Dispersed camping options near Big Piney offer terrain ranging from river access points to mountain campsites at elevations between 7,000-8,300 feet. The area experiences significant temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 80°F while nights can drop below 40°F even in July. Winter camping remains accessible at some locations but requires proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Fishing access: Warren Bridge Recreation Area provides designated spots along the Green River with boat launches for anglers. "Good fishing as well," notes one camper, while another mentions the wildlife viewing opportunities: "There is amazing Wildlife viewing right from the campground. On my last visit I saw mule deer, moose, and Antelope right from my campsite."
Bird watching: The natural areas around Big Piney support diverse bird populations. At Warren Bridge Recreation Area, campers report exceptional raptor viewing. "Directly across the river from our site is a tall pine with an eagles nest. 2 large Bald Eagles hang out there in the evening, while a large Golden Eagle watches the nest and fights off the peregrine falcons while they're gone."
Water activities: The rivers near Big Piney serve as recreation hubs. Green River Fear-Reardon Draw provides boat ramp access for fishing and drift boats. "This is primarily a fishing drift boat ramp access and parking, but this site also allows camping for the BLM limit of 16 days."
What campers like
Mountain views: The Wind River Range creates a dramatic backdrop for many camping areas. Wind River View Campground offers pet-friendly sites with mountain panoramas. One visitor noted it "has beautiful view of the Wind River Range. Nice, easy-going host. Only downside would be the road noise, but that's not real bad."
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds feature well-spaced sites that provide privacy. At Highline Trail RV Park, campers appreciate the layout: "Spaces are big and spread out. Everything was clean and well maintained." Another visitor highlighted "The grounds are well groomed with ample space between sites. Plenty of shade and great views of the mountains."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain quality restrooms and showers. Yellowstone Trail RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness: "The staff keeps the bathroom immaculate and they are so helpful!" Another camper was "shocked walking into the bathroom... It's bright, there's nice white granite, and importantly it's immaculate."
What you should know
Cell coverage varies: Service fluctuates significantly throughout the Big Piney area. At Green River Fear-Reardon Draw, "Cell signal is very good" while the New Fork-Remmick Public Access Area reports "cell on att/TMobile Sprint is good, Verizon not so good." At Soda Lake, reception depends on location: "AT&T service was poor without a booster, with 0-2 Bars of 3G service, but nearly no data throughput."
Water limitations: Many dispersed camping areas lack drinking water. New Fork-Remmick Public Access Area has "a nice vault toilet but no potable water, trash cans or table/fire ring." Plan to bring sufficient water supplies when camping outside established facilities.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant wind and temperature variations. Daniel Junction campers note "the only drawback is the wind gusts (so watch your awning)but that's Wyoming!" Nighttime temperatures require proper gear even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer activities specifically for children. Yellowstone Trail RV Park provides "a basketball court, pickleball court, and cornhole to keep yourself or your kiddos preoccupied."
Proximity to services: When camping with children, locations closer to town provide easier access to supplies. Soda Lake WHMA offers pet-friendly camping within reasonable distance to Pinedale. "Getting to soda lake was very straightforward and easy out of Pinedale. Very well maintained road."
Swimming considerations: Not all water bodies are suitable for swimming. At Soda Lake, campers report "the lake has leeches so no swimming... which was a huge disappointment." Research water conditions before planning water activities with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: The approach roads to some sites require careful navigation. At Warren Bridge, experienced campers advise: "If this is your first visit and you are hauling a RV examine the entry for site 10, it is very rough. Sites 1 & 2 are small."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites for RVs with pets remain limited near Big Piney. Daniel Junction provides "newly renovated" hookups though some campers find it "a gas station RV park" with basic amenities.
Leveling considerations: Many dispersed camping areas around Big Piney offer surprisingly level parking for RVs. At Soda Lake, one camper found their site "surprisingly level too, almost didn't need to level at all," which makes setup easier for larger vehicles.
