Frannie, Wyoming sits at a 4,212-foot elevation in the Bighorn Basin, experiencing cold winters and warm, dry summers with average July temperatures reaching 90°F. The area features sagebrush steppe terrain surrounding the Shoshone River corridor, which provides crucial water resources for campers during the region's typically arid conditions. Recreational vehicle sites in this area often experience strong winds, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: The Shoshone River near Cody Trout Ranch Camp provides fishing opportunities when water levels permit. "My littles (6&8) loved the playground, the fishing pond, it's far enough from the road to be quiet and safe," notes Elizabeth M. The camp also features a stocked trout pond for guaranteed catches.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer chances to spot native wildlife. At Horseshoe Bend Campground, campers report diverse animal sightings. "We heard coyotes our first night but did not see any wildlife," mentions Courtney T., while another camper advises looking for "bighorn sheep and Pryor Mountain wild horses (both of which I saw!)."
Scenic driving routes: Multiple routes provide access to outstanding scenery. The campground at Perry's RV gives easy access to spectacular mountain drives. "One day driving Beartooth Scenic Byway and then crossover Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Stop at the lookouts!" recommends Kim B.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many rv parks near Frannie, Wyoming maintain well-kept amenities. At Buffalo Bluff RV Park, campers appreciate the attention to cleanliness. "Very clean bathrooms with showers. Like home," notes Beverly M. Another guest confirms, "Enjoyed our stay here. The sites are little tight, but very level. Clean showers and laundry facility."
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. At Horseshoe Bend Campground, visitors note, "Sky is very, very dark and you can see so much on a clear night. Great for anybody with an astronomy hobby!" The remote setting contributes to this experience.
Local expertise: Staff knowledge helps visitors discover area attractions. Buffalo Bluff campers mention, "Lois in the office is a life long resident of Cody and full of great information on local places to see and things to do and she is a super nice lady."
What you should know
Weather impacts: The area experiences significant seasonal weather variations. At Horseshoe Bend, one camper reported, "The second night was incredibly windy so we couldn't have a fire and had to park our truck in front of our tent to block the wind." Wind can be particularly challenging in spring and fall.
Site variations: Not all camping spots offer the same amenities or features. At Absaroka Bay RV Park, visitors note, "All pull-thru sites. 50, 30 and 20 amp service with water and sewer. Sites are short." The park waters nightly with mineral-rich water, as one camper warns: "The campground waters every night, with very hard water that leaves tough to remove spots on you camper and vehicle. Get them off ASAP."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some rv parks in the Frannie region. "There is some highway noise and didn't seem to give up throughout the night," mentions one Absaroka Bay visitor, while another notes train noise: "There is a train that goes by if you're sensitive to noise. We only heard it a couple of times."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly features. "The tent sites at the bottom of the hill by the creek are amazing. Makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere," says Nick M. about Perry's RV and Campgrounds, which offers a combination of natural features with necessary amenities.
Bug preparation: Bring appropriate insect protection, especially in warmer months. "The mosquitoes in the area can carry you away so prepare your campsite for that," warns Kim B. about Perry's RV, suggesting that families pack repellent and protective clothing.
Educational opportunities: The Buffalo Bill Center of the West provides learning activities for children within driving distance of most area campgrounds. "Be sure to visit town and the Irma Hotel and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West," recommends one Absaroka Bay visitor.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies between rv campgrounds near Frannie. One Buffalo Bluff camper noted, "Internet is good. Away from noisy interstates." At Parkway RV Campground, a visitor confirmed, "Park is well maintained and the park WIFI works good, I was parked across the street from the office."
Navigating tight spaces: Many parks have compact layouts requiring careful maneuvering. "Sites are tightly-spaced without so much as a place for more than one camper to park while checking in," notes Sarah about Billings Village RV Park, while another mentions the "dreaded electrical meters" creating backing challenges.
Seasonal operations: Several rv parks have limited operating seasons. Absaroka Bay RV Park operates from May through October, while Cody Trout Ranch Camp runs from April through September. Year-round options include Parkway RV Campground, which remains open during winter months.
