Wyoming : Safety by CityWelcome to Saratoga, Wyoming—a place where history, nature, and small-town charm come together in the south-central part of the state.
This corner of Carbon County has long been a destination, starting with the indigenous tribes who were drawn to the healing waters of the natural hot springs.
The name “Saratoga” itself comes from the Iroquoian word for “place of miraculous water in the rock.”
The North Platte River is the lifeblood of the area, a sparkling artery that supports everything from irrigation to recreation.
Its clear waters attract anglers chasing blue-ribbon trout.
Historically, the river served as a vital resource for the area’s ranching and logging industries, helping Saratoga establish itself as a hub of hard work and ingenuity.
What really makes Saratoga stand out, though, is its hot springs.
These pools are naturally fed by geothermal activity deep within the Earth, creating year-round oases of steaming water that locals and visitors alike swear by for their soothing, therapeutic properties.
Plus, at least one of the springs is free to all throughout the year.
Beyond the city, you get the beauty of Medicine Bow National Forest, with peaks above 11,000 feet and outdoor activities for all seasons.
Saratoga is a place where geological wonders, Old West vibes, and abundant recreation mix in perfect harmony.
Warnings & Dangers in Saratoga
OVERALL RISK: LOW
The risk is low, but a lot of it depends on your knowledge and expertise in the great outdoors. We hope this guide provides you with the basics of safety when enjoying this outdoor wonderland.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Saratoga is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transportation options. Some regional bus services connect nearby towns, but private vehicles are essential for most trips. In winter, snow tires or chains are recommended. The town’s rural location means rideshares and taxis are generally unavailable.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Theft risk is low, but always use extra caution when in large crowds. Don't leave items unattended, even in the wild, as you probably face a greater risk of a wild animal trying to get your snacks, compared to petty theft. Even in remote areas, always lock your car and leave the window rolled up with personal items stashed in the trunk.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
The area has minimal natural disaster risks compared to many regions. Flooding from spring snowmelt or heavy rain is possible but rare. Wildfires can occur in surrounding forests during dry summers. Earthquakes are infrequent and low in intensity. Severe weather, like blizzards, is the primary concern in winter.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Robberies are pretty rare across Carbon County. While this is another low risk, use common sense and don't let that give you a false sense of security.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Saratoga, as a small, rural community, faces an extremely low risk of terrorism. Its remote location and lack of major infrastructure or large population centers make it an unlikely target. The town focuses primarily on local safety and emergency preparedness for natural events rather than terrorism threats.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. Most scams will focus on residents or the elderly. Report any fraudulent attempts to local law enforcement.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Women don't face greater risks here compared to men. It's safe for women who are skilled at outdoor activities. The area is remote, so be sure you have ways to call for help or a survival kit in case you get stranded.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 report for Saratoga, Wyoming, shows full compliance and no violations.
Safest Places to Visit in Saratoga
The city website for Saratoga lists a few visitor attractions, but it’s the “Discover Carbon County” website you want to use to learn about things to do in town and throughout the region.
You can also review the Upper North Platte River Valley’s Chamber of Commerce website.
Downtown Saratoga is just two blocks long, but it drips with Old West appeal.
Hotel Wolf has been welcoming guests since 1893.
At least stop by the restaurant and saloon for a unique experience.
The Saratoga Museum offers insights into the town’s past.
Open during the summer months, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the area’s rich heritage.
One must-see stop is the Hobo Hot Pool, which is free, 24/7 access to natural mineral hot springs.
With water temperatures ranging from soothing to steamy, it’s perfect for relaxation or rejuvenation after outdoor adventures.
If you like the idea of hot springs, consider staying at the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort.
Visiting the Saratoga National Fish Hatchery offers a fascinating glimpse into wildlife conservation.
Open to the public, it features exhibits on trout and endangered species like the Wyoming toad.
Veterans Island Park in Saratoga is a hidden gem where nature and history meet.
Surrounded by the calming flow of the North Platte River, it’s the perfect spot for a riverside picnic, casting a fishing line, or just unwinding under shady trees.
The park’s dedication to honoring veterans makes it a great place to connect with the stories and beauty of the community.
Saratoga Lake is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering stunning views and plenty of ways to soak up the fresh Wyoming air.
Whether you’re paddling across the calm waters, fishing for trout and walleye, or lounging on the shoreline, it’s the perfect spot to unplug and recharge.
The nearby Medicine Bowl National Forest offers plenty of outdoor activities in any season.
Also, review the tourism guide for winter snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing routes or warm weather activities like mountain biking, ATV riding, and hiking.
Places to Avoid in Saratoga
Saratoga doesn’t have bad neighborhoods.
You can explore the public parts of the city freely without worry as long as you’re using standard personal safety steps.
The biggest risk comes with understanding just how remote this area is.
You don’t just accidentally end up in Saratoga.
You seek it out for the remote respite and outdoor adventures that await.
Those who aren’t familiar with Wyoming might not realize just how unpopulated and vast the public lands are throughout the state.
Also, I know the Carbon County tourism site mentions Yellowstone, but it’s important to know that the national park is about seven hours away.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Saratoga
- Saratoga has a local police department. You can follow them on Facebook at @SaratogaPD, and it makes sense to follow the local sheriff’s office as well, “Carbon County Sheriff’s Office-Wyoming.” You can also call (307) 326-8316 for more safety information.
