Dispersed camping near Laramie, Wyoming offers remote wilderness experiences at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 8,600 feet. The Medicine Bow National Forest surrounds the area with unique rock formations and alpine meadows. Campers should prepare for significant temperature fluctuations, with nighttime temperatures often dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping provides excellent access to rock climbing areas. "We enjoyed hiking, rock climbing and ATV'ing around. Very close to beautiful Laramie and the weather is great up here. I imagine it closes down in the winter," notes Rara B. about the Vedauwoo dispersed camping area.
Mountain biking trails: The Happy Jack Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks. "This campground is truly spectacular... It appears to be a great place for those who are into mountain biking as I felt I was the odd man out since nearly everyone had one and was riding," shares Nicholas R. about Tie City Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities. "Wildlife here has been fantastic. Pronghorns in the morning as I have my coffee, and Elk in the evenings... Every...Day," reports Erin H. about the Government Gully Road area.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing and kayaking. "We stayed at Curt Gowdy - Crystal Loop #C167. Having no neighbors and private lake access was fantastic," explains Michelle H. about Curt Gowdy State Park.
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed areas provide significant privacy between sites. "Lots of space between campers, and lots of places to choose from, all giving the same view," writes Alyson M. about Twin Buttes Reservoir.
Dark night skies: The area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "By complete accident we were up there for the perseid meteor shower! Great open view of the sky!" shares Theresa M. about Tie City Campground.
What you should know
Preparation for wind: Strong winds are common throughout the region. "Seriously, it gets windy here, and with no warning. Park accordingly, don't leave awnings out unattended, secure ground stuff," warns Erin H. about Government Gully Road dispersed camping.
Road conditions: Some camping areas require careful navigation. "The roads are a bit bumpy but nothing most trailers couldn't handle," notes Landon C. about Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Water availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water. "Easy access, close to rest stop, tucked off next to highway but relatively quiet," shares Nicole about Pole Mountain, noting the importance of being near facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly climbing: Vedauwoo offers accessible rock formations for kids. "If you have some climbing gear I recommend climbing some of the rock formations nearby! The ones I did for a workout in the morning already had some tie-ins!" suggests Lucas S. about the Vedauwoo area.
Campsite selection timing: Arrive early to secure family-friendly spots. "I would recommend arriving early. We arrived on a Saturday afternoon, so it took a little time to find a good camping spot, but we eventually found a nice, semi-secluded site near the water," advises Fred E. about Curt Gowdy State Park.
Weather preparation: Pack for dramatic temperature changes, especially with children. "Be prepared to spend some time leveling. The whole area is rolling meadows & forrest," notes Erin H., highlighting the importance of proper site selection for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Many camping areas near Laramie have uneven terrain. "We found it easy to find a spot on this side of I80. Are we perfectly level, nope, but we aren't 'welcome to the carnival fun house' unlevel either," shares Erin H. about Government Gully Road.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully. "Although there are not facilities immediately there, if you finding camping in this area you are close by to a bathroom at Summit Trailhead and potable water at either Hidden Valley or the Abraham Lincoln rest area," notes Les R. about Yellow Pine Campground.
Site size considerations: Research campground capacity before arrival. "There are plenty of pull through sites, but I would argue that all sites are perfect for tent camping," explains Casey L. about Yellow Pine Campground, noting the variety of accommodation options.
