Dispersed camping sites near Robertson, Wyoming offer free overnight stays at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,000 feet throughout Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and Ashley National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 80°F during day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Most dispersed areas remain closed until late May due to snowpack and muddy conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pyramid Lake Dispersed Camping, trout fishing peaks mid-afternoon. "The trout were very active midday into the late afternoon," reports one visitor who hiked in after finding the road partially blocked. Fishing licenses required for both Wyoming and Utah waters.
Hiking trails: Access multiple trailheads from dispersed sites along Mirror Lake Highway. "Backpack in several miles on the super fun trail, with lots of scrambling and fun mini-adventures," notes a camper at Pyramid Lake. Most trails close until late May due to snow conditions.
Paddling: Spring Creek Road Dispersed sites provide direct water access for paddleboarding and kayaking. "We took our paddle boards out every day. The wind picked up in the afternoons, too hard to paddle, but we walked along the shore and found some lovely rocks," writes one camper who stayed multiple days.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer best opportunities for spotting pronghorn antelope, moose, and various bird species. "We camped on the meadow and watched a mom and baby moose grazing while we set up camp," recalls a visitor to Uinta Dispersed Campsites.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Buckboard Wash offers numerous shoreline sites. "Great dispersed camping. Beautiful views and we were able to launch our paddle board right from the shore. Homemade fire pits worked well," writes a camper. Sites along water edges fill quickly on summer weekends.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer substantial separation between campsites. "Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw," notes a visitor to Woodruff Narrows.
Established fire rings: Most popular dispersed sites contain rock fire rings built by previous campers. "We stayed in site 1 and loved it. Plenty of room and a little more secluded than other sites," reports a Christmas Meadows visitor. Fire bans typically in effect from mid-June through September.
Natural soundscapes: West Fork Smiths Fork Dispersed Camping provides peaceful water sounds. "The sound of the brook was wonderful and the road wasn't too busy," writes a camper who stayed at one of the first sites with a fire ring near the bridge.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary dramatically in quality. "The road is rocky, so rocky that we actually popped a tire on the way in," reports one West Fork Smiths Fork camper. High-clearance 4WD vehicles recommended for many locations, especially after rainfall.
Weather patterns: Strong winds affect many exposed camping areas. "Windy during the day but calm at night," notes a camper at Buckboard Wash. Afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly during summer months.
Limited facilities: No water sources or trash services available at any free camping near Robertson. "Limited to no phone service so plan accordingly," advises a West Fork Smiths Fork visitor. Nearest supplies found in Evanston (30 miles) or Manila (22 miles).
Seasonal pests: Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area and other sites experience seasonal bug problems. "One of my favorite dispersed camping spots… You're surrounded by sage brush, the reservoir is beautiful, and it's very peaceful. My only complaints are the wind and the OHV's," notes a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside activities: Flaming Gorge NRA Dispersed offers numerous family-friendly water access points. "The water is crystal clear, there are spots of great sand, along with rocky patches of beach too," shares one visitor who found the area surprisingly peaceful midweek.
Safety considerations: Watch for uneven terrain and water hazards with children. "The spots are not defined at all and there are campers strewn all around the area," notes one Flaming Gorge visitor, highlighting the need for establishing clear boundaries with kids.
Easy access options: Some areas provide relatively simple entry points suitable for families. "The dirt road in isn't too bad and is pretty short, there were plenty of sedans driving in so it's accessible for most vehicles when the ground is dry," reports a Spring Creek Road visitor.
Multi-day stays: Many campers find 2-3 days ideal for family trips. "We stayed 5 nights - the longest so far and it wasn't planned that way. But then the weather, surrounding areas and things to do made us stay longer - without any regrets," shares a Flaming Gorge camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding level RV spots requires scouting. "Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw," reports a visitor to Woodruff Narrows, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Road reconnaissance: Check road conditions before bringing RVs into dispersed areas. "I would not attempt without a 4wheel drive with high clearance. Our 4runner did great even with the camper," advises a Pyramid Lake visitor who spent an hour navigating the last 4 miles of access road.
Site selection: Arrive early (before noon) to secure optimal sites, especially during summer weekends. "There were plenty of spots everywhere but nothing was really developed," notes a Flaming Gorge visitor who found the peninsula areas particularly suitable for camping.
Wind protection: Position RVs to minimize wind exposure. "The campground on the tip of the little peninsula was available and surrounded by water on three sides was available, but a little windy. Our selected spot was more secluded but still right on the waters edge," advises a Spring Creek Road camper.
