Reservoir Disperse Camping is located near Melvin Brewing in Bedford, Wyoming, offering free dispersed camping with lakeside sites about 40 minutes from Jackson Hole. The area features uneven terrain with water level fluctuations that require careful site selection. Nearby Idaho towns provide access to several established campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic to full-service, accommodating various camping styles including glamping options near Bedford, Wyoming.
What to do
Kayak at the reservoir: At Reservoir Disperse Camping, visitors can launch watercraft directly from their campsite. "We easily found a spot right next to the water! It was quiet and peaceful. We could kayak right off from our spot," notes Megan D., who appreciated the convenience of water access.
Visit local breweries: The proximity to Melvin Brewing creates a unique camping experience. "This is a great wide open site with excellent views and an added bonus of a brewery in walking distance," explains Alex G. The short 100-yard walk provides campers with food and beverage options without driving.
Explore trails near Emigration Campground: Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground offers access to forest trails right from your site. "Just a one night stay on our way headed north but wish we could have stayed longer... lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest. Also trails right of the campsite," writes Erin M.
What campers like
Mountain views: The landscape provides dramatic backdrops at campsites. "There are a handful of spots right up against the water with a great mountain backdrop," observes Johnny R. about Reservoir Disperse Camping, noting the scenic setting despite the location's proximity to other facilities.
Peaceful lakeside camping: Many campers value the water proximity. "Lots of open area and good swimming but can get a lot of traffic during summer," mentions Wyattf about Reservoir Disperse Camping, highlighting the seasonal popularity of waterfront sites.
Luxury glamping structures: Moose Creek Ranch provides upscale glamping experiences near Bedford, Wyoming. "This place is special. The people are nice. The facility is wonderful. A pub for dinner, breakfast for guests. Horses! It has it all!" explains Jenny, describing amenities beyond standard camping.
Forest camping atmosphere: The region offers wooded sites with natural features. "The campground is in a beautiful forest with lots of trails and space to explore. Can be a very popular and crowded place on holiday weekends," notes Christopher W. about Emigration Campground.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: At Reservoir Disperse Camping, tide changes affect campsite selection. "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water," warns Sara N.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Reservoir Disperse Camping lacks standard amenities. "This spot is strange its 2 minutes off the highway but its right out front of a brewery restaurant and seems to be on a disc golf course... A single beat up wooden picnic table is out here with a few stone fire rings," describes Johnny R., noting the minimal infrastructure.
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality. "Road in was fair, rough at times, but doable in our low-clearance rig," reports Connor N. about McCoy Creek Campground, indicating that careful driving can overcome access challenges.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We stayed here 4 nights... Not all the sites have water and sewer, but everything has electric," explains Chris H. about Fireside Resort, which operates from May through mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Finding campsites with safe water entry points helps with children. "Lots of open area and good swimming but can get a lot of traffic during summer," notes Wyattf about Reservoir Disperse Camping, suggesting early season visits to avoid crowds.
Playground availability: Montpelier Creek KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "The kids enjoyed the pool and playground... Everything was in great shape, including the shower house," reports Jennie R., highlighting facilities that keep children entertained.
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Some areas accommodate family camping setups. "Our site had enough flat areas for two 2+ dome tents," says Susan V. about Emigration Campground, noting the practical layout for families bringing separate sleeping quarters.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers nature education experiences. "We woke up to see a moose up close & personal!" shares Jessica S. from Moose Creek Ranch, describing unexpected wildlife encounters that create memorable family experiences.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Flat Creek RV Park and Cabins provides basic services for RVers. "Quaint place with full hookups and amenities. The men's bathroom was quite dirty but the owners were friendly and the wifi worked well," reports Allyse, noting that hookup availability outweighed facility conditions.
Site spacing considerations: RV parks have varying densities. "The RV sites have all the basics you need and the park is very quiet and peaceful. The thing I didn't appreciate for the price we are paying is trash in our site," Victoria C. explains about Fireside Resort, suggesting expectations should match pricing.
Seasonal availability for RVs: Check operating schedules before planning trips. "We recently spent three nights here as a base camp for the Tetons. No tent camping, but our small campervan was welcome," shares Erin about Fireside Resort, indicating vehicle size restrictions at some facilities.
Free laundry amenities: Some properties offer unexpected services. "The grounds are superb with on-site restaurant & laundry (free laundry — a first!). The owners are great, very attentive," notes Jessica S. about Moose Creek Ranch, highlighting a valued practical amenity for extended RV travel.
