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

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland (64)

    1. Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest

    4 Reviews
    Cowdrey, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "After deciding to take a weekend rafting trip along the Wyoming/Colorado section of the Platte River, we planned to just find dispersed camping options within the surrounding National Forest area."

    2. gilpin lake

    1 Review
    Clark, CO
    12 miles

    3. Middle Fork Elk River Camp

    2 Reviews
    Clark, CO
    17 miles

    "This spot was prime. about 125yds off seedhouse rad and 50 yds off of the access road. Plenty of room to spread out. Fire ring. Epic View of the mountains in Zirkel Wilderness."

    "Great camping spot near Elk Run River and surrounded by the Rockies. It's a pretty big spot with two sides, so there could be two camping spots or one big one."

    4. Cowdrey Lake State Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Cowdrey, CO
    17 miles

    "Colorado has lots of SWA camping, Good Verizon service!

    We camped in  a 22ft travel trailer"

    5. Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Walden, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 826-5000

    "simple, and easy place to get to… flat awesome sunset"

    "Sites aren’t really marked/but are right next to the reservoir. No fires/water pumps."

    6. Elk River Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Clark, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 870-2299

    "There is a parking lot at the entrance to the dispersed camping where it forks into two roads to access parking spots. The forest service road was in amazing condition to access it."

    "Discovered an excellent dispersed site on 64 going east from Glen Eden. As soon as you reach BLM land there is a sign indicating Dispersed Camping on both sides of road."

    7. Buffalo Pass Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    32 miles

    "I had just done Rock Creek's drive up to dispersed near Dillon and thought that was bad, but this was worse. "

    "Good camping right close to the road. Secluded and private with beautiful views. Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed."

    8. USFSR 550 - Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Clark, CO
    20 miles

    "Beautiful Aspen groves surround you as you roll on endlessly down well maintained dirt roads."

    9. Miller Lake dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Jelm, WY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Very peaceful campground, right by a lake with a nice view. People came and went throughout the day to go fishing at the lake and some with ATVs. "

    "We were able to find a pretty clear spot with a fire pit to set up, but most of the old sites are grown over and too cramped for tent camping."

    10. Green Mountain Overlook

    1 Review
    Encampment, WY
    22 miles

    "Most accessible are close to the hwy. This place marked had a row off trees blocking road view and awesome views of Green Mountain and even Mtns down by steamboat springs."

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

137 Reviews of 64 Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland Campgrounds



Guide to Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

Dispersed camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and serene lake views at Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping, where the sunsets are particularly stunning.
  • Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful scenery at Middle Fork Elk River Camp, which is nestled near the Elk Run River and surrounded by the Rockies.
  • Discover the picturesque landscapes at Elk River Dispersed, where you can find excellent spots along the river with views of Mt. Zirkel.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Unique Features

  • Be prepared for a quiet night under the stars at Evans Creek Dispersed, which offers a peaceful atmosphere with minimal traffic.
  • Experience the thrill of fishing and boating at Cowdrey Lake State Wildlife Area, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities in a beautiful setting.
  • For those seeking solitude, Miller Lake dispersed provides a serene environment with stunning views and a tranquil lake, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year for dispersed camping in the Snowy Range area of Medicine Bow?

The best time for dispersed camping in the Snowy Range area is mid-June through early October. Summer (late June to August) offers ideal conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 40-75°F, though areas like Buffalo Pass Dispersed can be accessed earlier in good years. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Early fall (September to early October) brings spectacular foliage with fewer crowds, especially around areas like USFSR 550 - Dispersed Camping with its beautiful aspen groves. Many high-elevation roads become inaccessible after mid-October due to snowfall. Mosquitoes can be intense in early summer after snowmelt, so late summer to early fall generally offers the best combination of good weather, fewer insects, and reasonable accessibility before winter closures.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?

No permit is typically required for dispersed camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. At areas like Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251 and FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass, you can camp without formal permits. However, you must follow dispersed camping regulations: camp in established sites only, stay at least 100 feet from water sources, 150 feet from roads, and no more than 14 days in a 30-day period. Be aware of seasonal fire restrictions, which are strictly enforced by forest service workers who regularly patrol these areas. Always check the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest website or contact a ranger station before your trip for current regulations, especially during peak summer months when fire bans may be in effect.

Where are the best areas for dispersed camping in Medicine Bow National Forest?

Medicine Bow National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping areas. Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping is a great option with multiple sites, including level spots near the entrance ideal for larger rigs and additional sites about half a mile down the path. It's easily accessible and a short drive from the main forest entrance. For riverside camping, Sanger Public Access Area on North Platte River provides beautiful informal sites off WY-130 via a good dirt road, suitable for mid-size trailers or smaller vehicles. The area features scattered sites along the river and pit toilets. Many forest service roads throughout Medicine Bow also offer dispersed sites - just remember to camp in established areas at least 100 feet from water sources and 150 feet from roadways.