Tent camping opportunities near Elk Mountain, Wyoming center around public access areas with different river access points, limited amenities, and varying degrees of seclusion. The region sits at elevations between 6,500-7,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most camping areas remain snow-covered and inaccessible until late May through early October.
What to do
Fishing access points: Foote Public Access Area offers multiple river access spots for anglers seeking trout. "I saw a mink and an eagle while there," reports James K. about his experience at the Foote Public Access Area.
Wildlife viewing: Medicine Bow National Forest provides opportunities to spot elk and other wildlife in their natural habitat. "We saw two bull elk and a calf play in the valley and drink from the pond as the sun went down," writes Kerrie L. about camping in the Medicine Bow area.
Water activities: Lake Hattie offers swimming and boating opportunities approximately 20 miles from Laramie. "Great little spot ~20 miles west of Laramie. Easy access and can drive right up to the water and park," notes Eric S. about his experience at Lake Hattie Public Access Area.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many campers appreciate the North Platte River access. "Stopped here on my way through. Got here around 3pm only 2 other people. Only a few spots are larger for 5th wheels etc. Right next to the river and absolutely beautiful," writes Chloe W. about her experience at Foote Public Access Area.
Mountain views: Several camping areas provide mountain vistas as backdrop. "The lake area is beautiful and there were plentyyy of areas open. This spot is well away from the road, so very quiet. There is a great mountain backdrop behind the lake and it made for great views!" says Megan V. about Lake Hattie.
Seclusion factor: Most areas offer privacy despite limited sites. "Camping is at the left fork. At the fork, go left for a little place for two parties to camp. There's a vault toilet at the entrance. Very secluded and quiet," explains Lady Phyre about Sanger Public Access Area.
What you should know
Limited availability: Most sites accommodate very few campers. "Definitely only room for maybe 2. Had to turn around. Looks nice if you're lucky enough to get a spot," warns Kendra T. about Foote Public Access Area.
Road conditions: Access requires careful navigation of dirt roads. "Road in is an easy drive. I didn't have any clearance issues in a Prius," shares Lady Phyre about Sanger Public Access Area, while Medicine Bow routes demand more capable vehicles as "This spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then," cautions Socious I.
Status changes: Some areas have changed from camping to day use only. "This spot will no longer allow overnight camping. It is day use only," reports David W. about Sanger Public Access Area, while similar changes affected Pick Bridge Road: "we pulled in there 8/1/23 and there is no longer camping allowed at this site its day use only," confirms Ray D.
Tips for camping with families
Lake options: Consider lake sites for swimming opportunities. "We stayed here at the lake. Camping limit is 5 days. Beautiful Mountain View, swimming and fishing. No cell phone service with Verizon. No running water has restrooms and lots of camp/ picnic tables," shares Juana B. about Lake Hattie.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings both pleasant and annoying. "It is next to a farm, which meant various wild and farm animal noises all night which kept me on my toes," notes Donner N. about Foote Public Access Area.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly with limited shelter. "I had a rough time at this campsite, but I don't want to discount it entirely. My spot was out in the open so when thunderstorms rolled through I opted to sleep in my car," explains Donner N. about their stay at Wheatland Reservoir #3.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "A little way off of WY-130 on a good dirt road. Good for up to mid-size trailers or smaller. Scattered informal sites, no water or hookups, two pit toilets," advises Bruce D. about Sanger Public Access Area.
Exposure considerations: Many sites lack natural shelter. "There ain't no tree but there is a lake," notes Larisa H. about Lake Hattie's exposure, making wind protection important for RVers.
Mud conditions: Shoreline camping can become problematic after rain. "The shoreline is a little muddy in areas and there are a few cliffs to keep a little distance from," warns Megan V. about Lake Hattie, suggesting RVers should maintain distance from unstable edges.
