Freeman Reservoir Campground sits at nearly 9,000 feet elevation in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, about 40 miles from Encampment, Wyoming. The area connects to multiple wilderness trailheads accessible directly from the campground. The mountain terrain features aspen groves that display vibrant fall colors, creating optimal conditions for September horse camping trips.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Buffalo Pass offers multiple trail options for day hikes. "Beautiful spot. Almost at 9,000 ft. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Most of them are slightly treed," notes David M. at Freeman Reservoir Campground.
Fish in local reservoirs: Several lakes in the region provide fishing opportunities without motorized watercraft noise. At Teal Lake Group Campsite, camper Haileigh W. shares: "This is by far my favorite place to go fishing when I'm in the mood to fish off the shore! I have spent many years coming to Teal lake, it's always been a family favorite!"
Mountain biking: The region offers trails for cyclists of various skill levels. Vincent C. notes at Dry Lake Campground: "It sits directly across for spring creek hiking trail and plenty of other hiking trail around. Also mountain biking serves as an option for the majority of the trails."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest provide well-spaced campsites. At Big Creek Lakes Campground, Sarah C. reports: "The sites are all HUGE, almost all are pull through and many offer beautiful lake views with trails directly from your campsite to the water."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife including elk, moose, and beavers. Charlie B. from Freeman Reservoir Campground shares: "There is a short trail around the reservoir and we even got pictures of a couple beavers."
Quiet camping atmosphere: Many equestrian camping areas near Encampment maintain peaceful environments. Talia J. from Freeman Reservoir notes: "Despite a mostly full campground after dark it was very quiet, no generators, no barking dogs, and no big parties."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Medicine Bow, Socious I. cautions: "This spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then."
Weather preparation essential: At high elevations, temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night. Rosina A. from Big Creek Lakes Campground advises: "It's camping at over 9,000ft elevation and requires for you to be extra prepared for snow even in the summer months, bears, mountain lions, mosquitos, aggressive horse flies, leeches, strong winds, thunder storms and altitude sickness."
Seasonal access limitations: Most horse-friendly campgrounds close during winter. Charlie B. mentions about Freeman Reservoir: "Road is impassable in winter."
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Multiple sites report significant mosquito and insect presence. At Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping, Liv M. warns: "SO many mosquitoes and biting ants but the sunsets are gorgeous and make it worth it. Sites aren't really marked/but are right next to the reservoir."
Pack for elevation changes: Higher elevations mean dramatic temperature shifts. At Big Creek Lakes, Sarah C. mentions: "We were 10 hours from home with 5 kids! We may be crazy, but lots of memories were made and we are calling this trip a big success!"
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings enhance family experiences. Kerrie L. from Medicine Bow describes: "We saw two bull elk and a calf play in the valley and drink from the pond as the sun went down. There's cacti, sage and pretty wildflowers."
Tips from RVers
Check trailer length restrictions: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs despite posted limitations. Chad H. from Dry Lake Campground shares: "It's hard to find information on this campground, but if you see 20' trailer limit, don't buy it. The host is in a 36' trailer. A couple of the turns getting in and out could be challenging with a longer setup."
Prepare for primitive conditions: Most equestrian facilities near Encampment offer limited hookups. Sarah C. notes at Big Creek Lakes: "There is zero cell service (we have Sprint and Verizon), no electric/water/sewer hook ups or bathhouses. There are pit toilets throughout the campground that appeared to be very well maintained and cleaned often."
Plan for leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling work. Sara F. from Big Creek Lakes mentions: "Spot 23 is where we stayed and the pull through drive way is on a wicked hill. Made it tricky getting the camper level."
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