48 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Alcova, Wyoming cluster around Alcova Reservoir with several established locations for tent and RV camping. The area includes Black Beach, Cottonwood, Oakie Beach, and Westside campgrounds, all offering water access with varying amenities. Several sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with picnic tables and fire rings, while dispersed options like Canyon Overlook provide more primitive experiences. Pete's Draw Campground along the North Platte River offers additional camping opportunities with covered picnic areas and fishing access points.
Access to most Alcova Reservoir campgrounds follows seasonal patterns with many sites open from March through November. Camping fees average $10-15 per night for basic sites without hookups, though Windy Waters provides full RV hookups including electric, water and sewer connections. Sites requiring leveling are common, particularly at Cottonwood Campground where RV positioning can be challenging on uneven terrain. Most areas have vault toilets but drinking water is limited to specific campgrounds. According to one visitor, "Sites are close together and there's not much shade," highlighting the exposed nature of the reservoir camping environment.
The North Platte River and Alcova Reservoir create popular fishing and water recreation opportunities that draw visitors to the area's campgrounds. Many sites offer direct lake access, though the terrain varies from sandy beaches to rocky shorelines. Summer weekends typically see higher occupancy rates, particularly at water-adjacent sites. While facilities remain basic at most campgrounds, campers report clean, well-maintained conditions at locations like Pete's Draw, which one reviewer described as "a hidden gem and a bargain at $10 a night." Fall camping provides a quieter alternative with one visitor noting their experience "didn't disappoint" despite visiting outside peak season. The area's moderate elevation and dry climate create generally favorable camping conditions, though summer heat can be intense with limited natural shade.
"The pit toilets are on the other side of the campground from site 1, it's about a two minute walk. They were clean and usable. There is a dumpster by the bathrooms."
"Really nice spot situated on the river with an easy loop for access. Road is a little rocky getting in and there are no amenities other than the view."
"Fun beautiful lake with room for bigger RV’s. No hook-ups but they do have your typical state park restrooms. No sandy beaches here, it’s hard rock all the way up to the waters edge."
"All camp places nearby were overcrowded and this place was so nice."
"A nice area surrounding a cove off of Alcova. Can sometimes be busy with people putting boats in or other campers. Some spots allow you to hear everything in the surrounding spots."
"Wasn’t sure how our fall weekend would turn out since Alcova is known for the summer time fun, but our weekend did not disappoint."
"Great spot on Alcova Reservoir about 30 miles south of Casper, WY"
"Kids enjoyed hiking Dinosaur Trail and exploring. Lots if fishing spots. Very scenic. $10 a night, pay kiosk."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"We enjoyed staying here as it was a change of pace from the rolling hills of southwestern Wyoming. The reservoir that the N Platte leads into is actually Pathfinder Reservoir and not Alcova. "
"Camped on a pull off on Fremont Canyon road near a climb we wanted to do the next morning."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"When our tire warning light came on, around 5 PM and 30 miles from our intended destination of Casper WI, we pulled off at the Alcove exit as the Sinclare gas station to see what was going on. "
from $50 - $60 / night
Check Availability"I wouldn’t bring your dog as I was so stressed out cause mine was running around and getting way to close to the edge. It’s a straight 100-150ft drop. The road specifically is not private property."
"This is an awesome place to stay if you like to have very panoramic views pretty much all the way around you. Verizon is 1 to 2 bars pretty regular."
"Desert lovers would love the mix of mountains and lake. Very quiet - no one around besides a few fishermen’s and the canyon near by is a point you don’t want to miss"
"The big negative to me is the bathroom situation there really far away for some spots. But all in all it’s good spot to stay!"
"Sitting right next to the Platte river. This allows great access to early morning and early evening fishing. Only downside is the mosquitos are pretty heavy there in July and August."
"The grassy area next to the river with shade of cottonwoods and tables is to die for."
