Silver Lake Campground (Wy)
2171 Highway 130, PO Box 249, Saratoga, WY, 82331
Silver Lake Campground (Wy)
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$10 for self-service fee area (cash and checks only, payable to USDA Forest Service). $20 per night during peak season. Additional fees for changes...
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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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(307) 326-5258
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 10,500 feet, Silver Lake Campground reigns as the crown jewel of high-altitude camping in the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. This alpine sanctuary features 17 thoughtfully designed campsites, including three convenient pull-through sites perfect for RVs under 32 feet. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, inviting you to gather under star-studded skies. Modern vault toilets, fresh potable water, and regular trash service ensure comfort even in this remote mountain paradise. Two scenic trailheads beckon directly from camp, opening doorways to the spectacular wilderness of the Snowy Range.
The campground accommodates a mix of tent and RV camping. While there are no glamping or cabin options, the site offers standard campsites, including a few pull-through options for RVs.
Historical SignificanceJourney along the renowned Snowy Range Scenic Byway, where every curve reveals another chapter in the Medicine Bow Mountains' ancient story. These glacially carved landscapes whisper tales of ice ages past, while the surrounding peaks stand as monuments to millions of years of geological drama. The area holds deep cultural significance, having served as a crossroads for Native American tribes, early explorers, and generations of outdoor enthusiasts drawn to its timeless beauty.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at this high-altitude haven, bringing crisp mountain days with temperatures dancing in the comfortable 60s to 70s Fahrenheit. As darkness falls, the thin alpine air quickly cools, often dipping near or below freezing—perfect for cozy campfire gatherings. When winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, adventurous souls return on snowshoes and skis to explore the region's legendary powder-filled months, making Silver Lake a true four-season destination.
ElevationAt nearly 10,500 feet, Silver Lake Campground offers an authentic alpine experience where the air is crisp, thin, and pure. This lofty perch places you among the clouds, where weather can shift from sunshine to snow in minutes. Visitors should arrive prepared for the realities of high-altitude camping—slower pace, deeper breaths, and extra layers—but the reward is an intimate connection with one of Wyoming's most spectacular mountain environments.
Natural Features and ScenerySilver Lake itself steals the show—a pristine 17-acre mirror reflecting towering peaks and endless sky. This glacial gem sits cradled by dense alpine forests that give way to wildflower-dotted meadows bursting with color each summer. Jagged summits soaring above 12,000 feet create a dramatic backdrop, their snow-capped ridges feeding crystalline lakes scattered like sapphires across the landscape. From delicate alpine forget-me-nots to robust Indian paintbrush, native wildflowers transform the meadows into nature's own impressionist painting.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Snowy Range, where the Medicine Bow Mountains showcase nature's most dramatic artistry. This remarkable geological wonderland bears the unmistakable signatures of ancient glaciers—U-shaped valleys, pristine cirque lakes, and knife-edge ridges that pierce the sky at over 12,000 feet. The rugged alpine environment tells a story written in stone, where quartzite cliffs gleam in the sunlight and weathered granite speaks of eons past. Here, at the intersection of forest and tundra, you'll discover one of Wyoming's most spectacular mountain landscapes.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails about accessibility were not provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground features 17 sites, including 3 RV pull-through sites for trailers under 32 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the removal of beetle-killed trees, leading to an open campsite layout. 'Extensive timber removal has left most campsites exposed,' said one camper.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and a quieter experience, choose sites 12 or 13. Site #1 provides excellent views of Silver Lake but may lack privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is noted for its lake views but lacks privacy; sites 12 and 13 offer seclusion near a meadow.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 1:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout17 campsites arranged in a loop, including 3 RV pull-throughs, with nearby trails leading to the lake and falls.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens in late June or early July depending on snow depth; closes in early September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited, with most campsites filling up quickly during summer months.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before scheduled arrival. Fees include a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Silver Lake Campground offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area is also popular for winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing. The proximity to Silver Lake and other attractions such as Lake Marie and Medicine Bow Peak enhances the recreational value.
Hiking
The campground provides access to two trailheads and is near trails like Medicine Bow Peak Trail and French Creek Canyon Trail. The Silver Lake Trail is a 3.8-mile loop around the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities to explore. 'Great trail around Silver Lake and Meadow Falls,' noted one camper.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Silver Lake, a 17-acre body of water with a maximum depth of 25 feet, is popular for fishing. Brook trout are the primary catch in the lake.Biking
Although not explicitly tied to the campground, the Snowy Range area offers mountain biking opportunities at various locations such as French Creek Canyon Trail and Tie Hack Trailhead.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife like deer, birds, and native wildflowers are commonly observed. 'We saw deer and many beautiful birds and wildflowers,' one reviewer highlighted.Winter Activities
Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing during the winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in the source materials.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in USFS metal fire rings; local firewood collection permitted (dead and down wood only).
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include exposure to cold temperatures, sudden weather changes, wildlife like bears, and limited shade due to beetle kill tree removal.
Weather forecast
14
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 20.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are based in Saratoga, WY, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 4, 2025 - September 7, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available on-site. However, some reviewers mentioned that they are often full.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Silver Lake, a 17-acre glacial lake with depths up to 25 feet. Trails lead to other nearby lakes and falls.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about crowded campsites, lack of privacy, outdated facilities, and unpleasant restroom conditions. Trash receptacles often full.
HostNo ranger presence noted at times; issues such as misuse of fire pits and unauthorized camping have been reported.
Campground Map
2171 Highway 130, PO Box 249, Saratoga, WY, 82331
Driving directionsFrom Saratoga travel south on Highway 130 for 8 miles to the 130/230 intersection. Turn left and travel 24 miles up Highway 130 to Silver Lake Campground. From Centennial stay on Highway130 for 18 miles to reach Silver Lake Campground.
Accessible via Highway 130, paved roads lead directly to the campground. Seasonal snow may delay access until late June or early July.Nearby places
Centennial, WY (18 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Saratoga, WY (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Centennial, WY provides basic amenities including fuel, groceries, and cell reception
Saratoga, WY offers broader supplies and services.
Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Silver Lake Campground (Wy) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Silver Lake Campground earns mixed reviews. While praised for its scenic location and proximity to hiking trails, complaints focus on the lack of privacy, outdated facilities, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic surroundings, the proximity to Silver Lake and various trails, and the abundance of wildlife. 'A great place to camp... the camping is wonderful,' one reviewer wrote.
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues raised include exposed campsites due to tree removal, poorly maintained toilets, and lack of privacy. 'Bathrooms smelled terrible and neither had toilet paper,' noted a user.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and toilet paper, and arrive early to secure a good site. 'Make sure you bring water and dress in layers. The nights are cold,' suggested one camper.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most favorable season due to accessible trails and milder weather. Campground fills up quickly during this period. Winter activities like snowshoeing are available, but extreme cold can...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Spots 12 and 13 seemed most secluded backing to meadow,' observed a reviewer. 'Beetle kill has decimated the tree population...it’s your only option during the summer,' mentioned another.
Based on 17 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is noted for its scenic lake view but suffers from frequent passersby. Site #6 is described as spacious but not very level. 'Spot #1 is the best seat in the house,' one reviewer stated.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but leash rules apply. One reviewer noted disturbances caused by other people's pets.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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