The Bighorn National Forest offers wilderness camping experiences at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet. Equestrian camping near Big Horn, Wyoming provides direct access to extensive trail networks through diverse terrain. Seasonal access varies significantly with snow typically closing higher elevation facilities between October and June.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Access extensive backcountry routes from Hunter Campground, where facilities cater to both horses and riders. "The campground was full nutrition non-horse campers can also camp here. It is also a trailhead. The road is long - at the fork stay left," notes Hunter Campground visitor Audrey F.
Fishing opportunities: Cast your line in mountain creeks near Doyle Creek Campground, where accessible fishing spots suit various skill levels. "There is a stream for good fly fishing and we always see a bunch of wildlife!" shares a visitor at Doyle Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "My neighbors saw a moose with twins on the edge of the meadow the morning I showed up... the wildflowers and birds were plentiful," reports Annie C. about Circle Park.
What campers like
Mountain accessibility: The relative proximity to towns makes these horse-friendly camping areas convenient for weekend trips. "Circle Park is an awesome spot. It's so close and easy to get to from Buffalo, and there are plenty of different spots so you can find something you like," says Lanna M. at Circle Park Campground.
Seasonal escapes: Higher elevation camps provide relief during summer heat. "Nice spot to go when it's super hot in town," mentions Lanna M. about Circle Park's cooler temperatures during July visits.
Fire-friendly sites: During fire restrictions, established campgrounds offer advantages. "The best advantage over dispersed was with dedicated fire rings we were permitted fires during a fire ban. Firewood was $6," notes Leni K. about Circle Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps can present challenges for large trailers. "This campground is an amazing off grid location... we weren't sure how we would make it out if it were to snow or rain," cautions Shawn O. about Little Goose Campground.
Seasonal planning: Many equestrian facilities operate only during summer months. "The site does not have any facilities. So you need you need to pack everything into the site," advises Steve & Ashley G. about dispersed camping near Circle Park.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly regardless of season. "We were able to crawl our way back out of the camp area after an overnight steady rain, we kept in in 4 low and made it safely," explains Shawn O. about navigating forest roads.
Tips for camping with families
Boulder exploration: Natural features provide entertainment beyond the trails. "Found a great site with a Boulder yard nearby that the kids spent the entire afternoon playing on. Good views and quiet," shares Patrick W. about Ten Broek RV Park.
Water access: Creeks near campsites offer both recreational opportunities and practical benefits. "We stayed here for about a week in late July. Nice spot to go when it's super hot in town," reports a Circle Park visitor.
Wildlife education: Morning and evening wildlife viewing provides educational opportunities. "Campsites near the bathrooms are near a meadow animals visit at dusk. Our site had some morning visitors on the ridge," notes Leni K.
Tips from RVers
Trailer size limitations: Many equestrian sites accommodate trailers but with specific constraints. "You wouldn't want anything less than a stock Wrangler or equivalent to take this road. In our rig we bottomed out a few times," warns Shawn O. about Little Goose access.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. "Some sites might be tough with bigger trailers," advises Patrick W. about Circle Park.
Facility considerations: Services vary widely between established and dispersed equestrian camping areas. "Clean bathrooms, laundryrooms. Pull-through camper sites. Large shade trees," notes Linette G. about facilities at Ten Sleep.