GuideNice distance between sites. Good mixture of pull through and back in sites. Bring your leveling blocks, you’ll need them. Vault toilets are well maintained. Great view from the observation deck.
GuidePark is away from any traffic and trains. The staff is friendly and dedicated to make your stay comfortable and worry free. Park is big and there is section for tent camping. Sites are close together. There is a small lake and North Platte River. We had an electric power issue and the manager came out evaluated the situation and contacted the maintenance guy and fix the problem right away.
LegendLarge community recreation area with a horse arena, and several paddocks, day use picnic area, and five or six campsites, with concrete pads barbecue grills, and picnic tables. Community vault toilet, dumpster, an potable water. A little bit of a circuitous drive off the highway through the town of Glen Rock. There is a laundromat near the road to the campsite in Glen Rock. Lots of poplar trees near a small stream, so you had shade, but also mosquitoes. Unfortunately, no showers or ground fires, and a bit of a hike to the toilet from the camping area. Stays limited to 5 days. Free, first come first served.
ScoutGreat campground with nice bathroom. We stopped for a quick overnight and were told we could pick any spot that was open. Owner was very nice and accommodating. We would definitely stay here again if in the area.
GuideStayed here last year, the drive up was a little dicey because it was autumn and rainy but DEFINITELY worth it. There are so many deer and critters around and they are BOLD haha so lock up your food. The camp host was very attentive and helped us with a booking mix up. There are very walkable trails nearby BUT locals use them for ATVs and such so be wary of speedy vehicles on the trail and the noise. After dark its dead quiet, nice and peaceful.
GuideWhen I was living in Casper, I came here any weekend I could book it. It's an amazing, peaceful (for the most part), and accessible campground. The vault toilets are very well maintained and the water always smells so clean and nice on the wind. The water is COLD though. The road to the beach is also harder to do, the sides are washed out and its quite washboardy.
TravelerQuiet beautiful lake front. No electric, water or sewer but well with it with the dark sky and quiet.
Scout10/10 camp stop March 31. Useful awning and nice gravel area for a tent
GuideIt’s open and quiet. Watch out for cow “pies” and cacti (especially if traveling with dogs!!) but good if you’re passing through and need a place to stop for the night. Nothing special but not bad.
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.
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.
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."
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."
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need reservations for camping at Alcova Lake?
Most public campgrounds at Alcova Lake operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so reservations are typically not required or available. However, during peak summer months (especially weekends and holidays), arriving early is recommended as sites fill quickly. For those preferring guaranteed accommodations, Windy Waters Alcova and Deer Creek Village RV Campground offer reservable sites with amenities like water, electric, and sewage hookups. These private campgrounds provide a more predictable camping experience with facilities like showers and laundry services, making them good alternatives when planning trips during busy periods.
What are the popular beaches for camping at Alcova Reservoir?
Black Beach Campground is one of the most popular beach areas for camping at Alcova Reservoir. It surrounds a cove off the main reservoir and provides excellent access for launching kayaks or canoes. The beach area is particularly enjoyable during fall when water levels are lower and exploration opportunities increase. During summer, it can get busy with boaters and other campers. Another option is Gray Reef Reservoir, which offers beach access with basic facilities like toilets. Beach camping spots around Alcova are highly sought after during warm months, so arriving on weekdays or early in the day improves your chances of securing a prime waterfront location.
Where are the best campgrounds at Alcova Reservoir in Wyoming?
Alcova Reservoir offers several excellent campgrounds around its scenic shores. Westside Campground is particularly popular for its beautiful lakeside location and easy access to water recreation, including kayak and paddleboard rentals from Alcova resort. For those seeking a more peaceful experience, Cottonwood Campground provides a great spot on the reservoir about 30 miles south of Casper. Other quality options include Fremont Canyon Campground, which offers a change of pace from the rolling hills of southwestern Wyoming, and Prior Flat Campground, which attracts regular visitors throughout summer and fall despite having no services.
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