Primitive camping near Encampment, Wyoming offers numerous opportunities within Medicine Bow National Forest. The forest encompasses over 2.9 million acres of public land and ranges in elevation from 6,000 to over 12,000 feet. Most dispersed sites in this area lack developed facilities and require campers to pack in water and pack out waste, with seasonal fire restrictions typically in place from June through September.
What to do
Fishing access points: The North Platte River provides excellent fishing locations at spots like Sanger Public Access Area on North Platte River, where campers can enjoy riverfront locations. A visitor noted the "beautiful location on the North Platte River" with "scattered informal sites" that work well for anglers.
Wildlife viewing: The Medicine Bow backcountry offers diverse wildlife encounters around free camping areas. At Foote Public Access Area Dispersed, a camper reported "I saw a mink and an eagle while there" near the riverside camping area. Another mentioned the area is "next to a farm, which meant various wild and farm animal noises all night."
Mountain biking: Forest service roads provide excellent routes for casual mountain biking through aspen groves. Near the Wyoming-Colorado border, forest roads offer "great easy MTB on the roads and some smaller trails" according to one visitor who enjoyed riding through areas where "free range sheep are being guarded by Great Pyreneese dogs, Moose and Pronghorn are all abundant."
What campers like
River proximity: Many dispersed sites offer direct water access for cooling off during summer months. At North Platte River Treasure Island - Public Access Area, one camper appreciated that it's "a dirt road about 1.25 miles leading to a boat ramp, with parking for cars/trailers" and includes "a very nice trail and bridge over the river."
Secluded locations: Dispersed camping provides privacy even during peak season at certain spots. One visitor to Foote Public Access Area described it as a "quiet spot" noting they "got here around 3pm only 2 other people" and found it "right next to the river and absolutely beautiful."
Mountain views: Higher elevation sites offer scenic vistas of surrounding ranges. The Green Mountain Overlook features "a row of trees blocking road view and awesome views of Green Mountain and even Mtns down by steamboat springs" with "easy parking even with full size truck pulling bumper pull trailer."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after precipitation. On Forest Road 318, campers warn "4WD and decent clearance is a must. The road is in rough shape and sections had standing water and mud with deep ruts." Another visitor notes "the road is very bumpy so take your time driving on it. 4WD is a must."
Campsite availability: Limited spots at river access points can fill quickly, especially on weekends. One camper at Foote Public Access Area noted it has "only room for maybe 2" vehicles and is "definitely SOS land" for cell service, forcing them to "turn around" despite it looking "nice if you're lucky enough to get a spot."
Insect preparation: Riverside camping areas experience significant mosquito activity from May through August. Several campers emphasize bringing insect protection, with one stating "bring your bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over" and another mentioning mosquitoes were "horrific, but worth dealing with to camp in such a great spot."
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: For family camping, consider locations with better road access and basic facilities. The Sanger Access Area, Dispersed Camping offers "bathrooms [that] were clean and conveniently scattered throughout the sites" and is "easy to find if you just follow the signs for camping."
Water access considerations: River access points provide natural play areas but require close supervision. One camper noted that at Sanger Access Area "the area is BEAUTIFUL" with "lots of wildlife and scenic views" but families should be prepared for "LOTS of mosquitoes though, so make sure to bring bug spray or cover up!"
Seasonal timing: Late summer and early fall provide more moderate temperatures and fewer insects. At FS RD 103 Dispersed, a camper experienced "solitude and crisp Fall Mornings" with "very few other boondockers, and well dispersed" campsites, making it ideal for family outings during the September-October window.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller trailers and campers only. At Cow Creek Rd Boat Launch (North Platte River Treasure Island), an RVer described it as "a parking lot camping location" that's "clearly marked camping area designated (5 days max)" but warns there's a "bumpy dirt road until you reach the lot."
Parking considerations: Level sites can be limited at higher elevations and river access points. One RVer at Forest Road 318 reported "my first choice of dispersed sites was still covered in snow, this ended up being a pleasant surprise. Great views and level site."
Stay duration limits: Many public access areas have 5-day maximum stays enforced by rangers. A camper at North Platte River Treasure Island noted it's "not really a campsite, just a nice free place to spend the night and then move on, but you can stay up to 5 days."
