Within the expansive Bighorn National Forest, Grouse Mountain Basecamp sits along Forest Road 402, offering dispersed camping across open grassland at 7,000 feet elevation. The US Forest Service manages this free camping area, where visitors can park anywhere along the smooth dirt road that accommodates large RVs up to 25 feet. Most campers spread out across the level terrain, creating natural spacing between sites.
The elevated location provides expansive views of surrounding mountains and rolling hills, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance. Campers wake to encounters with local wildlife, including pronghorn herds grazing in adjacent fenced fields and cattle from nearby ranches. "[The] views were breathtaking and most of the land is level," notes Amy D.. The open grassland lacks shade trees but offers excellent stargazing conditions on clear nights. Summer temperatures drop to the mid-40s at night, providing comfortable sleeping weather.
Cell service reaches the area reliably, with both Verizon and Starlink internet working well for remote work needs. Clear Creek flows three-quarters of a mile away via hiking trail, providing fly fishing opportunities. The area operates seasonally from June 15 to November 15, with the access road becoming potentially icy during shoulder seasons.
Road traffic increases during peak camping periods as visitors drive the route to exercise dogs or access private camps further down the mountain. Horse flies and tall grass present minor challenges during summer months. The campground fills up on holiday weekends, though the large area typically accommodates most arrivals. For campers wanting developed amenities, Middle Fork provides an alternative four miles west.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGrouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403 is located in Wyoming near Buffalo
Coordinates
44.31915288 N
106.872725 W
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 29 usersLast on 6/10/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/10/26
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 29 usersLast on 6/10/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/10/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Grouse Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 403 needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from Casper, WY
- 2 hrs 31 min from Billings, MT
- 3 hrs 9 min from Rapid City, SD
- 4 hrs 19 min from Bozeman, MT

























































