Dispersed camping options near Afton, Wyoming provide budget-friendly alternatives to established campgrounds. Located in Wyoming's Star Valley at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, this region experiences warm summer days and cool nights, with temperatures often dropping significantly after sunset. The surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest offers numerous free camping opportunities with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Fish the local waters: The reservoir near Melvin Brewing offers convenient shoreline access. "We could kayak right off from our spot. It was quiet and peaceful. Right next to a dog friendly brewery that made for a good meal and lovely to watch the sunset," notes camper Megan D.
Explore hiking trails: Pine Bar Campground sits adjacent to streams with nearby trail access. According to Jim M., there's a "trail behind with a bridge over the creek" making it easy to explore the surrounding Targhee National Forest terrain.
Soak in hot springs: When glamping near Afton, Wyoming, consider Maple Grove Hot Springs for a relaxing experience. Jordan H. explains, "They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day."
What campers like
Convenient brewery access: The dispersed camping area near Melvin Brewing receives consistent praise for its proximity to food and drinks. As Caroline D. mentions, "Our first time boondocking in a camper van and we may be spoiled for life! Had a spot right on the water, with an brewery 100 yards away."
Creek-side camping: Montpelier Creek KOA offers sites along a flowing creek, providing natural ambiance. Cameron J. notes, "Creek runs through the front of camp. You can fish in it. Playground is adequate for children. Plenty of dog runs."
Mountain views: The dispersed sites around Afton offer scenic vistas without facilities. At McCoy Creek Campground, Katie B. reports, "There is a campground but there is also dispersed free camping all along the lake. This is a beautiful place. Bring Bug Spray."
What you should know
Water level changes: At the reservoir near Melvin Brewing, tide fluctuations can catch campers off guard. Sara N. warns, "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water."
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving. At Mccoy Creek Campground, Connor N. shares, "Road in was fair, rough at times, but doable in our low-clearance rig. Nice views from our spot, but the river was dry due to the on-going drought."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in higher elevations have limited seasons. Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground operates from June to September, while Pine Bar Campground runs May to September, allowing campers to plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground amenities: Facilities with play areas keep children entertained. At Montpelier Creek KOA, Alan B. notes they have "a kids playground complete with swings and other toys" making it family-friendly.
Consider forest camping for shade: Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground provides tree cover to shield from summer heat. Erin M. recommends it because "lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest. Also trails right off the campsite."
Check for huckleberry picking: Seasonal berry picking can be a fun family activity. At Emigration Campground, one camper mentioned "huckleberry picking right from camp," providing a natural foraging opportunity that children enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many forest service campgrounds accommodate smaller rigs only. At Emigration Campground, Susan V. cautions, "I wouldn't take big rigs in here because most of the sites aren't long enough."
Water pressure considerations: While glamping in Afton, Wyoming area campgrounds with hookups, water supply can be inconsistent. At Bear Lake North RV Park and Campground, full hookups are available, though at Montpelier KOA, Jennifer B. notes "water pressure is not great."
Level site availability: The reservoir dispersed area provides various parking options of varying quality. Johny R. advises, "There are a handful of spots right up against the water with a great mountain backdrop. The road from the brewery is about 100 yards and dirt. It's very bumpy but go slow with some clearance and its 2wd fine."
