Dispersed camping options near Laramie, Wyoming offer varied terrain at elevations ranging from 7,200 to 8,800 feet. The Medicine Bow National Forest surrounds much of the area, creating diverse camping environments from open meadows to pine forests. Strong afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Rock climbing at unique formations: Vedauwoo Wagon Road camping area provides access to distinctive granite formations popular with climbers. "The rocks are awesome for scrambling and even the dog had a blast," notes one camper at Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
Mountain biking on extensive trail systems: The Happy Jack Recreation Area offers interconnected trails for all skill levels. "The campground itself is right within the Happy Jack trail system. Lovely pine forest surrounds with great recreation opportunities," reports a visitor at Tie City Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide chances to observe local wildlife. "We found a nice, semi-secluded site near the water. We hiked several trails and saw lots of fishing spots definitely a great stop for anyone who loves outdoor activities," writes a camper at Curt Gowdy State Park Campground.
What campers like
Protection from Wyoming winds: Finding sheltered camping spots is important in this windy region. "Our site didn't have a great spot for a tent but luckily we sleep on a platform in our 4Runner. Our picnic table was in rough shape but the fire ring was good," notes a visitor at Yellow Pine Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Many camping areas remain accessible during winter months. "I decided to stay here while a spring winter storm blew through. Making the reservation was easy. Then when I arrived they were helpful in showing me where my site was," reports a camper at Laramie RV Resort.
Lake access for fishing: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "We camped right in the water, it was beautiful! If I had to say anything bad it would be that for a tent site there wasn't any grassy area to put my tent, most every spot had a lot of gravel which was unfortunate," shares a visitor about Curt Gowdy State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited shade at most sites: Many camping areas lack significant tree cover. "There's a long winding dirt road with several designated dispersed camp sites, beware the road is rutted, though we saw numerous larger trailers that made it with no issue. Large scenic boulders all around, even spotted a moose, so keep your pups in sights," advises a camper at Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping.
High-clearance vehicles recommended: Some camping areas require careful driving. "Lots of spots spread out from one another with decent distance to create privacy. We were here start of October and probably wouldn't come much later in the year unless you're prepared for below freezing weather," notes a visitor at Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Seasonal insect considerations: Bugs can be prevalent during certain seasons. "The site came equipped with a picnic table and a firepit. This site was so peaceful and beautiful, especially at sunset and sunrise. The bugs were terrible when we got there around sunset, but in the morning they weren't swarming," reports a camper at Twin Buttes Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Established sites for easier access: Families often prefer campgrounds with amenities. "Hot showers bathroom are clean. 30 amp hook up and water. We were good to go not the Taj Mahal but it served our needs. Level parking area," notes a visitor at Laramie RV Resort.
Pet-friendly options: Many camping areas near Laramie welcome dogs and other pets. "Spots are labeled well, with great fire pits at every sight. Rock formations were awesome. We nestled behind a rock and couldn't even hear the traffic by nearby road," reports a camper at Vedauwoo Wagon Road when looking for pet friendly camping near Laramie, Wyoming.
Weather preparedness: Families should prepare for rapid weather changes. "Be warned: this campsite is above 8,000 ft. in altitude and the weather may change suddenly, especially early or late in the season. The night I was there, we had a 30 minute violent storm, complete with hail so thick you couldn't see past the car," advises a visitor at Tie City Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: RVers should research spots that accommodate their rig size. "We arrived at site 7, big enough for our caravan of 3 campers. Very spacious! Great views and nice center fire pit!" notes an RVer at Vedauwoo Wagon Road, highlighting pet friendly camping near Laramie, Wyoming that works for multiple vehicles.
Water and dump station planning: Limited hookups require advance planning. "What really stood out was the helpfulness of the park staff. During a sudden snowstorm that caused I-80 to close, we thought our propane might run out, and weren't able to refill on propane because of road closure. We were able to move to an electric site for an extra $10 and the staff even loaned us a space heater," reports a camper at Curt Gowdy State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require effort to level RVs. "We found a set of campsites specifically on the forest road 705F, near the Hidden Valley picnic area. The sites are free, as they are primitive set-up with only a fire pit. Although there are not facilities immediately there, if you finding camping in this area you are close by to a bathroom at Summit Trailhead," shares a visitor at Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping.
