Tent camping options near Encampment, Wyoming extend throughout the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. The North Platte River corridor provides access to multiple primitive camping areas with seasonal weather conditions including afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and early snow potential beginning in September. Most sites require campers to pack out all waste and bring their own water supplies.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several riverside locations along the North Platte offer walk-in fishing opportunities. At Sanger Public Access Area on North Platte River, one camper noted, "Beautiful location on the North Platte River. Good for up to mid-size trailers or smaller."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide the best wildlife viewing at dispersed sites. At Medicine Bow, campers report significant animal activity: "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."
Photography opportunities: Riverside camping areas provide unobstructed views of water, mountains and sky. A visitor to Pick Bridge Road remarked, "This area has a bunch of areas to access the North Platte River. It's a beautiful area that is good for fishing and is extremely quiet. You can be as secluded as you'd like to be."
What campers like
Natural sounds: The combination of river sounds and wildlife creates a distinctive nighttime experience. A camper at Foote Public Access Area observed, "It is next to a farm, which meant various wild and farm animal noises all night which kept me on my toes."
Multiple site options: Most locations offer varied camping spots with different terrain features. At Beaver Creek Trailhead, a visitor noted, "Beautiful views, one of our fav places. Completely free just follow the dispersed camping rules. No amenities."
Seclusion factors: Weekdays provide significantly more isolated camping experiences than weekends. One camper mentioned about Foote Public Access Area: "When nobody is here it's wonderful - right next to a creek, dogs can run around, and it is so very quiet and secluded."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after precipitation. A Medicine Bow camper warned, "There is a sign at the beginning of the dirt road for high clearance and 4 wheel drive. This is not a suggestion."
Site limitations: Most areas have only a handful of usable tent spots. A Foote Public Access camper pointed out, "This is a primitive camping spot with 3 to maybe 5 sites if you are pushing it. Free, with pit toilet."
Variable cell service: Connectivity is unreliable throughout the region. A recent visitor to Foote Public Access Area Dispersed reported, "The app was also showing at least some bars for Verizon but it's definitely SOS land."
Bug pressure: Insects can be overwhelming in certain locations. One camper noted, "Bring your bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over."
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Look for sites that accommodate multiple tents. A visitor to Hahns Peak Lake Campground shared, "Our girls had a blast exploring and making their 'fort'. A very clean and peaceful place with an amazing view."
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature swings exceeding 30°F between day and night. At Sanger Public Access Area, one camper reported, "I had a rough time at this campsite... when thunderstorms rolled through I opted to sleep in my car."
River safety: Supervise children near water areas as river currents can be strong. A Foote Public Access visitor mentioned, "Close to the N Platte, probably good fishing much of the year."
Site selection timing: Arrive before 2pm to secure the best tent camping near Encampment, Wyoming during summer months. A Foote Public Access camper advised, "Stopped here on my way through. Got here around 3pm only 2 other people. Only a few spots are larger."
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Most dispersed areas have limited room for larger vehicles to maneuver. At Foote Public Access Area, a camper noted, "Camp at designated sites only. There are no numbered spaces, just small round a bouts and pull offs to pull into. About 6 vehicles is max for this site."
Leveling requirements: Bring blocking materials as most tent sites have uneven surfaces. "We pulled in there 8/1/23 and there is no longer camping allowed at this site its day use only," reported a visitor to Pick Bridge Road, highlighting the importance of checking current regulations.
Road width considerations: Access roads to the best tent camping near Encampment, Wyoming may narrow considerably after rainfall. One Medicine Bow camper warned, "This spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then."
