Dispersed camping areas around Big Piney, Wyoming provide opportunities for remote wilderness experiences throughout the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Most sites offer basic camping with few amenities, requiring visitors to pack in water and supplies. Forest Service roads provide access to numerous informal camping areas where campers can enjoy trout fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking during the summer season when roads are clear of snow.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Sandy Reservoir offers productive fishing for anglers seeking rainbow and brown trout. "Only stayed a night, got in at 9pm and left around 8am. Peaceful and quiet with no one else around. No mice, just some moths. Had some great views when the sun came up! Also great fishing at the reservoir!" notes reviewer keera B. at Big Sandy Reservoir.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide optimal viewing opportunities for deer, elk, and occasional moose. Quiet areas along Fisherman Creek Road offer secluded spots for wildlife observation. According to Donald B., "Lots of large sites with fire pits and turnarounds. I went 2-3 miles to find an isolated site. Many sites had campers parked but no people. Little traffic on the road."
Hiking access: The Lake Alice area provides trail access to Mount Isabel, approximately 5 miles from the lake. Continuing along Poker Creek Trail reaches LaBarge Creek Road at mile 9, offering extended hiking options. For shorter day hikes, Spring Creek Falls trailhead includes a river crossing at the 2-mile mark with the falls located 5 miles from the trailhead.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campsites around Big Piney remain relatively uncrowded, particularly on weekdays. "This spot is absolutely beautiful! Only 1 other camper here and we only saw him when driving in and out. Perfect spot to be away from the crowds," reports Angie S. about Fisherman Creek Road.
Natural camping clearings: The best tent camping near Big Piney, Wyoming often features naturally cleared areas with existing fire rings. Dakota H. notes, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs. Most spots have shade and fire rings."
Mountain views: Campsites offering views of the Wind River Range provide spectacular sunrise and sunset viewing. "The view of the Wind River range at sunset is gorgeous. Not too many campers," writes Ursula at Big Sandy Reservoir, highlighting the scenic backdrop available at many camping areas near Big Piney.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed camping areas requires high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall. "It's a rough drive in down the last road. I recommend high clearance, 4WD even better. The main road in is improved gravel and easy, but there are hairpin turns on the hill," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Half Moon WMA - Pole Creek Campground.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are prevalent throughout summer months, particularly in areas near water. "The only downside was the crazy amount of mosquitoes. Bring bug spray!" warns Witek C. about camping along Fisherman Creek Road.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping sites near Big Piney lack basic facilities like drinking water, trash disposal, and toilets. Lake Alice offers slightly more developed facilities despite requiring a hike to access. Cell service varies by location, with Fisherman Creek Road reporting limited Verizon service according to Tee C.: "There were many available campsites and it's not far from the main road at all. I had a bar of service via Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Cattle frequently graze on open lands in the area, occasionally blocking access roads. Tee C. reports from Fisherman Creek Road: "On the way out, there was a herd of cows blocking the road and some cowboys driving them. But it wasn't a long roadblock."
Seasonal timing: For the most comfortable family camping near Big Piney, target late summer when mosquito populations diminish and temperatures moderate. Early July camping often requires extensive bug protection, particularly for children.
Supply stops: The Rim Station country store located about 5 miles east of Fisherman Creek Road offers basic supplies and RV services. "About 5 miles west of Rim Station with an RV park and a little country store. Dump and fill station available there if needed. Owner is very kind!" notes Angie S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Most dispersed camping areas offer multiple pull-offs suitable for different vehicle sizes. "The spot was large enough to turn around and easily maneuver the trailer. We got there on a Thursday evening at about 8pm," reports Witek C. from camping along Fisherman Creek Road.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly, with significant temperature drops at night even during summer months. Afternoon winds can develop quickly, making awning use problematic and affecting outdoor activities.
Road navigation: Tailrace Campground offers free camping with sturdy picnic tables and fire pits, but varying campsite quality. Carrie C. notes at Tail Race Campground: "Each site is a little different, some have nice large rock fire pits and some have cement fixtures and metal grills. During the week it was not busy, but the lower campgrounds along the Green River were much busier."
