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Best Dispersed Camping near Rock River, WY

79 Reviews

Medicine Bow National Forest offers several dispersed camping options near Rock River, Wyoming. White Rock Canyon features pullout sites along a 5-mile dirt road from the highway, with both wooded and open areas. Forest Service roads 318, 330C, and 103 provide additional primitive camping opportunities. Most sites have existing fire rings but no facilities or services.

Road conditions vary significantly across locations. Forest Road 318 requires 4WD and decent clearance, with one camper noting it has "standing water and mud with deep ruts" but provides good access to Snowy Range trails. White Rock Canyon Road has washboard sections and steep portions that can challenge larger vehicles. A recent review mentioned, "The road has washboard and is quite steep in places. The biggest issue was finding a place to turn around." Cell service is spotty throughout the area, with Verizon generally providing better coverage than other carriers. Most sites permit a 16-day stay limit and are open seasonally, becoming inaccessible during winter months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Rock River, Wyoming (26)

    1. White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Elk Mountain, WY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Nice isolated spot in the National Forest, 5 mi from the main highway. Nice view with few fire rings. No one was around."

    "There are sites all along the road left and right all the way back in here, and every one of them is relatively secluded and equally beautiful."

    2. East Fork Wagonhound Creek

    1 Review
    Elk Mountain, WY
    20 miles

    3. Forest Road 318

    5 Reviews
    Centennial, WY
    30 miles

    "4WD and decent clearance is a must. The road is in rough shape and sections had standing water and mud with deep ruts."

    "The road is very bumpy so take your time driving on it. 4WD is a must."

    4. Wheatland Reservoir

    Be the first to review!
    Rock River, WY
    17 miles

    5. Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Centennial, WY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Great place to boondock for a few days. We stayed here for a week in our 20 foot skoolie. Short drive into the Medicine Bow National forest and you’re here."

    "I tent camped tucked into the forest a bit. The birch was dripping sap all night and I think I would have put my tent in the open if I had known. Some nice little fire pits."

    6. Forest Service Road 330C

    2 Reviews
    Centennial, WY
    28 miles

    "We found a great spot right next to the river on forest road 330C near North Fork Campground. The area was fairly busy on Labor Day weekend but we were basically isolated in this spot."

    "Stayed one night at the coordinates of camper 1 . Had a great time with my dog, very close to medicine bow, and awesome views of the river."

    7. Twin Buttes Reservoir

    9 Reviews
    Laramie, WY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 777-4600

    "Good Verizon service, was able to work remote. Got pretty windy but it was nice on the hot days. Idk if I’d swim in the water. There was a pit toilet. Good view of the mountains."

    "We arrived around sunset for a quick night on our road trip heading West. There were some bugs out but nothing crazy. Peaceful sounds of birds and waterfowl."

    8. Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    45 miles
    Website

    "Coordinates are accurate to camp location spot, it is right off the highway, giving you easy access. I recommend getting there early because minimal site locations."

    "There are a lot dispersed camping sites, you just need to get there early enough. You need to find a spot with a defined access road to it and a built fire ring. Generator use is allowed."

    9. FS RD 103 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Centennial, WY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Great camping spot within Medicine Bow National Forest. Some of this area requires a $5 day fee which can be paid online or using an envelop system with cash."

    "Very few other boondockers, and well dispersed. Very quiet with minimal traffic."

    10. Foote Public Access Area Dispersed

    17 Reviews
    Saratoga, WY
    47 miles
    Website

    "This is a primitive camping spot with 3 to maybe 5 sites if you are pushing it. Free, with pit toilet. Close to the N Platte, probably good fishing much of the year."

    "This place is down a long dirt ride through private property so be kind and mind the hours. When you get to the end, take the right fork and you’ll find two, rather close together, camping areas."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rock River, WY

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rock River, WY

79 Reviews of 26 Rock River Campgrounds

  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2022

    Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping

    Small, but mighty

    Great place to boondock for a few days. We stayed here for a week in our 20 foot skoolie. Short drive into the Medicine Bow National forest and you’re here. There are a couple of loops right as you enter, which are the most level places to park a rig. Then another path leads about a half a mile to a few other sites that are more secluded, but not very level. I wouldn’t recommend towing anything down there with the condition of the dirt road and low hanging tree branches. Those would be ideal for a camper van or tent. There is a lovely creek that runs along there. The dump/water is decommissioned at this site, but as you turn in there is dump/water at the forest station. During our stay there were a couple of RV’s and some off road fanatics. Quiet and cool summer evenings. Great cell service!

