Dispersed camping near Cowley, Wyoming features mostly free sites with natural spacing between campers. The area sits at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet in the Bighorn Basin, creating temperature variations that can drop 30 degrees from day to night. Seasonal constraints affect access, with spring mud and winter snow limiting travel on unpaved roads throughout the BLM lands.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground offers accessible shoreline fishing in a managed setting. "The reservoir is perfect for fishing, floating and cooling off after a hike," notes camper Lia T., who appreciated the immaculate grounds.
Wildlife watching: The open terrain of Cody BLM Dispersed creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for large mammals. "Saw some prong horns on the way in too! There was a group of hunters that came around to check things out in the evening, then returned the next morning and shot an antelope from the next ridge over," reports Laura M.
Stargazing: Dark skies dominate nights at Sheep Mountain BLM, especially during new moon phases. "We could see the whole valley and no one bothered us. Gorgeous views and for free!" shares Katrina F. Another camper adds, "The view made it so worth it plus the darkest nights to see the stars."
What campers like
Privacy despite proximity: Many dispersed sites around Cowley provide natural barriers between camping areas. At Cody BLM Dispersed, Mariana T. notes, "This area is huge so there's plenty of space to camp, you may see other RVs on the distance."
Accessibility to towns: Staying at free campsites while maintaining access to amenities ranks high for visitors. "Not far from Yellowstone and the town of Cody with amenities," mentions Cameron L. about Sheep Mountain BLM.
Off-road opportunities: The network of trails extending from camping areas creates recreational options beyond camping. As one visitor to Sheep Mountain notes, "The sheep mountain hiking trailhead is right here and lots of off-roading trails for single and double track."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds frequently affect camping in the Bighorn Basin, particularly at exposed sites. Lisa D. shares about Sheep Mountain BLM: "It was a windy day and calmed down around dinner time but at bedtime it was very windy! We have a rooftop tent and platform in the van. It felt like the RTT was the sail to our van."
Road quality varies: Access roads to camping areas range from well-maintained to challenging. Sophie B. notes about Cody BLM: "Ended up going down a decently sketchy road, sedan made it but decided we better turn back to one of the first spots we found."
Weather shifts: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in this region. James C. reports, "I will say I had thunderstorms which helped block the sun and cool down the area since I was here in July."
Tips for camping with families
Avoid primitive sites during peak summer: Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August with limited shade at most sites. At Gravel Pit Dispersed Camping, Robert B. notes, "Great area with trees and wildlife. Spots for campfires, and plenty of space. You can get multiple groups of people in here. No bathroom so you'll be going in the woods."
Consider site selection carefully: Finding level ground can require scouting, especially with children. At Sheep Mountain BLM, Cameron L. advises, "We were able to haul our 45-ft fifth wheel and find level ground. There are some additional locations to park higher on the hill but the road to get there is a little more rough."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Open-range conditions mean animals frequently move through camping areas. Kerstin S. observed at Cody BLM Dispersed, "People are shooting here," suggesting hunting activity occurs in these areas.
Tips from RVers
Gravel areas provide best stability: When selecting dispersed sites near Cowley, RVers should prioritize established gravel pads. At Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR, John H. found "Amazing views" with water access, giving the location a 5-star rating.
Scout ahead if possible: Larger rigs require advance planning and potential scouting. James B. notes about Cody BLM Dispersed: "The road is rough in just a couple of spots, but we saw vans and a large Class C make it up here no problem."
Cell service for remote work: Despite the remote feeling, connectivity remains good at many sites. Chris N. reports about Cody BLM Dispersed, "Getting into the area was easy and there wasn't much there other than solitude over a vast long and wide grasslands valley and a humongous 360 degree sky view."
Traveler
