Camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland spread across northern Colorado and southern Wyoming, encompassing diverse camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites. Established campgrounds like Big Creek Lakes and Steamboat Lake State Park provide tent and RV sites with varying amenities, while dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the forest service land. Several campgrounds feature lakefront access, including Sunrise Vista Campground with cabin accommodations and Pickaroon Campground situated along Douglas Creek. The region also includes Six Mile Campground near the North Platte River and remote options like Beaver Creek Trailhead for tent camping.
Many areas require significant travel on unpaved roads, with access conditions varying dramatically by season and elevation. Big Creek Lakes Campground sits above 9,000 feet elevation and remains open only during summer months (June through August). Several campgrounds experience heavy winter snow, requiring proper preparation even during summer visits. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote sites, particularly after rain when dirt roads become challenging. Cell service is largely unavailable throughout the region, with most campgrounds offering primitive amenities like vault toilets but no showers or hookups. "You will have to travel down a gravel/dirt road for ~30 miles to get to the lake and campground. Sections of it are TERRIBLY washboarded. Plan for over an hour to navigate through."
Campers consistently highlight the spectacular mountain views, wildlife sightings, and fishing opportunities across the region. Moose, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep and smaller wildlife are commonly reported near campgrounds. Fishing access represents a major draw, with sites along Douglas Creek and the North Platte River receiving particular attention from anglers. Several reviewers note the solitude available at more remote sites, though popular areas like Steamboat Lake can become crowded during peak summer weekends. One visitor remarked, "We were the only ones there, it was a short walk down to the Platt (flys and lures only), and the tent site, fire-ring, and picnic table were in top notch condition." Weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations, with wind being a common challenge at exposed campsites near lakes.
