4.0
Public Campground
9C4S
Grant Village, Wyoming
Campground in Wyoming.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Martin's Cove
This site is managed in partnership with the LDS Church who is the primary land owner at the site. Obey all signs and information. The Martin Handcart Company, the last handcart expedition to attempt the Trail in 1856, forded the North Platte River near Red Buttes on October 19 and fought snow, wind and sub-zero temperatures to reach this small cove in the flank of the Sweetwater Rocks about two miles west of Devil's Gate in early November. Rescuers sent from Salt Lake City found the company, ".
Martin's Cove offers a remarkable RV camping experience in the heart of Wyoming's historic landscape, where natural beauty and cultural significance converge in unforgettable ways. Located in a region steeped in American pioneer heritage, this public campground serves as an ideal base for travelers seeking to explore some of the West's most compelling historical sites and stunning natural terrain.
The surrounding area captures the essence of Wyoming's rugged character. Visitors find themselves immersed in high desert landscapes, sweeping vistas, and the kind of wide-open spaces that define the American frontier spirit. The region's historical significance runs deep, with numerous sites related to westward expansion and Native American history within reasonable driving distance. History enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with opportunities to explore landmark trails, visit interpretive centers, and gain perspective on the pioneers who traversed these challenging lands.
Beyond the historical draw, the natural environment surrounding Martin's Cove provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Wyoming landscape offers excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities. Early mornings and golden hour evenings present stunning photographic moments, with dramatic skies and varied terrain that inspire visitors of all photography skill levels. The relatively uncrowded nature of many nearby attractions means you can experience these spaces with a sense of solitude and peace that's increasingly rare.
The campground's location makes it particularly appealing for RV travelers who want to maintain a central base while day-tripping to multiple attractions. Rather than moving your RV repeatedly, you can settle in and explore the broader region at your own pace. This approach allows for a more relaxed travel experience while maximizing the number of sites and attractions you can visit.
Martin's Cove attracts a diverse range of travelers, from history buffs and cultural explorers to outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking meaningful travel experiences. The highly-rated reputation among past visitors speaks to the quality of the camping experience and the value of its strategic location for accessing the greater region's attractions and natural wonders.
The surrounding area captures the essence of Wyoming's rugged character. Visitors find themselves immersed in high desert landscapes, sweeping vistas, and the kind of wide-open spaces that define the American frontier spirit. The region's historical significance runs deep, with numerous sites related to westward expansion and Native American history within reasonable driving distance. History enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with opportunities to explore landmark trails, visit interpretive centers, and gain perspective on the pioneers who traversed these challenging lands.
Beyond the historical draw, the natural environment surrounding Martin's Cove provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Wyoming landscape offers excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities. Early mornings and golden hour evenings present stunning photographic moments, with dramatic skies and varied terrain that inspire visitors of all photography skill levels. The relatively uncrowded nature of many nearby attractions means you can experience these spaces with a sense of solitude and peace that's increasingly rare.
The campground's location makes it particularly appealing for RV travelers who want to maintain a central base while day-tripping to multiple attractions. Rather than moving your RV repeatedly, you can settle in and explore the broader region at your own pace. This approach allows for a more relaxed travel experience while maximizing the number of sites and attractions you can visit.
Martin's Cove attracts a diverse range of travelers, from history buffs and cultural explorers to outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking meaningful travel experiences. The highly-rated reputation among past visitors speaks to the quality of the camping experience and the value of its strategic location for accessing the greater region's attractions and natural wonders.
4.9
Rating
88
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
This area is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Wyoming weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for the area.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near the park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Martin's Cove Reviews
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Nancy Coogan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Nancy Coogan
Very interesting! Was great to see where the pioneers had traveled. Walking the same path and just imagining what it was like to come around each corner, never knowing what was there. Credit to all those braving the winters and the harsh summers.
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Cameron Jones
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Cameron Jones
Made this one of our main stops a long our trip to Mount Rushmore. The Missionaries went out of their way to make sure we had a great visit. Suggest reading about the area a head of time to learn of the hardships and sacrifices of over 500,000 early Saints and pioneers that traveled this route. This is part of the California, Oregon, Mormon, and Pony Express trail. This is sacred ground.
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Stacey Tew
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Stacey Tew
Beautifully Sacred historical place well worth the trip. It was wonderful to walk the trail our pioneer ancestors crossed through. It's a beautifully sacred place to remember the sacrifices made along the way. Lots to see and do for the whole family some buildings have been restored and can be toured. Highly encourage everyone to go and walk the trails. Bring plenty of water the trail is roughly... Beautifully Sacred historical place well worth the trip. It was wonderful to walk the trail our pioneer ancestors crossed through. It's a beautifully sacred place to remember the sacrifices made along the way. Lots to see and do for the whole family some buildings have been restored and can be toured. Highly encourage everyone to go and walk the trails. Bring plenty of water the trail is roughly 3-4 hours and it's hot in the summer. The Missionaries serving here are very helpful and friendly.
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DLM-Distribution Campervans
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by DLM-Distribution Campervans
Visiting Martin's Cove is a great experience! This historical site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich pioneer history. The trails are well-marked and provide a serene setting for reflection and learning about the courageous journey of the pioneers. The visitor center staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, adding depth to the stories of those who traveled through the cove... Visiting Martin's Cove is a great experience! This historical site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich pioneer history. The trails are well-marked and provide a serene setting for reflection and learning about the courageous journey of the pioneers. The visitor center staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, adding depth to the stories of those who traveled through the cove. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with breathtaking views that make the hike even more rewarding. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a peaceful place to explore, Martin's Cove is a must-visit destination. Highly recommended for its historical significance and natural beauty!
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McKenzie Kirtley
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by McKenzie Kirtley
Martins Cove was very nice. The missionaries were very knowledgeable and loved being able to help us. The visitor center is full of accounts of pioneers and pictures that help you understand what they went through. The museum is very cool with all the artifacts and interesting stories. The bunkhouse and washhouse are also extremely detailed and hyperealistic. The nearby river is so pretty. I can't... Martins Cove was very nice. The missionaries were very knowledgeable and loved being able to help us. The visitor center is full of accounts of pioneers and pictures that help you understand what they went through. The museum is very cool with all the artifacts and interesting stories. The bunkhouse and washhouse are also extremely detailed and hyperealistic. The nearby river is so pretty. I can't wait to come back. Fave stars!
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