Dispersed camping sites near Granite Canon, Wyoming offer primitive accommodations at elevations between 7,000-8,600 feet. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest provides free and low-cost options where campers can experience seasonal temperature fluctuations of 30+ degrees between day and night. Many sites are accessible via unpaved roads requiring moderate clearance vehicles.
What to do
Mountain biking on extensive trail systems: At Tie City Campground, visitors access a network of trails directly from their campsites. "There is a huge system of bike trails you can ride on. The campsite has vault toilets and a hand pump for water, but no dump stations or hose connections for your rv," notes Landon C.
Feed bison on a guided train tour: Terry Bison Ranch offers a unique opportunity to view and feed buffalo. "The train to view and feed the Buffalo was really cool. Restaurant was also excellent. Friendly staff!" reports Barbara F. The ranch combines camping with educational wildlife experiences just minutes from town.
Rock climbing and scrambling: The granite formations throughout the area provide natural climbing opportunities. "The Rocks are awesome for scrambling and even the dog had a blast!" writes Royce about Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping. These formations are accessible for climbers of various skill levels.
What campers like
Wide spacing between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer significant distance between campers. "We found a whole list of forest roads that allow dispersed camping 100 feet off-road," notes Les R. about Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping. Larger spacing provides privacy not found at developed campgrounds.
Dark skies for stargazing: Clear Wyoming nights provide excellent astronomical viewing. "I really enjoyed the peace and quiet and view of the stars!" writes Nicholas R. about camping at Tie City. The higher elevation and limited light pollution create optimal star-viewing conditions.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife including pronghorn, deer, and occasionally moose. One camper at Pole Mountain reported, "Found a spot at the very end of the gravel, pretty well maintained road. Our location was excellent, with a small pond nearby and trails. We saw a moose, mama and baby."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Most dispersed sites require bringing all water. At Vedauwoo Wagon Road, "We stayed a week and enjoyed watching the climbers throughout the day. Our 27' TT fit easily into the site," notes Sarah F., but campers need to arrive with full water tanks or containers.
Sudden weather changes: High-elevation camping means unpredictable conditions. "Be warned: this campsite is above 8,000 ft. in altitude and the weather may change suddenly, especially early or late in the season. The night I was there, we had a 30 minute violent storm, complete with hail so thick you couldn't see past the car," reports E.L.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to dispersed sites range from well-maintained to challenging. "Beware the road is rutted, though we saw numerous larger trailers that made it with no issue," explains Lauren M. about Forest Service Road 700. Higher clearance vehicles perform better on most access roads.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly areas with space to explore: Most dispersed camping areas welcome pets but require leashes in developed areas. "This is a great little campground situated right within the Happy Jack trail system," notes Becky M. about Tie City Campground, providing room for families and pets to enjoy outdoor activities.
Educational wildlife experiences: Families can combine camping with learning opportunities. "We camped here for one night and unfortunately didn't arrive till 6:30. With the 11:00 am check out the following morning we didn't get to enjoy very much of what the park has to offer. But we plan on going back for two nights later this summer. There's plenty to do with the reservoir and trails in the park. Boat, fish, hike or bike just take your pick," writes Eric L. about Curt Gowdy State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Sites with existing fire rings provide safer campfire options. "Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. By complete accident we were up there for the perseid meteor shower! Great open view of the sky!" notes Theresa M. about Tie City Campground, highlighting both safety features and educational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many dispersed areas require careful placement. "I especially like the freedom of open parking and found it very easy to level my motorhome," says Lory A. about Last Chance Camp, though other sites may require leveling blocks or careful positioning.
Generator policies vary: Check rules before arrival as generator use differs by location. "Generator use is allowed. Camp fires are allowed as well as long as the wind allows it," explains Andrew N. about Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping, while other sites prohibit generators entirely.
Road clearance requirements: Access roads to prime camping spots often require careful navigation. "The roads are super tight and have large channels that water has cut through. Big rigs might have issues," warns Landon C. about Tie City Campground. Larger rigs should research specific access conditions before attempting remote sites.
