Glamping near Buford, Wyoming offers dispersed camping opportunities at elevations between 8,000-8,500 feet in Medicine Bow National Forest. The area experiences dramatic temperature drops at night, even in summer months, often falling 30-40 degrees from daytime highs. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-80°F during the day but can drop to 30-40°F overnight, making proper insulation essential for canvas tent setups.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Horsetooth Reservoir provides accessible fishing opportunities within driving distance of the Buford area. "The lake is great for catch and release. Grounds are well maintained with no observed litter on the property. Walking path around the lake keeps our puppies very happy for exploring," notes a visitor to South Bay Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Beyond the Vedauwoo and Upper Blaire areas, nearby camping locations offer excellent wildlife sightings. A camper at Vedauwoo Wagon Road shared: "We went right after memorial day last week of may and not too many people. Plenty of spots had to pay $20. Found some cool spots secludes from the rocks. We saw a badger, mama moose and baby. Heard some coyotes at night overall 10/10."
Off-season exploration: The glamping areas near Buford offer more solitude during weekdays and shoulder seasons. "It is quite a bumpy road so it was a bit unnerving in our rented vehicle but it was fine in the end. We woke up to a lovely site surrounding by interesting rocks," reported a September visitor about access conditions.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Campers appreciate the privacy found at many sites in the region. A visitor to Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping commented: "Was very easy to find a spot on a busy Saturday. Just pull out onto one of the dirt roads and there are fire pits. Real dispersed camping."
Spacious group camping areas: Multiple reviews highlight the generous size of sites for accommodating groups. At Vedauwoo Wagon Road, one camper noted: "We stayed at site 7, big enough for our caravan of 3 campers. Very spacious! Great views and nice center fire pit!"
Quiet weekday camping: Traffic patterns make weekday stays much more peaceful. "Very peaceful and secluded from neighbors, open and beautiful. Will be staying again on my way through," reported a camper, while another mentioned: "Even in mid-July, we were the only people there. Spots are labeled well, with great fire pits at every sight."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many glamping spots. According to one visitor: "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 highway which is sweet."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary seasonally and are strictly enforced. A camper at Last Chance Camp advised: "The campground was an open field, with other campers spread out and some picnic tables in the mix. They have a porta potty, and outside shower, and an outdoor kitchen area."
Reservation systems: While most dispersed camping is first-come, first-served, some nearby established sites require advance booking. "This is $20/night for camping. You can buy camp permits or day passes at the front entrance," noted a visitor about Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Site differences: The terrain varies significantly between camping areas. "The first group of sites are recommended for bigger rigs and then the lower group of sites are better suited for smaller campers and tent camping," explained a camper describing the layout of Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly glamping options: Families looking for more amenities than dispersed camping offers can find options with more facilities. "This place is a fantastic spot to lay your head! It is exactly as represented in the description. We did have a bit of noise from some very late arrivals that set up nearby, but it was otherwise an absolute joy to stay here," shared a visitor to Last Chance Camp, Cheyenne.
Weather preparation: Dramatic temperature changes require extra planning for families. A camper at Vedauwoo Wagon Road recommended: "It was sunny and windy for our visit in September," highlighting the need to prepare for multiple weather conditions.
Accessibility concerns: Consider site access when traveling with children or older family members. "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp," noted one visitor, which is important information for families traveling with young children who might get carsick.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: RVers should be selective about which glamping areas they attempt to access. One RVer at Riverview RV Park & Campground shared: "The entrance to the campground was a little tight for 35' fifth wheel. If you come in from the West prepare for wide turn. RV spaces were a little tight."
Weather considerations: Wind can be particularly challenging for RVers with large profiles. "It can be suddenly and very windy here, so most campers did not use awnings," advised a camper, noting an important safety consideration for RVers considering glamping in the Buford region.
Road condition awareness: Several reviews mention road quality issues that affect RV access. "We arrived at night in a Ram Pro master campervan. It has official signs at the entrance showing you where the sites are. The site has pull ins for each user and they are spread out," reported a visitor describing the navigation experience to reach their site.
