Equestrian camping near Farson, Wyoming provides access to high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 7,500 feet. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer highs reaching 85°F and nighttime lows dropping to 40°F even in July. Cell service throughout the region is spotty and dependent on line-of-sight to ridges or towers.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Big Sandy area offers extensive riding trails with access to the Wind River Range. "We were greeted with a huge herd of sheep one afternoon. Lots of wildlife. Very windy but it's Wyoming; about 11am-dusk. Lots of great rockhounding in the area," notes a visitor to Big Sandy Reservoir Rec Area.
Fishing access: Multiple reservoirs provide fishing opportunities within 30 miles of Farson. At Worthen Meadow Campground, campers report "Beautiful lake for kayaking and fishing, the sites are a little bit tight for larger RVs and the road is rough getting in here but manageable."
Mountain biking: The terrain offers technical riding options on established trails. "Upper Brewers trail starts at the main parking lot, it's great biking with beautiful views the entire ride, although very rocky. In July the wild flowers were still blooming strong!"
What campers like
Solitude and space: Most dispersed sites offer separation from neighboring campers. At White Mountain Road, "A great little spot with a wonderful view. Little bit of driving on a rough dirt road. Would go to this spot again, would not go back for tent camping though. Too windy."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including wild horses. One camper at White Mountain Road mentioned, "We had plenty of room for both. Lots of places to choose from. All open and easy to turn around campers. Road was in good shape. No issues with a Tahoe pulling camper. We could ride the ATVs from campsite and had hundreds of miles of trails to choose from. Saw wild horses."
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. At Big Sandy Reservoir, "We dispersed by boat launch. By ourselves on a Wednesday after labor day. Construction at east and west campgrounds. 5g cell T-Mobile. Roads only slightly muddy but after a rain. Yikes."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind is a significant factor in camping comfort. "The view is breath taking. Got to the West Campground at dusk. Bugs were swarming. The view of the Wind River range at sunset is gorgeous. Not too many campers."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Dutch Joe Guard Station Campground, "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."
Bug activity: Insects can be problematic, particularly at dusk near water. "This site is conveniently off of 191, and was just what we were looking for as we stopped for a night on our way to Yellowstone. As other reviewers have said, it is buggy. Nothing that bites-just make sure you keep your tent or vehicle closed for a more enjoyable experience."
Tips for camping with families
Best access points: For horse camping with children, consider locations with easier road access. "We stayed at a campground in town for what was going to be a night and scouted the area out. We are about 60' truck and fifthwheel. The road up coming from the east was pretty easy though bumpy and on a climb it's more difficult to slow roll."
Swimming safety: Lakes have limited designated swimming areas. "We enjoyed paddle boarding and watching fish jump. Lots of trees to hitch up the hammock, too. Sites were relatively close together. Pit toilets were well maintained."
Supply planning: No stores exist within 20 miles of most camping areas. "A great spot for a one night stay on our way to Yellowstone. The breeze and water view were a bonus. No frills but it had everything we needed. We even found a spot on Labor Day weekend."
Tips from RVers
Overnight options: For equestrian travelers with RVs needing a full-service stopover, Sweetwater Event Complex Fairgrounds provides alternatives. "We decided on a rim to checkout out this location and we are glad we did! We arrived to the campground around 7:00 pm without a reservation and easily found the home where the caretakers stay. We parked super close to the bathrooms which were nice with each room having its own toilet and shower."
Turnaround considerations: Many dispersed sites have limited turnaround space. "The main area really only has one spot for anything around 40' to be able to easily turn around without driving off the packed road. There's a T-Mobile tower not far off though so if you need internet it's great service."
Navigation warnings: GPS routing can direct RVs to unsuitable roads. "Be careful if you put in your gps coming from the east! It takes you to a dirt road with a 27% grade up and over the mountain! Don't try to drive down it with a big rig!"
