Auburn, Wyoming camping options range between 6,000-7,000 feet elevation in the Salt River Range, creating distinct seasonal opportunities within Bridger-Teton National Forest. Temperatures often drop below freezing at night even in summer, with average July highs reaching 85°F and lows around 45°F. Forest service roads typically become impassable after early October snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple streams near Allred Flat offer trout fishing opportunities. According to camper Zach P., "Great stop when travelling through the area. The sites are spread out nicely to give you a little extra privacy. The price is right at $10 a night. Nice little stream nearby."
Trail exploration: Several hiking paths connect to campgrounds in the region, particularly from the Cottonwood Lake area. As noted in a review, "There are trailheads from the CG and from the south end of the lake. No signal on Verizon."
Water recreation: Reservoir Disperse Camping provides direct lake access for paddle sports. One camper reported, "We could kayak right off from our spot. It was right after 4th of July weekend so we were having a hard time finding spots in other areas. But very grateful we came across this one!"
Historic cabin stays: Guard stations offer alternative accommodations for those wanting protection from weather. At Diamond Creek Guard Station, one visitor shared, "With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty. There were plenty of cots to move close to the wood-burning stove for a cozy night sleep."
What campers like
Affordable options: Most Forest Service campgrounds maintain low fees compared to private facilities. At Allred Flat, a camper noted, "We camped here in a tent passing through on our way north. Only cost us $10. Pretty spot and only a couple other campers in the area that night so we had plenty of privacy."
Privacy between sites: Many established campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. As one Allred Flat visitor described, "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."
Mountain views: The surrounding terrain provides scenic backdrops at most camping locations. At Wolf Den RV Park, a camper observed, "Park is surrounded by mountains. Very very scenic. Office staff very friendly."
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the camping season. One visitor to Diamond Creek noted, "What a beautiful area to camp! Dispersed camping with space for very large groups. Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many forest service campgrounds requires careful driving. A Cottonwood Lake camper advised, "The road is pretty rough getting into the campground. You will encounter some pretty significant potholes and washouts. Just take it slow, you'll be fine."
Bear safety measures: Proper food storage remains essential in all camping areas. At Cottonwood Group Campsite, a visitor observed, "The only bear boxes are located by the restroom, which I thought was unusual. I just made sure any food items were stored away in my vehicle and locked vs storing in the bear box."
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly between sites. At Johnson Guard Station, a camper warned, "No cell service and no water. Propane stove and electric lights. Not sure about heat, but I think so."
Reservation requirements: Some facilities require advance booking while others operate first-come-first-served. Group sites typically need reservations, as one camper noted about Cottonwood: "The Group site is large, with room for several tents. When I was there a church group of about 18 people with 5-6 tents was there. The sign says it requires reservations."
Tips for camping with families
Guard station accommodations: Historic cabins offer protected sleeping for families with young children. At Johnson Guard Station, a visitor commented, "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."
Site selection considerations: Family groups should evaluate campsite layout and amenities. One Allred Flat camper suggested, "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. Sites, however are not very level."
Recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged throughout their stay. A Cottonwood Lake visitor noted, "This campground is recommended if you are interested in the following: horseback riding, fly fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, ORV, wildlife viewing. Something for everyone!"
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between locations. While some campgrounds offer well-maintained facilities, others have minimal services, as one Allred Flat visitor reported: "3 sets of gendered handicap accessible vault toilets. At least one had a trash bag hanging inside."
Tips from RVers
Site configuration: Most Auburn area campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A visitor to Allred Flat noted, "Several sites are pull through sites, and we only saw a few random sites that had bear boxes. Each site had a picnic table and a fire pit, and was nicely separated from neighboring sites."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites remain limited to private campgrounds in the region. At the private Flat Creek RV Park, one camper observed, "Really nice people. Helped us out in a jam. Clean bathrooms and showers. Full hook ups."
Leveling requirements: Many forest campgrounds have uneven parking pads requiring additional equipment. A camper at Allred Flat warned, "Sites, however are not very level."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature variations even in summer months. A Diamond Creek visitor cautioned, "We cheated. It was too cold to sleep outdoors the month we arrived at the Diamond Creek Campground... give us a break, we're from Arizona!"
