Silver Lake Campground

For Wyoming locals who cherish an authentic mountain camping experience with a touch of nostalgia, Silver Lake Campground in the stunning Snowy Range near Saratoga offers an ideal retreat. Situated at a high elevation within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, this rustic campground embodies the spirit of traditional outdoor adventures, reminiscent of "how nice things were in the 60s & 70s." Unlike more developed sites, Silver Lake provides a peaceful environment where the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness takes center stage. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, surrounded by abundant wildflowers, and having immediate access to fantastic hiking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes. While offering a charmingly sparse setting, Silver Lake Campground provides the essentials for a comfortable stay, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude, scenic beauty, and a true connection with Wyoming's majestic mountains.

The Snowy Range, where Silver Lake Campground is nestled, is a prominent and spectacular part of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in southeastern Wyoming. This sub-range of the Rocky Mountains is renowned for its rugged peaks, many soaring above 12,000 feet, and its stunning alpine and subalpine environments. Characterized by glacial lakes, dramatic granite formations, dense spruce-fir forests, and vast meadows bursting with wildflowers, the Snowy Range is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground itself sits beside Silver Lake, a picturesque 17-acre body of water at just under 10,500 feet elevation, making it the highest elevation campground in the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. The area is intersected by the scenic Wyoming Highway 130 (Snowy Range Scenic Byway), providing easy access to numerous trailheads, fishing spots, and breathtaking viewpoints. This unique combination of high-altitude beauty, diverse ecosystems, and rich recreational opportunities makes Silver Lake Campground a cherished destination for Wyomingites looking to explore the raw, untamed heart of their state's mountains.

Silver Lake Campground is located on WY-130, Saratoga, WY 82331, USA. This places it within the high-elevation Snowy Range of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, in southeastern Wyoming. Specifically, it is situated at just under 10,500 feet, making it the highest elevation campground in the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District, nestled directly beside Silver Lake.

Accessibility to Silver Lake Campground is relatively straightforward via Wyoming Highway 130, also known as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. This paved highway is generally well-maintained during its open season, which typically runs from late May or early June (depending on snowmelt) through October or until significant snowfall. From Saratoga, visitors would take WY-130/230 south for approximately 7.5 miles, then turn east onto WY-130 and continue for about 25.5 miles to reach the campground. Due to its high elevation, the byway is closed seasonally in winter. The campground itself is located directly off this scenic byway, meaning access roads within the campground are short and generally manageable. While the campground offers "pull thru sites" suitable for trailers under 32 feet and RVs, some sites are noted for being "not very level" and "pretty uneven and bumpy ground" for tents. This suggests that while RVs might be able to level themselves, tent campers should be prepared for varied terrain. The direct access from a paved scenic byway makes Silver Lake Campground quite accessible for a high-mountain destination, balancing remote natural beauty with relative ease of reach for most vehicles.

Silver Lake Campground offers a range of essential services, focusing on providing a rustic yet functional camping experience in a beautiful natural setting. It's designed for those who appreciate basic amenities and the tranquility of the forest.

• Campsites with Picnic Tables and Fire Grates: Each of the 17 campsites, including 3 RV pull-throughs (for trailers under 32 feet), is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire grate (fire ring) for campfires and cooking. This provides the fundamental elements for a traditional camping setup.

• Potable Water (Pump): As noted by a customer review, "There’s fresh water that you can get from a pump." This is a significant convenience, eliminating the need to bring all your own water for drinking and cooking.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets (non-flush restrooms). Customers found them to be well-maintained, noting "two vault toilets (two seats each in the men and women buildings)," which suggests a reasonable capacity for a rustic campground.

• Trash Receptacles: Trash bins are available for proper waste disposal, helping campers keep their sites clean and minimize environmental impact.

• Dog-Friendly (Leash Law): Dogs are allowed in the campground. However, a crucial point mentioned in reviews is that "dogs are allowed, and the camping sites range from pretty good to quite unlevel." More importantly, strict adherence to leash laws is expected, as some past incidents with off-leash dogs were noted as a problem. Campers should ensure their dogs are always leashed and well-behaved.

It's important to note what is generally *not* offered at this rustic campground: there are no electrical hookups, no sewer hookups, and no showers at individual campsites. Cell service is generally not available in the area, contributing to the "disconnected" feel. While the campground is "pretty sparse," as one review states, it provides "everything that you should need" for a classic mountain camping trip, emphasizing self-sufficiency and an appreciation for the natural environment.

Silver Lake Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for campers seeking a natural and peaceful experience in Wyoming:

• Stunning High-Altitude Mountain Setting: Located at just under 10,500 feet in the Snowy Range, the campground offers breathtaking views of rugged peaks, glacial landscapes, and the serene Silver Lake itself. This high-alpine environment provides a refreshing escape, particularly during warmer summer months.

