Dispersed camping areas near Laramie, Wyoming offer camping options in the Medicine Bow National Forest at elevations between 7,000-8,800 feet. Wind speeds in this high plains region frequently reach 30-45 mph, particularly during afternoon hours, creating unique challenges for tent campers and requiring proper site selection. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 80°F during day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: The Vedauwoo Wagon Road area attracts diverse wildlife throughout seasons. "We camped near the Devil's Playground rocks and even though most of the better sites were full, we found quite a few open sites on a Saturday. Can't do that in Colorado anymore!" notes a Forest Service Road 700 visitor.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Distinctive granite formations throughout the region provide excellent climbing opportunities. "We enjoyed hiking, rock climbing and ATV'ing around. Very close to beautiful Laramie and the weather is great up here," reports a camper from Forest Service Road 700.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Several public access areas around Laramie offer fishing opportunities. At Twin Buttes Reservoir, "We saw a family of eagles, a golden eagle, and many shore birds and water fowl. Be careful, though. The soil is very clay - so slippery when wet."
What campers like
Secluded sites with distance between neighbors: Many dispersed camping areas offer privacy despite proximity to highways. A visitor to Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping commented, "All sites were very large and loved that they were very well spaced so you weren't close to neighbors. Definitely a fun area if you have toys for OHV."
Established fire rings at designated sites: Most dispersed sites include previously-used fire areas. "There are many labeled camp sites and the dirt road was easy to drive down. Some of the secondary roads that go off the main dirt road are a bit more tough," notes a Vedauwoo Wagon Road camper.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. "Amazing stars and sunsets!" reports a Pole Mountain visitor, while another camper at Twin Buttes Reservoir mentioned, "The stars are beautiful. The land is beautiful."
What you should know
Seasonal weather fluctuations: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, especially in afternoon hours. At Forest Service Road 700, one camper shared: "Quick stop on our way to Grand Tetons during the week (Wednesday). This second time around we arrived and waited out the light rain for an hour which still turned into a great spot to build camp."
Cattle presence: Many dispersed sites are within active grazing areas. "There are cows roaming free in this area. You might find them blocking the road or next to your tent when you wake up," warns a visitor to Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping.
Insects can be problematic: Depending on season and location, biting flies and mosquitoes may be present. At Twin Buttes Reservoir, a camper noted, "Tons of tiny bugs that get into everything. We only stayed one night."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites based on vehicle limitations: Some areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Some of the spots require 4 wheel drive, but not all!" explains a Forest Service Road 700 visitor, while another noted "We arrived late so had to drive a way down to reach a free one."
Pack insect repellent during summer months: Bug activity increases significantly in warmer months. A visitor to Forest Road 703C shared: "Bug spray stopped them biting but we couldn't stop them swarming around us!"
Monitor weather forecasts carefully: Afternoon thunderstorms and sudden wind events are common. "This is our second time trying to come here. The first time was in July which showed a decent thunderstorm that would not have made a good time with our roof top tent and making food," advised a Forest Service Road 700 camper.
Tips from RVers
Arrive early to secure level spots: Limited flat areas can make RV parking challenging in popular areas. A visitor to Government Gully Rd mentioned: "We found FS726 IS open from the Old HWY 30 side (Exit 323 off I80), and able to camp within 100' of the road. There is an open meadow at the entrance that can hold several rigs (any size) with reasonable spacing."
Prepare for washboard roads: Many access routes feature rough, uneven surfaces. "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp," notes an Upper Blaire camper, while at Meeboer Lake, a visitor mentioned "About a mile of rutted dirt/gravel road to get to."
Position RVs to minimize wind exposure: Strategic parking reduces wind-related problems. As one camper advised, "Park accordingly, don't leave awnings out unattended, secure ground stuff. Our preferred scouted spot was beautiful until we moved the rig to it & found that there was no way to get level without putting our beam to the wind."
