Medicine Bow National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping options for equestrian enthusiasts near Saratoga, Wyoming. The area sits at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 10,000 feet with alpine terrain that transitions between dense forest and open meadows. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Continental Divide Trail runs directly across from Seedhouse Group Site, providing extensive riding options. "The Continental Divide trail is directly across the seedhouse road from here. The site can accommodate about 30 people," notes Vincent C.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer direct lake or stream access for fishing. At Big Creek Lakes Campground, "You can boat, fish, even hunt at some spots with a permit, hike, and swim at your own risk (can be cold, leeches, snakes)," according to Rosina A.
Wildlife viewing: The remote locations provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. At Medicine Bow, one camper reported, "We saw two bull elk and a calf play in the valley and drink from the pond as the sun went down. There's cacti, sage and pretty wildflowers."
What campers like
Remote solitude: The difficult access deters crowds at many sites. One visitor to Medicine Bow noted, "This spot was beautiful, peaceful and primitive. Pack in and pack out and make sure you have water."
Natural setting: Campsites blend into the natural landscape. Sara F. appreciated the scenery at Big Creek Lakes: "The area is beautiful, we had the greatest time hiking and fishing. There were many other campers, everyone was mostly respectful."
Spacious sites: Most established campgrounds offer large sites with natural separation. "The sites are all HUGE, almost all are pull through and many offer beautiful lake views with trails directly from your campsite to the water," reports Sarah C. about her stay at Big Creek Lakes.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most equestrian camping areas near Saratoga require navigating difficult roads. One camper at Medicine Bow Route NF warns, "This spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then."
Limited facilities: Many sites lack basic amenities. At decommissioned Battle Creek Campground, conditions have deteriorated significantly: "There is no potable water and no toilets," reports a recent visitor.
Seasonal considerations: High elevation means short camping seasons. "Big Creek Lakes Campground, Colorado (close to Wyoming border): camping here is only open for 3 months out of the year: June, July & August. It's camping at over 9,000ft elevation and requires for you to be extra prepared for snow even in the summer months," advises Rosina A.
Distance from supplies: Most horse camping areas are far from towns. "Its a great place but a long drive to civilization," notes Anna W. about Big Creek Lakes Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for wildlife sightings and safety. "We had hundreds of chipmunks visit us each day to clean up the kids' crumbs. We also saw antelope and deer on the drive in and several moose, elk and a coyote off the highway," reports a family that camped at Big Creek Lakes.
Plan for weather extremes: Even summer camping requires cold-weather gear. One camper advises being "extra prepared for snow even in the summer months, bears, mountain lions, mosquitos, aggressive horse flies, leeches, strong winds, thunder storms and altitude sickness."
Activities for children: Multiple hiking options keep children engaged. "Great fishing, beautiful hiking trails to a water fall, and trails for the RZR near by," notes Liz B. about recreation options at Big Creek Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose pull-through sites that accommodate both RV and horse trailer. Sarah C. reports from her stay at Big Creek Lakes Campground: "We were in site 14. It did not have a water view, but was still amazing. All sites are gravel and appear to be fairly level."
Level challenges: Some sites require significant work to level RVs. "Spot 23 is where we stayed and the pull through drive way is on a wicked hill. Made it tricky getting the camper level," notes Sara F.
Water and waste management: Plan for limited or no hookups at most horse-friendly sites. "There are pit toilets throughout the campground that appeared to be very well maintained and cleaned often. There are also numerous water spigots throughout with potable water," according to one RVer's experience at Big Creek Lakes.
