Best Dispersed Camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Searching for the best camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, SD? Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (12)

    1. Grouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403

    8 Reviews
    Buffalo, WY
    23 miles

    "Full bars of cell signal on Verizon, so no worries about being off the grid. Only thing missing were fire rings, but honestly, the quiet vibes totally made up for it."

    "Downside is there’s absolutely no shade and horseflies are in plenty. Thankfully I have a screen tent that provided some shade and relief from the flies."

    2. Crazy Woman Canyon Road - dispersed camping

    16 Reviews
    Buffalo, WY
    28 miles
    +1 (307) 674-2600

    "No restrooms and no trash"

    "This is a one of those secret locations that you look for, the one you don't want to give away but show all your friends pictures of it."

    3. Circle Road Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Saddlestring, WY
    28 miles
    Website

    "Weekend was busy with traffic down the dirt road but weekdays we had it all to ourselves. 2 people had parked their trailers there and never showed up, so I don't know what that was about."

    "We spent 14 days out here in our 19ft retro Jayco. Plenty of room for a couple of 5th wheels, vans, and tents alike."

    4. Elgin Park Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Buffalo, WY
    26 miles
    Website

    "However, while we were there the National Forest staff came in several times and started tagging these RVs and most of them were removed within a week or so. 

    2."

    "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."

    5. Forest Road 131

    1 Review
    Buffalo, WY
    33 miles

    "The sites are pretty spaced out and some of them are actually really nicely tucked in the pine trees."

    6. Canyon Creek Road Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Buffalo, WY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 674-2600

    "The dirt roads are well maintained, but still a fair amount of rock, so slower speeds are safer. The entire Bighorn NF area is saturated with dispersed camping."

    "Don’t think we found the exact spot this individual stayed at as we came up on a pay campground known as doyle, but if you drive past it and over a cow guard there is a place to park your car and more"

    7. Canyon Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Ten Sleep, WY
    39 miles

    "https://youtu.be/ztjOGUjNkfo

    Useful Information: Location: Canyon Creek Dispersed, Ten Sleep, Wyoming 

    GPS Coordinates(Canyon Creek Dispersed): 44.160758,-107.128481 "

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

23 Photos of 12 Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

40 Reviews of 12 Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Campgrounds



Guide to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in South Dakota, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while taking in stunning views and the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in South Dakota

  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; many areas, like Grouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403, do not offer drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as popular locations can fill up quickly, such as Crazy Woman Canyon Road - dispersed camping.
  • Bring your own firewood and be mindful of fire restrictions; some areas allow fires while others do not, so check local regulations before setting up.

Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

  • Experience breathtaking landscapes at Circle Road Dispersed Camping, where wildflowers bloom and the scenery is perfect for photography.
  • For star gazers, the open skies at Canyon Creek Road Dispersed Camping provide a stunning backdrop for a night under the stars.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see free-range cattle and possibly wild horses near Elgin Park Trailhead, adding to the natural experience.

Activities to Enjoy While Free Camping Near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

  • Hiking opportunities abound, with trails accessible from spots like Forest Road 131, allowing you to explore the diverse terrain of the Bighorn National Forest.
  • Fishing enthusiasts can find nearby streams and rivers, perfect for casting a line after setting up camp at locations such as Dispersed Camping Circle Park Road.
  • ATV and dirt bike riding are popular activities in the area, especially near Pole Creek Road East, where you can enjoy the thrill of off-road adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is Grouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403 with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.