Tent camping near Rock River, Wyoming requires preparation for variable conditions, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in summer months. The Medicine Bow area receives considerable wind across open terrain, especially at reservoir locations, creating challenging conditions for unsecured gear. Most designated tent sites sit at elevations between 6,800-7,500 feet, with higher forest service spots offering more protection from elements than lakeside areas.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Hattie Public Access Area offers direct water access with a shoreline described as "beach-like" for both fishing and swimming. Eric S. notes it's "~20 miles west of Laramie. Easy access and can drive right up to the water and park."
Wildlife viewing: At Foote Public Access Area, campers report diverse wildlife sightings. James K. explains, "I saw a mink and an eagle while there," while Donner N. mentions "various wild and farm animal noises all night which kept me on my toes."
Boating options: North Platte River access points provide boat launches for small watercraft. At Foote Public Access Area, Alexandra T. notes, "There's also a boat ramp, and I imagine if you fish, the creek would be a nice little spot to fish."
Rock climbing: Tent sites near climbing areas provide convenient basecamp options. The Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping area offers "very convenient" access to climbing routes according to reviewer Les R.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Upper Blaire's forested camping areas provide privacy not found at reservoir locations. Kiloalpha 2 reports, "There are at least three camp sites I saw that are all secluded by boulders and trees. Each one has established fire sites."
River proximity: Campers value waterside tent sites along the North Platte. Andrea F. describes Pick Bridge Road as "a beautiful area that is good for fishing and is extremely quiet. You can be as secluded as you'd like to be."
Mountain backdrops: Several reservoirs offer tent camping with mountain views. At Lake Hattie Public Access Area, Megan V. notes "There is a great mountain backdrop behind the lake and it made for great views!"
Low light pollution: The Medicine Bow region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution and open skies. Wheatland Reservoir #3 provides what Katie S. describes as "peaceful and quiet area, but with few amenities."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. At Pick Bridge Road, fires are prohibited entirely, while Upper Blaire allows fires in established rings. Always check current restrictions with local ranger districts.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Rock River offer minimal amenities. At Wheatland Reservoir #3, Katie S. notes "some pitch vault toilets available at the shore line (could use more attention and cleaning)."
Insect considerations: Waterfront camping areas experience significant mosquito activity. Lauren C. advises about Foote Public Access: "Bring your bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over."
Road conditions: Access to several camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. Lady Phyre notes about Foote Public Access, "Road in is an easy drive. I didn't have any clearance issues in a Prius," while Upper Blaire campers report significant washboard sections.
Capacity limitations: Smaller dispersed camping areas fill quickly. Kendra T. warns about Foote Public Access being "very small... definitely only room for maybe 2" while recommending arriving early for weekend camping.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Lake Hattie offers beach-like shorelines ideal for families with children. Juana B. reports, "We stayed here at the lake. Beautiful Mountain View, swimming and fishing... lots of camp/picnic tables."
Site selection criteria: Choose camps with established tent pads and natural wind barriers. At Wheatland Reservoir #3, Katie S. mentions "wide open spaces" but cautions about exposure to wind and weather.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for possible livestock encounters. At Upper Blaire, Izzy T. reports "lots of cows roaming around" and Les R. warns "there are cows roaming free in this area. You might find them blocking the road or next to your tent when you wake up."
Supply planning: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. Juana B. notes Lake Hattie has "no running water" and "no cell phone service with Verizon," requiring families to pack accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most dispersed camping near Rock River works best for smaller RVs and trailers. Chloe W. explains about Foote Public Access Area, "Only a few spots are larger for 5th wheels etc. road was pretty bumpy coming down."
Parking configurations: At Lake Hattie, Megan V. notes, "We have a Tacoma and RTT, but any sort of car or camper could make it here no problem," indicating accessibility for various vehicle types despite primitive conditions.
Stay duration rules: Check site-specific camping limits. Juana B. mentions "camping limit is 5 days" at Lake Hattie, while Izzy T. notes concerns about enforcement at Upper Blaire: "It appears that the locals leave their rigs and the forest service doesn't enforce the 16 day limit."
