Dispersed camping sites around Elk Mountain, Wyoming offer opportunities for camping in Medicine Bow National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 7,000-11,000 feet with forest service roads providing access to numerous backcountry sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access: North Platte River fishing is available at Foote Public Access Area Dispersed, which offers direct river access. "I saw a mink and an eagle while there," reports James K. The small riverside camping area includes "a vault toilet at the entrance" according to Lady Phyre.
Alpine lake activities: Paddle and fish at Brooklyn Lake Campground where most sites have lake views. "We brought our kayaks and stand up paddle boards, and really enjoyed doing this in the lake. We literally just walked a few steps and put our boards and kayaks in the water!" notes Drew W. The lake is also popular for fishing.
Wildlife viewing: Moose watching is common throughout the area. Brooklyn Lake Campground offers regular sightings as "We saw three big moose pass through our site at night and in the morning and the site next to us to feed in the big meadow," reports Bryan P. from Deep Creek. Bring binoculars for spotting pronghorn and eagles across the region.
What campers like
Stargazing: Clear night skies are valued at Sugarloaf Campground due to minimal light pollution. Madison D. at another nearby campground notes the area has "the clearest skies that we've seen in a while. We bundled up and stargazed and felt so lucky to have detoured to this spot."
Solitude: Quiet, uncrowded areas are available along forest service roads. A camper at FS RD 103 Dispersed notes experiencing "Very few other boondockers, and well dispersed. Very quiet with minimal traffic." The further into the forest service roads you travel, the more private the camping experience.
Riverside camping: Sites along water are sought after. At Deer Haven RV Park, campers appreciate that the "site is right on the river with beautiful views" according to Donna H. The park offers "a river right out the front door" where Iris L. notes you can "stare at the breathtaking sky."
What you should know
Weather extremes: Cold nights year-round are common in this high-altitude area. Even in summer, "it gets below 30 degrees at night so come prepared!" warns Maya G. at Sugarloaf Campground. Campgrounds at higher elevations may experience snow as late as June and as early as September.
Mosquito preparation: Insect repellent essential during summer months. Aaron B. warns that at Bow River Campground there were "a lot of mosquitoes. I don't mean like a few dozen or hundreds… I mean millions." Many reviewers recommend bringing natural repellents like sage bundles along with conventional repellent.
Limited amenities: Most sites lack facilities beyond basic pit toilets. Morning H. notes that "no water could be collected from the handpump" at Bow River, and many dispersed sites have no facilities at all. Campers should pack in drinking water, toilet paper, and pack out all trash.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly trails: Crater Lake Trail near Deep Creek allows pets and leads to alpine lakes. The Medicine Bow area offers numerous dog friendly campgrounds near Elk Mountain with accessible hiking options. Established sites typically allow pets with standard leash requirements.
Educational wildlife viewing: Morning moose sightings are common at dawn. Emma G. reports, "Woke up to a frosty alpine meadow, complete with mom and calf moose grazing" at Deep Creek. Children should maintain safe distances from all wildlife.
Hot springs visit: Saratoga Hot Springs just 20 minutes from some campgrounds. When camping near White Rock Canyon, Annie C. suggests, "If you need a shower, go into town to the free hot springs and take a shower for free." The hot springs offer a family-friendly option for washing up after camping.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Gravel access limitations on some forest service roads. Anita M. warns about White Rock Canyon: "The road has washboard and is quite steep in places. The biggest issue was finding a place to turn around." RVs over 30 feet should research specific sites before attempting access.
Campsite selection: Level sites scarce in mountainous terrain. At White Rock Canyon, one reviewer notes "No sites are level so bring your legos" referring to leveling blocks. Campers with larger rigs should arrive early to secure the limited suitable spots.
Seasonal accessibility: Late openings common for high-elevation campgrounds. Most sites above 9,000 feet don't open until July due to snowpack and close by early October. Brooklyn Lake Campground typically operates from "July 28 to September 4" according to information records.
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