Dispersed camping near Daniel, Wyoming offers several free primitive sites in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Wyoming Game and Fish Department lands. The region sits at approximately 7,200 feet elevation with sagebrush plains transitioning to pine and aspen forests in higher elevations. Weather conditions change rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in July.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Alice contains the only pure lake strain of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming. A camper at Lake Alice reports, "This lake is the most beautiful blue-green color. We caught about 4 this trip. Fish AM/PM, the wind can pick up in the afternoons, and temps rise making fishing not so great in the afternoon."
Hiking trails: Wyoming Peak trail provides excellent wildflower viewing in late July. According to a visitor at Spring Creek Trailhead, "Wyoming Peak was a wonderful hike, highly recommend! This summer has had the most amazing wildflowers!"
Horseback riding: Multiple trail networks accommodate equestrians with primitive facilities. "Horseback riders are frequently in the area, so make way for them on the trail. We passed a string of about 8 riders going in further. You can trail ride through all the way to La Barge Creek Road. The campsite at the very beginning of the lake has a primitive corral for the horses."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites offer minimal interaction with other campers. A reviewer at Fisherman Creek Road noted, "This spot is absolutely beautiful! Only 1 other camper here and we only saw him when driving in and out. Perfect spot to be away from the crowds."
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to observe native wildlife in natural settings. One camper shared, "There were many available campsites and it's not far from the main road at all. I had a bar of service via Verizon. Really had the place to ourselves. On the way out, there was a herd of cows blocking the road and some cowboys driving them."
Established sites: Many dispersed areas feature basic improvements despite their primitive designation. According to a visitor, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs. Most spots have shade and fire rings."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many tent campsites near Daniel requires preparation for unpaved roads. A camper at Half Moon WMA - Pole Creek Campground advised, "It's a rough drive in down the last road. I recommend high clearance, 4WD even better. The main road in is improved gravel and easy, but there are hairpin turns on the hill, so I don't recommend long rigs or long 5th wheels."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be particularly problematic in early summer. "Bring bug spray!" warns one camper who noted the "crazy amount of mosquitoes" despite otherwise enjoying their camping experience.
Services nearby: Limited facilities exist in the immediate area. A camper reported, "About 5 miles west of Rim Station with an RV park and a little country store. Dump and fill station available there if needed. Owner is very kind!"
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: No drinking water available at most sites requires bringing 1-2 gallons per person per day. The remote locations combined with higher elevation increases dehydration risk.
Select established fire rings: Most Fisherman Creek Road sites feature existing fire rings. "Lots of large sites with fire pits and turnarounds. I went 2-3 miles to find an isolated site. Many sites had campers parked but no people."
Prepare for temperature swings: Summer days can reach 80°F while nights drop to 40°F. Multiple campers recommend layered clothing systems for children due to rapid temperature changes.
Plan morning activities: Afternoon thunderstorms frequently occur in summer months. One visitor observed, "The Spring Creek Falls trailhead has a river crossing at the 2 mile mark, sign states it is 5 miles to the falls. I didn't venture further than that."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVs can access many dispersed areas but require careful navigation. "Found a large spot about a mile up the road, on the left side. The road was pretty good, even for our overloaded car and rented trailer. The spot was large enough to turn around and easily maneuver the trailer."
Campsite spacing: Most areas provide adequate distance between sites for privacy. A camper noted, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs."
Noise considerations: Areas generally become quiet during evening hours. According to one camper, "It was quiet from 7 PM to 7 AM" despite daytime recreational vehicle traffic.
