Dispersed camping areas near Grover, Wyoming provide free overnight stays on undeveloped public lands with minimal facilities. Located in the Salt River Range region at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 7,500 feet, these sites experience cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in July. Fall camping brings frost advisories with nighttime temperatures regularly dipping into the 30s after mid-September.
What to do
Water recreation at reservoir sites: The dispersed camping area near Melvin Brewing offers direct water access for multiple activities. "We easily found a spot right next to the water! It was quiet and peaceful. We could kayak right off from our spot," reports Megan D., noting how convenient the location was during a busy holiday weekend.
Hiking forest trails: Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground provides immediate trail access from campsites. According to Erin M., "lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest. Also trails right off the campsite." The area features moderate elevation gains with pine and aspen forest hiking.
Brewery visits: Combining camping with craft beer tasting creates a unique experience near Melvin Brewing. "Had a spot right on the water, with a brewery 100 yards away. The people were great, the brews were tasty and the sunset was stunning," shares Caroline D. about her first boondocking experience.
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal foraging opportunities exist at certain campgrounds. At Emigration Campground, campers report "huckleberry picking right from camp" during late summer months, providing a local culinary experience.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: McCoy Creek Campground offers free dispersed camping along the lakeshore. Katie B. explains, "There is a campground but there is also dispersed free camping all along the lake. This is a beautiful place. Bring Bug Spray."
Off-season solitude: Fall and spring camping provides quieter experiences at popular sites. Connor N. spent "three nights and enjoyed it quite a bit! Was extremely quiet during our stay, but seems to be a popular spot during the high season" at McCoy Creek Campground, noting occasional spotty Verizon service.
Accessibility to amenities: Despite being undeveloped, some dispersed sites offer proximity to services. The Reservoir camping near Melvin Brewing provides a balance of natural setting with nearby conveniences. Dutchess S. notes, "Close to brewery, as far as I can tell if their is a flat spot and fire ring you can park for 5 days MAX! And the local LE is strict on that."
Quick highway access: Many camping areas remain secluded while providing easy road access. Drifting M. describes the Melvin Brewing area as having "Lots of space available for dispersed camping. Beautiful views and great location in town but still away from all road noise."
What you should know
Tide fluctuations: Water levels at reservoir camping areas can change unexpectedly. Sara N. warns about the Melvin Brewing area: "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites require careful navigation. At McCoy Creek Campground, Connor N. reports: "Road in was fair, rough at times, but doable in our low-clearance rig. Nice views from our spot, but the river was dry due to the on-going drought."
Stay limits: Most dispersed camping areas enforce maximum stay durations. Near Melvin Brewing, local enforcement maintains a strict 5-day limit according to multiple campers.
