Best Campgrounds near Encampment, WY
The southeastern Wyoming town of Encampment sits at the gateway to multiple camping environments managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Medicine Bow National Forest, and private operators. Encampment River Campground offers riverside sites with basic amenities at affordable rates ($10 standard, $5 with senior passes), while nearby Bottle Creek Campground provides similar rustic accommodations from mid-June through mid-October. For those seeking more amenities, Lazy Acres Campground in Riverside features full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities along the Encampment River. Dispersed camping options include Green Mountain Overlook along Highway 70, where pull-offs accommodate various vehicle sizes with natural screening from road noise and mountain views.
Road conditions vary significantly across the region, with some campgrounds requiring navigation of steep, winding routes unsuitable for large trailers. As one camper noted about Encampment River Campground, "The road is steep and has a good twist or two in it," making access challenging for some vehicles. Cell service remains limited throughout the area, with reviewers reporting "very weak T-Mobile and AT&T service" at established sites. Weather patterns demand preparation, particularly at higher elevations in the Snowy Range above Encampment where conditions can change rapidly even in summer months. Most developed campgrounds operate seasonally, typically closing by mid-October, though some like Saratoga Lake Campground remain open year-round.
Riverside camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with the Encampment River serving as a focal point for many preferred sites. Campers frequently mention the quality of fishing opportunities, particularly for trout in both lakes and rivers. Several reviewers highlight the separation between sites at Encampment River Campground, noting the "good separation between sites" and "trees and foliage" providing privacy. Wildlife sightings are common, with bighorn sheep reported along mountain roads near Pike Pole Campground. Wind exposure presents a consistent challenge throughout the region, particularly at higher elevations and open lake sites. Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a concern during summer months, with multiple reviewers recommending bug spray as an essential item.
