Camping near Hyattville, Wyoming typically occurs at elevations ranging from 4,000-9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. The Bighorn National Forest area receives average summer daytime temperatures of 70-85°F, dropping to 40-50°F overnight even in July. Vault toilets are standard at most public campgrounds, with water access limited to specific locations.
What to do
Fishing at West Tensleep Lake: Clear waters support trout fishing opportunities in scenic mountain settings. At West Tensleep Lake, "Great trout fishing there per the host. Campsites are right on the creek #4 is RIGHT on the creek and you can just walk down to it to fish," according to a camper at Leigh Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer prime locations for viewing local wildlife. "Pulled into spot and two moose were browsing on the stream bank in front of us... Great views and walking paths along stream with meadow on opposite side and mountains in background," notes Larry F. from Island Park Campground.
Rock climbing access: The Ten Sleep Canyon area provides excellent climbing opportunities. "This camp is great if you like to hike or rock climb. Just outside the camp you will find many VERY small disbursed sites along the gravel road," mentions a review of Leigh Creek Campground.
Hiking from campsites: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. "There are a ton of gravel and off-road opportunities for bikers. Pay attention to the trails rules because some trails do not allow bikers," explains Arielle W. about West Tensleep Lake.
What campers like
Moose sightings: Wildlife frequently visits camping areas throughout the region. "Had a big bull moose sitting in our site upon arrival and he stayed nearby all day and night so caution with pets is recommended," warns Kal V. at Lakeview Campground.
Creek-side campsites: Water features enhance many camping locations. "The sites aren't particularly level but accommodate both tent and RV camping with ample room for vehicles," according to a visitor to Castle Gardens.
Vault toilet cleanliness: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities. "Cleanest vault toilets I have have ever seen. All first come first serve $16," notes Suzie S. about Leigh Creek Campground.
Campsite privacy: Many locations offer good separation between sites. At Castle Gardens, "There are 4 sites in a loop, each with a shade structure, picnic table, grill, and fire pit. Spot #1 is better suited for tent campers, as you park your car along the loop and then walk a little bit up to the camp area," explains Laura M.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to higher elevation sites often requires travel on unpaved roads. "It's a dirt/rock road and you'll be on it for 7 miles. Along the route is a half dozen other campgrounds," states Ryan W. about access to West Tensleep Lake.
Temperature variations: Higher elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature drops at night. "Camp is at 9000+ elevation so when you search for weather reports they will not be accurate. The nearest town, Tensleep, is about 4000 ft lower in elevation so the weather can be dramatically different."
Campground size limitations: Some sites are better suited for smaller rigs or tents. "This campground is very small with small sites so it is more appropriate from small vans or very small trailers," notes a reviewer at Leigh Creek.
Brewery camping option: An alternative to traditional campgrounds exists at Ten Sleep Brewing Company, where "The brewery offered dispersed tent camping on their spacious front lawn for $5/night and, given the number of vans present in the parking lot, I'd imagine they offered van camping at the same price," explains Marty J.
Tips for camping with families
Activity areas: Some campgrounds provide communal recreation spots. "There are some great family activities areas in the campground with horseshoes, cornhole, and other games set up in a central activities area," notes Annie C. about Boulder Park Campground.
Pet management: For pet friendly camping near Hyattville, Wyoming, campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters. At Lakeview Campground, "Had a big bull moose sitting in our site upon arrival and he stayed nearby all day and night so caution with pets is recommended."
Water features for kids: Creeks and lakes provide natural play areas. "Our site was in the lower loop, as we were just tent camping. The campsite overall is wonderfully kept; tables are newly painted, the area is very clean, and each site is maintained well. Our site was also right next to the lake, which was beautiful," explains Sara H. at Sitting Bull.
Tent pad availability: Many sites have designated areas for tents. At Lakeview Campground, "Sites were well spaced that provided a tent pad, picnic table, and fire pit. All were walk-in. Water available. Pit toliet. Helpful camp host."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. "People with campers that are on the large side definitely struggled to park and level them. This sometimes required help from multiple other RV folks that were already onsite," notes Jennie S. about West Tensleep Lake.
In-town RV options: When supplies or amenities are needed, in-town options exist. At Worland RV Park & Campground, "Asked for sot with grass for our dogs when we made reservations. Gave us a quiet pull thru site at the back which was perfect. Full hookup, gravel pad, grass, extremely friendly owners," shares Jan S.
Leveling considerations: Many forest service campgrounds have uneven sites. "The sites aren't particularly level but accommodate both tent and RV camping with ample room for vehicles."
Pet-friendly RV camping: Dogs are welcome at most campgrounds in the area. "Small but busy park. Best sites for views are along creek where you can watch moose beaver and trout in creek and meadow," reports Mary F. about Island Park Campground.
