Lovell, Wyoming sits at the base of the Bighorn Mountains with elevations varying from 3,800 to 4,500 feet in the immediate camping area. Summer nighttime temperatures typically drop into the 50s, creating significant daily temperature swings even during hot periods. Most campsites near Lovell, Wyoming require advance planning for water supplies, as potable water isn't universally available at all locations.
What to do
Boat rentals and water activities: At the marina near Horseshoe Bend Campground, visitors can explore Bighorn Canyon from the water. According to Courtney T., "The campsite is conveniently located next to the horseshoe bend marina, where you can rent kayaks and canoes, and I think they rent boats as well."
Wildlife photography opportunities: The wider Lovell region offers exceptional wildlife viewing beyond just Horseshoe Bend. When camping at Barry's Landing & Trail Creek Campground, campers can spot various species. As Kristen B. notes, "This campground is beautiful! And affordable! And provides wonderful hiking and boating opportunities with amazing views in walking distance from the sites."
Hiking to waterfalls: For a change of scenery from canyon views, the Five Springs Falls Campground offers waterfall access. According to Kelsie S., "There is a big waterfall up at the top of the campground, short hike. Spot had a bench, 2 picnic tables and a firepit. The creek was rushing right below the site."
What campers like
Spacious, well-designed sites: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at certain campgrounds. At Lovell Camper Park, there's surprisingly high quality for a free campground. Art S. reports, "It's hard to believe that a town creates a free campground for anybody to use. This is well laid out with RV and tent sites. Water, restrooms and showers are all available."
Stargazing conditions: The night sky visibility extends throughout the region, not just at Horseshoe Bend. At Cody BLM Dispersed, campers enjoy excellent night sky viewing. As Chris N. describes it, "Getting into the area was easy and there wasn't much there other than solitude over a vast long and wide grasslands valley and a humongous 360 degree sky view."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain excellent facilities. David M. noted about Lovell Camper Park: "The park is nestled between a local play park and a ballpark and residential homes. It has 5 pull through site, 2 back in sites. All sites are nicely shaded. Has restroom, shower and you can fill water jugs."
What you should know
Weather and wind considerations: The high desert environment creates challenging weather patterns. At Deaver Reservoir, Steve M. warns: "Very easy to find and probably 20 to 25 Camping spots. Some hold rigs up to 35 ft... Also, very, very windy up here. Not recommended for tents."
Limited cell service: Digital connectivity varies significantly across the region. Ali J. mentions at Barry's Landing & Trail Creek Campground: "This was a great spot to camp. It's just up the hill from a reservoir put-in and has three separate sections so if it's not busy, you can stay pretty well in your own little world."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted vehicle access. Preston Y. cautions about Five Springs Falls Campground: "There are only small sites available and the road up would not accommodate a very large rig. Any car could make it as long as there isn't any snow or ice."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety practices: Families need to plan for proper food storage in bear country. At Barry's Landing & Trail Creek Campground, each site includes bear protection. Ali J. explains, "There are also two separate sets of two pit toilets, and each site has its own large bear locker. They also each have their own picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern hangers."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer specific features appealing to children. Lea Ann M. recommends Horseshoe Bend Campground: "The campground was perfect. The sites were spacious, some with electric and water. The facilities were clean and even flushed! Hiking trails galore, and the boat ramp was easily accessible."
Cooling options during summer heat: Families should prepare for significant heat. At Cody BLM Dispersed camping area, Laura M. advises: "The area we stayed in is flat and quite large with a stone fire pit. It did get very windy but died down through the night. The view is amazing. It was quiet and overall a nice place to hike or bike around."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers will find varying levels of services. Brandon N. explains about Horseshoe Bend Campground: "Some sites have full water and power hook-ups and there's a free dump station on your way out. The campground was clean! Some sites are very very basic and some sites are updated and well laid out with plenty of room."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal as not all campgrounds offer this service. For RVers visiting Lovell Camper Park, David M. notes: "No electric but has a dump station."
Road condition warnings: Some campgrounds present access challenges for larger vehicles. Gretchen B. cautions about Five Springs Falls Campground: "The big drawback for some will be the very narrow, extremely switchbacked and steep road up to the campground (no guardrails). It really is fine for a car or truck and a short little (think Casita or Scamp), but a sign says no vehicles over 24' and I wouldn't want to do it with anything close to that!"
