Best Dispersed Camping near Saratoga, WY
Several dispersed camping areas exist near Saratoga, Wyoming along the North Platte River. Public access areas including Foote, Sanger, and Treasure Island provide free primitive camping opportunities on public land. These sites are primarily located along riverbanks with boat access points. Additional dispersed camping can be found in Medicine Bow National Forest on forest roads like FS RD 103 and Forest Road 318, as well as at White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site.
Many access roads to these sites require navigating dirt or gravel surfaces. The Foote Public Access Area requires driving through private property on a maintained dirt road. Forest Service roads in Medicine Bow National Forest often need high-clearance vehicles, with some requiring 4WD, particularly after rain or snowmelt. Most dispersed sites have no amenities beyond basic vault toilets at some locations. Camping is typically limited to 5 days at river access points and up to 14-16 days on National Forest land. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods.
"A few sandy campsites by the Platte River - had we gotten there earlier, we could have parked on the river's rocky shore," noted one camper about Foote Public Access. These riverside locations provide fishing opportunities and wildlife viewing. Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a significant concern, particularly at river sites. The White Rock Canyon area offers more seclusion among trees with aspen groves that display fall colors. Campers report varying cell service quality, with Verizon generally providing better coverage than other carriers. Most sites remain relatively uncrowded except during hunting season when some areas fill with pre-positioned camps.