  • Katherine B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2018

    Foote Public Access Area Dispersed

    Great late season spot

    A few sandy campsites by the Platte River - had we gotten there earlier, we could have parked on the river's rocky shore. Someone beat us to it though!

    There are actually two separate camping areas of this access - when you get to the fork, there are sites in either direction. Both are denoted with the Foote Public Access area signs, so you know you found it. There was also a boat ramp. I am not familiar with this section of the Platte, but I would imagine fishing and hunting are probably great activities if you're staying here for a few days. Wildlife appeared abundant in September - luckily, mosquitos and flies were not!

    It is a road through private land, which is relatively well maintained, but please respect private property. Also be aware of current fire restrictions - there are no fire rings here, and open fires are not permitted. A firepan or fuel-based cooking system would be good to have.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2018

    Foote Public Access Area Dispersed

    Dispersed camping on the North Platte River

    This tiny dispersed site is on the North Platte River with boat access and a few weedy, private sites spread out in this area tucked inside private property. Since you have to drive over private property to get here, be mindful of speed on the dirt access road and clean up after yourself. I did not camp here as all of the sites were taken but I did visit with a couple traveling from Canada. They liked how quiet it was and loved how secluded it was. They said the mosquitoes were horrific, but worth dealing with to camp in such a great spot. Just up the road is the actual public access to the river, but in the campground there is a small boat ramp that you could use to launch a small boat or canoe. I'm keeping this one on my list for future reference- free, beautiful, and secluded. Hope I can get a spot in the future.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful Scenery and saw a Moose

    Coordinates are accurate to camp location spot, it is right off the highway, giving you easy access. I recommend getting there early because minimal site locations. It was a bit windy when we went but found a grouping of trees. We also were lucky enough to see a moose walk right behind our campsite. It stopped and noticed us but eventually walked off.

  • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2022

    Pole Mountain Area- Dispersed Campsite, Medicine Bow NF

    Loved it here!

    Stayed for 3 nights and each night was very peaceful. Once you’re about 2 miles down the dirt road, that’s when a lot of the sites begin. All sites were very large and loved that they were very well spaced so you weren’t close to neighbors. Definitely a fun area if you have toys for OHV. lots of cows roaming around and chipmunks. Didn’t see much wildlife. Completely dry camping so pack it in and pack it out. There are plenty of trash cans and a potable water spigot at the rest stop 15 min away so no reason to leave trash behind! Amazing stars and sunsets!

  • L
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Sanger Access Area, Dispersed Camping

    Great free camping!

    We stayed here for a night with our dog while passing through Wyoming. The area is BEAUTIFUL. Lots of wildlife and scenic views. Bathrooms were clean and conveniently scattered throughout the sites. Easy to find if you just follow the signs for camping! We made it back pretty far in our all wheel drive lower clearance Subaru. LOTS of mosquitoes though, so make sure to bring bug spray or cover up!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Foote Public Access Area Dispersed

    Small riverside camping area

    This is a primitive camping spot with 3 to maybe 5 sites if you are pushing it. Free, with pit toilet. Close to the N Platte, probably good fishing much of the year. I saw a mink and an eagle while there.

  • Geo&Deb T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2021

    Government Gully Rd - Dispersed

    Not bad for a night or two

    We foolishly thought we might find a dispersed spot at Vedauwoo in mid-July and were disappointed, but not really surprised. We had another pin dropped on our map for the dry camping at Government Gully Rd and headed there in the late afternoon.

    The road in is pretty good, our low slung front wheel drive Travato made it easily, although there is a bit of a short, steep hill to climb if you can't find a spot in the lower area.

    During our visit, the lower area could probably have supported one or two more rigs, but it would start getting a bit crowded at that point. We headed up the hill and found a great spot overlooking a mountain meadow (and some really cool dispersed camping sites if it hadn't been closed for a reclamation project). There were plenty of rigs up there, including some pretty big travel trailers and fifth wheels, but it was still pretty quiet. We could see the lights of Laramie in the distance out our back door, which was kind of nice.

    So a decent campsite if you don't mind neighbors!

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2019

    Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping

    Great access to climbing, very basic camping

    We found a set of campsites in the "Upper Blaire" climbing area.

    **How to get there from US-30 **

    • *Refer map provided in campground website link

    • Approaching from the south: Take exit 329 for Vedauwoo Rd --> Turn left onto Vedauwoo Glen Rd --> Turn right onto Old US Hwy 30 E --> Drive 2.7 miles --> Turn right onto Blair-Wallis Rd / Forest Rd 705 --> Drive 3 miles --> Sharp right on Forest Rd 707 --> Drive 0.7 miles --> Turn right onto Forest Rd 707A then a few hundred feet turn right again onto Forest Rd 707AF --> drive to the end of the road a few hundred feet more and park.

