Bow River Campground

For Wyoming locals who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and serene solitude of our state's wild landscapes, Bow River Campground near Rock River offers a quintessential primitive camping experience. This hidden gem, nestled deep within the Medicine Bow National Forest, provides a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's embrace. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves the soothing sound of a flowing river, breathtaking scenery, and a tranquil atmosphere where you can truly unplug, then Bow River Campground is a destination that will resonate deeply with your adventurous spirit.

Bow River Campground isn't your average amenity-packed RV park; it's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty that Wyoming is renowned for. Visitors consistently praise its secluded nature and the immersive experience it provides. As one happy camper shared, "Beautiful, not a soul there... It is worth driving out to and spending a night!" Another echoed this sentiment, stating, "We loved it! The views are spectacular. Dispersed camping. Very quiet and clean." This feedback underscores the campground's appeal for those seeking a peaceful retreat where the sounds of the river and the whispering pines are your constant companions. It's a place where privacy is paramount and the opportunity to truly connect with the natural world is abundant, making it an ideal choice for Wyomingites looking for an authentic outdoor adventure.

Bow River Campground is located in Rock River, WY 82083, USA. More specifically, it is situated on the upper Medicine Bow River, deep within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests. This places it within the stunning Snowy Range, an area renowned for its rugged peaks, high-elevation lakes, and dense forests.

Accessing Bow River Campground requires a bit of an adventurous spirit due to the "loooooong rough road into here," as one reviewer put it. From Saratoga, Wyoming, you'd typically take the Snowy Range Highway (WY-130) east for about 20 miles to Forest Road 100, then continue on Forest Road 100 for approximately 20 more miles. This is described as a "slow drive." Alternatively, from Elk Mountain, Wyoming, you can take Carbon County Road 101 south to the National Forest boundary, continuing on Road 101 for about 2 miles to Forest Road 100, then looking for the campground less than half a mile in. While the journey might be rough, with some reviews indicating it could be "very tight with a 31’ camper and a 3/4 ton long box crew cab," the consensus is that the trip is "worth it." It's important to be prepared for unpaved, potentially uneven roads, especially if traveling with a larger rig. However, the secluded nature of the campground is directly linked to this more challenging access, meaning "the place wasn't busy" – a major plus for those seeking solitude. The payoff is a truly private and beautiful riverside setting, a testament to the fact that some of Wyoming's best spots require a little effort to reach.

Bow River Campground is a primitive Forest Service campground, meaning it offers basic amenities designed to support a self-sufficient camping experience while minimizing impact on the natural environment.

• No Potable Water (Often): While some sources mention "drinking water" being available, recent reviews consistently indicate that water might be out or not turned on, especially early in the season. It is crucial to "pack in your water" as there is "no drinking water available on-site" reliably.
• Vault Toilets: Basic outhouse facilities (vault toilets) are provided at the campground. Campers should be prepared with their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings and Grills: Individual campsites include a fire ring, often with a grill grate, for campfires and cooking. Always remember to check for fire bans and restrictions in the Medicine Bow National Forest before lighting any fires.
• No Cell Service: Consistent with its remote nature, there is generally "no cell service" at Bow River Campground. This offers a true opportunity to disconnect, but also means campers should plan accordingly for emergencies.
• First-Come, First-Served: Bow River Campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not usually available. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is advisable.
• No Trash Service: This is a "pack in / pack out" campground. Campers are responsible for removing all their trash and leaving no trace behind.

Bow River Campground is celebrated for several key features and highlights that draw campers seeking a more authentic and less developed outdoor experience.

• Riverside Location: The campground is "right next to the river," allowing campers to "hear the River flowing rapidly all night." This provides a constant, soothing natural soundtrack and direct access to the Bow River for recreation.
• Spectacular Views: Situated in the heavily wooded Medicine Bow National Forest, the campground offers "beautiful" scenery, with lodgepole pines, alpine firs, and spruce trees creating a picturesque backdrop.
• Seclusion and Privacy: With a "loooooong rough road into here," the campground is typically not busy, offering a profound sense of solitude and privacy. "Not a soul there after passing the full Red Bridge campground" suggests a truly quiet experience. Sites are described as "well separated with heavy understory and middle-story which provides privacy."
• Rustic Charm: The campground embraces a rustic and primitive feel, appealing to those who prefer a less commercialized camping experience. It's about being immersed in nature, not amenities.
• Reasonable Cost: Reviewers mention it being "very reasonable," making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers seeking value in a beautiful setting.
• Access to Hiking and Fishing: The area around the campground, including the upper Medicine Bow River and nearby lakes (like Sand Lake and Turpin Reservoir), offers excellent opportunities for recreational fishing and boasts a network of hiking trails.
• Wildlife Viewing: The heavily wooded environment is home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, and bear, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing (always practice bear safety).
• Gateway to Snowy Range: The campground serves as a launching point for exploring the broader Snowy Range, with its dramatic peaks, snow-melt lakes, and stunning wildflowers.

For inquiries regarding Bow River Campground, including current conditions, accessibility, or any seasonal changes, it's best to contact the managing agency, which is typically the U.S. Forest Service.

Phone: (970) 641-2337 (This number may connect to a regional Forest Service office or a general information line for the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests.)

Mobile Phone: +1 970-641-2337 (This is likely the same contact number.)

Address: Rock River, WY 82083, USA (This is the physical location of the campground.)

Given the primitive nature of the campground and the potentially rough access road, calling ahead before your trip is highly recommended. Inquire about road conditions, especially after heavy rains, as well as current water availability, any fire bans, and whether a camp host is on-site. For more specific information, it may be beneficial to contact the Laramie Ranger District office, as they often oversee campgrounds in that part of the Medicine Bow National Forest. While the provided phone numbers are a good starting point, always double-check with official Forest Service resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Bow River Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Wyoming locals who embrace the spirit of adventure and value an authentic, untamed outdoor experience. For residents of our great state, who are often drawn to the vastness and solitude of the wilderness, this campground delivers. Its remote location, accessible via a "rough road," ensures a level of privacy and quiet that is increasingly rare in popular camping spots. This appeals directly to the Wyoming ethos of seeking out uncrowded natural spaces where you can truly disconnect. The immersive sound of the rapidly flowing river throughout the night provides a unique and soothing backdrop that connects campers directly with the natural world around them.

While amenities are basic (with potentially no running water), this aligns with the self-reliant nature of many Wyomingites who are accustomed to "pack in, pack out" camping. The stunning views of the heavily wooded forest and the proximity to the Medicine Bow River for fishing make it an ideal spot for those who love to fish or simply relax by the water. It’s a perfect base camp for exploring the endless hiking opportunities in the Snowy Range, whether you’re bagging peaks or simply enjoying a peaceful forest stroll. Ultimately, Bow River Campground offers a "beautiful" and "very reasonable" escape that perfectly encapsulates the wild, uncommercialized camping experience that many Wyoming locals cherish, making it a true gem for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Bow River Campground

Rock River, WY 82083, USA