Ryan Park
4.2456 reviewsBrush Creek/Hayden Ranger District P.O. Box 249 Saratoga, WY 82331 USA
Ryan Park
$20.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Ryan Park Campground charges $20 per night for standard and tent sites, $125 for group sites. Additional vehicle fees are $5 per day. Payment can be made via cash, check to USDA Forest Service, or online through www.recreation.gov.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Medicine Bow National Forest at 8,009 feet, Ryan Park Campground offers a perfect blend of mountain serenity and fascinating history. This 49-site haven welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with 13 spacious pull-through sites designed for larger rigs and a dedicated group area for gatherings under the stars. The gentle murmur of nearby Barrett Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your stay, while interpretive trails reveal the remarkable story of this former POW camp, adding layers of meaning to your mountain escape.
Ryan Park Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping. Primitive camping or glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceWalk where history unfolded at Ryan Park, where weathered foundations and thoughtfully placed interpretive signs tell remarkable stories of resilience and transformation. During the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this campground from wilderness, building the infrastructure that still serves visitors today. The site's most intriguing chapter came during World War II, when it housed German and Italian prisoners of war—men who found themselves in Wyoming's high country, far from the battlefields of Europe. Their stories, preserved through interpretive displays, add profound depth to your camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at Ryan Park, bringing crisp mornings that hover around 40°F before warming to pleasant 80°F afternoons—perfect for hiking without the lowland heat. Mountain thunderstorms occasionally roll through, painting dramatic skies and refreshing the forest floor. As autumn approaches, unexpected snowflakes may dust the landscape, reminding visitors of the elevation. Winter transforms the area into a snow-locked wonderland, often making roads impassable but creating a pristine wilderness for those who venture here in warmer months.
ElevationPerched at 8,009 feet above sea level, Ryan Park Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where cool mountain breezes sweep through camp even on the warmest days, and evening temperatures invite cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. The thin mountain air adds brilliance to stargazing and brings you closer to Wyoming's endless sky.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of evergreen giants and shimmering aspens creates an enchanting backdrop for your stay at Ryan Park. Come autumn, the aspens burst into golden flames against the dark conifers, creating one of Wyoming's most photographed landscapes. This diverse forest ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife—from massive moose browsing in meadows to black bears foraging for berries, and from bugling elk to graceful mule deer picking their way through camp at dawn. Every visit promises new wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities.
Geological RegionRyan Park Campground sits within the majestic Snowy Range region of Medicine Bow National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning beauty. The Barrett Creek drainage carves through forests of spruce, fir, and aspen, creating diverse habitats that support an remarkable array of wildlife. This mountain ecosystem hosts everything from elusive bobcats and clever coyotes to magnificent elk and moose, while black bears roam the berry patches and mule deer graze in alpine meadows. The region's dramatic elevation changes and varied terrain create countless microclimates, each supporting its own unique blend of flora and fauna.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information about accessibility features for disabled campers is provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. There are 49 campsites total, including 13 RV pull-through sites and a group campsite that can accommodate up to 140 visitors.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some sites are described as roomy, while others are noted to be closely spaced and lack sufficient trees for shade due to recent beetle-related deforestation.
Total Campsites49 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for shaded sites in Upper Loop for cooler stays. Avoid exposed ones in Center Loop during peak summer sun.
Best CampsitesSite #15 praised for its privacy and proximity to facilities. Site #34 accommodates large rigs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per standard campsite.
Groups
The group campsite includes 14 sites and can host up to 140 visitors. It is suitable for large gatherings such as scout troops or family reunions.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops: Upper Loop (Sites 001-016), Center Loop (Sites 017-033), and Group Sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from June 1 to September 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability exists though popular sites fill quickly on weekends and holidays, especially in summer.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival, subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fees. Changes to dates within the original reservation are free.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ryan Park Campground and the surrounding Medicine Bow National Forest offer a broad range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Snowy Range Scenic Byway grants access to various trailheads, historic sites, and scenic lookouts. Winter activities such as snowmobiling and skiing are also available in the region.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several hiking trails within the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. Notable nearby trails include the Ryan Park Campground Trail and others leading to small glacial lakes and vistas. Levels of difficulty and signage conditions vary, and some trail signs are reportedly worn and hard to read.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby lakes and creeks. Specific lakes accessible from the campground are described as beautiful with opportunities to fish, but no detailed information about species or regulations is provided.Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity, with nearby trailheads and forest roads accessible from the campground. The terrain and difficulty levels are not specified but cater to outdoor enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, deer, elk, black bears, and coyotes inhabit the area. Visitors frequently report sightings, especially in the surrounding Medicine Bow National Forest.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive signs at the campground provide historical insights into its use as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp and a prisoner of war site during the 1930s.Winter Activities
The Snowy Range area supports winter recreation activities such as snowmobiling and skiing.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, or other non-motorized water sports are not discussed in the materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires restricted to USFS-approved metal rings. Fire bans may apply; check local alerts.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters with black bears and uneven terrain. Visitors should practice bear safety and inspect campsites for hazards.
Active alertsNo potable water available due to bacterial issues. Visitors must bring their own water.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are in Saratoga, approximately 22.5 miles (~30 minutes away). Brush Creek Visitor Center is 2.5 miles west of the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 to September 7 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available during the summer season, but recycling services are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Barrett Creek, with nearby glacial lakes accessible by short drives.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of potable water, poor camp host interactions, and close site spacing. Some reviewers noted noise and unlevel pads.
HostCamp hosts Larry and Sherri are praised for their helpfulness. Some reviewers described encounters with rude or absent hosts.
Campground Map
Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District P.O. Box 249 Saratoga, WY 82331 USA
Driving directionsFrom Saratoga, Wyoming, travel south on Highway 130/230 for 8 miles. Turn left on Highway 130 and travel 12 miles east to Ryan Park Campground.
Access to Ryan Park Campground is via paved Highway 130, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. Roads to the campground are accessible under most weather conditions, but seasonal closures occur during winter.Nearby places
Saratoga (22.5 miles, ~30 minutes), Centennial (~40 miles, ~1 hour), Savery (~70 miles, ~1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Saratoga offers groceries, fuel, and camping supplies 22.5 miles (~30 minutes) away. Additional services available in Centennial (~40 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.2
56 reviews
Ryan Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ryan Park Campground are mixed. Many visitors appreciate the scenic beauty, clean vault toilets, and helpful campground hosts. However, recurring issues with potable water availability, closely spaced campsites, and noise disturbances have been highlighted.
Review Summaries
Based on 56 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes clean and well-maintained facilities, 'amazing' and 'friendly' campground hosts, and proximity to hiking trails and scenic areas. The campground's historical significance...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water despite being listed as available, noisy neighbors, closely spaced sites, and limited shade due to deforestation. Several users also mentioned...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water due to unreliable potable water availability. Arriving early to secure shaded sites is advised. Campers also suggest verifying site dimensions and...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with high visitation rates due to warm temperatures and accessible trails. However, several reviewers noted water issues in the summer. Winter activities like...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The vault toilets are the cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen.' - STEPHEN P
2. 'We loved our stay at Ryan Park. It's a great campground.' - BO B
3. 'Larry and Sherri are the best camp hosts! The...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback varies:
- Site 004: Difficult for RVs larger than 18'.
- Site 007: Close to a clean bathroom but limited privacy.
- Group Site: Suitable for large groups, with uneven ground...
Based on 56 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled campers.
Based on 56 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several reviewers brought their dogs. No specific pet-related concerns were raised, other than the leash rule.
Based on 56 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025