Glamping near Auburn, Wyoming provides waterfront experiences and forest immersion with elevation ranging from 5,800 to 7,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with cold winters and mild summers, typically seeing 15-20 inches of annual precipitation. Star gazing is exceptional here due to minimal light pollution, with visibility of the Milky Way on clear nights.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground, anglers can access nearby streams. "Easily accessible. Close to lots of attractions in the Bear Lake area, but far enough from everyone else. The campground is in a beautiful forest with lots of trails and space to explore," notes Christopher W.
Hot springs soaking: Maple Grove Hot Springs offers natural thermal pools as part of your stay. "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," shares Jordan H., who adds that "they offer volunteer days as well where you can camp and soak in exchange for volunteer work."
Hiking trails: Many glamping sites connect to forest trails with varying difficulty levels. At Emigration Campground, Erin M. reports, "lots of sites that really have a lot of privacy and back right up to the forest. Also trails right of the campsite... Also huckleberry picking right from camp!"
What campers like
Waterfront access: The reservoir camping at Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing receives consistent praise for its shoreline. "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," explains Megan D.
Brewery proximity: Several campers appreciate the combination of outdoor stays with walkable breweries. Alex G. states the reservoir camping is "a great wide open site with excellent views and an added bonus of a brewery in walking distance."
Quiet forest settings: Forest glamping options provide seclusion from crowds. Susan V. describes Mccoy Creek Campground as having "beautiful views from our spot, but the river was dry due to the on-going drought. Would stay again!"
What you should know
Seasonal water fluctuations: Water levels change throughout the season at reservoir locations. "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," cautions Sara N. about the Melvin Brewing area.
Enforcement of stay limits: At dispersed sites, rangers monitor duration rules. Dutchess S. advises about Reservoir Dispersed Camping, "as far as I can tell if their is a flat spot and fire ring you can park for 5 days MAX! And the local LE is strict on that."
Road conditions: Access roads to glamping sites vary significantly. Connor N. found at Mccoy Creek that "road in was fair, rough at times, but doable in our low-clearance rig."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and amenities: Montpelier Creek KOA offers family-friendly facilities. Cameron J. notes, "Staff will help ensure a relaxing stay. Pool is heated but not hot, due to being in the trees there is a few floating items but gets cleaned every day. Creek runs through the front of camp. You can fish in it. Playground is adequate for children."
Emergency weather options: Temperatures can drop unexpectedly even in summer. Courtney T. shares an experience at Montpelier Creek KOA: "We booked a tent site online and pulled in around 8 pm on a Monday night shortly after the covid shutdown. It was raining and the temperature was 37 degrees and due to drop to 29 overnight. The incredibly kind host gave us a cabin for no extra charge since the campsite was almost empty."
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways affects some glamping sites. Susan V. reports about Emigration Campground: "The campers here were quiet and respectful, but there is road noise from the highway that runs sort of above the campground. Trucks use the highway and it's on a little bit of a grade, so you could definitely hear them."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Not all glamping areas accommodate larger rigs. At Emigration Campground, one reviewer notes "I wouldn't take big rigs in here because most of the sites aren't long enough."
Hookup availability: RVers should verify utility options in advance. Jennifer B. found at Montpelier Creek KOA that "sites are very close together, water pressure is not great. Lot of roadside noise. The creek has a nice flow. Site was pretty level, great cell service through Verizon. WiFi sucks."
Boondocking opportunities: For self-contained rigs, the reservoir area offers unique options. Caroline D. shares: "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. The people were great, the brews were tasty and the sunset was stunning."
