Vedauwoo Dispersed Camping — Medicine Bow National Forest
Vedauwoo Dispersed Camping
Massive granite rock formations, endless Wyoming skies, and some of the most unique free camping in the American West. Vedauwoo offers a rugged high-country camping experience surrounded by world-famous climbing routes and dramatic landscapes inside Medicine Bow National Forest.
Camp Overview
Vedauwoo Dispersed Camping is located within the Pole Mountain area of Medicine Bow National Forest in southeastern Wyoming. The area is famous for its enormous Sherman Granite formations, which rise dramatically above the surrounding forest and prairie landscape.
Unlike traditional campgrounds, campers stay in designated dispersed camping sites scattered throughout the forest road network. The experience feels remote while remaining surprisingly accessible from Interstate 80.
This area attracts climbers, photographers, overlanders, vanlifers, hikers, and travelers crossing Wyoming who want a memorable free camping experience surrounded by iconic western scenery.
Quick Facts
- State Wyoming
- Forest Medicine Bow National Forest
- Camping Type Designated Dispersed Sites
- Cost Free
- Reservations Not Required
- Max Stay 16 Days
- Elevation Approx. 8,200 ft
- Cell Signal Limited
- Water None
- Toilets None
Why Camp at Vedauwoo?
Massive Granite Formations
Towering granite outcrops create one of the most recognizable landscapes in Wyoming.
World-Class Climbing
Vedauwoo is internationally known for crack climbing and bouldering opportunities.
Easy Interstate Access
Just minutes from I-80 while still providing a remote forest camping experience.
Perfect for Overlanding
Forest roads and dispersed campsites make this a favorite stop for overland travelers.
Getting There
Most visitors access Vedauwoo from Interstate 80 between Cheyenne and Laramie. Forest Service Road 700 provides access to many of the designated dispersed camping sites throughout the recreation area.
Road conditions vary throughout the year. During dry weather most campsites are accessible with standard vehicles, while rain, snow, or spring melt can create muddy conditions that require higher clearance.
Vehicle Recommendations
✓ Passenger cars in dry weather
✓ Vans and campervans
✓ Truck campers
✓ Overland vehicles
✓ Small travel trailers
High-clearance vehicles provide greater flexibility for exploring less crowded sites.
Best Time To Visit
Late May through October generally offers the best camping conditions. Summer days are comfortable, but nights remain cool due to the elevation. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during July and August.
Spring and fall provide fewer crowds and excellent photography conditions. Winter camping is possible but often requires snow-ready equipment and careful weather planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vedauwoo camping free?
Yes. Designated dispersed camping sites within the forest are free to use.
Can RVs camp here?
Many sites accommodate campervans, truck campers, and smaller RVs, depending on road conditions.
Are campfires allowed?
Campfires may be allowed when no fire restrictions are in effect. Always verify current forest regulations before your trip.
Is there drinking water?
No. Campers must bring all necessary drinking water.
Why is Vedauwoo famous?
Vedauwoo is known for its spectacular granite rock formations, climbing routes, hiking opportunities, and scenic Wyoming landscapes.