Dispersed camping near Jelm, Wyoming offers options across forest, mountain, and reservoir lands with varying accessibility. The area sits at approximately 7,500-9,000 feet elevation in the Medicine Bow mountains, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Many sites close during winter months due to snow accumulation and road access limitations, with optimal camping typically running from late May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Twin Buttes Reservoir provides accessible fishing with diverse wildlife viewing. "We saw a family of eagles, a golden eagle, and many shore birds and water fowl" notes Susan D., though she warns "the soil is very clay - so slippery when wet."
Mountain biking: The Lake Owen Campground connects to the Medicine Bow Rail Trail, which offers family-friendly riding. "The campground is near the Medicine Bow Rail Trail which was great bike riding for my grandsons who are 8 and 6," reports RoseMarie C.
Bird watching: Meeboer Lake offers excellent bird watching opportunities with minimal amenities. One camper describes "peaceful sounds of birds and waterfowl" while another mentions "Tons of tiny bugs that get into everything."
What campers like
Seasonal color changes: The forested areas transform dramatically in autumn. "GO IN THE FALL, with all the Aspen's it is beautiful and an old railroad trail to walk along is a very easy 'hike'. You can also walk all around the lake, where there is an old train caboose," recommends Bayley W. about Lake Owen.
Mountain views: Laramie Overlook Dispersed Camping offers exceptional vistas. "The views are amazing up here you can see all the way into colorado. If yiu go down the hill like 3 minutes you come into a little town had gas, a bar and some food options," notes johny R.
Stargazing: Clear night skies provide excellent star viewing at many sites. "Lovely location with secluded spots. The stars and view were awesome and the wind blew just right all night," reports Matthew S. about Laramie Overlook.
What you should know
Wind exposure: Most reservoir and lake sites lack tree cover, creating significant wind challenges. "wouldn't recommend if you are tent camping, but i was very comfortable in my car despite very strong winds," writes Lana F. about Twin Buttes Reservoir.
Road conditions: Access varies dramatically by site and season. Samuel C. notes about Evans Creek, "Stopped in late, made it fine with 2w low clearance" while another camper warns about Laramie Overlook: "Road was very iffy for my 2wd sedan, but I made it."
Water safety concerns: Several lakes show signs of potential algae or contamination. At Miller Lake, "The lake is a short walk away, but probably not safe to swim due to what looks like high amounts of HCB. Same goes for fishing. There are fish present, but they're pretty skittish and probably not super safe to eat," cautions Iris K.
Tips for camping with families
Insect protection: Multiple sites report significant bug activity, especially near water. "The bugs were terrible when we got there around sunset, but in the morning they weren't swarming," notes Alyson M. about Twin Buttes Reservoir.
Site selection: Prioritize areas with established amenities for easier family camping. "Wood Landing Campground has log cabins with common facilities and 5 available water/30 amp electric and a dump station. The sites are small but the location is feet from fine trout fishing and a good restaurant open Wednesday through Sunday," shares Rich D.
Alternative activities: Plan for weather disruptions, especially wind. "Season matters here... The wind absolutely ravages this place. Your van or RV will rock. There isnt a tree in sight just open land so you feel really exposed," warns johny R.
Tips for RVers
Accessibility assessment: Carefully research road conditions before committing to sites. "We were able to find a pretty clear spot with a fire pit to set up, but most of the old sites are grown over and too cramped for tent camping," reports Iris K. about Miller Lake dispersed.
Water and dump stations: Limited services mean planning ahead. "The dump/water is decommissioned at this site, but as you turn in there is dump/water at the forest station," notes Izzy T. about Laramie Overlook.
Site leveling challenges: Many dispersed areas offer limited level parking. "There are a couple of loops right as you enter, which are the most level places to park a rig. Then another path leads about a half a mile to a few other sites that are more secluded, but not very level," explains Izzy T.
Traveler
