Tent camping near Greybull, Wyoming provides access to elevations ranging from 3,800 feet in town to over 9,000 feet in the nearby Bighorn Mountains. The area features dramatic limestone canyons and sagebrush plains that transition to pine forests at higher elevations. Summer temperatures can fluctuate widely, with daytime highs reaching 90°F while dropping to the 40s at night in higher elevation camping areas.
What to do
Climbing opportunities: Ten Sleep Rock Ranch serves as a dedicated climber's base camp near the renowned limestone walls of Ten Sleep Canyon. One camper noted, "Great climbers campground. Not suitable for RVs" while another mentioned it's "on the west side of the Big Horn Mountains" with "an outdoor kitchen with sink, two fridges for camper use."
Fishing access: Bucking Mule Falls Trailhead provides a gateway to remote fishing spots in the Bighorn National Forest where anglers can pursue native cutthroat trout. The nearby Shell Reservoir Camping Area offers "brook trout fishing in the lake and the creek below," according to Tyler R., who also mentioned "a 4x4 trail that makes a large loop between shell reservoir and lake Adelaide."
Brewery visits: Combine camping with craft beer sampling at Ten Sleep Brewing Company where you can tent camp on the property. Marty J. described the experience: "Some of the non-standard camping amenities include beer, a food truck, several picnic tables, and board games. They also sell the official Ten Sleep climbing guidebook inside and are dog-friendly."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: The Ten Sleep Rock Ranch offers basic sites at affordable rates with unexpected amenities. Annie C. reported, "it is $5 a night with $2 showers, the bathhouse is pretty clean" and "there is an outdoor kitchen with sink, two fridges for camper use." Another camper highlighted "showers, toilets, community fridge, wifi, good vibes, everything you'll need!"
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Ryu M. stayed at Ten Sleep Brewing Company and described "Such a view of stars to sleep to, and amazing red rock cliff to wake up to." The brewery campground provides a unique combination of social atmosphere and natural beauty.
Waterfront camping: Big Horn NRC Dispersed camping area allows tent campers to pitch directly beside water. John H. simply noted the area offers "Bighorn Camping next to the water" with "Amazing views," making it a prime location for those seeking waterside accommodations without facilities.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. As Rebekah R. warned about the Meeteetse area, "Roads aren't super well maintained, so make sure you're comfortable with driving on gravel, and 4WD." Similarly, Tyler R. noted "High clearance 4x4 needed" to reach Shell Reservoir Camping Area.
Facility limitations: Cabin Creek Campground in Bighorn National Forest appears abandoned according to recent visitors. Monica W. reported, "It appears this was at one time a campground. Now overgrown and has one pit toilet that has been neglected," suggesting campers should verify current conditions before planning trips.
Price variations: Campsite costs vary significantly across the region. Ten Sleep Brewing Company tent sites increased from $5 to $18 per night according to recent reviews, with one camper noting "$3/shower" as an additional cost. Meanwhile, Ten Sleep Rock Ranch maintains lower rates at "$5 a night with $2 showers."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly brewery camping: Ten Sleep Brewing Company offers family-appropriate camping despite being a brewery. Tom C. reported, "The space was very family friendly with lots of outdoor seating. There was a sandy playspace with toys for the kids." However, he cautioned about occasional noise: "folks camped in new site # -1 ended up coming and going all night with loud rumbling vehicles."
Noise considerations: The Greybull KOA Holiday provides family amenities but comes with noise drawbacks. A visitor noted the campground has "a heated pool, walking path, wi-fi" and that the "campground was clean and well cared for." However, they warned about "the noise of the trains through the night" that might disturb light sleepers, especially children.
Community spaces: Several campgrounds offer shared gathering areas ideal for families. At Ten Sleep Rock Ranch, campers appreciate "a really nice large pavilion with lots of picnic tables" where families can gather outside their individual sites. The campground also provides "free wifi in the pavilion" which can help keep children occupied.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping near Greybull occurs in areas unsuitable for larger vehicles. Chris M. specifically noted that Ten Sleep Rock Ranch is "Not suitable for RVs" while Tyler R. emphasized "High clearance 4x4 needed" for Shell Reservoir access, indicating RVers should carefully research access before attempting to visit more remote camping areas.
Site spacing concerns: At Ten Sleep Brewing Company, site boundaries can be confusing and crowded. Tom C. explained, "We booked site 1 with the intent of being on an end with privacy on at least one side. We arrived to find that there were some newly created sites on the supposed-to-be-private side of our camper."
Seasonal availability: The best tent camping near Greybull, Wyoming follows strict seasonal patterns. According to campground information, Ten Sleep Rock Ranch operates from "May-October" while Bighorn National Forest Cabin Creek Campground is only open "June to September" due to snow and access limitations at higher elevations.
