Dispersed camping options around Granite Canon, Wyoming provide a convenient base camp near the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. The area sits at approximately 8,000-8,700 feet elevation with temperature drops of 30+ degrees possible between day and night. Roads throughout the region vary significantly in quality, from well-maintained gravel to rough tracks requiring high clearance vehicles.
What to do
Rock climbing access: The Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping area offers direct access to climbing routes. "If you want to do some rock climbing in the area, these sites are very convenient," notes one visitor to Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide the best chances for spotting local wildlife. "Pronghorns in the morning as I have my coffee, and Elk in the evenings... Every...Day," reports a camper at Government Gully Rd - Dispersed.
Hiking on nearby trails: The Medicine Bow area contains numerous hiking options accessible from most camping areas. "We enjoyed hiking, rock climbing and ATV'ing around. Very close to beautiful Laramie and the weather is great up here," according to a review of Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed camping areas feature well-spaced sites. "All sites were very large and loved that they were very well spaced so you weren't close to neighbors," notes a visitor to Pole Mountain Area- Dispersed Campsite.
Natural rock formations: The distinctive granite formations create natural barriers and scenic backdrops. "We camped near the Devil's Playground rocks and even though most of the better sites were full, we found quite a few open sites on a Saturday," explains a camper at Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
Quick highway access: Many camping areas combine natural settings with convenient highway proximity. "Easy to access (I have 4wd), and each spot is massively spacious with really cool rock formations," reports a camper at Vedauwoo Dispersed Sunset Camp.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads range from smooth to challenging. "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp," notes a visitor to Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire rules before your trip. "Vedauwoo Wagon Road is $20/night for camping. You can buy camp permits or day passes at the front entrance," explains a visitor to Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Site competition: Summer weekends fill quickly, especially during holidays. "We went on Labor Day weekend, it was quite busy BUT I was still able to find a spot. Need high clearance and a good off roading car to get all the way through," reports a visitor to Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Previous camper impacts: Site conditions vary based on previous users. "Our location was excellent, with a small pond nearby and trails. We had no one nearby. Bonus for the closeness to a rest stop (water and flush toilets) and trailhead non flush toilets," explains a visitor to Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites for beginners: Several areas offer easier access options. "We loved this designated dispersed campgrounds. Beautifully maintained with clean sites and the main road being smooth and clear, this is easy for any camper / car to get into," notes a visitor to Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
Water availability planning: All sites lack running water. "Big campsites, no one close, bring water!! Completely free and loved the unique landscape!" advises a visitor at Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
Rest stop facilities: Use nearby rest areas for water and restrooms. "There aren't facilities immediately there, if you finding camping in this area you are close by to a bathroom at Summit Trailhead and potable water at either Hidden Valley or the Abraham Lincoln rest area," explains a camper at Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection strategy: Arrive with time to find suitable level sites. "This is a mountain area. In only 6 days going back & forth the 8m to town to visit friends, we've seen 2 5th wheels pulling off I80 smoking like crazy, and 2 on the side of the road," warns a visitor to Government Gully Rd.
Size limitations for different areas: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. "The first group of sites are recommended for bigger rigs and then the lower group of sites are better suited for smaller campers and tent camping," explains a camper at Vedauwoo Wagon Road.
Wind positioning considerations: Position RVs with the wind in mind. "Seriously, it gets windy here, and with no warning. Park accordingly, don't leave awnings out unattended, secure ground stuff," advises a visitor to Government Gully Rd.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling adjustments. "The whole area is rolling meadows & forest, so be prepared to spend some time leveling. In fact if you can, take a rest stop, have a snack, destress before entering & leveling... it might save a marriage."
