Dispersed camping areas near Dubois, Wyoming offer numerous remote tent sites nestled in the surrounding national forests and public lands. Most sites are located between 6,500-8,000 feet elevation, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Weather patterns can change rapidly in this region, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August, requiring campers to secure equipment properly and have adequate rain protection.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: At Brooks Lake Southeast Camping, campers find excellent fishing opportunities alongside scenic campsites. "Three dispersed spots. Spot on the end has the best view. No verizon service. Accessible by Van and pickup," explains one visitor who enjoyed the streamside location.
Wildlife viewing: Bull Lake area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife while maintaining proper distance. One camper notes, "The fishing is great up there. Just make sure u have your rez pass, cuz they'll hassle you about it when they're drunk and in a pack..." Remember that a reservation pass is mandatory for camping in this area.
Sunset photography: Bring your camera for spectacular sunsets, especially at Flagstaff Road Dispersed sites. "There are numerous dispersed sites on this road with great views of the Tetons. The road is known by different names. Flagstaff, 30160, and Lilly Lake," reports one photographer who captured brilliant sunsets despite hazy conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The widely-spaced camping areas provide exceptional solitude. At Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping, visitors appreciate the isolation: "I was lucky enough to get a spot with its own private beach. Other than a few cars coming down looking for a spot... it was very quiet and had an incredible sunset."
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate riverside locations for both aesthetics and practical cooling during hot days. One Fisherman Creek Road camper shared: "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."
Well-established fire rings: Most dispersed sites include existing fire rings, making campfires safer and easier to manage. At Shadow Mountain - Dispersed Campsite #10, a visitor noted: "Such an epic view spot. A bit of traffic does come through in the evening with people trying to find their own sites... Has a fire ring. Plenty of flat areas for a tent."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity, particularly near water sources. "We loved this spot so much that we stayed an extra night. There are spots along this road sporadically for about 3.5 miles, some require AWD. We found one with a fire ring and a gorgeous view. Hidden gem! Mosquitoes were pretty bad, but that is to expect in the summer season," warned a Flagstaff Road camper.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights even during summer months. A Shadow Mountain camper reported: "I'm Hawaii so I had some cold nights up there lol but it was totally doable. One night got as low as 16 degrees with other nights ranging around the low 30's."
Limited cell service: Most remote camping areas have minimal to no cell reception. At Brooks Lake Southeast Camping, visitors noted "No verizon service" while Taylor Ranch campers reported "Verizon and ATT reception was spotty."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible waterfront spots: For families seeking the best tent camping near Dubois, Wyoming with easy water access, Taylor Ranch Road offers great options. A camper mentioned: "We stayed in the larger spot next to the river. There are 2-3 good spots for tents and a couple of hammock-worthy trees. There's also a large rock next to the lower fire pit that served as a great kitchen table."
Easy-access sites for standard vehicles: Some dispersed areas can be reached without specialized vehicles. At Fisherman Creek Road, a visitor reported: "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."
Noise considerations: Some areas become busier with recreational vehicles during peak season. A Fisherman Creek Road visitor noted: "I came in late July and there were lots of motorcycles and ATVs. It was quiet from 7 PM to 7 AM."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: While many roads require high-clearance vehicles, some dispersed camping areas near Dubois accommodate standard RVs. A visitor to Buffalo Valley Designated Dispersed Camping shared: "Another one of the "Designated Dispersed Camping" areas we've been seeing around here, not to be confused with the nearby developed Turpin Meadows campground, which has a fee and regular sites with tables, bear boxes, toilets, etc."
Services availability: Buffalo Valley campers should note: "There is no water or garbage so pack in and pack out. Very weak to non-existent cell service here, but the cell booster bumped up the verizon phone to 3 bars of 3G, and at times LTE, and gave the ATT phone and TMobile hotspot a couple of bars as well."
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure prime locations, especially during peak season. A Shadow Mountain visitor advised: "We got there around 1-2pm and every spot was already filled except for 10a. We accidentally missed it the first time but caught it on our way back down. We went as far as site #17 before we turned around. Plan ahead. Get a spot early and put out some chairs/tables to mark it as yours if you have other plans for the day."
