Camping options near Hanna, Wyoming feature high desert conditions at elevations around 7,000 feet. Temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common, with summer days reaching the 80s and nights dropping into the 40s. Many sites lack shade coverage and require campers to bring adequate sun protection for both humans and pets.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Saratoga Lake Campground offers shoreline fishing for multiple species. "I love a place where I can just plug in the van and rest on road trips with a great view of water and quite enough to hear all the nature sounds. Great bird watching and pronghorn sightings," notes Maureen F.
Hot spring soaking: Visit the town of Saratoga for natural hot springs access about 7 minutes from Saratoga Lake Campground. "If you need a shower, go into town to the free hot springs and take a shower for free (altho in a very prison like atmosphere). Be sure to spend some time in the hot springs pools, or go down to the river to soak in cooler water," advises Annie C.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing. At Foote Public Access Area Dispersed, one camper reported "I saw a mink and an eagle while there," while another noted the "various wild and farm animal noises all night which kept me on my toes."
What campers like
River access: The North Platte River provides cooling relief during hot months. "Dugway Recreation Site provides camping alone the North Platte River. It's a great free site managed by the Bureau of Land Management," according to Chase M.
Secluded camping: White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site offers isolated forest camping. "There are sites all along the road left and right all the way back in here, and every one of them is relatively secluded and equally beautiful. Beautiful patches of wildflowers, the wooded slopes, and soft green grass," shares Kevin C.
Stargazing conditions: The dark skies offer excellent viewing opportunities. "Great star gazing with a fantastic view of the Milky Way, and it wasn't too cold in early October," notes Gordon F. about Dugway Recreation Site.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campsites require navigating unpaved roads. "Road in is about 5 miles, keeps going to few pullouts. Huge area for camping in groups if you continue down road make left," advises Christopher E. regarding White Rock Canyon.
Limited hookups: Most dispersed sites offer no utilities. "Sites at Bow River Campground have the basics on a lake. Tent sites are out in the open with no privacy and few trees for hanging a hammock," according to one reviewer.
Water availability: Always verify water status before arrival. At Western Hills Campground, "The bathrooms were nice and showers clean. They also have a wonderful coin laundry room, a mini golf putting course and kids playground," notes Ashley M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several developed campgrounds provide children's play areas. "Free putt-putt is free to guest as well as a nice sized playground. My family will definitely be stopping here again," shares Emily Y.
Insect protection: Prepare for heavy mosquito activity, especially in early summer. "The area and campground are nice. Right on the River and the sites are relatively level. But damn there were a lot of mosquitoes. It was like a horror movie with them covering the windows of our RV," warns Aaron B. about Bow River Campground.
Dog-friendly amenities: Most campgrounds welcome pets with restrictions. "Plenty of restraunts in town to get a great bite to eat, and there is even a microbrewery at the local spa/lodge/resort," notes Annie C. about Saratoga's dog-friendly facilities near Saratoga Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional equipment for leveling. "The road has washboard and is quite steep in places. No sites are level so bring your legos," advises Anita M. about White Rock Canyon.
Electric availability: Several campgrounds provide electric hookups. "There is electricity on the sites which is great but no drinking water or dump station anywhere so come prepared," advises Shirlee A.
Satellite connectivity: For those working remotely, connectivity varies widely. "Verizon speed 33 d/l 22 u/l. Have games like horseshoe, mini golf, dog area. They even have a Suburban courtesy vehicle to get around town," notes a camper at Red Desert Rose Campground.
