Tent camping near Afton, Wyoming offers dispersed sites along forest roads within Bridger-Teton National Forest at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,000 feet. The Wyoming Range provides a backdrop for campsites with significant temperature swings between day and night even during summer months. Most dispersed camping requires vehicles with moderate clearance due to unpaved access roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alice attracts anglers targeting Bonneville Cutthroat Trout during morning and evening hours. One camper advises, "Fish AM/PM, the wind can pick up in the afternoons, and temps rise making fishing not so great in the afternoon."
Hiking trails: The Wyoming Peak trail accessed from Spring Creek Trailhead offers a challenging day hike with elevation gain. A visitor reports, "Wyoming Peak was a wonderful hike, highly recommend! This summer has had the most amazing wildflowers!"
Horseback riding: Trail riding routes connect Lake Alice to LaBarge Creek Road. According to a review, "Horseback riders are frequently in the area, so make way for them on the trail. We passed a string of about 8 riders going in further. The campsite at the very beginning of the lake has a primitive corral for the horses."
Mountain biking: Several forest service roads provide routes for off-road cycling with minimal traffic interference. Multi-day routes can connect several camping areas through the backcountry trail system.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Fisherman Creek Road offers peaceful camping spots away from crowds. One camper notes, "This spot is absolutely beautiful! Only 1 other camper here and we only saw him when driving in and out. Perfect spot to be away from the crowds."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot deer, elk, and occasional moose near water sources. A visitor to Fisherman Creek Road mentioned, "Nobody passed our campsite that whole evening, aside from a deer."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution in dispersed camping areas creates excellent stargazing conditions. Clear nights reveal the Milky Way without telescopic equipment.
Stream proximity: Several camping spots offer creekside locations for ambient sound and water access. One camper at Cliff Creek Road shared, "The panoramas were stunning and I also took too many photographs."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Summer afternoons often bring sudden thunderstorms and temperature drops requiring layers and rain gear. Lightning safety awareness is essential when camping at higher elevations.
Water treatment: All natural water sources require proper filtration or treatment before consumption. Surface water from streams may contain giardia or other contaminants.
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require moderate clearance vehicles. A camper at Lake Alice clarifies, "Disclosure: It is NOT 3.5 miles to the campground, it is 1.5 to the lake and another to .25 or so to the camping area on the east side of the lake."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack services beyond basic fire rings. A visitor noted, "Primitive dispersed camping" describes most options, with no water, garbage service, or cellular coverage in many locations.
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Insect repellent is necessary during summer months. A camper warns, "The only downside was the crazy amount of mosquitoes. Bring bug spray!"
Site selection: Look for natural play features like shallow stream sections or meadow areas. Camping spots along Fisherman Creek Road include "hidden meadows" according to a reviewer who noted, "There were many available campsites and it's not far from the main road at all."
Supply planning: The nearest resupply points may require significant driving time. Groceries, ice, and fuel are available in limited quantities at Rim Station described by a visitor: "About 5 miles west of Rim Station with an RV park and a little country store. Dump and fill station available there if needed. Owner is very kind!"
Creek safety: Children must be supervised near water sources due to swift currents and cold temperatures year-round. Water levels fluctuate seasonally with snowmelt.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Expect dusty, washboarded roads requiring slower travel speeds. A camper at Tincup Campground mentions, "Nice area to visit. Not to far from the Tetons. Just wish there was a little upkeep such a nice spot."
Site access: Many dispersed sites along forest roads accommodate various RV sizes. One RVer reports, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs. Most spots have shade and fire rings."
Turnaround space: Verify adequate space for maneuvering larger rigs before committing to narrow forest roads. A reviewer found, "The spot was large enough to turn around and easily maneuver the trailer."
Seasonal timing: Spring conditions may make roads impassable for RVs due to mud. Late summer offers drier access but busier conditions as noted by one camper: "I came in late July and there were lots of motorcycles and ATVs. It was quiet from 7 PM to 7 AM."
