Dispersed camping near Cokeville, Wyoming provides numerous backcountry options throughout the Wyoming-Utah border region. The area sits at elevations ranging from 6,200 to 7,500 feet, resulting in significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach the 80s while nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s even in July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area, visitors can fish in the reservoir while enjoying the natural setting. "Great campsites next to the lake. Excellent views and quiet. Only saw a couple other campers off in the distance. Lots of birds and ducks to watch. Saw a moose way off in the distance," reports Clayton P.
Mountain biking trails: Access numerous biking routes at Green Canyon Dispersed Campground where trails run alongside the canyon road. "About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. Headed up around 4pm on a Saturday during Memorial Day weekend so didn't have high hopes but found a spot with a fire ring almost immediately! There was also another spot open down the road. Lots of people camping, hiking, mountain biking, and ATVs," writes Kristen P.
Scenic drives: Explore Forest Service roads through Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping areas with river views. "2wd friendly road for MILES. You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views. The views are truly amazing. There are nice size and spread out dispersed camping spots along the way," notes johny R.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The wetlands and reservoirs attract diverse bird species and occasional large mammals. At Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside, "A 4 mile-ish drive off the main road this site is located right next to the lake and has vault toilets. It was lovely and peaceful and we woke up to a lovely sunrise," shares Michael R.
River access: Several Smithfield Dispersed Campsite locations feature creekside camping. "I first visited this area in the spring, and have since been there around 4-5 times. It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon. The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot," reports Keaton L.
Solitude: Many dispersed areas provide separation from other campers. In Franklin Basin, Kennedy F. writes, "Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude. Took the dirt road for about 30 minutes and got the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us and the view was amazing."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Mountain areas experience rapid temperature changes. Franklin Basin camper Maddie F. advises: "Amazing location especially because it's close to bear lake! I heard it's better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
Road challenges: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. At Salt River Pass, Josh L. warns: "The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement. The service road is incredibly rocky with one side a sheer drop. Went down with our campervan and barely made it down and back up in one piece."
Reservations: Most sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside camper GoWhereYouAreDraw N. notes: "Opting for the established pull-off was a great decision, offering pit toilets and a mere 10-foot distance from the lake. A perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation. However, the Wyoming wind made its presence felt."
Tips for camping with families
Best family sites: Look for Diamond Creek Guard Station for families wanting basic shelter. Brad C. shares: "What a beautiful area to camp! Dispersed camping with space for very large groups. Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views."
Bathroom access: Many primitive sites lack facilities entirely. At Green Canyon Disbursed Campground, Steven E. notes: "There are Vault toilets in the parking lot at the bottom, as well as at the very top where Green Canyon meets water shed Canyon."
Bug preparation: Bring insect repellent, especially near water. At Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside, matt reports: "Beautiful views but insanely buggy this time of year. Couldn't open my vehicle doors for a second or they flooded in."
Tips from RVers
Access recommendations: RVers should scout routes before committing. At Fossil Butte National Monument BLM, Savannah cautions: "The drive into the monument is easy, zero issues. Once the road turn to gravel, it gets steep. We have a 15k pound fifth wheel and a 2wd dually and we're only able to make it a couple 100 yds up the hill before we started spinning."
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs. At Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, sarah C. warns: "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied."
Level sites: Look for established pullouts with flat terrain. A Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area visitor notes: "Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw. The road is okay if you go slowly; we came in with our 31' class A pulling a 12' box trailer."
