Camping opportunities near Kemmerer, Wyoming extend through varied elevations ranging from 6,900 to 7,500 feet across Lincoln and Uinta counties. The semi-arid climate features significant day-to-night temperature swings, with summer nights regularly dropping into the 40s even after 80-degree days. Winter camping remains accessible at lower elevations near Fontenelle Reservoir, though higher elevation sites typically close by mid-October due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Fossil hunting near national monuments: Campers staying at Fossil Butte National Monument BLM can explore the surrounding hills for fossils. "Beautiful and remote area 10 miles up the road from the Visitor's Center. Paved road that turns to dirt- both in great condition," notes Tim and Kate O. The visitor center provides maps showing dispersed camping locations.
Ice fishing during winter months: Fontenelle Creek Campground offers year-round fishing opportunities, including ice fishing during winter. "Me and my friends cowboy camped here for a night during December, about 4°F with snow on the ground. There is also a boat ramp right next to the campground and you can ice fish on the lake," reports Jacob D.
Historical exploration: The Fort Bridger RV Camp provides convenient access to local historical sites. "Don't let location fool you, very nice, well appointed, next to the State Park," mentions Lyn R. The campground sits about 30 minutes from the historic Fort Bridger Museum, with one camper noting, "Only about 5-10 minutes off I-80, it won't take you long to get here...check out the nearby Fort Bridger Museum."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: The Green River provides excellent fishing access at Weeping Rock Campground. "We caught a huge rainbow trout the first day camping, right off our campsite! Minimal bugs considering we were so close to the water, nice and quiet!" shares Dehlila C. The campground features multiple sites with direct river access below Fontenelle Dam.
Affordable campground amenities: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Fontenelle Creek Campground's value. "There are not many campgrounds in this part of Wyoming. This is a BLM facility with paved sites, a metal shade by the picnic table, barbecue grills, garbage, potable water and flush toilets. All this for $7 per site," notes Judy T.
Lakeside views with privacy: Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area offers dispersed camping with water views. "Great campsites next to the lake. Excellent views and quiet. Only saw a couple other campers off in the distance. Lots of birds and ducks to watch. Saw a moose way off in the distance," reports Clayton P.
What you should know
Challenging road conditions: Access to some dispersed camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. At Fossil Butte National Monument BLM, "Once the road turns to gravel, it gets steep. We have a 15k pound fifth wheel and a 2wd dually and were only able to make it a couple 100 yards up the hill before we started spinning," warns Savannah.
Wind exposure at reservoir sites: Campgrounds along reservoirs typically lack natural wind protection. At Fontenelle Creek Campground, one camper notes it's a "barren and windy campground. They provide shelters from the wind." Another camper mentions "Very windy! No trees to block."
Seasonal operation schedules: Most developed campgrounds in the area have limited seasons. Lyman KOA operates from May 15 to September 30, while Fontenelle Creek Campground runs May 20 to November 1. Riverside RV Park maintains a May 1 to October 15 season.
Tips for camping with families
Heated pool access: The Lyman KOA offers family-friendly amenities including a heated swimming pool during summer months. "Clean restrooms, spacious grassy sites, heated swimming pool, friendly staff," notes Paul Y. The campground also features a small store with camping supplies.
Tent camping near town: Kemmerer Tent Park provides basic tent camping along the Hams Fork River with easy town access. "Overgrown, no portapotty, and no separated campsites but it was really good for crashing for a night. It's basically a little roundabout and you pick a spot to set up," explains Theresa N.
Private bathroom facilities: Fort Bridger RV Camp offers exceptionally clean bathrooms. "They have the largest private bathrooms. Complete with toilets in a private room. Very clean," states Elsie H. The campground also offers cabin accommodations for families seeking more comfort.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Riverside RV Park accommodates long-term RVers with necessary amenities. "Staying at this location while working on a local project. It's a great long-term stay option. The owner has kept the grounds in great condition even during cold winter months," shares Michelle G.
Connectivity considerations: Cell coverage varies significantly across the region. At Riverside RV Park, "Cell phone coverage is very good and park WiFi is the best we have been around in 6 months!" reports one camper. However, at more remote sites like Weeping Rock Campground, another camper notes, "Our main issue was the lack of phone service."
After-hours arrival planning: RV campgrounds have varying check-in policies. At the Lyman KOA, "We were able to make a reservation and check in after hours. Quite and only a handful of campers. Great spot to get some rest!" notes Jeff&Jenn P. In contrast, another RVer warns about Fort Bridger RV Camp: "Careful... we followed the directions provided and arrived about six PM on a Sunday night... I received those words, 'Actually, we are closed!'"
