Camping near Encampment, Wyoming offers access to both alpine meadows and river valleys, with elevations ranging from 7,200 feet in town to over 10,000 feet in the nearby Medicine Bow National Forest. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with high-country sites often accessible only after mid-June due to snowmelt. July and August daytime temperatures average 75-85°F but overnight temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer.
What to do
Paddleboarding on peaceful waters: Pearl Lake State Park provides a calm surface ideal for paddleboarding. "It's a quiet lake, surrounded by mountains and forest, perfect for paddle boarders. There is also a nice hike that goes over the dam and then climbs up and away from civilization," notes a visitor to Pearl Lake State Park.
Alpine lake fishing: The high-country lakes near Encampment offer productive trout fishing. "We caught several large trout from the shore. Lots of wildlife and even though the campgrounds were full, you didn't feel like you were packed in there," reports a camper at Steamboat Lake State Park.
Wildflower viewing: Late June through July brings peak wildflower season to the mountains. "The wildflowers were beautiful and the views of the lake and the mountains were gorgeous. There are nice hiking trails in the park," writes a visitor to Sunrise Vista Campground.
What campers like
Mountain wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot large mammals. "Woke up to a frosty alpine meadow, complete with mom and calf moose grazing. A wonderful gamble on a chance evening in the area," reports a camper at Deep Creek Campground.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location offers minimal light pollution. "We bundled up and stargazed and felt so lucky to have detoured to this spot," notes a visitor to Sugarloaf Campground.
Access to hot springs: The nearby Saratoga hot springs provides post-camping relaxation. "It's also only 4 minutes away from hobo Hot Springs. And there is a wonderful ice cream shop downtown that makes their own ice cream," mentions a camper at Deer Haven RV Park.
What you should know
Variable weather conditions: Mountain conditions can change rapidly with significant temperature swings. "Weather is always changing. We had snow, rain, sun, and some wind. Be prepared to have temperatures in the 20's at the end of May at night," advises a camper at Sunrise Vista Campground.
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is necessary, especially near water. "The mosquitoes were heavy at dust, so be prepared with spray," warns a visitor at Deep Creek Campground.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. "There are no bathrooms or showers on site so your rig must be fully self-contained," notes a camper at North Fork Campground.
Campsite availability: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Got there around 1 pm and around 6 out of the 16 spots still available. Filled up fast throughout the evening," reports a Sugarloaf Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some rv parks near Encampment offer recreational facilities. "Putt-putt is free to guest as well as a nice sized playground. Only downside is also an upside. Close to interstate, so easy to find and get to," shares a visitor to Red Desert Rose Campground.
Choose sites near water: Lakeside locations provide entertainment for children. "Right on the water with shade throughout the day. Spots were spaced out for privacy. Bathrooms everywhere and fresh water access," notes a camper at Pearl Lake State Park.
Pack for temperature swings: Evening temperatures drop significantly. "Got below 30 degrees at night so come prepared!" warns a Sugarloaf Campground visitor.
Consider camp hosting programs: Some locations offer educational activities. "The park had a lot of events and we did a nocturnal night hike and a star party the next. 10/10," shares a visitor at Sunrise Vista Campground.
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection requirements: Some rv parks Encampment, Wyoming area require additional equipment. "The sewer receptacle is not threaded, so you'll need to otherwise secure your sewer hose," notes a visitor to Sentinel Mountain RV & Quick Stop.
Seasonal road access: High elevation roads may be impassable until late spring. "Only open a short window of the year due to being high altitude and road closes in the winter," explains a Sugarloaf Campground visitor.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "AT&T coverage is a little complicated; on the South side of the RV service ranged from 1-2 Bars of 4G/LTE with service up to 8 MB/s up, but on the North side service ranged from no service to 4 bars of 3G," reports an RVer at Sentinel Mountain.
Site selection for views: RV sites with the best views often require advance planning. "Half of the upper loop sites have a lake and mountain view. Plenty space between sites for privacy too," advises a visitor to Pearl Lake State Park.
