Camping options near Afton, Wyoming range from $5-10 nightly fee campgrounds to free dispersed sites, with most locations situated between 6,500-7,500 feet elevation in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Weather patterns in this region include frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and early snow possible by late September. Road conditions on forest service roads deteriorate significantly after rain events, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Fish for cutthroat and brown trout in the Salt River near Allred Flat Campground, which offers $10 nightly camping. A visitor noted, "Great flyfishing on the Salt River. Fairly private and quiet. Good Verizon cell service."
Beaver dam exploration: Search for wildlife and observe extensive beaver activity around Allred Flat Campground. As one camper described, "Some hiking trails along the creek where beavers have made extensive dams... Beautiful, quiet campground."
Hiking to mountain lakes: Access trails from Cottonwood Group Campsite that lead to scenic alpine lakes. A camper shared, "There are trailheads from the CG and from the south end of the lake," making it ideal for day hikes.
Off-road vehicle trails: Enjoy ATV and dirt bike access from dispersed camping areas throughout the region. One visitor to Diamond Creek mentioned, "Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views. Wish we could have stayed longer."
What campers like
Private sites with separation: Campers appreciate the layout at Allred Flat, where "Each site had a picnic table and a fire pit, and was nicely separated from neighboring sites. Each site had a different configuration as well as parking pad length."
Economic camping options: Budget-friendly sites are available throughout the area. At Salt River Pass, campers enjoy free dispersed camping with exceptional privacy. One visitor shared, "The campsite is STUNNING, in a field of wildflowers, RIGHT near the highway, but totally isolated and private."
Wildflower displays: Summer wildflower blooms create memorable experiences. A Salt River Pass camper described, "Complete privacy in a giant field of flowers that make the air smell absolutely amazing. There are sheep everywhere and they love to talk."
Clean facilities: At Forest Park campground, visitors note the well-maintained amenities. A recent visitor observed, "Two clean vault toilets. Hand well water pump. Trash service. No other amenities. No hook-ups. Campground appears to be well maintained."
What you should know
Road conditions to campgrounds: Many campground access roads require high-clearance vehicles. A Salt River Pass visitor warned, "The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement. The service road is incredibly rocky with one side a sheer drop."
Water availability concerns: Not all campgrounds have reliable water sources. At Allred Flat, "There are hand pump water faucets, but a sign said that water is not tested and water should be boiled or treated prior to drinking. We did not try the water but another camper said he pumped for about 30 times and no water came out."
Seasonal closures and timing: Most campgrounds operate with limited seasons. Swift Creek Campground, previously popular, now appears permanently closed as visitors report, "Locked gate with a 'no overnight camping' sign."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly. At Grey's River 10138L Dispersed, a camper noted, "No T-Mobile nor AT&T cell service," while some other locations maintain limited coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Guard station rentals: For families wanting shelter, consider the Johnson Guard Station cabin rental. A visitor shared, "We absolutely loved this small cabin. it had a fenced area and plenty of room. bathroom was clean. Must bring your own toilet paper, water and mattresses but it's worth the hassle."
Playground access: Families with children can find developed facilities at certain locations. Wolf Den RV Park offers "a playground and picnic area" along with shower facilities that families appreciate.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting animals in the area. Near Salt River Pass, one camper observed, "There are sheep everywhere and they love to talk (my boyfriend was a little annoyed when they woke him up in the morning but I thought it was cool)."
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from main roads for quieter family experiences. At Allred Flat, a camper recommended, "We could hardly hear the road noise, especially from our spot at the furthest end of the loop at #18."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should be prepared for uneven camping surfaces. At Allred Flat, visitors note that "Sites, however are not very level," requiring leveling blocks or hydraulic systems.
RV size limitations: Most forest service campgrounds have restrictions. A visitor to Allred Flat observed, "Anyone from tent campers to large trailers can easily find a spot, larger fifth wheels and class A rigs may have a bit of trouble finding a suitable campsite here."
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access for RVs. Forest Park has "Good size sites; appear to be level. Picnic table and fire ring included," making it accessible for many RV types.
Commercial RV options: For full hookups, consider Wolf Den RV Park where "RV sites are gravel and very level" and a visitor noted, "Nice wide sites, most pull through, clean showers and laundry room. The people who run it are super friendly and helpful."
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