• Abundant Wildflowers: As highlighted by a customer, the area features "A lot of wildflowers." During the blooming season (typically mid-summer), the meadows surrounding the campground burst with vibrant colors, creating a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere.

• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: Silver Lake Campground serves as a fantastic base for hikers. Customers praise "Great hiking from the campground." There's a notable "3.5 mile trail that goes around the backside of the hill south of the campground, past several small ponds as well as Silver Lake," even if "not really indicated on any of the maps." Additionally, the campground is near trailheads for the Silver Lake Trail (1.7 miles, moderate), Miner's Cabin Trail (0.7 miles, easy), French Creek Canyon Trail (5.3 miles, moderate), Medicine Bow Peak Trail (5.3 miles, difficult), and the Lakes Trail (1.8 miles, easy), providing options for all skill levels.

• Rustic and Nostalgic Charm: Described as a "Great rustic campground that reminds me of how nice things were in the 60s & 70s," Silver Lake appeals to those who appreciate a less developed, more authentic camping experience, fostering a strong connection with nature.

• Proximity to Silver Lake: The campground's direct proximity to the 17-acre Silver Lake offers opportunities for fishing (brook trout reside here), non-motorized boating (paddle-boarding, kayaking, canoeing), and enjoying the peaceful lakeside environment.

• Views of the Snowy Range Scenic Byway: While the byway provides accessibility, it's also a scenic highlight in itself, offering stunning drives and access to other attractions like Lake Marie Falls, Mirror Lake, and Medicine Bow Peak.

These features collectively ensure a rich and rewarding outdoor experience, making Silver Lake Campground a cherished spot for those who seek natural beauty and active recreation in the heart of Wyoming's mountains.

For reservations, current conditions, or any inquiries regarding Silver Lake Campground, the primary contact would be the U.S. Forest Service, as it is managed by the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and Thunder Basin National Grassland. The provided phone numbers are likely for the local Ranger District office that oversees this area.

• Address: WY-130, Saratoga, WY 82331, USA (This is the general geographic location. For precise navigation, follow signs along WY-130 within the Snowy Range Scenic Byway).

• Phone: (307) 745-2300 (This number likely connects to the Medicine Bow National Forest information line or the local Laramie Ranger District office, which would oversee the Snowy Range campgrounds).

• Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-2300 (Same as above, providing a direct line to the relevant Forest Service office).

Important Contact Notes:

• Reservations: Campsites at Silver Lake Campground are typically reservable through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book your site in advance, especially during the peak summer season, as this campground is popular.

• Forest Service Website: The official USDA Forest Service website for the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is the most comprehensive online resource. Here you can find up-to-date information on operating seasons, road conditions (especially for WY-130 which closes seasonally due to snow), current fire restrictions, and detailed maps of the campground and surrounding trails.

• Seasonal Operation: Given its high elevation (10,500 feet), Silver Lake Campground is typically open from late June/early July (depending on snow depth) through October. Always confirm the exact opening and closing dates with the Forest Service before planning your trip.

Using these contact methods will ensure you have the most accurate and timely information for a smooth and enjoyable camping trip to Silver Lake Campground.

For Wyoming residents, Silver Lake Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and deeply authentic mountain camping experience, perfectly capturing the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude that defines their home state. Its location high in the Snowy Range, directly on the scenic Highway 130, makes it an accessible yet truly immersive escape into the pristine Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. This ease of access, combined with its high-altitude setting, provides a welcome retreat from summer heat and a quick connection to breathtaking alpine landscapes.

The campground's rustic charm, reminiscent of simpler times, resonates strongly with locals who appreciate traditional outdoor adventures. While sites may not always be perfectly level, this adds to the natural, undeveloped feel that many Wyomingites prefer. The availability of fresh water from a pump and clean vault toilets provides essential comforts without detracting from the wilderness experience. This balance of basic amenities and raw natural beauty is a hallmark of quality Wyoming camping.

Furthermore, Silver Lake Campground's features align perfectly with the passions of Wyoming locals. The "great hiking from the campground," including the unique 3.5-mile loop around Silver Lake and ponds, offers endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. The abundance of wildflowers transforms the area into a vibrant spectacle, appealing to those who appreciate the state's diverse flora. Its proximity to the picturesque Silver Lake also makes it ideal for fishing for brook trout or enjoying quiet, non-motorized water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking, pursuits deeply ingrained in Wyoming's outdoor culture.

In essence, Silver Lake Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a quintessential Wyoming mountain experience. It offers locals a chance to reconnect with the land, enjoy solitude, engage in their favorite outdoor activities, and create lasting memories amidst the stunning beauty of the Snowy Range, right in their own backyard.

Silver Lake Campground

WY-130, Saratoga, WY 82331, USA