Frannie, Wyoming sits at an elevation of 4,200 feet in the Bighorn Basin, creating a high-desert environment characterized by dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. The camping season typically runs from May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, making off-season camping challenging without proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cody Trout Ranch Camp, visitors can access stocked fishing ponds when river conditions aren't suitable. "The park also has just enough amenities to make it a great location for couples or families looking for a central spot from which to enjoy adventures to the main attractions," notes Steel G.
Waterfall hiking: Five Springs Falls Campground offers a short half-mile trail to a waterfall above the campground. "There is a big waterfall up at the top of the campground, short hike. Spot had a bench, 2 picnic tables and a firepit. The creek was rushing right below the site," shares Kelsie S.
Boating access: Island Lake Campground provides water recreation opportunities. "We paddled our dogs to the islands and had the best time, saw 2 firepits on one... the hiking scenery is amazing," writes Bettina S. The lake is described as "crystal clear and beautiful" by Jason S., making it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: Five Springs Falls Campground offers economical camping options. "Only $7/night," mentions Art S., who secured a lakeside spot. Harold adds that the site includes "Water, dump, elect, picnic tables, fire ring, right by a stream. $7 per night."
River proximity: Beartooth Lake Campground offers sites next to running water. "We ended up in C19 and I'd highly recommend coming down to the last loop as there are only 4 sites and back here and two babbling brooks running down to the lake," shares Kathryn N. Another camper notes, "Site 19 is right on a rapidly flowing river that enters Beartooth Lake."
Walkable access: Greybull KOA provides convenient pathways for recreation. "Access to 2 mile bike/walking on the levee behind," notes Mary, while another visitor mentioned, "There is a paved walk just steps out of the campground where we took a walk and watched deer."
What you should know
Weather variability: Beartooth Lake Campground experiences dramatic weather changes. "Hail greets us just after setting up- and this is July! It's 50 degrees at 1 so we're planning to try and stay warm," reports Art S. Another camper advises, "Up over 9000 feet, prepare for cold nights and large mosquitoes in the summer."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating challenging roads. For Beartooth Lake, "Beartooth highway is narrow and closes due to weather at times," notes one camper. At Five Springs Falls, a reviewer cautions, "The big drawback for some will be the very narrow, extremely switchbacked and steep road up to the campground (no guardrails)."
Site selection: Perry's RV and Campgrounds offers varied camping locations. "The tent sites didn't have electricity but that was fine for us. The price was good & the owner was nice," shares Valentina H. Another camper advises, "The sites at the bottom of the hill by the creek are amazing. Makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cody Trout Ranch Camp offers activities for children. "My littles (6&8) loved the playground, the fishing pond, it's far enough from the road to be quiet and safe," reports Elizabeth M.
Pool access: Greybull KOA provides swimming options for families. "My 4 yo son loved the pool and the playground. My 12 daughter loved the WiFi and extra clean showers and bathrooms," shares Vena B.
Wildlife viewing: Big Quiet Farm Stay & Campground offers unique farm experiences. Ashley F. notes, "So many ways to stay, from Tee-Pees to tents! We've heard the breakfast Rod & Mickey offer is one of the best (sausage from the farm, need we say more?!)"
Tips from RVers
Electric connections: Billings Village RV Park has some logistical challenges. "Only hiccup was how low to the ground the electric was- we had to bend the cord to connect," cautions Kimberly L.
Site layout: Perry's RV and Campgrounds offers varied spaces. "The tent sites didn't have electricity but that was fine for us. The price was good & the owner was nice," notes Valentina H., who was just spending a night on the way to Yellowstone.
Pull-through convenience: Cody Trout Ranch Camp offers easy access sites. "The RV sites are all pull-through and very nice grace, but unfortunately can't see the river from them," explains Erin M., who has stayed at the property multiple times.
