Dispersed camping near Cora, Wyoming occurs at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 8,000 feet, creating cool evening temperatures even during summer months. The area sits in a transition zone between sagebrush plains and alpine forests, with most sites experiencing significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Many dispersed camping locations offer direct access to the Green River watershed, which contains numerous tributaries popular for trout fishing.
What to do
Fishing the Green River: Warren Bridge Recreation Area provides prime river access with designated dispersed sites. "We stayed 5 nights at site 4. Extremely quiet and only a few other people ever came by," reports Mike C. The area features multiple spots with direct water access for anglers.
Wildlife observation: Many campers at Dispersed camping along Cliff Creek in Bridger-Teton National Forest report exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. "Breathtaking views, wildlife viewing (moose, deer, elk, whooping cranes, etc), bring your binoculars!" notes one camper named Fern. The valley setting creates natural corridors for wildlife movement.
Boat access camping: Several spots around Soda Lake Wildlife Area allow watercraft launching. "There are free designated, kind of, campsites around the lake. Couple places to launch a boat and four vault toilets scattered around," explains Greg L. The relatively shallow lake works well for non-motorized craft.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Fisherman Creek Road, dispersed camping offers isolation. "Found a large spot about a mile up the road, on the left side. The road was pretty good, even for our overloaded car and rented trailer. The spot was large enough to turn around and easily maneuver the trailer," writes Witek C.
Mountain views: Willow Lake sits at a higher elevation and provides dramatic mountain backdrops. "I love this spot because it is less populated than others. Camp spots are spread out so you aren't on top of each other. The lake is beautiful and great for kayaking or sup," explains Alicia T.
Night sky viewing: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Cliff Creek, one camper stated, "Of the 8 dispersed sites we've used in the past couple weeks, this was by far the nicest and had the best scenery. I'd almost drive there again from St Louis just to lay under those stars in that picturesque valley."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most dispersed sites become difficult to access during winter and early spring. At Fisherman Creek Road, a camper advised, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs. Most spots have shade and fire rings. I came in late July and there were lots of motorcycles and ATVs. It was quiet from 7 PM to 7 AM."
Limited facilities: Except for designated areas, most dispersed sites have no amenities. At Boulder Lake Trailhead Dispersed Camping, Greg L. notes, "No potable water, no toilets, no trash dumpsters, no tables or fire rings. 14d limit and the rangers do come around to check I hear."
Insect concerns: Summer months bring significant insect activity. "The only downside was the crazy amount of mosquitoes. Bring bug spray!" warns Witek C. about Fisherman Creek Road. Many campers recommend head nets during peak mosquito season.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Several dispersed sites offer calm water access for children. At Warren Bridge Recreation Area, one camper notes, "Sites are right on the water with good access, fire rings, tables, and vault toilets. Directly across the river from our site is a tall pine with an eagles nest. 2 large Bald Eagles hang out there in the evening."
Educational wildlife viewing: Warren Bridge Recreation Area Designated Dispersed Camping provides consistent wildlife sightings. "There is amazing Wildlife viewing right from the campground. On my last visit I saw mule deer, moose, and Antelope right from my campsite," explains Marty C.
Proximity to services: For families needing regular access to supplies, Fisherman Creek Road offers a good balance. "About 5 miles west of Rim Station with an RV park and a little country store. Dump and fill station available there if needed. Owner is very kind!" reports Angie S.
Tips from RVers
Levelness assessment: Many sites require careful placement for larger vehicles. At Soda Lake WHMA, Ray & Terri F. share: "We found a decent site on the North side of the lake, but the 'neighbors' to either side had loose dogs and our dog has had altercations with dogs off leash before. The site was surprisingly level too, almost didn't need to level at all."
Turnaround availability: Larger rigs need adequate space to maneuver. "There were many available campsites and it's not far from the main road at all. I had a bar of service via Verizon. Really had the place to ourselves," notes Tee C. about Fisherman Creek Road, where most sites include adequate turnaround space.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between locations. "AT&T service was poor without a booster, with 0-2 Bars of 3G service, but nearly no data throughput. With our weboost, it got a little better with 3-4 bars of LTE and speeds up to about 0.5 MB/s. T-Mobile service was good with 4 bars of 4G/LTE," reports an RVer at Soda Lake WHMA.
