Dispersed camping around Thermopolis offers alternatives to more developed campgrounds in central Wyoming. Located in the Big Horn Basin at 4,300 feet elevation, Thermopolis sits where the Wind River Canyon opens to broader plains. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during July and August, while winter camping requires preparation for overnight lows that can drop well below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Mineral hot springs access: Fountain of Youth RV Park provides on-site mineral hot springs as part of the camping fee. "Huge hot pool... the highlight are the mineral hot spring swimming pools (included)," writes Brent J., who found the springs worth the extra drive from town.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Cameahwait offers shore fishing in a day-use area that permits overnight camping. "Great place to stay if you can work around the mosquitoes... the water is very clear," notes Wayne H., who spent over a week at this location approximately 30 miles south of Thermopolis.
Wildlife viewing: Wind River Canyon provides habitat for various wildlife species. "Plenty of wildlife to watch come down to river in the evening or early mornings," reports Mickey J. about Boysen State Park Campground, where campers can observe animals from riverside sites.
Historical exploration: Drive to Gebo Road for access to ghost town remains. "You can hike up bluffs and walk through the old 1880's coal mining town," explains UnnamedAdventures about this free dispersed camping area approximately 10 miles from Thermopolis.
What campers like
Hot springs variety: Beyond the state park, campers appreciate private hot springs options. "This great little RV park is outside of Thermopolis by a couple of miles, but it is worth the extra drive... the mineral hot spring swimming pools (included)," notes Brent J. about Fountain of Youth RV Park.
Riverside camping: Lower Wind River Campground provides direct water access. "I stayed on one of the sites on the ledge just above the water. The toilets are clean and the campground host is a great guy," reports Xander V., who found the riverside sites particularly appealing despite the cost.
Lake views: Brannon Campground offers reservoir views and water recreation. "This was a beautiful spot right on one of the Reservoir inlets... large Reservoir perfect for paddle-boarding and kayaking," writes canyongirl100 about this Boysen State Park location.
Train watching: Many campers mention the unique experience of watching trains pass through Wind River Canyon. "Kids love the train that runs thru the canyon," Mickey J. notes about camping in the area, while others mention the distinctive tunnel views.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several Wind River Canyon campgrounds experience train noise. "The train tracks run right by it, BUT I would have stayed a week if I could," says Dylane S. about camping at Fountain of Youth, while other reviewers mention occasional 2 AM freight trains rolling through the canyon.
Wind conditions: Expect significant wind at most campgrounds in the area. "It was suuuuper windy but we had spectacular views," Robert B. writes about Brannon Campground, while other reviewers consistently mention wind as a factor at nearly all sites near Boysen Reservoir.
Highway proximity: Many campgrounds sit close to highways with traffic noise. "A little tight and in need of some TLC but enjoyed being able to soak in the mineral water," notes Steve W. about facilities at Fountain of Youth RV Park, where highway noise is balanced by mineral pools.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping areas lack amenities. "There are no amenities but great views and privacy... no Verizon cell phone service and TONS of broken glass," warns UnnamedAdventures about Gebo Road camping, where historical interest outweighs the absence of facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several Boysen State Park campgrounds include playgrounds. "Campsite had a park for kids. No showers but plenty of water so we set up privacy tent and were able to shower when we wanted," explains eli R. about Upper Wind River Campground, noting how they managed longer stays without shower facilities.
Swimming options: Multiple hot spring facilities in town offer family-friendly options. "Star Plunge was awesome, great facility, great hot springs and the slides were a huge hit," recommends D., who stayed at Wyoming Gardens RV Park and visited the commercial hot springs in Thermopolis.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate dinosaur exhibits into your trip. "The RV itself wasn't great... but it is close the the mineral hot springs, though, and the Dinosaur museum is amazing," shares Ashley M. about Eagle RV Park, highlighting a popular educational attraction in town.
Shade considerations: Summer temperatures require shade planning. "We were there in the early spring, but you can tell the trees provide lots of shade for the summer months," notes Zach R. about Upper Wind River, where trees offer relief during hot weather.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Several RV parks have tight configurations. "The sites are ridiculously close together and your neighbor's sewer hookup is nearly in your site," observes Ashley M. about Eagle RV Park, a consideration for those needing more space.
Level site availability: Look for recently upgraded sites when possible. "New owners are working hard on maintenance and upgrades. Concrete pads. Full hookups," reports Nancy C. about The Crippled Spider Campground, noting positive changes at this property.
Water access planning: Many campgrounds offer water spigots without direct hookups. "There are no hookups, but water spigots are available throughout the campground to fill your tanks," explains Tim R. about Wind River Canyon Campground, which requires planning for water needs.
Shaded sites search: RVers should request shade during summer. "With the only RV park in town, I was skeptical of a price gouging. $30 for non-electric/no water. Amazing! One partially shaded site was available - the clerk let us pick," shares Audrey F., appreciating the option to select a shaded site at Eagle RV Park.
