Dispersed Camping near Big Piney, WY

Dispersed camping near Big Piney, Wyoming offers access to public lands at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,000 feet across sagebrush plains and alpine meadows. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 85°F but dropping to 40°F at night. Wind is a constant factor at most sites, particularly those around water bodies and exposed areas.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: The Warren Bridge Recreation Area provides excellent access to the Green River. "There is amazing Wildlife viewing right from the campground. On my last visit I saw mule deer, moose, and Antelope right from my campsite," notes one visitor. Bank fishing is also available at sites along Grey's River.

Wildlife viewing: Kelly Park FS Rd #747 offers dispersed camping in aspen groves where wildlife observation is common. "Open grassy area in Aspen close to paved road," reports one camper. At Big Sandy Reservoir, "We were greeted with a huge herd of sheep one afternoon. Lots of wildlife," writes a visitor.

Water recreation: While swimming isn't recommended at all locations, many sites support kayaking and paddleboarding. "The lake is beautiful and great for kayaking or sup," mentions a camper at Willow Lake. At Big Sandy Reservoir, one reviewer noted "great fishing at the reservoir" with "some great views when the sun came up!"

What campers like

Separation between campsites: At Soda Lake Wildlife Area, "Spots are well dispersed so you're not too close to your neighbor," according to a visitor. Similarly at Warren Bridge, the 12 designated sites provide ample space between camping areas.

Sunset views: Big Sandy offers particularly striking sunsets. "The sunset was great!" writes one camper. Another mentions, "The sunset and the stars at night are definitely worth the visit." The wide-open landscape allows for unobstructed evening views across many dispersed sites.

Affordability: Most dispersed camping near Big Piney is free or low cost. At Warren Bridge, a camper notes "This BLM recreation area has 12 designated FREE dispersed campsites along the Green River." While some sites like Willow Lake have recently implemented $10 fees, most remain free with 14-day stay limits.

What you should know

Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Salt River Pass requires careful planning. "The road is HEAVILY rutted, and would be impassible for a regular car," warns one camper. Another states, "In my equinox I had to drive half on the edge of the road because the dirt road into the area where other tires go was so deep."

Bug activity: Most sites experience heavy insect activity, especially in summer months. A Big Sandy camper advises, "Nothing that bites—just make sure you keep your tent or vehicle closed for a more enjoyable experience." Mosquitoes peak from June through August, particularly near water sources.

Cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. At Soda Lake, expect "fair to good cell signal depending on your location." At Salt River Pass, one camper reports "There is no cell service at all ATT wise, my onstar WiFi wouldn't even connect," while Warren Bridge campers consistently report no service.

Tips for camping with families

More amenities at established sites: The designated campsites at Big Sandy Reservoir Rec Area offer more family-friendly features. "There was about 10 spots with a covered area and picnic table, all near an outhouse," notes one visitor, making it suitable for families with children.

Weather preparedness: Temperature swings of 40°F between day and night are common. Campers report strong winds at exposed sites like Big Sandy, with one noting it was "EXTREMELY windy but it had calmed down by the time the sun had begun to set." Pack additional layers, even in summer.

Wildlife encounters: Children will enjoy the abundant wildlife but need supervision. At Soda Lake WHMA, "beautiful huge wild Horses also roam around, but they seemed like gentle giants," while another mentions seeing "pronghorn, horses, hummingbirds, bald and golden eagles, osprey, hawks."

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Many roads leading to dispersed sites have limitations. At Kelly Park, a visitor notes they "Made it okay in our SUV and 25' camper," while South Boulder Lake Camp Site has "a narrow and lumpy" road where one reviewer "would not haul in a TT or RV."

Level camping spots: RVers should scout sites before committing. At Soda Lake WHMA, one full-timer with a "36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow" found their site "surprisingly level too, almost didn't need to level at all."

Water and dump facilities: No potable water exists at most sites. The Warren Bridge area offers a sanitary dump "available for a small fee" according to visitors. RVers should arrive with full tanks and empty waste containers.