- To stay informed about emergencies in Carbon County, sign up for the AlertSense system, which sends notifications via text, email, or voice messages based on your preferences. The program is called Carbon County Alerts.
- You’ll also want to sign up for the Urgent Alerts through the Saratoga city website. The difference is that a Carbon County Alert might tell you a winter storm is coming, while the city alert might detail parking restrictions or power outage warning centers locally.
- Saratoga sits at an elevation of approximately 6,844 feet, but peaks in the county go above 11,000 feet. Visitors may experience altitude-related symptoms; it’s advisable to stay hydrated and acclimate gradually to prevent altitude sickness. The worst of altitude sickness kicks in around 8,000 feet.
- Stay updated on fire restrictions and wildfire activity through the Wyoming State Forestry Division’s Fire Restrictions Map and the Bureau of Land Management’s Wyoming Fire Restrictions page. These resources provide current information on fire bans and active incidents.
- I strongly recommend you look at the “Choose Your Route Wisely” section of the county’s website. It’s a helpful explanation of why you simply can’t trust your GPS in this part of Wyoming. Some roads will have gates echoing this message, but it can’t be stressed enough how much you need a paper map in the rural areas here or risk getting lost beyond a point where you can call for help.
- Medicine Bow National Forest is massive and is run by the Forest Service, which has rules that are different from those of a national park. You don’t just want to show up in the forest and expect easy paths to guide you. Plan the trip ahead of time, check if roads are paved, and know the weather conditions at various elevations. The Snowy Range and Sierra Madre regions are the closest to Saratoga.
- Fishing and hunting are popular activities here, but both require a license from the Wyoming Department of Fish & Game. You should check any safety requirements or extra training needed for a hunting license. Even if you aren’t hunting, you should know where hunting is allowed, as you might want to wear Hunter Orange to avoid being mistaken for big game.
- During hazardous winter conditions, Wyoming enforces a chain law with two levels: Level 1 requires vehicles to have tire chains, adequate snow tires, or be all-wheel drive; Level 2 mandates tire chains or all-wheel drive with mud and snow or all-weather tires. If you are renting a car, ask if the right tools and an emergency kit will be provided for you. Be sure you bring a red shirt or flag to use as a warning sign in case you get stranded.
- Bring a battery-powered weather radio with you into the wilderness. You won’t have cell phone service in much of this region. Your best chance for a signal will always be at the highest part of the immediate area but never rely on that possibility. Always let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back.
So... How Safe Is Saratoga Really?
Neither Saratoga nor Carbon County have released official crime data since at least 2021, so we don’t have exact crime data to help answer this question.
However, looking back at historical data and recent headlines, crime rates across the board are more than half the national and state averages.
In addition, most news reports involved domestic crimes, not random acts of violence.
It’s also important while researching this city that you know there are several other cities named Saratoga in the US, including in Florida and New York.
More criminal activity pops up in news reports for those cities instead of the one in Wyoming.
The real safety risks in Saratoga, Wyoming, are largely dependent on how prepared you are for wilderness, wildlife, and the weather.
Beyond that, basic personal safety steps, communication beyond mobile phone reliance, and common sense will go a long way toward enjoying your time in Carbon County.
How Does Saratoga Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Saratoga | 78 |
| Houston | 59 |
| Atlanta | 58 |
| St. Louis | 58 |
| Los Angeles | 56 |
| Oakland | 57 |
| New Orleans | 57 |
| Sao Paulo (Brazil) | 45 |
| Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | 43 |
| Sofia (Bulgaria) | 73 |
| Siem Reap (Cambodia) | 63 |
| Phnom Penh (Cambodia) | 61 |
| Niagara Falls (Canada) | 87 |
Useful Information
Visas
All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.
Currency
Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.
Weather
Saratoga, Wyoming, experiences cold winters with average snow totals around 50 inches. Summers are mild, with daytime highs typically in the 70s and 80s. Spring and fall are short and variable. The town's elevation brings significant temperature fluctuations, and snowstorms can occur as late as May or as early as September.
Airports
The nearest commercial airport is Laramie Regional Airport (approximately 90 miles east), offering limited regional flights. Cheyenne Regional Airport (about 120 miles southeast) provides additional options. Denver International Airport, about 180 miles south, is the closest major hub, offering extensive domestic and international flights. The Saratoga Jet Center serves private planes much closer to town but does not offer commercial options.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.
Saratoga Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 19 | 24 | 28 | 27 | 22 | 15 | 6 | 2 |
| Low °C | -12 | -10 | -6 | -2 | 2 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 4 | -1 | -7 | -11 |
| High °F | 34 | 37 | 46 | 55 | 66 | 75 | 82 | 81 | 72 | 59 | 43 | 36 |
| Low °F | 10 | 14 | 21 | 28 | 36 | 45 | 50 | 48 | 39 | 30 | 19 | 12 |
Wyoming - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Afton | 82 |
| Alpine | 83 |
| Casper | 80 |
| Cheyenne | 81 |
| Dubois | 78 |
| Gillette | 83 |
| Guernsey | 78 |
| Hulett | 79 |
| Laramie | 85 |
| Lusk | 82 |
| Rock Springs | 81 |
| Saratoga | 78 |
| Sheridan | 84 |
