Dispersed camping options near Jelm, Wyoming offer more primitive experiences than the nearby glamping accommodations. Located at 8,100 feet elevation in the Medicine Bow Mountains, this area experiences dramatic temperature drops at night with summer highs averaging 75°F and nighttime lows frequently dropping below 40°F. The region sits at the intersection of alpine forest and high desert terrain, creating diverse camping environments within short distances.
What to do
Fishing access points: North Fork Poudre Campground provides easy access to Kilpecker Creek. "The beautiful Kilpecker Creek runs through the camp and most of the campsites are situated right along the creek," notes Joe O., who recommends bringing a filter to pump water from the creek if needed.
Alpine lake hiking: From The Crags Campground in State Forest State Park, take advantage of proximity to mountain lakes. "Remote, but access to some really great hikes (American Lakes/Snow Lake, Lake Agnes)," reports Lauren P., who spotted wildlife during her stay.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Laramie River Road Dispersed camping areas offer excellent wildlife spotting. "Wildlife is abundant with tons of deer and moose in the area. Topography is Aspen wetlands and is beautiful," writes Justin D., adding that the county dirt road remains well maintained and fairly wide despite the remote location.
Boulder exploration: Vedauwoo Wagon Road camping area features distinctive rock formations popular with climbers. "We nestled behind a rock and couldn't even hear the traffic by nearby road," explains Laura C., who found the sites well-labeled with established fire pits at every location.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at North Michigan Campground in State Forest State Park. "Spacious dispersed sites. Most have fire pits. Lovely weather in June. Not as windy as the pilot hill rd or vedauwoo dispersed sites," reports Izzy T., who enjoyed the shade and hiking opportunities.
Year-round access: The Crags Campground remains accessible during winter months. Hayley K. describes staying in cabin #3: "We had room enough for 4 people and 3 dogs and didn't feel like we were on top of each other. The gas stove kept us nice and toasty all night long!"
Waterfront locations: Several campsites offer direct water access. Jen M. recommends site 221 at North Michigan Campground: "This site is right above the water with its own little trail going down to the reservoir," though she warns visitors to bring bug spray and fill water containers near the cabins.
Mountain views: The scenery consistently ranks as a top feature. At State Forest State Park, Kell H. notes: "Perfect weather and beautiful scenery. The campground was well maintained, even after the busy weekend. We hiked, biked and just enjoyed the view."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. At Laramie River Road Dispersed camping, Molly U. observed: "The area is extremely fire damaged in places & there was a fire ban in effect when we were there over 4th of July."
Wildlife precautions: Multiple campers report close encounters with wildlife. "We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer," explains Darla R., who recommends taking proper precautions with food storage.
Road conditions: Access to some glamping close to Jelm, Wyoming requires navigating unpaved roads. "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp," reports kiloalpha 2 about Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping.
Water availability: Many sites lack potable water. At North Fork Poudre Campground, Joe O. advises: "There are pit toilets in the campground, but no running water - so pack your own or bring a filter to pump out of the creek."
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights year-round. Darla R. notes even summer campers should be prepared: "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. At North Michigan Campground, Meghan H. shares: "My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails. The bathrooms were clean too."
Wildlife education opportunities: State Forest State Park's Moose Visitor Center provides educational resources. Amanda M. explains: "The visitors center was educational and interesting, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable and answered all of our questions."
Safety considerations: Families should prepare for wilderness conditions. Darla R. advises: "There is no cell service but there are call boxes in the area and we often see rangers driving by."
Accessible sites: Some campgrounds offer specific sites for accessibility needs. B B. notes that Pearl Lake State Park has designated accessible sites among its lakefront spots, with additional sites on an upper loop offering views of the lake or valley.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: CanyonSide Campground offers electric and water hookups on poured concrete sites. Will T. notes additional amenities: "There are sinks available at both tent sections as well. There are also communal areas where you can hang out and meet other campers."
Size limitations: The Crags Campground restricts larger vehicles. Grant M. shares: "Had no trouble pulling our 16ft Scamp up with a minivan, but can see that if the road was wet it wouldn't have gone as well. Small trailers are fine, 2WD is fine as long as you aren't battling the weather."
Dump station locations: Sarah S. recommends RVers at Ranger Lakes Campground "make sure to fill your tank at the maintenance center 6 miles up the road," as on-site water access can be limited.
Levelness of sites: North Michigan Campground offers suitable terrain for RVs. Garret M. notes: "Plenty space between sites for privacy too. They had twice daily ranger visits and they were very polite."