7 Magnificent And Wild Campsites Where You Can Pitch Your Tent For Free In Wyoming
Dispersed camping in Wyoming? Yes please! It’s easy to find free things to do in Wyoming, and if you’re interested in getting in touch with nature, you’re in the right spot. Wyoming is home to millions of acres of public land, and much of that land is open for free, dispersed camping. Dispersed camping is the term for camping outside of established campgrounds in National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management lands. While there aren’t services like trash removal (pack in, pack out), bathrooms, or even potable water, with a little planning, you can enjoy a primitive getaway that will rejuvenate your sense of adventure.
1. Tongue River / Welch Ranch Area
Welch Ranch Recreation Area, 1031-1063, WY-338, Sheridan, WY 82801, USA
This 1,700 acre BLM area near Sheridan is perfect for wildlife spotting, hiking, and fishing. The beautiful Tongue River flows through and is perfect for paddle trips. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area, but there is no bathroom, garbage, or potable water, so plan accordingly. Learn more about Welch Ranch, and then check out this great spot.
If you're looking for incredible Teton views, it's hard to beat the Shadow Mountain area. Many of the available sites overlook the Antelope Flats, and if you've got a high clearance vehicle, you'll be able to climb higher and enjoy the most breathtaking views. Shadow Mountain has some of the best dispersed camping in Wyoming, so put it on your bucket list!
3. Encampment River Wilderness
Encampment River Wilderness, Forest Rd 496, Encampment, WY 82325, USA
The rough and rocky Encampment River Canyon area is a spot for experienced campers to enjoy time away from the world. While you're here, explore the wilderness area and discover remnants of the long-ago mining and prospecting activity in the area. For some amazing free camping in Wyoming, be sure to check this area out.
You can enjoy dispersed camping in the Snowy Range area near the Pinkham Mountain Trailhead and throughout the Platte River and Savage Run Wilderness areas. This remote section of Medicine Bow - Routt National Forest is sure to delight any nature lover. Camping in Wyoming is just so amazing.
5. Vedauwoo
Vedauwoo Glen Road, Vedauwoo Glen Rd, Wyoming, USA
Few people realize you can find dispersed camping at Vedauwoo! Be sure to settle on a site between 100-200 feet from the forest and access roads - any closer, or any further, and you risk upsetting the delicate ecosystem. Vedauwoo has some of the best dispersed camping in Wyoming, so start planning your adventure there.
6. Horse Creek Area, Shoshone National Forest
Horse Creek Campground, Shoshone National Forest, Horse Creek Rd, Dubois, WY 82513, USA
In Shonshone National Forest, dispersed campsites are allowed in most remote areas. Campsites must be 200 feet from trails, lakes, or wet meadows and 100 feet from streams or creeks.
There are typically plenty of places for dispersed camping around Granite Creek, in Bridger-Teton National Forest. You'll be close to the Granite Hot Springs, so you can make your getaway as relaxing as can be.
Address: Encampment River Wilderness, Forest Rd 496, Encampment, WY 82325, USA
Address: Snowy Range, Wyoming, USA
Address: Vedauwoo Glen Road, Vedauwoo Glen Rd, Wyoming, USA
Address: Horse Creek Campground, Shoshone National Forest, Horse Creek Rd, Dubois, WY 82513, USA
Address: Granite Creek, Wyoming 83001, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
dispersed camping in Wyoming
June 17, 2022
Jessica Bohl
What is the most beautiful campground in Wyoming?
There are so many breathtaking camping areas in Wyoming that it is hard to narrow it down to the most beautiful place to pitch a tent. But, one area that many people consider the most beautiful campground in Wyoming is the Brooks Lake Recreation Area in the Shoshone National Forest. If you love jaw-dropping scenery of crystal clear lakes, lush green forests and snow-capped cliffs, then this area is for you. Spend your days marveling at the incredible views, hiking, canoeing, or photographing wildflowers. This camping area is stunning, so be sure to put it on your bucket list.
Is there any glamping in Wyoming?
There are some amazing places for glamping in Wyoming. If you love the idea of quaint cabins in the woods, be sure to check out the Jackson Hole Fireside Resort. There, you can rent an amazing glamping cabin with a king-sized bed, kitchen, fireplace, TV, and WiFi. Walk to local restaurants or cook on site! And don’t forget to use the outdoor fire pit! Or, for a glamping experience near Yellowstone National Park, check out Big Quiet Camping, where you can sleep in a tent, teepee, wall tent, Turkish Yurt, Grand Farmhouse, or even a Sheepherder’s Wagon! This unique place is a must-try, so start planning your next camping adventure at Big Quiet!
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
