Dispersed camping sites near Laramie, Wyoming provide primitive camping experiences within Medicine Bow National Forest. Camping areas range from 20-45 minutes from town, with elevations generally between 7,500-8,500 feet. Access roads to many dispersed areas deteriorate significantly during and after rainfall, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Mountain biking opportunities: Several dispersed camping areas provide direct access to forest trails. At Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping, campers can access numerous trails for day rides. One visitor mentioned, "We found a set of campsites in the 'Upper Blaire' climbing area" with "primitive sites and a nice secluded feeling."
Fishing access: Lake Hattie Public Access Area offers shoreline fishing opportunities approximately 20 miles west of Laramie. According to one camper, "Great little spot ~20 miles west of Laramie. Easy access and can drive right up to the water and park." Another camper noted seeing "big fishing jumping but we were unsuccessful fishing from the shore due to algae."
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution at dispersed sites creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. Sage Campground, though lacking trees, provides "excellent for stargazing" according to a reviewer who appreciated the open terrain despite noting "the biggest drawback to this campground is it is completely open with no trees."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the natural separation at BLM North Sand Hills Campground, where a visitor noted, "We ended up camping not in the campground but in dispersed camping located all around the dunes. Beautiful spots with amazing views."
Accessibility from town: Several camping areas provide quick escapes without lengthy drives. One camper at Lake Hattie mentioned it's "Great little spot ~20 miles west of Laramie" with "easy access and can drive right up to the water and park."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites in the Medicine Bow National Forest maintain existing fire rings despite minimal other amenities. A camper at Upper Blaire noted, "Each one has established fire sites. Others have chopped trees and branches from the nearby trees, but I'm not sure if that is accepted."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds affect tent stability in exposed areas, particularly at higher elevations. A camper at BLM North Sand Hills Campground advised: "Be prepared for wind!"
Road conditions: Forest roads frequently deteriorate with washboard sections and soft surfaces. One visitor to Sage Campground reported "the road in was soft silt in some areas which might be difficult after rain."
Occupancy patterns: Weekends see significantly higher usage, while weekdays offer more solitude. A visitor to Upper Blaire observed: "It looked like it gets pretty popular so I'd get there early if you're planning to go on a weekend."
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures remain moderate at higher elevations but spring and fall bring dramatic temperature swings. A camper at Upper Blaire warned about "many fell trees in the area, and it was very gusty when we were there, so make sure to check weather in advance to avoid strong winds that might bring trees down."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Free-range cattle frequently appear at Upper Blaire. One camper warned "there are cows roaming free in this area. You might find them blocking the road or next to your tent when you wake up!"
Water planning: No drinking water exists at most sites near Laramie. A camper at Wheatland Reservoir #3 noted it's a "Peaceful and quiet area, but with few amenities. Closest real town an hour plus out."
Shoreline safety: Lakefront camping requires supervision as some areas have drop-offs. A camper at Lake Hattie mentioned, "The lake area is beautiful and there were plentyyy of areas open. This spot is well away from the road, so very quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for wind protection: Position RVs behind natural windbreaks when possible. A camper at Upper Blaire noted it was "Not as windy as the pilot hill rd or vedauwoo dispersed sites. Plenty of shade and hiking opportunities."
Road navigation challenges: Some access roads require careful navigation in larger vehicles. One visitor at Crown Point Road Dispersed had to find alternative routes, noting "When I got there maps took me in the wrong direction then rerouted me. The roads going in there are rough and then turn to sand. Car struggled a bit."
Length-of-stay considerations: Be aware of varying camping duration limits between locations. Upper Blaire has a 16-day limit, though a camper observed "Lots of vacant RVs. It appears that the locals leave their rigs and the forest service doesn't enforce the 16 day limit."
