Dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land near Dubois offers campers more flexibility with multiple dogs and requires no reservation. Located at 6,900 feet elevation in Wyoming's Wind River Valley, the area experiences cool nights even in summer with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Several free camping areas can be accessed via unpaved roads that require higher clearance vehicles.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Access multiple hiking paths from Falls Campground, which provides a central location for outdoor exploration. "There's a nice hike past them and to the rim of the valleys to the East," notes Jim M., who appreciated the wildflowers and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing access: Cast a line in the Wind River directly from riverside sites. "The sites were big and Allen the owner/host was great! Close enough to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons along with other great stops," shares Todd W. about Windhaven RV Resort.
Visit downtown Dubois: Explore the historic western town within walking distance of some campgrounds. "The town of Dubois is a great little town with some great places to eat. We would definitely stay there again!!" adds Todd W., highlighting the accessibility of town amenities from camp.
Stargazing: Experience exceptional night skies away from light pollution at Solitude RV Park. One camper noted, "Stars at night are beautiful with little light pollution," and another mentioned, "Beautiful views. No bugs! Quiet neighbors. Very spacious site."
What campers like
River frontage: Waterfront sites offer both scenic value and recreational opportunities. "We arrived late afternoon after the office close but well before dark. She guided us to our river front spot which was bliss. A great camp fire ring, access to the river and wide well kept sites," says Jennifer H.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean restrooms and showers. "The restrooms were spotless & spacious- lots of attention to detail with clothes hooks & benches," David L. shares about Windhaven RV Resort.
Privacy between sites: The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV Resort offers spacious sites that feel separate from neighbors. "Stunning spot next to the river with a view of the mountains. Lovely, well-kept site with fire pits/benches, clean bathrooms, good shop and lovely people at the reception office," according to Bryony C.
Pet-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dog exercise areas beyond standard pet-friendly policies. David L. notes, "They even have a leash free clean dog park" at Windhaven RV Resort, providing an added convenience for pet owners.
What you should know
Summer temperatures: Despite warm days, mornings can be quite cold even in mid-summer. "We stayed in June and the mosquito's are heavy so be prepared," warns Jennifer S. about Falls Campground.
Limited services: East Fork Road Dispersed camping areas provide primitive conditions but beautiful surroundings. "We were on a loop by ourselves with a bathroom nearby, kinda surprising since it was dispersed. Just a 100 yards or so from a beautiful river. We never saw another person," shares Morgan Y.
GPS coordinates: Some dispersed camping areas have inaccurate map locations. "The coordinates are way off. Try 43.58428° N, 109.45601° W and you should get to the place with the bathrooms," advises Emma C. about East Fork Road camping.
Water availability: "There are water connections available, but you are not allowed to connect a hose" at Falls Campground according to Jennifer S., so campers need to bring containers for filling.
Tips for camping with families
River swimming spots: Kids enjoy cooling off in accessible water areas. "The kids all went swimming in the river and warmed up by the fire after. It was so much fun," shares Jennifer H. about the river access at Windhaven RV Resort.
Recreation amenities: Dubois-Wind River KOA offers additional activities for children. "Pool, mini golf, great camp store. Site along Wind River plenty of room absolutely beautiful!" notes Monique C.
Bear safety precautions: All camping areas require proper food storage. "Bear area, so bear lockers are provided," mentions Quinn Z., highlighting the safety features available at Horse Creek Campground.
Weather preparation: Temperature changes require planning for all conditions. "It was nice and warm during the day, but the temperatures plunge once it gets dark...The water bottle I left out froze, and everything was covered in frost when I woke up," warns Quinn Z.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Level sites with proper access matter for larger vehicles. "Easy in easy out. Large sites great water pressure, make sure to have a water regulator. Close to town. Very nice staff. Well laid out park," recommends Roaming R. about Windhaven RV Resort.
Power requirements: Bring adapters for different electrical connections. "The A loop even has electricity & a smidge of AT&T coverage," notes Jim M. about Falls Campground, where electric hookups can be limited.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close facilities during shoulder seasons. "Looks like a nice campground but we moved on - the electric at the sites were turned off (on 9/26), trash bins were locked. Pit toilets were open," reports Arthur M.
Water fill strategy: "Come WITH water" advises Jennifer S., emphasizing the importance of arriving with full tanks since hose connections aren't always permitted at dog friendly campgrounds near Dubois.
