Surrounded by Medicine Bow National Forest and high plains sagebrush country, Saratoga's camping options sit at elevations between 6,800-7,500 feet. The North Platte River corridor offers dispersed sites with rocky riverbanks while protected campgrounds help mitigate persistent winds reaching 30+ mph in open areas. Nighttime temperatures typically drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs even in summer months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct North Platte River access for blue-ribbon trout fishing. At Foote Public Access Area Dispersed, "This tiny dispersed site is on the North Platte River with boat access and a few weedy, private sites spread out in this area tucked inside private property," notes one camper who appreciated the seclusion despite mosquitoes. The Sanger Public Access Area features informal riverside campsites perfect for anglers.
Hot springs soaking: The Hobo Hot Springs in Saratoga remains free and open 24 hours. From Saratoga Lake Campground, "We drove into town to find the bath house (free hot spring, freaking awesome!)... went back to the bath house (again, FREE!!) and drove about 10 minutes to the beginning of the snowy range access." Many campers mention the hot springs as their primary reason for visiting the area.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning offers prime wildlife opportunities around campgrounds. "Great bird watching and pronghorn sightings," reports a visitor to Saratoga Lake Campground. Another camper at North Platte River Treasure Island mentioned, "We heard cows all night and morning, which I rather enjoyed," while observing various waterfowl along the river corridor.
What campers like
Beach access at Saratoga Lake: The sandy shoreline at Saratoga Lake provides unusual mountain lake swimming. A camper noted, "To me, it seems as though a sandy beach on a lake and mountains can't possibly go together....I was so wrong! This place was cool!" Another visitor observed, "The water is beautiful, the swimming is great, and the lake is big."
River proximity for hammock camping: Many riverside sites have mature cottonwood trees ideal for hammocks. At Encampment River Campground, "Most sites also had nice trees for hammocks. A few sites enable you to have some privacy with nice understory in-between sites." Another review noted, "Each site has a picnic table, a fire pit, and a drive way that can squeeze 2 cars and trailers if they aren't huge."
Budget-friendly options: Most dispersed sites are free, while established campgrounds remain affordable. Saratoga Lake Campground charges "$10/night without hookups and $15 for electric sites." One reviewer appreciated that "Freshwater can be filled at the gas station in town for free. They are super nice and make sure to purchase something from there at least once during the trip."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many dispersed sites require driving on unpaved roads that deteriorate in wet conditions. A visitor to Foote Public Access noted, "Since you have to drive over private property to get here, be mindful of speed on the dirt access road and clean up after yourself." Another camper at Lazy Acres Campground and Motel appreciated its "Easy highway access, but virtually no cell service with Verizon."
Mosquito preparation: Insect repellent is essential for camping near water sources. "Bring your bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over," warned one camper at Foote Public Access. Another noted, "Mosquitoes can be problematic in summer months, particularly near water sources."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions frequently change based on conditions. At Encampment River, campers should "watch for signs prohibiting fires when its dry." One camper advised, "There is a nice trail along the river that obviously was made by anglers, but you can go for some ways before it petters out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Saratoga Lake offers recreational facilities for children. "Even has a playground for kids just make sure they have their tetanus shots!" noted one reviewer, suggesting maintenance might be minimal but usable.
Swimming options: Multiple locations provide safe water access for supervised children. "We had the first site on the left and the river was our backyard," shared a camper at Encampment River Campground, though they cautioned that "the river is COLD and fast, though not deep near the campground."
Ryan Park considerations: Ryan Park offers cooler temperatures at higher elevation. "Extremely peaceful other than some occasional road noise but the sound of running water usually drowns that out," wrote one camper. Another visitor noted, "Moose Trail runs around the campground but isn't really marked in some spots."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Deer Haven RV Park, "Only one tent allowed per RV site, cash only. Easy walking distance into town for bars and restaurants." For riverside camping, "We are in a 24' Class C and dirt road and steep approach were not a problem" at Encampment River Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but are limited. "Excellent small campground. Everything from full hookups to grassy tent spots. Bathroom with showers. Laundry facilities," noted a camper about Lazy Acres Campground, which operates seasonally from mid-May through September.
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