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.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Buford, Wyoming (43)

    1. Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping

    38 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Just past the campground is dispersed primitive camping 🏕️. All sites are well established. There was a 🔥 ban so no campfires. Good hiking and rock climbing"

    "Free dispersed camping with easy dirt road access for any size RV.

    No worries about RV size. All camp sites located on roads which loop back to main road."

    2. Vedauwoo Wagon Road

    12 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    4 miles

    "Need high clearance and a good off roading car to get all the way through. Also side note, turns out the road goes all the way through! Both ends go straight to a high way which is sweet."

    "Stayed here on a Saturday night in June and arrived around 10pm. This site is awesome- there are many labeled camp sites and the dirt road was easy to drive down."

    3. Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    10 miles
    Website

    "Coordinates are accurate to camp location spot, it is right off the highway, giving you easy access. I recommend getting there early because minimal site locations."

    "There are a lot dispersed camping sites, you just need to get there early enough. You need to find a spot with a defined access road to it and a built fire ring. Generator use is allowed."

    4. Vedawoo Dispersed Sunset Camp

    4 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    4 miles

    "Easy to access (I have 4wd), and each spot is massively spacious with really cool rock formations."

    "Level for the tent.. large rock lift.. great for rock walking.. temperature cool in the cave .. wildlife around.. no mosquitoes. But biting flies.."

    5. Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    7 miles
    Website

    "Just pull out onto one of the dirt roads and there are fire pits. Real dispersed camping."

    "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp. There are at least three camp site I saw that are all secluded by boulders and trees."

    6. Government Gully Rd - Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Laramie, WY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "FS 726 & 728 ARE on the Forrest Svc usage map.

    We found FS728 to have a structure at the entrance from old HWY30."

    "Close to Summit Rest Area (potable water March-October, flush toilets), Laramie for restocks, and the Vedauwoo Recreation Area. So much free camping here, only downsides are wind, & road noise."

    7. Lodge Pole Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Buford, WY
    9 miles
    Website

    "At the campground at the end of the road, there’s a picturesque little lake to admire, though not good for swimming. It’s conveniently located near the highway, yet it still maintains a secluded feel."

    8. Lost Lake Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "If you’re going to camp & especially go to dispersed camping areas, make sure to leave no trace and pack in, pack out people!!!"

    "The road to lost lake requires high clearance. It is located 30 min away from Red Feather Lakes. There are a lot of dispersed camp sites."

    9. Pole Mountain Area- Dispersed Campsite, Medicine Bow NF

    1 Review
    Buford, WY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Once you’re about 2 miles down the dirt road, that’s when a lot of the sites begin. All sites were very large and loved that they were very well spaced so you weren’t close to neighbors."

    10. Forest Road 703C

    1 Review
    Laramie, WY
    12 miles

    "Loads of spots to camp around here, we explored (I think) 703C and when there were no spots on that road went to 703J, no problems driving down anything in the Toyota Corolla we'd rented."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 43 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Buford, WY

165 Reviews of 43 Buford Campgrounds


  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2022

    Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping

    Small, but mighty

    Great place to boondock for a few days. We stayed here for a week in our 20 foot skoolie. Short drive into the Medicine Bow National forest and you’re here. There are a couple of loops right as you enter, which are the most level places to park a rig. Then another path leads about a half a mile to a few other sites that are more secluded, but not very level. I wouldn’t recommend towing anything down there with the condition of the dirt road and low hanging tree branches. Those would be ideal for a camper van or tent. There is a lovely creek that runs along there. The dump/water is decommissioned at this site, but as you turn in there is dump/water at the forest station. During our stay there were a couple of RV’s and some off road fanatics. Quiet and cool summer evenings. Great cell service!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Vedauwoo Wagon Road

    Great location

    I went on Labor Day weekend, it was quite busy BUT I was still able to find a spot. Need high clearance and a good off roading car to get all the way through. Also side note, turns out the road goes all the way through! Both ends go straight to a high way which is sweet. There are many animals so make sure everything is bear proof and prepared for one to come by!

    The road winds through and there are many different roads that brand off and have a bunch of sites at too

  • Mary S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Vedawoo Dispersed Sunset Camp

    Lovely!

    Easy to access (I have 4wd), and each spot is massively spacious with really cool rock formations. The view is gorgeous...lovely fire rings...you definitely have to bring water and everything you need--there are no facilities her--but it is wonderful camping!

