Bow River Campground (Wy)

Star4.18
14 reviews
Bow River Campground (Wy)
$10.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges $14 per site during the peak season when reserved through Recreation.gov. First-come, first-served sites are $10 per night and...
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Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$14.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
307-326-5258

About this campground

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Bow River Campground, where 13 intimate campsites await beneath a canopy of towering lodgepole pines and whispering spruce trees. This hidden gem along the upper Medicine Bow River offers a true back-to-nature experience, where young aspens dance in the mountain breeze and the only sounds are birdsong and rushing water. As a 'pack-in, pack-out' facility, this remote sanctuary preserves its untouched beauty by asking visitors to carry out what they bring in, ensuring future generations can enjoy the same unspoiled wilderness.
Bow River Campground offers sites suitable for tents, trailers, and small RVs. It does not have group camping, cabin lodging, or glamping facilities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp mountain air and ever-changing moods of high-altitude weather at Bow River. While summer days bring mild, dry conditions perfect for hiking and exploring, temperatures can surprise visitors with recorded highs hovering around 36°F and nighttime lows dipping to 18°F. These cooler temperatures reflect the campground's significant elevation, where weather patterns can shift quickly and dramatically, creating an authentic mountain adventure that keeps campers connected to nature's rhythms.
ElevationPerched high in the Medicine Bow mountains, this elevated retreat offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, with crisp air that invigorates the senses. The campground's lofty position brings both rewards and responsibilities—stunning vistas and cooler temperatures come paired with the possibility of sudden weather changes, making it essential for visitors to arrive prepared for mountain conditions that can shift from sunshine to storms in moments.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry of mountain ecology where lodgepole pines stretch skyward alongside stately alpine firs and ancient spruce sentinels. The Bow River weaves its crystal-clear path through this woodland sanctuary, creating a soothing soundtrack for your stay. Keep your camera ready for encounters with the area's magnificent wildlife—majestic elk grazing in meadows, gentle deer stepping through shadows, imposing moose near water sources, and the occasional glimpse of bears or mountain lions that remind visitors they're guests in a wild kingdom.
Geological RegionDiscover the dramatic landscape transitions of the Snowy Range within Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, where your journey takes you from sun-baked sagebrush plains through dense lodgepole forests and into the ethereal realm of spruce-fir woodlands. This remarkable geological showcase reveals millions of years of mountain-building forces, creating a vertical journey through distinct life zones that culminate in alpine meadows kissing the sky—a testament to nature's ability to paint with elevation, creating distinct worlds within a single mountain range.

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as accommodating tents, trailers, and small RVs. Reviews suggest that larger vehicles may face challenges; one user noted, "Only a couple spots could accommodate this setup" for a 31’ camper and crew cab.
Sites Privacy"Sites were nicely spaced apart," according to a user review. The outer portion of the loop offers better privacy than the inner part, based on user feedback.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests with larger RVs (over 24 feet) may find some sites challenging to navigate due to tight angles. Campers recommend bringing your own water as the pump may be unreliable.
Best CampsitesSites near the river are often praised, with specific mentions of site 12 offering great views but being more suited to smaller campers.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people and 2 vehicles per site.
Groups
Group sites are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout, with sites spaced apart for privacy. Sites closer to the river are highlighted for their scenic value.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from July 1 to September 7, annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, both online and via the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered for sites not reserved in advance. Payment must be made on-site using cash or check.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee and additional penalties for late cancellations or no-shows ($20 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee). Late cancellations for individual campsites begin at midnight 1 calendar day before check-in.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a hub for various outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. Adjacent to Bow River, it also provides access to popular hiking trails like Rock Creek, Sheep Lake, and Crater Lake. OHVs can explore the Campbell Lake Loop starting July 1.
Hiking
Nearby trails include Rock Creek, Sheep Lake, and Crater Lake. Trails within the Snowy Range offer options for both day hikes and backcountry trips.
Fishing
The nearby Bow River and over 100 lakes in the Snowy Range provide fishing opportunities. Fish types or success rates are not specified.
Biking
The area supports mountain biking, though specific trails for biking are not detailed.
Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to deer, elk, moose, bear, and mountain lions. Wildlife sightings are common due to the natural setting.
Winter Activities
Snowshoeing and skiing are available in the Snowy Range nearby.
Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fires are allowed only in USFS-approved fire rings. Firewood must be collected locally or purchased nearby to prevent invasive pests.
  • Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and mountain lions. Visitors are advised to practice bear safety, including proper food storage.

Weather forecast

56
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 45%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 10.6 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.

Daily & Hourly Insights

View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.

Temperature Trends

Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.

Precipitation Trends

Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.

Weather Summaries

Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.

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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are likely in Saratoga, WY, which includes a medical facility and ranger station.

Good to know

Peak season datesJuly 1 - September 7
Trash and recyclingThis campground operates as a pack-in, pack-out site with no trash or recycling services available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to Bow River, offering scenic creek access.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a nuisance around dusk, and some guests noted issues with site reservation markings causing confusion. There have also been complaints about water pumps being unreliable or producing discolored water.

Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Saratoga, WY take the Snowy Range Highway east 20 miles to Forest Road 100. Turn onto Forest Road 100 and drive approximately 20 miles to the Bow River campground. This is a slow drive. From Elk Mountain, WY take Carbon County Road 101 south to the National Forest boundary. Continue on Road 101 to Forest Road 100, approximately 2 miles. Turn onto Forest Road 100 and watch for the campground in less than .5 mile.
The roads to the campground are unpaved and may be challenging. One user review notes, 'All dirt roads to get there.' Another review mentions that the route is slow and suggests following USFS directions instead of Google Maps.
Nearby places
Saratoga, WY (20 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Elk Mountain, WY (2.5 miles to the Forest boundary, approximately 5 minutes, then additional travel required to reach the campground)
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping gear, can likely be found in Saratoga, WY, the nearest town.

Camper Reviews

4.2
14 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Bow River Campground (Wy) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, tranquility, and access to the Bow River. However, issues like poor water pump functionality, mosquito presence, and inconsistent bathroom cleanliness are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the "beautiful area," "nicely spaced sites," and "dark skies for stargazing." The serene setting and proximity to the river were also appreciated.
Based on 14 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquito issues in June, inconsistent water pump functionality ("water is not clean"), and poor bathroom maintenance were frequent complaints.
Based on 14 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Bring your own water" is a common recommendation due to pump issues. Arrive early to secure a spot and follow USFS directions rather than Google Maps for better navigation.
Based on 14 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquito activity is heightened in early summer, while fewer campers visit early or late in the season. Stargazing is noted as a highlight during clear nights.
Based on 14 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bow River Campground is a great campground. We had the place to ourselves," noted a user in June 2024. "The stars made it all worth it." Another warned, "Be ready to defend against the hoards of...
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Based on 14 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 12 received specific mentions for its "gorgeous" view but was better suited for smaller campers. Some issues with reserved sites not being properly marked caused frustration.
Based on 14 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 14 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet owners mentioned issues with other dogs barking excessively, which detracted from the tranquil environment.
Based on 14 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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