Scab Creek Large Vehicle Campground provides specialized equestrian camping near Daniel, Wyoming in the heart of Bridger-Teton National Forest. The campground sits at approximately 8,000 feet elevation, experiencing cool summer nights even when days are warm. The surrounding Wind River Range offers multiple interconnected trail systems extending into wilderness areas, allowing for both short day rides and multi-day backcountry trips.
What to do
Trail riding at Green River Lakes Road: This area offers excellent equestrian access with diverse terrain options. "This is a wide open dispersed location along the Green River. You might be competing with free grazing cattle, but they're respectful. It's a beautiful spot. The road in is washboard, so be patient," notes Terry G. The riverside trails provide natural water access for horses during rides.
Fishing opportunities: Cottonwood Lake, located approximately 30 miles southwest of Daniel, offers trout fishing options for campers taking a break from riding. "The lake is spectacular! It is the prettiest shade of teal. The lake has brown and cutthroat trout. They were jumping like crazy in the evening and the fly fishing was excellent," shares one visitor who used a yellow caddis fly with success.
Wilderness hiking: Spring Creek Trailhead campground connects to multiple hiking routes including Wyoming Peak. "Wyoming Peak was a wonderful hike, highly recommend! This summer has had the most amazing wildflowers!" reports Carrie C. The trailhead allows for both short day hikes and more strenuous backcountry adventures, with Spring Creek Falls located 5 miles from the trailhead.
What campers like
Natural soundscapes: Campers consistently mention the calming effect of river sounds at dispersed sites. "Found a spot decently off the road and close to the water. Pretty buggy. The sound of the river was so peaceful to fall asleep to," writes ekastroll about Green River Lakes Road camping.
Solitude and wildlife viewing: Spring Creek Trailhead offers quiet camping away from crowds. "Great dispersed camping area. Appears to be used by a lot of hunters. There is a nice big picnic table at one site and a few spots with campfire rings and meat poles," notes Carrie C. The proximity to both Spring Creek and Greys River enhances wildlife viewing opportunities.
Water recreation access: Hobble Creek Campground provides creek access in addition to nearby lake options. Ryan M. reports, "Kids and dogs had fun playing in the nearby creek (water is very cold), with lots of great hiking opportunities." The area also offers seasonal wild berries: "Added bonus, there were a lot of wild strawberries and raspberries in the area."
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Many forest service roads remain closed until summer due to high creek crossings and snow. "Usually roads are not passable until almost July," explains Carrie C. regarding Hobble Creek Campground. Backcountry trails may require creek crossings that become dangerous during spring runoff.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping areas provide minimal facilities. Dutch Joe Guard Station Campground exemplifies this: "The BLM has a fancy new sign at this location, but there really is no CG, just a large open grassy meadow area. No toilet, no water, trash or tables, fire rings."
Road conditions: Access roads to prime equestrian camping areas often deteriorate several miles from highways. White Pine Wyoming Resort provides an alternative with hookups but at higher cost: "RV spots with water and electric are $30, $20 no hookups. Tent cabins and teepees $30, bring your own tent $12."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly riding options: When horse camping with children, Cottonwood Lake Campground offers shorter trail connections suitable for novice riders. "The campground is quite nice back in the trees. There are 2 separate forks, one for equestrians and the other allows off-road vehicles," notes one camper.
Multi-activity sites: Look for camping areas with diverse activity options for when children need breaks from riding. "This campground is recommended if you are interested in the following: horseback riding, fly fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, ORV, wildlife viewing. Something for everyone!" shares a visitor to Cottonwood Lake.
Wildlife safety planning: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the Wind River Range. "The only bear boxes are located by the restroom, which I thought was unusual. I just made sure any food items were stored away in my vehicle and locked vs storing in the bear box," advises one camper.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up options: Full-service options remain limited near wilderness trailheads. Flat Creek RV Park provides alternatives when servicing equipment between backcountry trips. "Really nice people. Helped us out in a jam. Clean bathrooms and showers. Full hook ups," notes Heather H.
Size limitations: Standard horse trailer and RV combinations require careful planning. "I had no problems pulling my 26' TT into here, but I don't know if I would attempt to bring anything in much larger than that," advises Ryan M. about Hobble Creek Campground, which offers adequate spacing between sites.
Alternative parking strategies: For accessing remote trails, consider base camping at more accessible locations. "This cg may be a work in progress. However this is on the road to the Big Sandy FS cg at the roads end and would be a much better haul/camp site for a TT than going the last 7 rough rocky miles to Big Sandy."
