camp and most of the campsites are situated right along the creek."
Star viewing: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. Laura C. shares about Vedauwoo Wagon Road: "We nestled behind a rock and couldn't even hear the traffic by nearby road. Rock formations were awesome."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. At Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping, "Each one has established fire sites. Others have chopped trees and branches from the nearby trees, but I'm not sure if that is accepted," reports one camper.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night are common. "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level," warns a Laramie River Road camper.
Crowding patterns: Weekdays offer significantly more solitude than weekends. "It's a quiet lake, surrounded by mountains and forest, perfect for paddle boarders. There is also a nice hike that goes over the dam and then climbs up and away from civilization," notes a visitor to Pearl Lake State Park.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by location. "Not quiet at all. Most camp spots are entirely too close together, so close it's like a huge party spot," reports one North Fork Poudre visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for amenities: Families benefit from campgrounds with basic facilities. "Clean bathrooms and great views. We visit this campground every year," shares Kirk F. about Pearl Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage and animal safety. "We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer," warns a Laramie River Road camper.
Weather preparation: Pack extra warm clothing for children regardless of season. "We visit this campground every year in late August. The camp hosts are extremely friendly, helpful but also give you the space you need," notes Karen B. about Pearl Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Early arrival significantly improves site selection chances. "It has official signs at the entrance showing you where the sites are. The site has pull ins for each user and they are spread out. Each site has a lot of space. We arrived late so had to drive a way down to reach a free one," explains Michael R. about Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Road conditions: Many access roads require cautious navigation. "It is quite a bumpy road so it was a bit unnerving in our rented vehicle but it was fine in the end," adds the same Vedauwoo visitor.
Site selection: Look for level parking areas with adequate clearance. "Need high clearance and a good off roading car to get all the way through. Also side note, turns out the road goes all the way through! Both ends go straight to a high way which is sweet," advises Madelyn Y. about Vedauwoo.
