The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Teton Reservoir Recreation Site lies in the rolling sage grasslands of southern Wyoming's Great Divide Basin. The scenic reservoir, campground, and recreation area make up one of over 850 pieces of federal land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM, an agency of the federal government, is responsible for managing and protecting roughly 247 million acres of diverse land all over the United States. Because the vast majority of these BLM sites feature well-kept camping areas and offer a variety of activities and attractions, BLM camping is a popular activity for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you search for "BLM camping near me" or check the BLM website, you can find out if any of these sites are located in your area.
Located in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, this loop trail offers a challenging hike with significant elevation gain and is very popular among backpackers, campers, and hikers, so you'll most likely see other people while you make the trek. Although it will take real effort and several hours to traverse the whole loop, the breathtaking views will be more than worth it. If possible, try to visit this trail between June and November.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Hard
The Boulder Trail to N. Platte River is located near the town of Saratoga, WY only a short distance from the Teton Reservoir. The out-and-back trail will take you through a sparsely forested, slightly elevated area until you reach the N. Platte River. There, if you like, you can stop to do some fishing. Feel free to bring your dogs along, but be sure to keep them leashed at all times.
Length: 3.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
When you visit the Teton Reservoir Recreation Site, you'll have amazing opportunities for fishing and boating within walking distance. The on-site reservoir is regarded as a great place to catch cutthroat, brook, and rainbow trout as are the nearby streams. You may also reel in a few splakes. The reservoir is also a popular destination for non-motorized boating, watersports, and swimming. Alternatively, if you head to the nearby Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, you'll find even more excellent fishing spots with several additional species of trout.
The Teton Reservoir Recreation Site is found within the Great Divide Basin, and the Great Divide, which provides a challenging climbing opportunity, is only a short distance away. Rock climbing enthusiasts taking on the Great Divide will find that the rock is sparsely featured, and face climbing is doable, but you'll want to use all bolts. Generally, the climb is regarded as enjoyable and safe, and the views are unforgettable as you ascend.
Quite a few interesting species of wildlife are regularly seen in the Teton Reservoir area. Whether they're climbing the nearby Atlantic Rim or stopping by a nearby stream for a drink of cool water, you'll have a good chance to spot some animals during your visit. Keep your eyes open for mule deer, coyotes, pronghorns, grouse, and ducks.
The Teton Reservoir Recreation Site features five campsites, and each of them comes stocked with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. If you aren't staying at one of the campsites or would prefer to stake out your own picnicking spot, why not walk down to the shores of the lake? Laying out a picnic blanket and eating near the peaceful reservoir would most certainly be a relaxing, memorable experience.
Provided that your vehicle isn't more than 25 feet long, you should have no problem BLM RV camping at the Teton Reservoir Recreation Site. You won't have access to modern amenities or RV hookups at the five Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, but you will at other locations in the area. At the Rawlins KOA Journey, you can rent a campsite with electric, water, and sewer hookups. There, the sites can accommodate vehicles up to 70 feet in length, and you can reserve your spot ahead of time. You could also head to the Red Desert Rose Campground, where you can rent a site with full hookups and utilize a variety of amenities.
If you're in search of Bureau of Land Management free camping in the area, you may be limited when it comes to quality options. Your best bet would likely be to travel around to the north side of the Teton Reservoir. There, you can look for a suitable dispersed camping area to set up your campsite. Because much of the area is rocky and arid, it may be difficult to find pleasant spots if you stray far from the lake.
If you're heading to the Teton Reservoir Recreation Site and planning to stay at one of the on-site campgrounds, remember that they're only open between June 1st and November 15th. You should also keep in mind that you'll need to provide your own food, water, and supplies. Since the BLM site is in a remote area far from any major cities, you'd be wise to pack quite a few extra supplies in case of an emergency.
If you go exploring around the recreation site, be sure to watch where you step. Rattlesnakes have been spotted in the area, and you certainly don't want to upset one. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When you travel and camp, only do so on durable surfaces. Whatever trash and waste you create, dispose of it properly or take it with you when you leave. Leave anything you find in nature undisturbed, and if you encounter wildlife, treat it with respect and only observe from a healthy distance. When you burn campfires, keep them safely contained and minimize their impact. And finally, always be considerate of your fellow visitors.
To reach the Teton Reservoir Recreation Site from Rawlins, WY, take WY-71 S and follow it for 13.8 miles. Then take a left onto BLM Road 3418. After roughly 0.75 miles, you should see a turn for the BLM campground on your right.
Ready to visit Teton Reservoir Recreation Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
