Medicine Bow National Forest Encampment River Dispersed Sites

Dispersed sites line Forest Road 550 for roughly 4 miles along the Encampment River at 8,500 feet elevation. The area features massive granite boulders, remnant copper mining structures from the early 1900s, and crystal-clear mountain water. Sites vary from tight spots between boulders perfect for single rigs to larger meadow clearings that can handle group camping. Old mining roads provide access to additional secluded spots.

Access requires 4WD after mile 3 – the road becomes rocky with several stream crossings. Snow limits access to June through September. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Historic Sierra Madre Railway grade still visible in places, adding to the mining-era atmosphere.

Mining-era dispersed camping in granite boulder country