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Medicine Bow-Routt/Bow River

Overview

Located within the expansive Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, the Bow River Campground offers a serene escape into the high-country wilderness near Saratoga, Wyoming. Situated at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet, this destination provides a cool, mountain retreat for RVers looking to immerse themselves in nature. The park is defined by its secluded atmosphere and the gentle sounds of the nearby water, making it a peaceful basecamp for exploring the rugged beauty of the Snowy Range. It is a place where the stars shine brighter and the mountain air feels noticeably fresher.

Location & Surroundings

The campground is positioned south of Saratoga along the banks of its namesake, the Bow River. Surrounded by dense stands of lodgepole pine, the area offers a sense of privacy and deep forest immersion. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and rocky outcrops, with the Snowy Range Scenic Byway just a short drive away. This location serves as a gateway to some of Wyoming's most pristine alpine environments, where the vistas are vast and the environment remains largely untouched by urban development.

Amenities & Park Features

As a traditional Forest Service site, the amenities here focus on providing a rustic camping experience. The park features the following facilities for visitors:

  • Individual sites equipped with heavy-duty picnic tables and fire rings.
  • Access to potable water available via seasonal hand pumps.
  • Centrally located vault toilets maintained for guest convenience.

This is a dry-camping destination ideal for self-contained RVs, providing a genuine connection to the Wyoming wilderness. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, the well-spaced sites offer a level of privacy rarely found in commercial parks.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, starting with trout fishing right in the Bow River. For hikers, the nearby trails lead to stunning overlooks and glacial lakes within the Medicine Bow National Forest. A trip into the town of Saratoga is highly recommended to visit the Hobo Hot Springs, where travelers can soak in natural mineral waters for free. Wildlife viewing is also a primary draw, with frequent sightings of moose, elk, and mule deer throughout the surrounding timber and meadowlands.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is ideal for boondockers and nature photographers who prioritize scenery and solitude over modern resort luxuries. It is a perfect fit for travelers seeking to disconnect from digital distractions and enjoy a genuine outdoor lifestyle. Anglers will appreciate the easy river access, while those exploring the Intermountain West will find it a rewarding stop for experiencing Wyoming's high-altitude backcountry. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of a rushing river and waking up to the smell of pine, this is the spot for you.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• River
• Fishing
• Body Of Water (Bow River)

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed
• No Reservations

- Other Amenities & Services

• Pit Toilets

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• ATV Riding
• Mountain Biking

- Facility

• Type (National Forest)

- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)

• Season: Summer,Fall

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (13)
• Max Length (36)
• Dirt Sites (13)
• No Hookups (13)
• Back-ins (12 x 36)

User Reviews

Hobbes Z

October 13, 2025

The campground is far enough out that you only see outdoorsmen there. It's unfortunate that the areas access is not maintained in winter, itd be a beautiful with snow. Depending on time of year, it can fill up quickly with hunters. The rest of the year that it is accessible you will find family's that like off-roading and being off-grid. If necessary, bring your own internet (satellite) as there is no cell service! Vault toilets in perfect repair. No potable water supply so bring your own. If you're willing to walk and process, plenty of dead standing, otherwise bring wood as well.

Vincent DeGrazio

July 07, 2023

Loaded with campers and their bark at everything dogs. We love dogs, we had ours with us too, but he doesn't bark at everything that moves. The entire point of camping is to get away, relax and enjoy being outside. It is not too to have to deal with the neighbors dog barking constantly, that why we did not stay at this camp ground.

David Weddle

June 24, 2023

Great site next to the river. The flowers in the site were beautiful. There were not a lot of other campers since it was early in the season

Joe Schmoe

July 30, 2022

It was nice. The campground is right next to the river. Water was out but looked like they were working on it. It's a bit of a drive to get there but worth it. Very reasonable with table, grill, and fire pit in each campsite and an outhouse.

Ryan Bekke

October 01, 2021

This Bow River Campground was a great little campground find. It was our first camper here’s maiden voyage in June of 2021. This was very tight with a 31’ camper and a 3/4 ton long box crew cab, but doable. Only a couple spots could accommodate this setup. Really rough road getting up in here but worth the trip. We were going to camp at Vedauwoo but it was full, we are so glad it was because it lead us to here. You can hear the River flowing rapidly all night. The place wasn’t busy pry because the loooooong rough road into here. Beautiful!

Map for Medicine Bow-Routt/Bow River

Contact information