Encampment River Wilderness

Encampment River Wilderness is a 10,212-acre federally protected Wilderness Area in Wyoming, managed by the Forest Service. The landscape offers backcountry terrain suited to foot travel and non-motorized exploration, with the Encampment River as a defining feature. This is true wilderness—no roads, motors, or mechanized travel are permitted. Visitors come for hiking, backpacking, and the solitude that comes with remote, primitive backcountry. Access requires leaving vehicles behind and traveling on foot or horseback only.

Wilderness rules are strict and non-negotiable. Leave No Trace principles are essential: pack out all waste, camp on durable surfaces away from water sources, and respect the area's undeveloped character. The wilderness is open to foot traffic and horse travel year-round in principle, but snow and weather make summer and early fall the practical seasons. Plan for self-sufficiency—no facilities, no maintained infrastructure, no shortcuts. This is a place for experienced backcountry travelers who understand wilderness travel and ethics.