Bottle Creek Campground (Wy)
4.0712 reviews2171 S. HWY 130
Quick Facts
8,800 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
16 campsites
Season
Open June 01 to Sept...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
8,800 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
16 campsites
Season
Open June 01 to Sept...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBottle Creek Campground (Wy)
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$10 per night per site during the off-season, increasing to $20 during peak season (June 01 to September 07). Payment accepted in cash or checks made...
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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
Provider307-326-5258
What Campers Say
4.07
Satisfactory
Based on 12 reviews
20 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewslocationhikingwell-maintained
"The campground receives mixed reviews. While many highlight its tranquil environment, beautiful scenery, and affordable fees, others note inconsistencies in water availability, unclean facilities, and limited amenities. Wildlife presence, including bears and cows, adds to the rustic experience."
Fees & Passes at Bottle Creek Campground (Wy)
$10 - $20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations prior to arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 day prior) forf...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official USDA Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Bottle Creek Campground (Wy)
The high-altitude climate at Bottle Creek creates a dramatic canvas of seasonal change that keeps visitors coming back year-round. Spring arrives with a whisper of warmth battling lingering snow, while summer transforms the landscape into a cool mountain refuge where afternoon temperatures rarely climb uncomfortably high. Even on the warmest July days, the thin mountain air brings refreshing relief, though wise campers always pack an extra layer for those crisp alpine evenings when stars emerge in the crystal-clear sky. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, adding nature's percussion to the mountain symphony and leaving behind the sweet scent of rain-washed pine and earth.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 01 to September 07. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open June 01 to September 07 for reservations. Closed outside of these dates.
- Current Alerts: No current alerts are mentioned, but visitors are encouraged to check weather and forest service websites for updates prior to arrival.
About Bottle Creek Campground (Wy)
Tucked away at 8,800 feet in the pristine wilderness of Medicine Bow National Forest, Bottle Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Wyoming's high country. This charming 16-site retreat welcomes adventurers seeking a genuine back-to-basics experience, where smaller trailers and tents nestle among the trees, and days unfold with endless possibilities for exploration. From casting a line in crystal-clear mountain waters to discovering hidden trails that wind through aspen groves, this is camping as it was meant to be. As a pack-in, pack-out facility, Bottle Creek preserves its wild character, inviting visitors to tread lightly and leave only footprints in this spectacular alpine sanctuary.
Bottle Creek Campground caters to small trailers, tents, and car campers. The sites are basic and suited for those seeking a more primitive camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThe lands surrounding Bottle Creek echo with stories of mountain men, pioneering families, and indigenous peoples who first traced these high country paths. Positioned near the legendary Encampment River and the spine of the Continental Divide, this area served as a crucial corridor for early settlers drawn by tales of beaver-rich streams and gold-flecked hills. Today's visitors follow in the footsteps of these early adventurers, experiencing the same sense of discovery that has drawn people to these mountains for generations. The campground serves as a gateway to understanding the rugged determination and wild spirit that shaped the American West.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-altitude climate at Bottle Creek creates a dramatic canvas of seasonal change that keeps visitors coming back year-round. Spring arrives with a whisper of warmth battling lingering snow, while summer transforms the landscape into a cool mountain refuge where afternoon temperatures rarely climb uncomfortably high. Even on the warmest July days, the thin mountain air brings refreshing relief, though wise campers always pack an extra layer for those crisp alpine evenings when stars emerge in the crystal-clear sky. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, adding nature's percussion to the mountain symphony and leaving behind the sweet scent of rain-washed pine and earth.
ElevationPerched at 8,800 feet where the air grows thin and the views stretch endlessly, Bottle Creek Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that provides blessed relief from sweltering valley temperatures, though the thin air reminds lowlanders to take it easy their first day. As the sun dips behind the peaks, temperatures can plummet dramatically, transforming warm afternoons into evenings that demand campfires and cozy sleeping bags. The elevation also means spectacular stargazing opportunities, with the Milky Way painting a brilliant stripe across the darkness in ways impossible to see from lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryNature paints with a dramatic brush at Bottle Creek, where trembling aspen groves create living walls of green that shimmer and dance in the mountain breeze. While the ghosts of beetle-killed pines stand as silent sentinels throughout the forest, vibrant young aspens eagerly fill the gaps, creating a patchwork of renewal and resilience. Summer brings an explosion of wildflowers that carpet the meadows in purple lupine, golden arnica, and delicate columbines. This diverse habitat attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters – from majestic elk grazing in dawn's first light to black bears foraging for berries, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem where proper food storage isn't just recommended, it's essential.
