Camping at Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

Overview

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland cover over 2.2 million acres of public land straddling the border between Wyoming and Colorado. With an extensive network of trails, numerous campgrounds, ski resorts, and a range of recreational opportunities, this area is a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Camping Regulations

Campground Camping

• Campgrounds often have amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, potable water, and restrooms.
• Reservations for some campgrounds can be made via recreation.gov, and some allow first-come, first-served.
• Fees vary by location and site amenities.

Backcountry Camping

• Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas but be aware of specific regulations.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on the environment.
• Be prepared to pack out all waste, as facilities are scarce.

Group Size

• There are typically limits on group size to minimize impact—check with the local ranger district for specific rules.

Fire Safety

• Fire restrictions may be in place depending on weather conditions; always check current restrictions.
• Use established fire rings where available, and never leave fires unattended.
• Collect only down and dead wood if permitted; do not cut live trees.

Wildlife

• Store food properly to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Be informed about wildlife in the area, and know how to behave responsibly.
• Fishing and hunting may be permitted with appropriate licenses.

Weather and Conditions

• Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for a variety of conditions, particularly at higher elevations.
• Some roads and trails may be closed seasonally, so check conditions ahead of time.

Recreation

• Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle use are popular activities with designated trails available.
• Winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling are also prevalent.
• Parts of the forest are open for timber and mineral extraction, so be aware of such areas.

Special Considerations

Altitude Sickness

• Some recreational areas are at high altitude; acclimate gradually to prevent altitude sickness.

Permits

• Some areas require special permits for activities like large group events or specific recreational activities.

Conservation

• Many areas are being rehabilitated or conserved for wildlife; always respect closures and restoration efforts.

Useful Contacts

Before your trip, it's wise to contact the relevant district offices for the latest information:

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests

• Laramie District, Brush Creek/Hayden District, Parks District, Hahns Peak/Bears Ears District, Yampa District

Thunder Basin National Grassland

• Douglas District

Each of these districts can provide the most current and detailed information regarding conditions, closures, permits, and regulations.

Always respect the natural environment and other visitors by being a responsible camper and following all guidelines and rules set forth by the U.S. Forest Service. This will ensure that the forests and grasslands can be enjoyed by future generations.