Dispersed camping near Devils Tower National Monument offers primitive campsites on public lands managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management. Located in northeastern Wyoming at approximately 4,000 feet elevation, the area features pine forests interspersed with rocky outcroppings and grasslands. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and less crowded conditions.
What to do
Hike to Roosevelt Friendship Tower: Located about 45 minutes from Devils Tower, this short trail leads to a historic stone tower with panoramic views. "There is a bathroom at the entrance. Only maybe 6 spots before the road gets bad so pick one of those BEFORE you come to a fork in the road. If you go right on the fork the road gets bad," notes a camper at Mount Roosevelt Dispersed Camping.
Fish Sand Creek: This small waterway near Devils Tower offers trout fishing opportunities during summer months. "The sand creek has plenty of fish to try your luck at," reports a visitor at Sand Creek Public Access, which provides streamside access points for anglers.
Explore Belle Fourche Reservoir: Located north of Devils Tower, this water body allows boating and shoreline camping. "Great spots on the water with picnic tables and fire rings. Not crowded at all," mentions a camper who stayed at this location.
What campers like
Elevated views: Many dispersed sites offer unobstructed views of Devils Tower and surrounding landscape. At Storm Hill BLM Land, a visitor noted, "Unreal views. Gorgeous sunrise and set views. Only negative was a lot of ground bees but they didnt sting just more of an annoyance."
Wildlife encounters: The area supports deer, small mammals, and diverse bird species. "We saw 2 deer on the way in. Flat, just off the road, dry, among trees, lovely view. Other campers around but still peaceful & private enough," describes a camper at Mount Roosevelt Road.
Proximity to attractions: Most dispersed sites provide convenient access to Devils Tower and Black Hills destinations. "Overall, great spot, make sure to hit the hike to the tower and overlook!" shares a camper at Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite, noting its accessibility to nearby attractions.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads become difficult or impassable after precipitation. "Road heading up to site is loaded with deep ruts, wash out, but well worth it," explains a visitor to Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Site competition: Prime spots fill quickly, especially those with direct views of Devils Tower. "There is one Prime spot, flat and on a knoll which provides the view," notes a Storm Hill BLM Land camper about site availability.
Limited facilities: No services exist at most sites; plan accordingly for water, waste, and supplies. "No fire ring, no picnic table, no hook-ups or garbage. Dispersed camping / boondocking. No fee," explains a visitor describing typical conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Select established sites: Choose areas with existing fire rings and clear boundaries. "Paved road leading to gravel turn-offs, very manageable terrain. We arrived early evening and about half of the sites were available," shares a Hartman Rock camper about finding family-friendly spots.
Belle Fourche sites offer amenities: This area provides some basic facilities not found at other dispersed sites. "Slept like a baby! I found a great private spot in Free Dispersed area but the site were furnished with a fire ring and table and a great view of a beautiful lake," explains a Belle Fourche Dispersed Site visitor.
Consider weather patterns: Summer thunderstorms develop quickly; have shelter plans ready. "It rained the last two days but I was able to get up the hill in an overloaded AWD. There were some pretty hefty ruts so choose your lines carefully," advises a Storm Hill visitor about dealing with weather impacts.
Tips from RVers
Smaller rigs recommended: Most sites accommodate modest-sized RVs best. "We had a 4WD truck with rooftop tent. High clearance is not necessary for road," reports a Mount Roosevelt camper about vehicle requirements.
Leveling challenges: Many sites have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Our spot was a big mud pit and the upper field is overgrown. It looks like a fire came through here maybe last year so the grass has bounced back really well in some spots," notes a Storm Hill visitor about site conditions.
Early arrival advantage: Secure flat, accessible spots by arriving before mid-afternoon. "We rolled up pretty late, maybe 7p. There was only one other person here and of course they took the spot," shares a camper at Spearfish Quarry about timing your arrival.
