Best Dispersed Camping near Buford, WY
Dispersed camping near Buford, Wyoming offers multiple free primitive sites within Medicine Bow National Forest. Popular areas include Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping, Vedauwoo Wagon Road, and Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping. These sites feature distinctive rock formations and spacious camping areas. According to reviews, the Vedauwoo area provides "massively spacious" sites with "really cool rock formations" and established fire rings. Most locations require camping in designated areas only, which are marked by existing fire rings and access roads.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region. Main forest service roads are generally accessible with standard vehicles, though some areas require high clearance or 4WD for optimal site selection. Several campers noted the roads past the main Vedauwoo campground become "terribly bumpy, like a million speed bumps," though side roads may be more navigable. Most dispersed sites lack facilities - no drinking water, hookups, or sanitation services are available. Visitors must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.
Summer brings higher visitation rates with sites filling quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure preferred locations. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose, deer, and various small mammals. Free-range cattle also roam throughout the area. Cell service is surprisingly good in many locations, with multiple reviewers reporting reliable connections. Fire restrictions frequently apply during dry periods, so check current regulations before planning to have a campfire. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with cool evenings even during summer months and potential for strong winds throughout the area.