Dispersed camping options near Robertson, Wyoming extend beyond established campgrounds into the vast Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This high-elevation area sits at approximately 9,000 feet with terrain characterized by rocky outcroppings, dense pine forests, and numerous alpine lakes. Weather patterns can shift dramatically even in summer months, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below 40°F.
What to do
Fishing in remote lakes: China Meadows Trailhead provides access to excellent fishing opportunities with trout species that grow larger than typical Uinta Mountain fish. "At the main lake, there were huge Tiger and Cutthroat trout averaging at least a foot in length with many reaching towards 16-18". The water is also amazingly clear so you can watch an entire school of fish chase your lure as you reel it in," notes a backpacker who visited China Meadows Trailhead.
Mountaineering and rock climbing: Red Castle area offers opportunities for adventure climbing. "We plan on making a return trip as we did some bouldering and free climbing by the immense waterfall that drains the upper lake. Red Castle itself also holds tremendous potential for adventure mountaineering routes," reports a camper who stayed at China Meadows Trailhead.
ATV and dirt bike riding: Some camping areas provide direct access to trail systems. "We camp here because the kids like to fish, and we can all ride dirtbikes, ATV, and side-by-side," explains a visitor to Little Lyman Lake Campground.
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Visitors frequently comment on the peaceful atmosphere, especially on non-weekend days. "Sunday night and Monday we had the whole valley to ourselves. The fishing after everyone left was great, brook and speckled trout, small but fun to catch on light tackle or flies," reports a camper from Little Lyman Lake Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "We were able to drive right to the waters edge to camp and there were plenty of open beaches to choose from! The water was clean and refreshing. Love love love this lake! It was quiet and we only saw one other camper while there," reports a visitor to Pyramid Lake Dispersed Camping.
Multiple camping environments: The area offers diverse terrain options from lakeside to forested sites. "If you go early enough in the day to scope out sites, you get a lot of freedom with what experience you will have. You can take some dispersed sites that are fairly grouped together which makes noise from other sites an issue but has lots of visual privacy. The farther you go up the road past squaw peak, the more open fields and meadows you'll find that provide amazing views," notes a camper who stayed at Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many of the best tent camping sites near Robertson, Wyoming require navigating difficult roads. "Once you turn off highway 150 towards Murdock Basin, you have 6 miles of dirt/rock road ahead of you. A car can make it the first four miles, but a vehicle with at least 18" of clearance (and recommended AWD/4WD) is required as the road turns into sections of just really large rocks," explains a reviewer from Pyramid Lake.
Water sources must be treated: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. "It is dispersed camping so it is very primitive. No running water (either bring your own or a way to filter lake water), no pit toilets (bring a spade to dig a cat hole and bury or pack out your TP), tent or hammock camping," notes a Pyramid Lake visitor.
Cell service is nonexistent: Communication devices generally won't work in this remote area. "I had ZERO AT&T service from the moment I crossed state lines from the north," reports a camper from Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Group site availability: Some areas accommodate large family gatherings. "We held a family reunion here in the group site which is just north of the regular campsites. There were about 150 people, 14 campers and several tents. There is two bathroom facilities, plenty of picnic tables and a group fire pit with bench seating," explains a visitor to Uinta Canyon.
Short backpacking options: Several locations offer beginner-friendly backpacking for families. "Camped here early last October and was surprised to end up having a very snowy adventure! The hike in is less then a mile and offers incredibly views. Makes for a very easy backpacking trip. Multiple dispersed campsites are easily identified by fire rings," shares a camper from Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can observe various animals in their natural habitat. "The area is beautiful with pines. The river is about 1/4 mile away and has good fishing. There is also a nice trail head close by for hiking or horseback riding," notes a Uinta Canyon visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller rigs only. "There were lots of different site options, like mentioned in other reviews. Some of them are fairly close together, but there's a good amount of visual privacy from trees etc. The road gets pretty rough/there's a decent sized dip after the first few sites, which we were able to make with a 4WD high clearance car, with a small trailer. But I wouldn't have attempted it in my sedan," explains a visitor to Hoop Lake.
Limited turnaround space: RVers should scout ahead before attempting narrow forest roads. "About 40 campsites, that are a mix of wooded and lakefront sites. No potable water available. Clean vault toilets available throughout the campground. Easy water access for kayaks and other small watercraft. About 40 minutes down a dirt road off the main road. Easily passable in any car," reports a Hoop Lake visitor.
