Bighorn National Forest provides camping experiences at elevations between 4,000 and 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the national forest sit above 7,000 feet, where summer temperatures typically range from 70°F during the day to the low 40s at night. The forest encompasses over 1.1 million acres of wilderness with camping options ranging from developed sites to remote dispersed areas.
What to do
Fishing in mountain waters: Medicine Lodge Creek runs behind Shell Creek Campground, offering fishing opportunities in clear mountain water. One visitor noted, "Amazing creek behind the majority of the sites. Nice tent only walk in sites" while another mentioned they "loved falling asleep next to it."
Wildlife viewing: Lakeview Campground provides excellent wildlife watching opportunities, particularly for moose. A camper reported, "Had a big bull moose sitting in our site upon arrival and he stayed nearby all day and night so caution with pets is recommended." Many visitors share similar experiences across the forest.
Historical exploration: Take time to explore Native American cultural sites near Shell Creek Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Around this mountain range is the Crow Medicine Wheel and one of the oldest trails in N America! Native tribes from the area still come to these sacred sites."
Mountain biking: The network of gravel roads and trails provides numerous options for bikers. At West Tensleep Lake, "There are a ton of gravel and off-road opportunities for bikers. Pay attention to the trails rules because some trails do not allow bikers."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers highlight the value of sites positioned near running water. At Island Park Campground, "Best sites for views are along creek where you can watch moose beaver and trout in creek and meadow."
High elevation climate: During peak summer heat, the forest's elevation provides relief. A West Tensleep Lake camper noted, "It's mid August and it's starting to cool down. About 75 during the day and low 50s at night."
Quiet, spaced-out sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a positive feature. At Tie Flume Campground, "Sites are very spaced out, so it is very private and quiet. Lots of wildlife and pine forest."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers minimal light pollution. A camper at Tie Flume mentioned enjoying "very dark" nights, though noted that "wildfire smoke sadly blocked the views of the night sky."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. For West Tensleep Lake Campground, "It's a dirt/rock road and you'll be on it for 7 miles." Another camper added, "The long 7 mile gravel road on cruiser motorcycles is a pain."
No cell service: Most forest campgrounds lack connectivity. A Shell Creek visitor reported, "No cell service (Verizon)," while another noted at West Tensleep that there were "No facilities, stores or cell service. You must be prepared and self sufficient."
Potential wildlife encounters: Bear safety protocols are essential. For dispersed camping, one visitor advises, "There are bears out in this forest, recommend putting all food in your hard sided truck, Car, or camper! A human fed bear is a dead bear!"
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. A camper at Island Park noted, "No electric to plug into, no dump station, a hydrant to share, a pit toilet that was very clean. All the stuff missing that keeps the wienies away."
Tips for camping with families
Visit interpretive sites: Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site offers educational opportunities. "There is a 700 foot long sandstone bluff that contains several hundred American Indian petroglyphs and pictographs that date back 2000 years."
Water play options: Sites near streams provide entertainment for children. A Shell Reservoir visitor mentioned, "Brook trout fishing in the lake and the creek below," while another camper at Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site shared, "My toddler and 9 year old played in the shallows for hours."
Pack for temperature swings: High elevations create significant day-to-night temperature changes. A West Tensleep camper mentioned, "best part of the week was watching happy tourist pitch a tent and leave after freezing to death at night."
Plan daily activities: The surrounding forest offers numerous family-friendly activities. A visitor to Bighorn National Forest advised, "We dispersed camped north of MeadowLark Lake along FS Road 427... We enjoyed our coffee next to the river!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. At Lakeview Campground, "the turning loop will not accommodate large pull behinds or RV's," while at West Tensleep, "People with campers that are on the large side definitely struggled to park and level them."
Water planning: RV campers need to arrange water access strategically. At Tie Flume Campground, "The water spigots don't have threads either and not meant to fill rv tanks" and another camper advised, "Be aware that you will have to arrive with water in your tank if you are in an RV."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal before arrival. One camper noted, "No electric or RV dump here you must go to Burgess station to dump (No posted price/donations appreciated)." Another mentioned, "Dump Station about 13 miles away."
Road navigation: Consider your vehicle's capabilities when selecting a campground. A visitor to Shell Reservoir warned, "High clearance 4x4 needed," while an Island Park camper stated, "Easy access about 2 miles in on graded dirt road."
