About Encampment River Canyon
From their lofty perches, bighorn sheep warily eye the hikers on the Encampment River Trail below. The trail, which traverses the WSA and enters Colorado to the south, follows the scenic Encampment River. Located two miles south of Encampment and easily accessible from BLM's Encampment River Campground, this 4,547-acre WSA contains grasslands, riparian areas and forested slopes. All 4,547 acres of this WSA were recommended for wilderness status in the 1992 report to Congress. The Encampment River Canyon WSA offers opportunities for a great variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, backpacking, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing photography, camping, rock hounding and sightseeing. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department classified the Encampment River as very good trout waters with statewide importance. The Encampment River Trail parallels the river and provides access to the entire length of the river. Mule deer hunting is very popular within the WSA as it is locally considered a potential trophy area. There are no hunting seasons on bighorn sheep in the area because of low sheep numbers.
How to Get There
From I-80, take Wyo 130 and Wyo 230 south approximately 38 miles to Encampment. Follow highway through town to Wyo 70. County Road 353 is left approximately 1/4 mile west of town. Follow it one mile south to BLM Road 3407. Encampment River Campground is about 3/4 mile. Drive through the campground to the back where a kiosk and parking area are located.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Encampment River Canyon
Heading to Encampment River Canyon? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Encampment River Canyon?
No central reservation system listed for Encampment River Canyon. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14654) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Encampment River Canyon?
From I-80, take Wyo 130 and Wyo 230 south approximately 38 miles to Encampment. Follow highway through town to Wyo 70. County Road 353 is left approximately 1/4 mile west of town. Follow it one mile south to BLM Road 3407. Encampment River Campground is about 3/4 mile. Drive through the campground to the back where a kiosk and parking area are located.
How do I contact Encampment River Canyon?
You can reach the park at phone: 307-328-4200 or email: rawlins_wymail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