    • **Approaching from the north: **Take exit 323 for WY-210 toward Happy Jack Rd --> Turn left onto WY-210 E / Happy Jack Rd then shortly thereafter turn left again to stay on WY-210 E --> Drive for 6 miles --> Turn right onto Headquarters Rd / Forest Rd 707 --> In 0.3 miles turn right to stay on 707 --> drive 2.7 mi --> Turn  left onto Forest Rd 707A --> Turn right in a few hundred feet onto Forest Rd 707AF--> drive to the end of the road a few hundred feet more and park.

    These sites are primitive and have a nice secluded feeling. You cannot see or hear the highway from here. There was spotty cell service (we have T-mobile). There are no facilities here, but if you would like to access picnic tables or a vault toilet, the Blair Picnic Area is not far away:  https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mbr/recarea/?recid=22894. Make sure to pack plenty of water, you can fill up at the Abraham Lincoln Memorial rest area.

    If you want to do some rock climbing in the area, these sites are very convenient. 

    Some words of caution: 

    • there are cows roaming free in this area. You might find them blocking the road or next to your tent when you wake up (!) 
    • a lot of broken glass at the sites near the parking area
    • there are many fell trees in the area, and it was very gusty when we were there, so make sure to check weather in advance to avoid strong winds that might bring trees down

Guide to Rock River

Dispersed camping near Rock River, Wyoming, offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views and Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site provides a beautiful backdrop with plenty of trees and stunning views, especially during the fall when the aspens turn yellow.
  • For those looking to explore, the area around Forest Service Road 330C offers access to numerous hiking trails, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of the Medicine Bow National Forest.
  • If you prefer a more secluded experience, Laramie Overlook Dispersed Camping features quiet spots with breathtaking views of the stars, making it an ideal location for stargazing after a day of hiking.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities While Free Camping Near Rock River

  • The remote setting of East Fork Wagonhound Creek is perfect for spotting local wildlife, as it is less frequented by campers and offers a peaceful environment.
  • At Twin Buttes Reservoir, you can enjoy birdwatching and possibly catch a glimpse of deer and other wildlife that frequent the area.
  • The diverse ecosystems around Meeboer Lake provide ample opportunities for observing various species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Rock River, Wyoming

  • When visiting Forest Road 318, ensure you have a vehicle with 4WD, as the road conditions can be rough and may require decent clearance.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at sites like Gelatt Lake Park, where you’ll find no designated camping areas or fire rings, so plan accordingly.
  • If you're camping at Wheatland Reservoir, remember to bring your own firewood and supplies, as there are no markets nearby and amenities are minimal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp for free at Rock River dispersed camping?

Yes, dispersed camping in the Rock River area of Wyoming is free. Sites like Forest Service Road 330C offer no-fee camping opportunities with drive-in access. Similarly, Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping provides free boondocking options. Most dispersed camping in this region follows typical National Forest guidelines allowing stays up to 14 days in a 30-day period. Since these are primitive sites, come prepared with all necessary supplies including water, and practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. While free, some areas may have seasonal restrictions, so check current Forest Service notices before planning your trip.

Where is Rock River dispersed camping located in Wyoming?

Rock River dispersed camping is located in southeastern Wyoming, primarily within the Medicine Bow National Forest. The area is accessible via Highway 30, with several entry points to dispersed camping zones. Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping is situated a short drive into the Medicine Bow National Forest, offering convenient access for visitors. Foote Public Access Area Dispersed provides camping along the North Platte River, accessed via a dirt road through private property. These locations are within reasonable driving distance of Laramie and Cheyenne, making them popular weekend destinations for locals and travelers passing through Wyoming.

Are campfires allowed at Rock River dispersed camping areas?

Campfires are generally allowed at Rock River dispersed camping areas, but with important restrictions that vary by season and conditions. At Sanger Access Area, Dispersed Camping, campers can typically have fires in established fire rings. Similarly, Government Gully Rd - Dispersed usually permits campfires when fire danger is low. However, seasonal fire bans are common during dry summer months. Always check current fire restrictions with the Medicine Bow National Forest office before your trip. When fires are permitted, use established fire rings, keep fires small, have water nearby for extinguishing, never leave fires unattended, and ensure they are completely out before leaving your campsite.

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