Located at an elevation of 4,095 feet in the Big Horn Basin of northern Wyoming, the Cowley area serves as a strategic base for exploring the region's diverse landscapes. Glamping options near Cowley offer varying levels of accessibility, with some sites requiring high-clearance vehicles while others accommodate standard passenger cars on paved roads. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, making most glamping facilities seasonal operations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Five Springs Falls Campground provides access to nearby creeks and small waterways. "The sites are right beside a pretty little creek," notes Gretchen B., while another visitor mentions that "The creek was rushing right below the site," making it ideal for anglers seeking smaller streams.
Explore historic routes: Dead Indian Campground sits along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway where visitors can learn about significant Western history. A reviewer explains, "This is the route that Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce used to avoid a trap by the military," offering both scenic beauty and historical context within a short hike.
Farm experiences: Big Quiet Farm Stay & Campground offers unique agricultural activities not found at standard glamping sites. Ashley F. describes the experience: "So many ways to stay, from Tee-Pees to tents! We've heard the breakfast Rod & Mickey offer is one of the best."
Wildlife viewing: The Greybull area provides opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "We took a walk and watched deer" reports Ann F. at Greybull KOA, where a paved walking path just outside the campground offers easy wildlife observation access.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently mention creek and river proximity as a highlight when glamping close to Cowley, Wyoming. At Perry's RV and Campgrounds, Nick M. appreciates that "the sites at the bottom of the hill by the creek are amazing. Makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives particular praise across multiple glamping locations. Laura notes that Shell Campground is "Cozy, super clean, especially the bathrooms!" while Vena B. found the facilities at Greybull KOA to be "extra clean showers and bathrooms. The laundry room was immaculate."
Compact but efficient campgrounds: Smaller glamping options offer a more intimate experience. Steel G. appreciates that Cody Trout Ranch Camp "is just the right size with about 40 sites. Most for larger rigs but some for smaller," creating a balance between amenities and overcrowding.
Convenient town access: Many glamping locations provide proximity to local services while maintaining natural settings. Ryu M. notes that Parkway RV Campground offers a "Nice convenient town to get things ready before hitting the Yellowstone. Walmart, Rodeo, Verizon, etc."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping facilities near Cowley operate on limited schedules. One reviewer at Five Springs Falls Campground warns that "Once they close the highway for the season access will be cut off until thaw," highlighting the importance of checking operational dates.
Cash payment policies: Several campgrounds maintain traditional payment systems. Patricia H. notes that Parkway RV Campground accepts "Cash or Check only," while Kim B. reminds visitors that Perry's RV and Campgrounds is also a "cash only campground!"
Site spacing variations: Site proximity varies significantly between glamping locations. Joan observes that at Cody KOA "Sites are extremely close. There are no trees," while Steel G. appreciates that at Cody Trout Ranch Camp "The attractive landscaping keeps a nice buffer between you and your neighbors."
Weather contingencies: The Big Horn Basin experiences extreme weather variations. Ann F. notes, "This year it's cool but the host said it's normally hot. She said all the green grass is usually yellow," indicating the importance of preparing for both hot and cool conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. Reni J. found that Cody KOA "had lots of activities for anyone who is traveling with them," making it suitable for family glamping close to Cowley, Wyoming.
Fishing amenities: Kid-friendly fishing spots provide entertainment without extensive travel. Elizabeth M. reports that at Cody Trout Ranch Camp "My littles (6&8) loved the playground, the fishing pond, it's far enough from the road to be quiet and safe."
Pool facilities: Swimming options are limited but available at select locations. Vena B. mentions "My 4 yo son loved the pool and the playground" at Greybull KOA, which provides relief during hot summer months.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary in noise levels from neighboring sites and roads. Douglas S. notes that while Cody KOA is "well maintained with many amenities," the primary drawback is that "the campsites are too close together," which may affect families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for varying pad conditions. Shea R. describes Billings Village RV Park as offering "Super easy check-in process. Nothing special but a clean, easy stop for a night," though other reviewers mention gravel surfaces requiring leveling.
Access limitations: Larger RVs face restrictions at certain glamping locations. Amy P. warns that Five Springs Falls Campground "is 2.2 miles off the main highway up a steep winding grade," and Gretchen B. adds that "a sign says no vehicles over 24' and I wouldn't want to do it with anything close to that!"
Hookup positioning: RV hookup placement varies between campgrounds. Tammy D. appreciates that Cody KOA has "sites set up with alternating hookups so you are not picnicking over your neighbors dump hose," while Kimberly L. encountered challenges at Billings Village RV Park where "the electric was low to the ground- we had to bend the cord to connect."
