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Encampment River Wilderness

The Encampment River Wilderness is within the Medicine Bow National Forest in Wyoming and is located on the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District in the Sierra Madre Range. Designated a Wilderness Area in 1984 with 10,124 acres, it is the smallest wilderness area in Wyoming and the average elevation is 7,800 feet. The Encampment River flows through a narrow, rugged canyon and varies from narrow, rushing rapids to calm, smooth stretches. Fishing and hunting are popular, and please be advised there is limited access due to yearly downed trees.

Please visit the Wilderness.net for more information. The trails that access the area are the Encampment River Trail, Commissary Park Trailhead and Purgatory Gulch Trailhead.

General Information

Topo maps

Forest Service Topography Maps: These maps overlay Forest Service assets, such as roads, trails and campgrounds, on USGS's topographic maps. They are available for download by quadrangle.

Paper and digital maps

USGS Store: Offers a full, nationwide selection of National Forest, Ranger District, Wilderness and Specialty Maps for purchase online or by phone.

Motorized equipment and vehicles are prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles and carts. Wheelchairs are exempt.

Group size limit is 12 people with livestock combined.

Camping & campfires are prohibited within 100 feet, or more if posted, of all lakes, streams & trails to protect water quality. Thin soil & mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire & fires scar rocks & soil. Use of a stove, fire pan or existing fire ring is encouraged where fires are allowed.

Pets must be under voice control at all times.

Grazing stock must not be hobbled, tethered or picketed within 100 feet, or more if posted, of any lakes, streams or trails. This protects fragile vegetation & keeps lakes & streams clean.

Certified weed-free forage is required. Only pelletized or steam-rolled feed grains, or certified weed-free hay, straw or mulch are allowed.

Permit is required for organized groups or commercial outfitters entering the Wilderness.

Short-cutting switchbacks on trails is prohibited.