Dispersed camping opportunities in the high desert terrain of Jeffrey City, Wyoming, provide adventurous campers with access to public lands at elevations typically ranging from 6,000-8,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching into the 90s and dropping to the 40s at night, creating conditions where proper preparation is essential. Seasonal accessibility varies significantly with many roads becoming impassable from late fall through early spring.
What to do
Explore historic mining towns: Head to South Pass City near Atlantic City Campground to view restored mining structures. "South Pass City has a restored mining town section. Very interesting to see. It's more of a museum setting, vs the usual souvenir selling tourist trap. Fun to explore and see how the miners lived back then," reports Scott H.
Hiking through aspen groves: The trails around Cottonwood Campground offer seasonal color changes with minimal crowds. "Once you get into the treeline it becomes very scenic especially in the fall with the Aspens turning colors. Great campsites with tables and fire rings set along a mountain stream," noted Kim B.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide optimal viewing conditions for pronghorn antelope commonly spotted near Oil Road to the Mines. One camper mentioned, "Bonus saw an antelope this morning about 100 yards from camp," while staying at this peaceful dispersed site.
What campers like
Solitude and spaciousness: Oil Road to the Mines Dispersed Site receives consistent praise for its quiet atmosphere. "It's flat, quiet and peaceful. There was some trash when we arrived so we made sure to leave it cleaner than we found it. Minimal noise from Hwy! A great way to save some cash with tons of space," wrote BoGwen J.
Creekside camping spots: Many campers value the water features at established campgrounds in the area. "This is one of the most amazing campsites I've stayed at. The bubbling creek is so peaceful to be around. It's small enough that you can find places to cross over. So much fun," explained Ryan S. about his experience at Cottonwood Campground.
Clean facilities despite remote location: The BLM campgrounds receive praise for maintenance standards. "Very nice location. A few pull through sites. Most sites up to 30'. Plenty of vault bathrooms," noted Leslie S. about Atlantic City Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many camping areas requires driving on gravel roads with variable conditions. "The drive in was about 20 minutes of gravel. The views from the road are awesome. It is washboarded in some spots. It shook things loose in my RV that had never come loose before," warned Ryan S. about the route to Cottonwood Campground.
Water availability: Big Atlantic Gulch Campground offers a unique water source option. "You have lots of trees, picnic tables, fire pits, a bathroom and a hand powered pump!" shared Tate W., highlighting an unusual amenity for the region.
Weather challenges: Rapid changes in weather patterns can affect camping plans. A visitor at Wild Iris OK Corral reported: "We planned to stay for at least couple of nights but following morning after with beautiful sunshine, clouds gathered and viscus thunderstorm arrived from nowhere. Blowed our seat cushions away to nearby creek."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families needing developed recreation options, Wind River RV Park in nearby Riverton offers basic amenities. "Lots of shade, says you have to reserve but camp host said just pick a spot and pay, if someone comes in and says they reserved your spot, just move," advises Adelia.
Safety considerations: When camping with children near Bishop's Point, take precautions with ground hazards. One camper warned: "If you're walking dogs, be careful of broken glass and old fishing hooks."
Nature exploration activities: The streams at several campgrounds provide natural play areas. At Cottonwood Campground, families appreciate that the creek is "small enough that you can find places to cross over," making it accessible for supervised children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When seeking the best places to camp near Jeffrey City, Wyoming in larger vehicles, prioritize established campgrounds with designated pull-throughs. "The campground is spread out along a straight dirt road. Most of the sites have a lot of privacy, and some of them are so far apart it feels like you are the only person in the park," notes Ryan S. about Cottonwood Campground layout.
Leveling requirements: Most dispersed sites require minimal leveling work. At Dam Camp, one visitor advised: "Watch out and make sure you don't park on holes and block critters from coming out." The site offers "decent LTE on T-Mobile" despite its remote setting.
Hookup availability: Full service options are limited but available in surrounding communities. "Gravel site required minimal leveling. There are some shade trees. Not much to look at aesthetically, but had what we needed for a one night stay," reported Lori T. about Wind River RV Park.
