Medicine Bow National Forest camping sites near Rock River, Wyoming offer diverse camping options at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 10,600 feet. The high alpine environment creates dramatic temperature swings even in summer, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below 40°F in July and August. Strong winds are common throughout the region, particularly at higher elevation sites where gusts can exceed 30 mph.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deep Creek Campground provides excellent moose sighting chances, especially in meadow areas. A camper reported, "We had six moose, one with a very tiny baby come through our site at night and in the morning and the site next to us to feed in the big meadow."
Alpine lake exploration: From Brooklyn Lake Campground, hikers can access multiple glacial lakes within a short distance. According to one visitor, "There are some great trails which lead up to a glacial lake with some incredible views." The campground serves as a hub for several trailheads.
Snowshoeing and winter recreation: The Bow River area remains accessible for winter activities even when campgrounds close. As one camper noted, "Beautiful hike in the summer or snowshoeing in the winter. Not matter the time of year is the best time to go."
Hot springs soaking: After camping in the Snowy Range, consider visiting nearby hot springs. A Sugarloaf camper suggested, "Consider driving to the little town of Saratoga on your way home to soak in the hot springs there."
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor to Sugarloaf Campground mentioned, "Numerous trails in the area offer great hiking to lots of pretty little lakes... chance to observe millions of stars."
Solitude at dispersed sites: White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site offers privacy despite being relatively accessible. A camper noted, "Nice isolated spot in the National Forest, 5 mi from the main highway. Nice view with few fire rings. No one was around."
River sounds: North Fork Campground provides sites alongside moving water. One visitor appreciated that "The Laramie river runs right next to the campground and is nice to listen too." Sites closest to the water tend to fill fastest.
Autumn colors: The aspen groves throughout the region transform in fall. A September visitor observed, "The location is beautiful and remote. Lots of trees and the aspen are turning yellow."
What you should know
Mosquito intensity: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito populations, especially in early summer. A camper at Bow River warned, "But damn there were a lot of mosquitoes. I don't mean like a few dozen or hundreds… I mean millions. It was like a horror movie."
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on location and carrier. At East Fork Wagonhound Creek, "Clear skies made for unreal star gazing!" but connectivity is minimal. Other sites offer limited service: "T-mobile was dismal, but Verizon was usable with a solid 4G 2bars."
Water availability concerns: Some campgrounds advertise water that may not be functioning. A 2024 visitor to Bow River reported, "We also quickly discovered that no water could be collected from the handpump. Thankfully, we brought some water with us."
Early arrival importance: During peak season, arrive before midday. One North Fork visitor shared, "Went on a Friday night, it was pretty busy but found one of the last first come first serve spots around 6 pm."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly short hikes: The Sugarloaf area offers accessible walks for children. One visitor noted, "There are so many wildflowers and little cascades that even a short stroll with children is rewarding."
Brooklyn Lake water activities: Brooklyn Lake offers paddling opportunities right from camp. A family reported, "We enjoyed kayaking around the lake and hiking nearby on the CDT. There are vault toilets but not much else...perfect!"
Weather preparation: Pack warm clothing even in summer. A September camper at Brooklyn Lake advised, "Only downside was a burn ban in effect, which given the elevation of the campsite can make for cold nights. You'll need to really bundle up if you can't have a fire to keep you warm."
Campsite selection strategies: For Deep Creek Campground, one camper suggested, "The melting snow had a lot of the camp sites pretty wet" in late June. Choose sites on slightly elevated ground for better conditions during snowmelt.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Many dispersed camping areas require extensive leveling. At White Rock Canyon, a camper with a 36-foot fifth wheel observed, "No sites are level so bring your legos."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have limited turnaround space for larger rigs. One RVer warned, "The biggest issue was finding a place to turn around. We did find a place to stay but most were already filled with hunting campers."
Campground size limitations: Brooklyn Lake has restrictions on larger vehicles. A camper noted, "Rock road up to the campground! Narrow turns, big rigs not recommended. We pulled an 18-foot trailer and saw only a few spots that would work for us!"
