Tent camping near Cokeville, Wyoming offers options across an elevation range from 6,200 feet in town to over 8,000 feet in surrounding mountain areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with early summer bringing significant mosquito activity in wetland areas. Camping season generally runs from late May through September, though higher elevation sites may remain snow-covered until mid-June.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The turquoise waters of Bear Lake State Park Campground provide unique fishing approximately 45 miles southwest of Cokeville. "The water is perfect and so blue. Really earns the title of the Caribbean of the Rockies," notes camper Danielle T. Morning and evening fishing prove most productive as "the wind can pick up in the afternoons."
Mountain biking trails: Access several forest service trails from Smithfield Dispersed Campsite located about 35 miles south of Cokeville. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," reports Brendan J., who recommends the area for its accessibility to multiple trail systems.
Cave exploration: When staying at North Fork Campground in St. Charles Canyon, campers can visit nearby Minnetonka Cave. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave," notes Alan B., highlighting its convenient location for cave tours that operate daily during summer months.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: At Bear Lake State Park, tent sites offer direct water access. "Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset. It was heaven," shares Danielle T. The gradual shoreline makes for safe wading, as another camper notes: "the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep."
Secluded riverside spots: Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms provides private tent sites with personal fire pits about 40 miles from Cokeville. "This private oasis in the woods feels secluded, but you are 6 min away from local amenities," explains Ashley F., noting the combination of privacy and convenience.
Mountain views: The higher elevation sites near Cokeville offer views of surrounding mountain ranges. At Smithfield Dispersed Camping, one camper stayed "at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be," highlighting the peaceful setting with mountain vistas.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas lack amenities. At Kemmerer Tent Park, "sites are overgrown and not well maintained. There are fire rings (look like wheel rims) with grates. The picnic tables are pretty beaten up," according to Carrie C. A more recent visitor noted it "says fee area, but there were no fee envelopes and it looks like no one is checking."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating narrow forest roads. At Smithfield Dispersed Camping, one camper warns there's "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."
Water availability: Pack in drinking water for most camping sites. Even established campgrounds like North Fork Campground don't provide drinking water, making self-sufficiency essential when tent camping near Cokeville.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Bear Lake State Park offers gradually sloping shorelines ideal for children. One camper explains, "The beach has fine sand and the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep. Crystal clear water."
Cave tours for kids: North Fork Campground's proximity to Minnetonka Cave provides educational opportunities. The cave maintains a constant 40°F temperature, so bring jackets even during summer visits.
Early arrivals recommended: Secure family-friendly spots by arriving early in the day. One Bear Lake visitor advises, "It was 1st come 1st serve and I would suggest you get there as early as you can," noting that sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most camping areas near Cokeville accommodate smaller rigs only. At Lake Alice, the 1.5-mile access trail limits RV options, though some ambitious campers have managed small trailers. "For a primitive camping area this place is pretty sweet! They have metal fire rings with grills and there is an outhouse as well," reports Carrie C.
Limited hookups: Bring self-contained systems when RV camping in this region. Smithfield Dispersed Camping has "only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied," indicating the limited availability of suitable RV spots in the area.
Pack-in requirements: For RVers visiting Lake Alice, consider what you can reasonably carry. The 1.5-mile hike to campsites means everything must be packed in, including water and supplies.