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2017

    Comanche Peak View Campground

    Primitive camping not far from Fort Collins

    I have camped here multiple times and always have a great time. There are a few primitive sites here with fire pits, plenty of firewood for gathering, flat spots for a tent and fairly accessible with a high clearance vehicle. This campground is an especially good option for those wanting to avoid the summer crowds of the close by and popular campgrounds of Red Feather Lakes and Lost Lake. I often use this as a home base for exploring some of the trails in those areas. There are also lots of fun boulders in the campground area to climb around on or tuck your tent next to if needing protection on a windy night.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2021

    Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Country Cool

    This is a beautiful area and well worth the visit. The gravel road in is in very good condition. The drive is totally beautiful especially during the fall. The road is lined with aspens and large boulders and massive rock bluffs. The road leads to several homes and there is quite a bit of traffic. The dispersed camping is a little over 3.4 miles in. If you follow the GPS you will be fine. All sites have rock fire rings and most sites are fairly level. All sites are in the sun which is great for solar. Verizon cell service was a major bonus. We did have several herd of cattle that would visit but the only downside were the gifts they would leave us. Just watch your step. There is a small stream that runs along the back side of the sites. Most sites were on the right side of the road. Be aware there is a lot of private property. Be courteous. Stay off. At the highway is is a post office and small grocery store and a hardware store. 

    LNT

     Pack it in Pack it out

    Stay safe happy travels

  • Dee W.
    Aug. 7, 2021

    Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful

    Just past the campground is dispersed primitive camping 🏕️. All sites are well established. There was a 🔥 ban so no campfires. Good hiking and rock climbing

  • Ginna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2023

    Pingree Hill Dispersed Camping

    Worth the off-road drive!

    This is at the top (or backside) of the Kelly Flats off-road trail. It requires a high clearance vehicle and skill off-road driving to get there but it’s so worth it! It’s also accessible from the town of Rustic, but still requires a high clearance vehicle and some off-road driving.

  • Haley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2024

    Lost Lake Dispersed

    Leave No Trace

    Great area w/ views & peace! Sites were spacious. Definitely check out your campsite before you decide on it. Ours had so much broken glass that we had to pick up the whole time and trash bags (full of gross things) scattered in the trees. If you’re going to camp & especially go to dispersed camping areas, make sure to leave no trace and pack in, pack out people!!!


Guide to Buford

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Buford, Wyoming, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Unique Rock Formations for Dispersed Campers

  • The Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping area is surrounded by impressive rock formations, making it a picturesque spot for photography and exploration.
  • Campers have noted the peaceful atmosphere here, with plenty of space between sites, allowing for a sense of privacy while enjoying the natural beauty.
  • This location is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the scenic views and hiking trails.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Buford, Wyoming

  • When visiting Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping, arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Be prepared for minimal amenities; many sites, like those at Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping, do not have toilets or trash disposal, so pack out what you pack in.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some areas do not provide it, but you can often find downed trees for gathering wood, enhancing your camping experience.

Wildlife Watching While Free Camping Near Buford

  • The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping area is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer and elk, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Campers at Lost Lake Dispersed have reported sightings of various animals, adding excitement to their outdoor adventures.
  • Keep your camera ready, as the stunning landscapes and wildlife interactions provide ample opportunities for memorable photographs during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping available near Buford, Colorado?

Numerous dispersed camping options exist near Buford, Colorado. The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping offers many sites along back roads - just avoid private property. High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing the best spots. Another excellent option is Pingree Hill Dispersed Camping, accessible from the town of Rustic but requiring high clearance and off-road driving skills. The surrounding national forests provide ample opportunities for boondocking, with most sites located along forest service roads that branch off from main highways.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in Buford?

Summer through early fall (June-October) provides the best weather for dispersed camping around Buford. Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping is particularly popular during this period, with well-groomed roads accessible even by 2WD vehicles. The area is especially beautiful in fall when Comanche Peak View Campground offers spectacular views of aspen trees changing color. Many dispersed sites close or become inaccessible during winter months due to snow. Always check road conditions before heading out, as spring can bring muddy conditions that make access difficult.

What amenities are available at Buford dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Buford are primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Lost Lake Dispersed, you'll find spacious sites with natural surroundings but must pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Similarly, Vedawoo Dispersed Sunset Camp offers fire rings but no facilities - you must bring water and all necessities. Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings (though fire bans are common during dry periods), flat tent areas, and natural privacy from trees or rock formations. There are no toilets, running water, or garbage services, so campers must practice proper Leave No Trace principles.