Alcova, Wyoming sits at an elevation of approximately 5,500 feet with camping options clustered around Alcova Reservoir and the North Platte River. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F with frequent afternoon winds across the relatively exposed terrain. The camping season runs strongest from May through September, though some facilities remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Fishing at Pete's Draw: Access the North Platte River at Pete's Draw Campground for excellent fly fishing opportunities. The campground provides convenient river access with a $10 nightly fee ($5 with Senior Pass). "Lots of birds, osprey, pelicans, swallows. Our neighbor even rescued a baby raccoon as it floated down the river!" notes a Pete's Draw Campground visitor.
Dinosaur Trail hiking: Explore the fossil-rich area around Cottonwood Campground. "Kids enjoyed hiking Dinosaur Trail and exploring. Lots of fishing spots. Very scenic. $10 a night, pay kiosk," shares a Cottonwood Campground camper who appreciated the educational opportunities combined with outdoor recreation.
Fall camping season: Consider visiting during autumn when crowds thin out but views remain spectacular. "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. We got the best spot on the water since it wasn't as crowded as it usually is," explains a Black Beach visitor who enjoyed the lower water levels that allowed for more shoreline exploration.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing and boating. At River's Edge RV and Cabin Resort, "Each site has a turf area with clean and maintained patio furniture. Riverside is mowed down low, big grass fields. Bring mosquito spray though!" notes a camper who stayed in site 87.
Clean facilities: Many visitors comment on well-maintained amenities. "Very clean bathroom/showers. A couple have been remodeled. Nice laundry room. Free mini golf. Nice spots with grass between," reports a visitor to Casper East RV Park, one of the rv campgrounds near Alcova, Wyoming.
Level sites: For RVers concerned about setup, specific sites receive praise for being easily leveled. At Pete's Draw Campground, a camper notes, "I stayed in site 1, which I think is the most level. I was able to get perfectly level without any blocks. The pit toilets are on the other side of the campground from site 1, it's about a two minute walk."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While some rv parks around Alcova, Wyoming operate year-round, facilities and accessibility vary by season. At Black Beach Campground, a visitor notes, "A GREAT campground, but extremely popular. Reservations only, and a less than great BLM website. You must have an account to reserve. $15 per night, no hookups."
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts diverse wildlife that may interact with campsites. "Racoons harassed us until we moved to the car as well as something Big and Angry sounding that we couldn't identify," reports a tent camper at Black Beach who recommends using a hard-sided camper rather than a tent.
Limited shade: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal natural shade. At Cottonwood Campground, a visitor mentions, "This is in a pretty nice state park with lake access. With all the fees, price comes out to around $45 for a basic site and pit toilets. Overall, I don't think it's a great value. Sites are close together and there's not much shade."
Tips for camping with families
Consider RV cabins: For families wanting camping comfort without bringing gear, look at cabin options. "We have stayed here twice both times we have loved it. It's clean. By a beautiful river. The staff are great. Easy to get into the spots," shares a visitor about River's Edge RV and Cabin Resort, where families can balance outdoor time with modern conveniences.
Look for playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. A visitor to River's Edge noted, "Nice campground near Casper, WY. We just stayed for one night and they were able to accommodate us arriving late with us calling ahead. There is a grassy area by the river that is nice to walk your dog. Shower and bathroom area was clean. There is a little playground for kids."
Check proximity to amenities: Deer Creek Village RV Park offers family-friendly features including "the adjacent city park, complete with a dog park, was a fantastic bonus," according to a recent visitor who appreciated the outdoor recreation options within walking distance.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: For digital connectivity while RVing near Alcova, Pete's Draw Campground provides mixed results. "I had great speeds from AT&T and Verizon here. My T-mobile device roamed onto AT&T and had a great signal but was slow. There is no cell service at camp but rode bikes out few hundred yards and found 1 bar Verizon," notes a camper who stayed there.
Level site selection: For RV setup at Cottonwood Campground, a visitor advises, "We had a nice spot with shelter. 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. Vault toilets in numerous places."
Emergency assistance: When mechanical issues arise, local rv campgrounds may offer solutions. At Windy Waters Alcova, a guest with tire problems found help: "Julie was very helpful when we called Windy Waters. She was able to get us a spot for the night while we waited for the roadside assistance the next morning. Sites are nothing fancy but have all the hookups and plenty of space for vehicles much bigger than the 26' RV we were renting."
