Dispersed camping opportunities near Saratoga, Wyoming extend beyond the North Platte River corridor to include several Forest Service roads in Medicine Bow National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 6,500-10,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions from riverside cottonwood groves to alpine aspen stands. Seasonal closures affect many sites from late fall through spring, with mud conditions common during snowmelt periods.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple primitive sites offer direct river access for anglers targeting brown and rainbow trout. At Sanger Public Access Area on North Platte River, campers enjoy "beautiful riverside" locations, though one visitor noted they "had a rough time at this campsite" due to mosquitoes and thunderstorms.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive camping areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At North Platte River Treasure Island - Public Access Area, campers report being "backed up to a cow farm" where they "heard cows all night and morning, which I rather enjoyed." Another camper at Foote Public Access mentioned seeing "a mink and an eagle" during their stay.
Fall colors exploration: The aspen groves in higher elevation sites display vibrant autumn colors. At White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site, visitors note that "the aspen are turning yellow" in fall. The scenic value increases as temperatures drop, with one camper mentioning "very pretty views with pullouts some with trees."
What campers like
Remote location: Many campers value the isolation available at dispersed sites. At FS RD 103 Dispersed, visitors report "very few other boondockers, and well dispersed. Very quiet with minimal traffic." Another camper recommended exploring "off shoots for the privacy and nice camping spot" if you have four-wheel drive.
River proximity: Camping directly beside the North Platte River ranks highly in camper reviews. At Foote Public Access, one camper observed it's "right next to the river and absolutely beautiful" though they noted "NO OPEN FIRES" are permitted. They also mentioned being "close to houses, secluded but not entirely out in nature by yourself."
Cost-free camping: The free camping options attract budget-conscious travelers. A visitor to North Platte River Treasure Island noted it's "not really a campsite, just a nice free place to spend the night and then move on, but you can stay up to 5 days."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest service roads demand high-clearance vehicles. For Forest Road 318, visitors warn "4WD and decent clearance is a must. The road is in rough shape and sections had standing water and mud with deep ruts."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings challenging mud conditions while fall hunting season increases campsite competition. At White Rock Canyon, one camper in September found "most were already filled with hunting campers that had been brought up and left. I'm guessing hunting season starts next week and they have staked their claim."
Bug populations: River-adjacent sites experience significant mosquito activity. At Foote Public Access, one camper warned "bring your bug spray, mosquitoes are relentless. Our poor dogs were getting bit all over."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established sites with basic amenities for more comfortable family camping. One camper at Sanger Access Area, Dispersed Camping noted it offers "his/hers vaulted toilets but no other amenities," making it more suitable than completely undeveloped areas.
Water safety: Take precautions when camping with children near the North Platte River. A visitor to Sanger Access Area described it as "a launching/porting spot for Drift Fishing the North Platte River" with "several nice tent site right on the river," requiring parental supervision.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly, necessitating proper gear. One camper at Sanger Public Access Area reported sleeping in their car when "thunderstorms rolled through" during their riverside stay.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller rigs better than large ones. At White Rock Canyon, an RVer with a "36 ft fifthwheel" reported "the road has washboard and is quite steep in places. The biggest issue was finding a place to turn around." They also advised "no sites are level so bring your legos [leveling blocks]."
Connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by carrier and specific location. The same White Rock Canyon RVer noted "T-mobile was dismal, but Verizon was usable with a solid 4G 2bars," adding they "work from our camper so cell service was important."
Alternative locations: When established campgrounds fill up, nearby dispersed camping offers solutions. At Green Mountain Overlook, a visitor found "all along hwy 70 West of Encampment there are various pull offs most with trees and views" with "easy parking even with full size truck pulling bumper pull trailer."
