Dispersed camping opportunities around Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland range across elevations from 6,500 to 10,000 feet in southeastern Wyoming. The area sits within the Rocky Mountain rain shadow, creating a relatively dry climate with strong winds common throughout the year. Most tent camping sites in Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG require campers to follow 14-day stay limits and pack out all trash.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple dispersed camping areas provide direct river and lake access for fishing. At Sanger Public Access Area, campers have "beautiful location on the North Platte River" with "scattered informal sites" and two pit toilets according to Bruce D. The North Platte River offers seasonal fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting conditions throughout the forests. A visitor to Medicine Bow noted, "We saw two bull elk and a calf play in the valley and drink from the pond as the sun went down." Kerrie L. also observed "cacti, sage and pretty wildflowers" while camping in the area.
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution and open terrain create excellent stargazing conditions. Sites like Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping provide "spacious dispersed sites" where many campers report clear night skies. Izzy T. commented that Upper Blaire offers "plenty of shade and hiking opportunities" and is "not as windy as the pilot hill rd or vedauwoo dispersed sites."
What campers like
Seclusion: Many campsites throughout Medicine Bow-Routt offer privacy away from crowds. At Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping, kiloalpha 2 found "at least three camp site[s] I saw that are all secluded by boulders and trees. Each one has established fire sites." Les R. confirmed these "sites are primitive and have a nice secluded feeling. You cannot see or hear the highway from here."
River proximity: Sites along the North Platte provide water access for recreation and scenery. Donner N. appreciated the "beautiful riverside" location at Sanger Public Access Area, though warned about mosquitoes. At Foote Public Access Area, Alexandra T. found it "wonderful - right next to a creek, dogs can run around, and it is so very quiet and secluded."
Fire rings: Many dispersed sites feature established fire rings for safely containing campfires. Margaret P. found Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping "very easy to find a spot on a busy Saturday. Just pull out onto one of the dirt roads and there are fire pits. Real dispersed camping." However, campers should always check current fire restrictions as they change seasonally.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require high-clearance vehicles or careful driving. At Beaver Creek Trailhead, amber P. noted "completely free just follow the dispersed camping rules. No amenities." For Medicine Bow, Socious I. warned "This spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then."
Bugs and wildlife: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent, especially near water sources. At Walden Reservoir, Robert D. experienced "during the day the gnats, bugs, and ants were everywhere. Literally crawled up our boots and bodies." Kathryn B. similarly reported "SO MANY BUGS" while noting the reservoir is "easy to get to" and has "pelicans and seagulls."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities like potable water and developed toilets. Lake Hattie Public Access Area has vault toilets, but johny R. warned "This is not a campground. There are only a few spots and they are really just random picnic tables in a field. No designated spots or numbers, just kind of a gravel lot."
Tips for camping with families
Sunscreen requirements: The high elevation and limited shade make sun protection essential. At Lake Hattie Public Access Area, Larisa H. observed "There ain't no tree but there is a lake." The open terrain throughout Medicine Bow-Routt means families should bring extra sun protection, especially for children.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing and proper gear. Liv M. notes that at Walden Reservoir, the "sunsets are gorgeous and make it worth it" despite the bugs. She recommends campers bring "a hide-able set up" for privacy since there "isn't much privacy for tent campers."
Pet considerations: Many sites allow pets but require proper management. Chandelle S. notes at Foote Public Access, "Camp at designated sites only. There are no numbered spaces, just small round a bouts and pull offs to pull into." She adds that "The river view is beautiful but bring big spray as mosquitoes are here to share the space as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Most dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. At Lake Hattie Public Access Area, Megan V. mentioned "We have a Tacoma and RTT, but any sort of car or camper could make it here no problem." She noted the "shoreline is a little muddy in areas and there are a few cliffs to keep a little distance from."
Waste disposal: No dump stations exist at dispersed sites, requiring self-contained waste management. Chloe W. commented about Foote Public Access: "Only a few spots are larger for 5th wheels etc. road was pretty bumpy coming down, you pass a few farms and a lot of private property which can be confusing."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the forest. Juana B. reported "No cell phone service with Verizon" at Lake Hattie Public Access Area, while Les R. found "spotty cell service" at Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping. Izzy T. noted "T-mobile signal is decent enough to code and to study" at the same location.
