Dispersed camping options near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area range from pine-shaded forest sites to open meadow locations at elevations between 7,000-9,500 feet. Temperature swings can be significant, with summer daytime highs reaching 85°F while nighttime temperatures often drop into the 40s even during July and August. These free camping areas require self-sufficiency as most lack facilities beyond occasional vault toilets.
What to do
Hiking from basecamp: Forest Road 131 offers sites tucked among pine trees that serve as ideal starting points for day hikes. "Tons and tons of spaces. No Verizon service. The sites are pretty spaced out and some of them are actually really nicely tucked in the pine trees," notes Erin G.
Wildlife watching: Dawn and dusk provide prime opportunities to spot local wildlife at Circle Road Dispersed Camping. "There were also two moose grazing in the meadow for the entire time we were there," shares Bruce P. Morning hours increase chances of sightings.
Stargazing after dark: The lack of light pollution makes this area excellent for astronomy. At Canyon Creek Road Dispersed Camping, Ronald C. reports, "Very dark and clear night sky is great for star gazing." The higher elevation sites above 8,000 feet often have clearer visibility.
What campers like
Cool summer temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat at Canyon Creek Dispersed. "The breathtaking Bighorn Mountains at 9000 ft elevation, good for rigs of all sizes but be advised you may want to scout the road the further you get into the camping area," explains The Wandering Shores.
Seasonal wildflowers: Mid-summer brings vibrant blooms to many of these free sites. "Wildflowers were beautiful," states ekastroll about Grouse Mountain Basecamp, while others note peak flowering typically occurs from late June through July.
Privacy between sites: Despite being free public land camping, the expansive terrain allows for seclusion. At Elgin Park Trailhead, Jackie M. explains, "Great location where you can camp in the trees or on the meadow. Vault toilet available once you drive a ways in on Elgin Park Road. Plenty of deadfall to use as firewood."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads can become difficult after rainfall. About Crazy Woman Canyon Road, Art S. warns, "The road is one lane with a few wide spots to pass oncoming vehicles. It starts off flat but drops steeply and continues the downward angle... Hesitate travel on this road after a heavy rain."
Limited cell reception: Most dispersed camping areas have spotty or no cell service. As Patrick N. notes about Circle Road, "Verizon coverage is decent along the road, but I turned off on FR 375 and the Verizon died where I was."
Weekend traffic increases: These free camping areas near Bighorn Canyon get busier on weekends. "This place is a haven for SxS and ATV traffic on the weekend so it can get loud and very dusty," reports The Wandering Shores about Elgin Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near shallow creek access: Kids enjoy water play in the warmer months. "The road follows the river with large boulders stacked upon each other to make up the canyon walls," shares GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Crazy Woman Canyon, making it ideal for exploration.
Pack for variable temperatures: Summer nights require warm sleeping gear despite warm days. At Grouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403, Lisa D. reported, "The temperature got down to 45° which is perfect for me for sleeping."
Visit mid-week if possible: Family groups find more available space and quieter conditions Monday through Thursday. "Weekend was busy with traffic down the dirt road but weekdays we had it all to ourselves," Daniel S. observed at Circle Road.
Tips from RVers
Scout sites before committing: Large rigs should verify access before proceeding down forest roads. Amy D. shared about Grouse Mountain, "We love dispersed camping but hauling a 25' airstream makes a lot of sites inaccessible despite our lift and rugged tires! But not here! It's a level, smooth, dirt road where you pull off the side anywhere you choose."
Prepare for dusty conditions: The dirt access roads create significant dust during dry periods. "It can get pretty moist at night with all the clouds! nice gravel road great for everyone!" notes Kaelyn H. about conditions at Grouse Mountain Basecamp.
Water and dump facilities: RVers can find services in nearby towns. "I found water and a dump site in Buffalo at the Cenex gas station. It was free," advises Patrick N., providing essential information for those seeking free camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area while traveling in larger vehicles.
