Alcova Reservoir sits at 5,500 feet elevation in central Wyoming, approximately 30 miles southwest of Casper. The reservoir spans 2,470 surface acres with multiple campgrounds along its shores that accommodate pets. Most campgrounds maintain primitive conditions with vault toilets and require campers to bring their own water supply for themselves and their animals.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: The Cottonwood Campground trail system offers several pet-friendly paths. "Dogs ok but have to be leashed. Kids enjoyed hiking Dinosaur Trail and exploring. Lots of fishing spots. Very scenic. $10 a night, pay kiosk," notes Merideth S.
Kayaking access: Early morning paddling from Black Beach Campground provides a quieter experience. "Perfect for putting in a kayak or canoe in the morning before most motor boats get out," shares Kevin C., who found it ideal for avoiding motorized traffic.
Paddleboarding: The reservoir offers calm waters for stand-up paddleboarding with your pet. "Was able to paddle board out to the island, which has 2 Geocaches!!!!" reports Daniel C. at Oakie Beach, noting the unique rock shoreline: "No sandy beaches here, it's hard rock all the way up to the waters edge."
What campers like
Fall camping: While Alcova is primarily known as a summer destination, off-season visits offer advantages. Zach R. from Black Beach Campground shares: "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."
Canyon views: Fremont Canyon Campground provides dramatic scenery. Alan B. reports: "We enjoyed staying here as it was a change of pace from the rolling hills of southwestern Wyoming... it was an absolutely gorgeous place to watch the sun rise and set as it lit up Fremont Canyon at both times!"
Water sounds: The dam creates natural white noise at Gray Reef Reservoir. Joe T. notes: "Nice roar from the water flowing over the spillway at the small dam. Toilets and campground are clean and a great stop over point."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Alcova's exposed camping areas face significant wind. Katie S. at Bishops Point Campground mentions: "Definitely windy and there are few spots with trees but not really. The water is great especially if you have a boat, or paddle board."
Bathroom distance: Plan your site selection around toilet access. "The big negative to me is the bathroom situation there really far away for some spots," Katie S. adds about Bishops Point, though she still rates it positively overall.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond the raccoons mentioned at Black Beach, the area hosts various wildlife that pet owners should watch for. "Saw dozens of fish swimming that we could see from above!" reports Alan B. about Fremont Canyon, noting fishing opportunities.
Site selection: RVs need careful spot assessment. Merideth S. advises: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Private spot selection: For pet-friendly camping near Alcova, Wyoming with children, consider site layout. At Gray Reef Reservoir, reviewer witt found: "Site 5 is very private and off to the other side of the dam from the other sites, makes for a nice private spot."
Boating options: The marina proximity makes some locations better for families with boats. "Close to a small beach area and right across the street from the marina which was a huge bonus," mentions Marianne B.
Water access: Campgrounds with direct water access work best for families with dogs. "Perfect for putting in a kayak or canoe in the morning before most motor boats get out," notes Kevin C. about Black Beach.
Shelter availability: Westside Campground offers water activities with rentals nearby. Jess D. shares: "So beautiful next to the lake and you can rent kayaks or paddle boards (and other things!) from Alcova resort."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Large rigs need careful spot selection at primitive sites. "A lot of spots are hard to level a RV on so chose one you can level your rig on," advises Merideth S.
Big rig accommodation: Some sites can handle larger RVs despite primitive conditions. Daniel C. reports: "Fun beautiful lake with room for bigger RV's. No hook-ups but they do have your typical state park restrooms."
Emergency services: RVers should note limited roadside assistance in this rural area. Thomas O. at Windy Waters Alcova shares his experience: "A rupture of the front driver's inboard sidewall was the cause of our tire warning light. A call to the roadside assistance service our RV rental company told us to use, proved to not be able to send a response vehicle until the next day."
