Worthen Meadow Campground
4.5411 reviewsWorthen Meadow Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Recreational fees vary by location and activity. Use fees include camping and day-use activities, with reservation fees ranging from $3 (in-person) to $8 (online).
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Worthen Meadow Reservoir, this high-country retreat serves as your gateway to the untamed Popo Agie Wilderness. Here in the heart of Shoshone National Forest, adventure begins right from your campsite, with wilderness trailheads beckoning just steps away. The campground offers all the essentials for a comfortable mountain escape: fresh drinking water, clean vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables with cook grates, and convenient boat ramp access for those eager to explore the reservoir's calm waters. Note that the winding mountain roads limit trailer access to those 24 feet and under, preserving the intimate feel of this wilderness haven.
Worthen Meadow Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping and RV camping (limited to trailers 24 feet or shorter). Group, cabin, or glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in a piece of American conservation history. Shoshone National Forest stands proud as one of the nation's first protected forests, a testament to early visionaries who recognized these lands' irreplaceable value. The campground serves as a modern basecamp for exploring the Popo Agie Wilderness, where centuries of wind and water have carved a landscape that remains as wild today as it was when Native American tribes first traversed these mountain passes.
Weather and SeasonsPrepare for the dramatic temperature swings that define high-altitude camping. Even in the heart of summer, nights can surprise you with their mountain chill, making warm sleeping bags essential year-round. Winter transforms this landscape into a frozen wonderland, with recorded temperatures plunging to a brisk 5°F and rarely climbing above 24°F. Moderate winds sweep across the reservoir, and light snowfall dusts the evergreens, creating a photographer's paradise for those hardy enough to brave the cold.
ElevationPerched high in Wyoming's mountain country, Worthen Meadow occupies that sweet spot where the air grows thin and the views grow spectacular. While specific elevation data awaits confirmation, the campground's mountain setting promises that refreshing high-altitude experience that leaves lowlanders catching their breath in more ways than one.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mirror-like reflections on Worthen Meadow Reservoir, where morning mist dances across the water before revealing the dramatic wilderness beyond. Towering evergreens frame every view, their branches home to mountain birds and their shadows sheltering the occasional deer or elk. The presence of bear-proof storage boxes serves as a thrilling reminder that you're sharing this landscape with its original inhabitants. From your campsite, the Popo Agie Wilderness stretches endlessly, its peaks and valleys promising discoveries for hikers willing to explore beyond the campground's comfortable confines.
Geological RegionWorthen Meadow Campground occupies a unique position where water meets wilderness in the greater Shoshone National Forest ecosystem. The reservoir, a jewel set among the peaks, creates a natural hub where the geological forces that shaped the Popo Agie Wilderness are on full display. This is classic Rocky Mountain terrain, where ancient uplift and erosion have sculpted a landscape of dramatic contrasts—from gentle meadows to rugged peaks, all accessible from your lakeside basecamp.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites accommodate tents and RVs with a maximum trailer length of 24 feet.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy. User reviews suggest that campsites on the second loop (east side) offer more seclusion and better views compared to the first loop, which is noisier and less private.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor a quieter experience, choose campsites in the second loop located on the southeast part of the lake as per user reviews.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest the second loop, with eight campsites located at higher elevation, offers quieter conditions and better views.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two loops: the first loop with 21 campsites, nicknamed 'Party Cove' by users due to noise and crowding, and the second loop with eight campsites offering quieter surroundings and better views.
Walk-in AvailabilityOperates on a first-come, first-served basis with 28 campsites available; user reviews suggest limited availability during peak periods.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available for this campground as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Worthen Meadow Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It is especially noted for its proximity to trailheads accessing the Popo Agie Wilderness.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity at Worthen Meadow Campground, with trailheads providing access to the Popo Agie Wilderness. Specific trail details are not provided, but the wilderness access suggests opportunities for various skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is available, with Rainbow and Brook Trout being common catches. However, the fishing experience is described as yielding 'very small' fish, and the east end near the dam is noted as having better success rates.Boating
Boating is supported with a small dock and a boat ramp available. Specifics about boat types or regulations are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
While no specific wildlife species are mentioned, the proximity to the Popo Agie Wilderness implies opportunities for wildlife viewing in a natural setting.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground's description does not suggest year-round accessibility.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible due to the presence of the reservoir, but they are not explicitly mentioned in the descriptions.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is a potential hazard as indicated by the presence of bear boxes. User reviews also mention cold nighttime temperatures and crowded camping conditions during peak periods.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
The nearest emergency services are likely in Lander, WY, which is approximately 18.5 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided regarding trash and recycling facilities. However, reviewers mentioned bear boxes at campsites that were useful for storing items.
Proximity to water featuresWorthen Meadow Campground is situated directly on the shores of Worthen Meadow Reservoir.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention noisy campers in the first loop (chainsaws, loud conversations). Limited availability during peak times is also noted.
HostUser reviews frequently praise the campground hosts for being helpful and friendly.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Lander, go 10 miles south on State Highway 131, then 8.5 miles on Forest Road 300.
Forest Road 300 is accessible from State Highway 131; however, users should note that this is a remote area and not suitable for trailers over 24 feet.Nearby places
Lander, WY (approximately 18.5 miles, 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Lander, WY, is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, approximately 18.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
11 reviews
Worthen Meadow Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Worthen Meadow Campground highlight its scenic setting by the reservoir, clean facilities, and quiet atmosphere (especially in the second loop of campsites). Some reviewers noted issues such as noisy neighbors in the first loop and the prevalence of RV campers. Fishing and boating opportunities were generally appreciated, although fishing success was described as yielding small fish.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
'Absolutely beautiful setting!' was a sentiment echoed by multiple reviewers. Clean vault toilets, potable water pumps, and helpful campground hosts were also frequently praised.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
The first loop was described as noisy, with one reviewer calling it 'Party Cove.' Another complaint was the unclean bear boxes at some campsites. Fishing was noted to yield small catches, and the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
'Visit midweek for a quieter experience.' 'Camp on the second loop for better views and a more peaceful atmosphere.' 'Be prepared for cold nights.'
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months, particularly mid-July, were popular and noted for quieter camping experiences midweek. Nights were described as cold, and fishing conditions varied based on location within the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campsites are very well established, there are *at least* 3 pumps for potable water dispersed between all the sites, and the outhouses were some of the cleanest I've ever been in.' - Jenne...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The first loop (21 sites) is described as noisier, while the second loop (8 sites) is quieter with better views. Specific site numbers are not mentioned, but the distinction between loops is...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features at the campground.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not specifically mentioned in the reviews, so it is unclear whether they are allowed or if there are any pet-friendly facilities.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025