Dispersed camping opportunities near Robertson, Wyoming extend beyond the established campgrounds in the Uinta Mountains. The area sits at elevations ranging from 8,500 to 10,000 feet, creating a short camping season that typically runs late May through September. Forest roads access primitive sites along river corridors and high mountain lakes, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing even in summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Marsh Lake Campground, visitors find productive fishing waters. "We caught our max on fish every day, and enjoy the hiking trails," reports one camper who visited in early June. The lake supports both shore fishing and small watercraft.
Hiking access: The China Meadows Trailhead serves as a gateway to backcountry trails. A camper notes, "Going to Red Castle - great trailhead and clearly marked. Going to Big meadow or Dahlgreen trail? Better have a compass since the trail is poorly marked!" The trailhead requires a $3 daily fee, cash or check only.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain meadows near Robertson provide habitat for deer, elk and moose. A visitor at Marsh Lake reported, "We saw moose and deer and went fishing. Clean area and safe. Great place to ride side by sides!" Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Quiet camping options: Many campsites near Robertson offer solitude, particularly on weekdays. At Meeks Cabin Campground, one visitor noted, "It was such a great little campground, very secluded and private feeling sites, without being too far from everyone."
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campground hosts maintain facilities well. "The bathrooms were very clean, and many of the campsites had wood for a fire," reported a visitor to Meeks Cabin Campground. Even primitive facilities receive attention from hosts.
Late season access: The fall season offers unique camping experiences. A Marsh Lake visitor shared, "By luck we found this site online when looking for campgrounds in the mountains. First year we went in July and the nights were perfectly chilly (dog water had a layer of ice on top by the a.m.)." September camping provides fewer crowds and autumn colors.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Water availability varies widely at campsites near Robertson. At Meeks Cabin, a camper warned, "Important note: no water at the campground!! We found this campground while traveling east along Highway 80. It was about 45 minutes off of Highway 80 and the way we took it was all dirt roads through a lot of free ranging sheep."
Road conditions: Forest Service roads require high-clearance vehicles in many cases. When accessing West Fork Smiths Fork Dispersed Camping, one visitor cautioned, "The road is rocky, so rocky that we actually popped a tire on the way in so we camped at one of the first sites with a fire ring."
Temperature fluctuations: High elevation creates dramatic day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at Marsh Lake noted, "The sun is very warm due to the altitude," while nighttime temperatures frequently drop near freezing even in midsummer.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Several campgrounds feature lake access perfect for families. At China Meadows, a visitor reported, "Spent 4th of July weekend at China Meadows. It's a pretty great spot. We didn't have reservations and it wasn't crowded at all." The nearby water provides entertainment for children.
Bug preparation: Insect repellent is essential during summer months. The same China Meadows camper noted, "There were a lot of bugs, but that's expected when camping next to the water."
Campground location strategy: For families seeking more amenities, staying closer to town provides easier access. The Lyman KOA offers "Clean restrooms, spacious grassy sites, heated swimming pool friendly staff," according to a visitor who found it convenient for families.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Large RVs face challenges on Forest Service roads. At Meeks Cabin Campground, an RVer advised, "The access is from a dirt road shortly after leaving Robertson Wyoming. Roughly 12 miles of dirt road that is very well maintained until you enter the national forest then a couple miles of road that is rocky and has some good potholes. I was in a 24 foot motor home and taking it easy and picking the smoothest path it was not too bad."
Hookup availability: Full-service RV sites are limited to private campgrounds. A camper at Fort Bridger RV Camp shared, "Well maintained, spacious park, good spacing between sites. All sites have water, electric, and sewer."
Reservation timing: Private RV parks have specific operating hours. One RVer cautioned, "Note the site offices close at 7pm. We had no reservations so you must arrive before 7pm."
