Dispersed camping opportunities near Big Horn, Wyoming extend beyond the popular Crazy Woman Canyon Road area. Several high-elevation sites at 8,000-10,000 feet provide access to alpine meadows, fishing lakes, and extensive trail systems throughout the Bighorn National Forest. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations with reduced crowds, though road access becomes significantly limited from November through May.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Canyon Creek offers productive trout fishing in less crowded waters than the more popular Crazy Woman Canyon area. Anglers frequently report success with brook trout in both Shell Reservoir Camping Area and its tributary streams. One visitor noted, "Beautiful campsites, brook trout fishing in the lake and the creek below, as well as a 4x4 trail that makes a large loop between shell reservoir and lake Adelaide."
Winter camping experiences: Some dispersed sites remain accessible during colder months when crowds diminish. According to a camper at Crazy Woman Canyon Road - dispersed camping, "Great experience easy to find and given the time we went no one was there." Winter camping requires additional preparation and appropriate cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Boulder scrambling and photography: The distinctive rock formations throughout Crazy Woman Canyon provide natural climbing and exploration opportunities without formal trails. A camper described the setting: "The tranquility, peace, towering canyon walls that make you feel so small, the freedom of the outdoors and back country quietness, that's what this place should be known for."
What campers like
Sound isolation from road noise: Campsites positioned along fast-moving creeks benefit from natural sound masking. A visitor at Crazy Woman Canyon noted, "Camping right next to the creek, listen to water and birds humming, perfect white noise to sleep with." This natural sound barrier helps maintain the wilderness experience despite occasional traffic.
Elevated camping with cooler temperatures: The high-elevation tent campsites near Big Horn, Wyoming provide natural cooling during summer months when lower elevations become uncomfortable. A camper at Ten Sleep Rock Ranch appreciated that "Tensleep Creek drowns out most of the highway noise, especially if you get a site on the creek."
Private secluded sites: Less-visited sections of the national forest provide increased privacy. A camper exploring the area observed, "The Bighorns have an abundance of great dispersed camping, but this site stands out as being much more protected from road noise and general traffic. Bonus points for the gorgeous creek running through."
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many primitive campsites require appropriate vehicles to access. A visitor to Shell Reservoir noted, "High clearance 4x4 needed," while another camper described Crazy Woman Canyon Road as "one lane with a few wide spots to pass oncoming vehicles. It starts off flat but drops steeply and continues the downward angle." Weather conditions significantly impact accessibility.
Temporary closures: Several camping areas experience periodic closures for maintenance or environmental concerns. A recent visitor reported, "Currently closed about 10 minutes from where google maps was taking us without an indication why," while another noted, "This spot is currently closed indefinitely due to construction." Checking current status with the Forest Service before travel is essential.
Limited amenities and facilities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic services. As one camper at Buffalo, WY discovered, designated overnight parking can be difficult to identify with "no overnight parking signs" in some locations. Visitors must prepare for self-contained camping with no reliable water sources, waste disposal, or emergency services.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration sites: Multiple small waterfalls and shallow creek areas provide natural play spaces for children. One family group reported, "My dad, sister, and I stayed here the summer of 23 and loved it. It was very peaceful!" Look for sites with gradual water access rather than steep dropoffs for safer water play.
Alternative established campgrounds: When dispersed camping proves too primitive for family needs, established campgrounds offer more amenities. At Bighorn National Forest Cabin Creek Campground, visitors should note that conditions vary significantly, as one camper reported, "It appears this was at one time a campground. Now overgrown and has one pit toilet that has been neglected."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife spotting times throughout the region. A visitor mentioned, "We saw wildlife, we relaxed with the sound of the river, this was an unforgettable experience." Maintaining food security and proper storage prevents unwanted animal encounters at camp.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate smaller rigs only. One camper advised about Crazy Woman Canyon, "I would not be comfortable taking a heavy load this way. We passed 3 camps that were not bad to get to if they are open." Another noted, "You would be hard pressed to get larger trailers in here."
Community-oriented alternatives: For RVers seeking more facilities, established campgrounds with community spaces provide better options. A visitor to Ten Sleep Rock Ranch found "showers, toilets, community fridge, wifi, good vibes, everything you'll need!" with "a really nice large pavilion with lots of picnic tables."
