Dispersed camping options near Hanna, Wyoming complement the established RV parks in the region. Located in south-central Wyoming at approximately 6,800 feet elevation, Hanna sits between the Medicine Bow Mountains and the Snowy Range. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, while winters can drop well below freezing with significant snowfall affecting campground accessibility.
What to Do
Fishing access: 10 minutes from Pete's Draw Campground provides opportunities along the North Platte River. "Lots of birds, osprey, pelicans, swallows. Our neighbor even rescued a baby raccoon as it floated down the river!" reports one visitor.
Hot springs soaking: 4 miles from Saratoga where Deer Haven RV Park is located. "It's also only 4 minutes away from hobo Hot springs. And there is a wonderful ice cream shop downtown that makes their own ice cream it's delightful," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Particularly productive in forested areas near Deep Creek Campground. "We had six moose, one with a very tiny baby come through our site at night and in the morning and the site next to us to feed in the big meadow," shares a camper who stayed in June.
What Campers Like
River proximity: Many campgrounds feature riverside sites. At Dugway Recreation Site, "Sunsets are stunning at this beautiful canyon-like setting, with a lovely river flowing right beside. Campsites are fairly spaced apart, with a single vault toilet and water source near the middle of the grounds."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing. "Great star gazing with a fantastic view of the Milky Way, and it wasn't too cold in early October," notes a camper at Dugway.
Affordability: Free or low-cost options exist throughout the area. "I would rate this higher than any dispersed campground. Well maintained campsites with new covered tables and leveled site for tents at each. Pit toilets were very clean with plenty of toilet paper. A hidden gem and a bargain at $10 a night," writes a visitor to Pete's Draw Campground.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. At Dugway Campground, "AT&T coverage is spotty in this area without a booster, typically only 1-2 Bars of 3G service and up to 0.05 MB/s. With our weboost we were able to get 3-4 bars of LTE, with speeds up to 0.5 MB/s."
Insects and wildlife: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in early summer. "Lots of good spots, gorgeous sunset and a nice area. But holy cannoli were the mosquitoes dense," reports one camper at Dugway Recreation Site. Multiple reviews also mention rattlesnake encounters.
Weather preparedness: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically, even in summer months. "Woke up to slight skiffs of snow on 8/20," reports a camper at Deep Creek Campground, highlighting the need for cold-weather gear even during peak season.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Limited but available at select RV campgrounds near Hanna. At Red Desert Rose Campground, "Loved this place. We got in late and they had a Super easy check in system with available sites clearly marked. Showers were Clean. The grounds were nicely kept. Putt-putt is free to guest as well as a nice sized playground."
Safety considerations: Monitor children near water features. "The river is beautiful but it is a ways down from the campsites. It's kind of a rough path to get down close to it," notes a camper at Pete's Draw, indicating supervision is necessary.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can be integrated into family activities. "Relaxed and and camped for 5 days. Saw Moose and Elk. Toured the Snowy Range sights. Fished a little," shares a visitor to Deep Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require significant leveling. At North Fork Campground, "I stayed in site 1, which I think is the most level. I was able to get perfectly level without any blocks."
Generator policies: Vary by location and impact camping experience. "I don't think there are any rules about generators, I noticed one camper seemed to be running theirs almost 24 hours a day," notes a camper at Pete's Draw.
Courtesy vehicle: Some RV campgrounds near Hanna, Wyoming offer unique amenities. "The staff here was very friendly and they also have a courtesy vehicle you can use to run around town if you need," shares a visitor to Red Desert Rose Campground.
Alternative hookup options: When full-service RV parks are unavailable. "Only 5 sites, first come first served. Nice and peaceful. Can't beat this place with a stick for being free access. Has water hand pump but has threads for a garden hose you have to supply yourself," notes a camper at Dugway Recreation Site.
