Top Dispersed Camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Camping Sites Near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO (51)

    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Pass Dispersed

    1.

    Buffalo Pass Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    54 Photos
    596 Saves
    Steamboat Springs, Colorado

    Welcome to Buffalo Pass Dispersed, a hidden gem nestled in the rugged beauty of Colorado. This spot is perfect for those who crave a bit of adventure and don't mind a bumpy ride to get there. The road up can be rough, so make sure your vehicle has decent clearance. Trust me, it's worth the effort.

    Once you arrive, you'll find a variety of camping spots to choose from. Whether you prefer a secluded spot behind some rocks, a grassy area with a fire ring, or a site with breathtaking views, there's something for everyone. Just be prepared for a bit of a search if you arrive late, as the best spots can fill up quickly.

    One of the standout features here is the sheer tranquility. Many visitors have mentioned the incredible solitude and the stunning natural surroundings. Imagine pitching your tent under a starry sky, with nothing but the sounds of nature to keep you company. It's the kind of peace and quiet that's hard to find these days.

    Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Fires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars. Just remember to bring your own firewood, as there's none available on-site.

    While there are no amenities like toilets or drinking water, the trade-off is the freedom and beauty of dispersed camping. Plus, the cell service is surprisingly good, so you can stay connected if needed.

    In short, Buffalo Pass Dispersed offers a raw, unfiltered camping experience with stunning views, peaceful solitude, and the freedom to choose your perfect spot. Just come prepared for a bit of a rough ride and bring everything you need for a comfortable stay. Happy camping!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk River Dispersed

    3.

    Elk River Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    68 Saves
    Clark, Colorado

    Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed in most places. From getting away from it all to just enjoying a weekend with friends, dispersed camping can make for a great story.

    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    4.

    Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    32 Saves
    Walden, Colorado

    Walden Reservoir is a picturesque lake full of wildlife outside of Walden, Colorado. The Walden Reservoir is an easily accessible destination in a seldom seen portion of northern Colorado for birders, hunters, and those looking for a free, isolated place to rest.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from USFSR 550 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from USFSR 550 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie River Road Dispersed

    6.

    Laramie River Road Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    14 Photos
    603 Saves
    Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

    Located on the southern end of the Medicine Bow Mountain Range in north central Colorado, Rawah Wilderness was designated by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and now contains 73,868 acres. "Rawah" is a Native American term meaning "wild place."

    Elevations in the Rawah Wilderness range from 8,400 to 13,000 feet. The high peaks were carved by glaciers, resulting in spectacular cirque lakes and moraines. There are twenty-five named lakes, ranging in size from five to 39 acres. This high alpine area contains the headwaters of the McIntyre, Rawah, and Fall Creeks, as well as the Laramie River.

    The Rawahs are host to mammals such as elk, moose, mule deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, marmot and beaver. There are many species of birds including the red-tailed hawk, white-tailed ptarmigan, golden eagle, raven, Steller's Jay and a variety of warblers. Lakes and streams are inhabited with lake, cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Graylings are also found in this area.

    The Rawah Wilderness is very popular with summer backpackers, hikers and anglers. It is also popular with hunters in the fall. To encounter the fewest people, plan your trip for mid-week and use less popular trails.

    Always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep this area wild, clean and pristine.

    Motorized equipment, or mechanized transportation is prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles or carts. Wheelchairs are exempt. Group size is limited to 12 people and/or livestock combined. Camping and campfires are prohibited within 200’ feet of all lakes, streams and trails to protect water quality, sensitive vegetation and to help assure solitude. Thin soils and mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire and fires scar rocks and soil. Use a stove, a fire pan or an existing fire ring when and where fires are allowed. Campfires are prohibited in the alpine areas above 10,800 feet. Campfires consume scarce vegetation and leave permanent scars on the fragile soils of the area. Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times if hiking. Equestrian riders can have dogs under voice control.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from South Delaney Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Delaney Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Delaney Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Delaney Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Foote Public Access Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping

    10.

    Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    74 Saves
    Centennial, Wyoming

    Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed in most places. From getting away from it all to just enjoying a weekend with friends, dispersed camping can make for a great story. Across the forests, opportunities range from dispersed camping miles into wilderness or just off a forest road in designated dispersed areas. Make sure to bring everything you need when dispersed camping, as water, restrooms, and fire rings may not be available nearby, and always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.

    Use the links below to explore the wide range of dispersed opportunities the forests and grasslands have to offer. For comprehensive information on dispersed camping opportunities, please contact the ranger district office in the area you plan to visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Drinking Water
    • Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 51 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

74 Reviews of 51 Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland Campgrounds


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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland is Buffalo Pass Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland?

TheDyrt.com has all 51 dispersed camping locations near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, with real photos and reviews from campers.