Camping options near Big Horn, Wyoming range from established campgrounds with full amenities to remote forest sites at elevations up to 8,400 feet. The Bighorn National Forest provides diverse camping environments with access to trout-filled streams and wildlife viewing opportunities. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during day with nighttime lows often dropping to 40-50°F even in July and August.
What to do
Hiking near mountain lakes: Bighorn National Forest offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. A visitor at Bighorn National Forest Tie Flume Campground shared, "I hiked Lily Lake Trail which is part of the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Really enjoyed this hike, great scenery and awesome views during the hike and at the top."
Fishing in quiet streams: The mountain waterways contain several fish species. At Tongue River Campground, one camper noted, "Most important is the miles of fishing within walking distance." The campground provides easy access to productive fishing spots along the river.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper at East Fork Campground reported, "On the way we saw various wildlife and stunning Mountain views. You can't book these sites in advance, it's first come first serve."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. A reviewer at Connor Battlefield State Historic Site mentioned, "The bathrooms were spotless each time I used them, regardless of time of day. The showers were very clean, the temperature fluctuated some while using, but nothing to complain about."
Riverside camping: Sites near water are particularly popular. At Mikesell Potts Recreation Area, a camper wrote, "We had a spot right by lake. Clean toilets. Make sure to take a pen to be able to check in/complete envelope." The lakeside spots fill quickly during peak season.
Quiet atmosphere: The remote nature of many campgrounds creates peaceful settings. One camper at Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA shared, "It's very nice here. Its always been quiet and clean. Showers are clean and water is hot. There is a pool and nice playground for the kids. Pet friendly."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have no connectivity. A camper at Bighorn National Forest Tie Flume Campground advised, "There is NO cell service within 18 miles of the campground. Additionally, there is no grocery store or even stocked service station within miles as well. Come prepared with what you need for your entire stay."
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. One camper noted, "The night I spent there was a dust storm with some intense winds, so bring your tie-downs."
Self-registration systems: Many campgrounds use self-pay systems. A visitor at Mikesell Potts Recreation Area explained, "Check in is via honor system. Most sites have some from between them. Saw lots of pronghorn."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. A visitor to Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA shared, "They had a basketball court, horseshoe pits, mini golf, swimming pool, and some fun looking tricycles!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings can be educational for children. At Connor Battlefield State Historic Site, a camper reported, "Woke up to the white tail deer in the field in the morning. Osprey flying over the river in the evening."
Swimming options: During summer months, water activities keep kids entertained. One camper mentioned, "There is an outdoor swimming pool and spa, which we missed out on by two days when the weather decided to dip below freezing, but it was a nice size."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. At Tongue River Campground, a camper warned, "Rough narrow roads and sites are small and right next to the road; only 1 site is riverside."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain can make leveling difficult. One RVer shared, "It took a lot to get us leveled, but we did it. We are concerned about getting out of here; may have to back down the road a ways to get turned around. Our 5th-wheel is 28 feet long."
Hookup locations: At Peter D's RV Park, a visitor noted, "Make sure you have an extension for the sewer and water connect as it's mid to more front of the camper, they were not designed and installed to be towards the back like all the other campgrounds."
Road conditions for pet-friendly camping: When traveling with pets to Big Horn campgrounds, consider road access. A visitor to Little Goose Campground reported, "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, and by the time we made it to the campground we weren't sure how we would make it out if it were to snow or rain."