Geological RegionBottle Creek Campground sits within the ancient, weather-carved peaks of Medicine Bow National Forest, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking beauty. This corner of Wyoming showcases the raw power of the Continental Divide, where tectonic upheaval created the dramatic ridgelines and deep valleys that define the region. Alpine meadows punctuate dense forests, while exposed granite faces tell the story of ice ages past. The campground's location offers front-row seats to this geological theater, where every rock formation and mountain vista serves as a chapter in Earth's epic story, written over millions of years in stone, ice, and time.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe facility includes accessible campsites, parking, and pit toilets.
Sites SizeThe campsites are small, suitable for trailers less than 16 feet.
Sites PrivacyVaried privacy levels, with some sites described as open due to beetle-killed trees and others more secluded with Aspen regrowth.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sturdy stakes for tents due to rocky and loose soil. Campsite #2 offers excellent views. Avoid relying on water availability; bring bottled water as the hand pump is often non-functional.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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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 is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people and 2 vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 16 small campsites, designed for trailers under 16 feet. Parking is available near walk-in tent sites, but RVs are prohibited in these areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 01 to September 07 for reservations. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or through the USDA Forest Service contact centers.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly stated, but self-service is mentioned for fees during off-season periods.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 day prior) forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the $10 cancellation fee. No-shows also incur a $20 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of activities, including day hiking at Green Mountain Falls and the Encampment River, fishing in the Encampment and North Fork Encampment Rivers, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Activities also include bicycling (road cycling), hunting (big game), and OHV road riding. Visitors can enjoy a serene environment with great views and access to the Continental Divide.
Hiking
Day hiking is available at Green Mountain Falls and the Encampment River. Trails offer easy accessibility and are suitable for picnics and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the Encampment and North Fork Encampment Rivers, with brook, brown, and rainbow trout commonly caught.Biking
Road cycling opportunities are available within the vicinity.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, and visitors are advised to keep a clean camp due to the presence of bears.Winter Activities
The campground's location at a high elevation may offer opportunities for winter sports, but no specific winter activities are listed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only allowed in designated metal rings using local wood or purchased firewood. Visitors must extinguish fires completely before departure.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and elk, uneven terrain in campsites, and occasional flooding during heavy rains. Visitors are advised to store food securely and inspect campsites for safety.
Active alertsNo current alerts are mentioned, but visitors are encouraged to check weather and forest service websites for updates prior to arrival.
Weather at Bottle Creek Campground (Wy)
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 18.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Encampment, which offers limited medical services and supplies. Larger facilities may require travel to Saratoga.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 01 to September 07
Trash and recyclingTrash service is not provided on-site, and campers are required to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Encampment River and North Fork Encampment River, known for fishing opportunities including brook, brown, and rainbow trout.
Common complaintsCommon complaints from user reviews include inconsistent potable water availability, lack of trash service, and poorly maintained fire pits and vault toilets. Several reviews also mention human waste and trash issues.
HostNo mention of a permanent campground host.
Campground Map
2171 S. HWY 130
Driving directionsFrom Encampment, take Wyoming Highway 70 west approximately 5 miles to Forest Road 550 (Hog Park Reservoir). Turn left onto Forest Road 550 and turn right 0.1 mile, the campground entrance is 0.2 miles.
The campground is accessible via a paved road followed by approximately 0.2 miles of unpaved gravel road. Road conditions can vary depending on weather.Nearby places
Encampment (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Saratoga (30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, gas, and restaurants are available in Encampment, approximately 5 miles away. Additional options in Saratoga, about a 30-minute drive away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.1
12 reviews
Bottle Creek Campground (Wy) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. While many highlight its tranquil environment, beautiful scenery, and affordable fees, others note inconsistencies in water availability, unclean facilities, and limited amenities. Wildlife presence, including bears and cows, adds to the rustic experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the serenity of the location, the views, and the well-maintained vault toilets. Many also enjoyed the proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots.
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most common issues include unreliable water access, trash left behind by other campers, and unmaintained facilities. Some also mentioned the lack of shade due to beetle-killed trees.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring enough water for your stay, as the hand pump may be non-functional. A hatchet or saw is useful for gathering firewood. Check water and toilet statuses on the USDA website before visiting.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Users suggested that spring visitors bring their own water as the pump handle is often removed for testing. Summer reviews note that the elevation helps mitigate heat, but dusty roads can be an issue.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This was a great campground but has since been decommissioned." (Miles Girl, 2019); "Vault toilets were open and stocked with single-ply paper." (Jody LeSage, 2022); "The pump handle wasn't attached...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 is noted for its unmatched view at a memorial overlook. Site #10 was criticized for issues with reservations not being marked on arrival.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some amenities like accessible pit toilets and parking are available, though no specific feedback from disabled users was provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and campers are reminded to keep dogs on a leash.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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