Alcova Reservoir camping areas sit at approximately 5,500 feet elevation in central Wyoming, about 30 miles southwest of Casper. The semi-arid climate creates stark temperature differences between day and night, even in summer months. While daytime highs often reach into the 90s during peak season, nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The North Platte River near Pete's Draw Campground offers excellent trout fishing with dedicated access points. According to a visitor, "Lots of birds, osprey, pelicans, swallows. Our neighbor even rescued a baby raccoon as it floated down the river!"
Water recreation: Lake activities dominate the recreation scene at Oakie Beach Campground, though prepare for rocky shorelines. A camper noted, "No sandy beaches here, it's hard rock all the way up to the waters edge. Was able to paddle board out to the island, which has 2 Geocaches!!!!"
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Pete's Draw, campers regularly spot "osprey, pelicans, swallows" and occasionally more unusual sightings like a "baby raccoon" rescued from the river.
What campers like
Shoulder season camping: While summer draws crowds, fall visits to Black Beach Campground offer a different experience. One camper shared, "We got the best spot on the water since it wasn't as crowded as it usually is and we were able to explore down by the water since the water level was lower than usual."
River sounds: Several campgrounds position sites near water features that provide natural white noise. At Gray Reef Reservoir, one visitor enjoyed "Nice roar from the water flowing over the spillway at the small dam. Toilets and campground are clean and a great stop over point."
Shaded picnic areas: Many campgrounds feature covered tables for relief from the sun. At Golden Currant Campground, "The grassy area next to the river with shade of cottonwoods and tables is to die for."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: RVs may require significant leveling at some campgrounds. At Cottonwood Campground, "A lot of spots are hard to level a RV on so chose one you can level your rig on. No hookups, no potable water available."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. Pack layers for cool evenings even in summer, and consider shade structures as many campsites have limited natural cover.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes and flies can be problematic, particularly in early summer. At Golden Currant, "Downside was when the breeze quit the biting flies and mosquitoes attacked."
Reservation systems: While many campgrounds operate first-come, first-served, some require reservations. At Black Beach, a visitor noted, "Reservations only, and a less than great BLM website. You must have an account to reserve."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: At Black Beach Campground, nocturnal visitors are common. One camper warned, "Racoons harassed us until we moved to the car as well as something Big and Angry sounding that we couldn't identify."
Accessible activities: For families with children, Fremont Canyon Campground offers easy wildlife viewing. "Below the camp spots were dozens of fish swimming that we could see from above!"
Outdoor exploration: The Dinosaur Trail near Cottonwood Campground provides educational hiking opportunities. A visitor mentioned, "Kids enjoyed hiking Dinosaur Trail and exploring. Lots of fishing spots."
Safety considerations: Rocky shorelines at some campgrounds require appropriate footwear for children. At Oakie Beach, "it's hard rock all the way up to the waters edge."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: At Cottonwood Campground, "A lot of spots are hard to level a RV on so chose one you can level your rig on."
Full hookup options: For those needing all amenities, limited full-service sites exist at Windy Waters, which offers "all the hookups and plenty of space for vehicles much bigger than the 26' RV we were renting."
Boondocking preparation: Most campgrounds near Alcova Reservoir have limited or no hookups. Bring sufficient water as "No hookups, no potable water available" at Cottonwood and many other sites.
Road conditions: Access roads to some of the best places to camp near Alcova, Wyoming can be challenging. At Chalk Bluffs, a camper advised, "Rated a 4 star due to the wash board road. Take your time getting to the camp site, once pass the boat ramp the road is much better."
Ranger
