Dispersed camping near Alpine, Wyoming offers self-sufficient campers access to several areas along the Snake River and Palisades Reservoir. Most dispersed sites require campers to pack in their own water, food, and supplies while packing out all trash. The elevation ranges from approximately 5,600 feet near town to over 7,000 feet in the surrounding forest lands, with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Water levels at reservoir sites fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping conditions.
What to do
Fish in the Snake River: The confluence of the Snake River and Greys River creates prime fishing opportunities near Greys River Cove RV Park. Bring waders for bank fishing or launch kayaks and small boats for better access. "River fishing was good here. Not too far from Hoback Market which has just about everything you need or may have forgotten for your trip," noted one camper at East Table Campground.
Kayak at Palisades Reservoir: Launch directly from your campsite at many dispersed locations. "We could kayak right off from our spot. It was right after 4th of July weekend so we were having a hard time finding spots in other areas. But very grateful we came across this one!" shares a camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping.
Visit breweries: Alpine's local breweries provide post-outdoor refreshment options. "This is a great wide open site with excellent views and an added bonus of a brewery in walking distance," reports one camper about dispersed camping near Melvin Brewing. Another notes, "Had a spot right on the water, with an brewery 100 yards away. The people were great, the brews were tasty."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campsites provide direct water access, especially at Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing. "We easily found a spot right next to the water! It was quiet and peaceful. Right next to a dog friendly brewery that made for a good meal and lovely to watch the sunset!" according to one review. Another adds, "There are tons of places to go—some a little sketchy if you have a larger rig."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping areas offer better spacing than developed campgrounds. "We came here just after the 4th of July holiday and it was so much more empty than the week before," notes a camper at Indian Creek. Another camper at Snake River Alpine Dispersed Camping reports, "Camp sites are super far apart in comparison to others. Fire pits are available and drift wood is everywhere."
Mountain views: The surrounding mountain backdrop creates scenic vistas from most sites. "The lake and backdrop is beautiful and worth the visit. The clay quicksand-like ground close to the lake was fun to play in and explore!" shares a camper at Indian Creek. At Snake River Alpine Dispersed Camping, visitors appreciate the "beautiful place to camp. The water is shallow and surrounded by mountains."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir and river sites can experience significant changes in water levels. "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water," warns a camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping. Another cautions, "Also be advised the tides change often many people have found themselves under water as told by the wait staff at Melvin."
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads. At Snake River Alpine Dispersed Camping, "Absolutely no signage on where to pull off the road. But, we found it. A little rutted coming off the highway. Area is very flat and easy to navigate." Another camper notes that "Directions are clear but seem sketch when following, but you will know when you arrive."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. "This spot is strange its 2 minutes off the highway but its right out front of a brewery restaurant and seems to be on a disc golf course. A single beat up wooden picnic table is out here with a few stone fire rings," explains a camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing.
Tips for camping with families
Check site elevation: Lower elevation sites near town remain accessible longer into fall. The Alpine North Loop Campground provides a good option for families. "The campground offers potable water and restrooms. We stayed on site 11 and the backdrop was beautiful Pallisades Reservoir. The site itself was big enough for a 40' fifth wheel," notes a camper.
Plan for bugs: Mosquitoes can be problematic at sites near water. "The only negative about the park was the bugs. Not just mosquitos, but also other annoying bugs," reports a visitor at Alpine North Loop Campground. Bug spray is essential during summer months.
Select sites with amenities: For families needing bathrooms, avoid purely dispersed areas. Wolf Creek Campground offers basic amenities. "Each site had a campfire pit and bear-safe storage box. As we've found to be the case in Wyoming the bathroom was impeccably clean. This may have something to do with the bears," shares a camper. Another adds, "CLEANEST vault toilets I've ever seen, water spikets within walk of site."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: For RVers staying at developed campgrounds, water systems may have high pressure. At Alpine Valley RV Resort, campers are advised to use regulators: "So glad we already had a water regulator. We were told as we were checking in that we definitely needed one due to pressure being 90psi."
Clearance requirements: Some access roads need higher clearance vehicles. "The roads in can be a little tricky without a raised truck and 4 wheel drive when towing a large 5th wheel," notes a visitor at Indian Creek. Another camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping shares, "The road from the brewery is about 100 yards and dirt. Its very bumpy but go slow with some clearance and its 2wd fine."
Site selection for large rigs: For larger RVs, some of the best places to camp near Alpine, Wyoming are the designated RV parks. "Level sites, full hook ups available, excellent wifi and cell service. There is a nice new bathhouse and laundry room," reports a camper at Greys River Cove RV Park. East Table Campground recommends caution with large units: "Too small for 5th wheels and big motorhomes - more appropriate for tents and Sprinter-sized motorhomes."
