Medicine Bow National Forest contains multiple primitive camping areas near Rock River, Wyoming at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. The forest's transition zones between grasslands and dense woodland create microclimates that impact camping conditions throughout the year. Most dispersed sites require campers to pack out trash and bring water supplies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several primitive sites offer access to fishing waters. At Laramie Overlook Disperesed Camping, campers can find "a lovely creek that runs along" the more secluded sites according to one visitor. The Foote Public Access Area provides riverside camping where "I saw a mink and an eagle while there," notes a recent camper.
Wildlife viewing: The varied terrain supports diverse wildlife watching opportunities. Near East Fork Wagonhound Creek, "Clear skies made for unreal star gazing!" reports one camper. At Twin Buttes Reservoir, visitors noted excellent bird watching potential: "We saw a family of eagles, a golden eagle, and many shore birds and water fowl."
Hiking access: Many dispersed sites serve as gateways to trail systems. Forest Road 318 sites are valued for their proximity to hiking trails, with one camper noting the "Location was a plus - this is within 15 minutes of lots of hikes in the Snowy Range." Another reviewer mentioned that "Super close to everything on top of Snowy range."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Campers consistently praise the solitude available in dispersed camping areas. At Forest Service Road 330C, one reviewer found "a great spot right next to the river" where "we were basically isolated in this spot." Another mentioned, "We did explore the area a little and found numerous dispersed camping spots in/around the area."
Natural features: The varied landscape offers different camping experiences. White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site receives high marks for its "Beautiful patches of wildflowers, the wooded slopes, and soft green grass. All made for an idyllic stop." Another camper noted, "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."
Accessibility: Most areas provide reasonable access without requiring extensive gear. At Pole Mountain Dispersed Camping, visitors appreciate that it's "close to rest stop, tucked off next to highway but relatively quiet." Another reviewer mentioned, "Easy access, close to highway, this small forest road 705F has a bunch of small pullouts with some fire rings."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by season and location. For FS RD 103 Dispersed, "If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, I highly recommend searching for one of those off shoots for the privacy and nice camping spot." Another reviewer warned, "If you are going when there is still a lot of snow melt (through late June) I would recommend 4x4 the further back you go."
Cell coverage: Service varies by carrier and location. At Laramie Overlook, one camper reported "4 bars verizon cell" while at Twin Buttes Reservoir, a visitor noted, "If you face back to town you can get okay not great verizon signal. If you gave the water the signal is very poor."
Weather considerations: The high-elevation environment experiences extreme weather fluctuations. At Twin Buttes, a camper warned it's "A nice place in the summer but brutal past October. The wind absolutely ravages this place. Your van or RV will rock." Another noted, "We were here start of October and probably wouldn't come much later in the year unless you're prepared for below freezing weather."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with space for children to explore safely. White Rock Canyon offers "huge area for camping in groups if you continue down road make left." Another camper noted, "Nice dispersed campground with few fire rings. No one was around."
Bug preparation: Several sites report significant insect activity. At Foote Public Access, one camper advised, "Bring bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over." However, another camper had "no issues with mosquitoes" at the same location, suggesting seasonal variation.
Bathroom access: Most primitive sites near Rock River lack facilities. A visitor to Twin Buttes Reservoir advised, "no toilet paper in toilets so bring your own!" For convenient access, consider staying near the "trailhead non flush toilets" mentioned by a Pole Mountain visitor.
Tips from RVers
Levelness challenges: Many sites require stabilization equipment. At Twin Buttes Reservoir Public Access Area, a camper with a "33' 5th wheel" noted, "Be careful, though. The soil is very clay - so slippery when wet." At White Rock Canyon, an RVer warned, "No sites are level so bring your legos."
Size limitations: Large rigs face significant challenges at most sites. East Fork Wagonhound Creek accommodated one visitor with a "38' TT" though they noted the "road was a bit rough" and "ground isn't level, so make sure you have levelers." For larger rigs, Foote Public Access has "Only a few spots are larger for 5th wheels."
Turnaround space: Limited maneuvering room creates difficulties for larger vehicles. A camper at Pole Mountain mentioned the sites have "a bunch of small pullouts with some fire rings and parking spots for small campers," indicating size restrictions.
