Tent camping near Kemmerer, Wyoming offers campers access to the expansive Wyoming backcountry at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. The area experiences significant seasonal variations with summer temperatures reaching 85-90°F during July-August and cold winters with temperatures often below freezing. Most campsites provide minimal facilities, requiring campers to be largely self-sufficient with water and supplies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Green River below Fontenelle Reservoir Dam provides excellent fishing access at Tail Race Campground, where the river moves rapidly at certain times of year. "The campground is on the banks of the Green River, just below the Fontenelle Reservoir Dam, with world class fishing," notes Carrie C.
Hiking trails: Access backcountry trails and high-elevation lakes from several primitive sites. Lake Alice requires a 1.5-mile hike to reach the water and offers extensions to more remote areas. "If you continue along Poker Creek Trail that follows the east side of the lake, you can visit Mount Isabel which is 5 miles from the start of Lake Alice," shares a camper.
Beach access: Bear Lake State Park offers unique turquoise water experiences for campers willing to drive about an hour from Kemmerer. "Crystal clear water. I don't normally get into lakes, but this was different. There is hiking and biking nearby - a little bit of something for everyone," explains Heather C.
What campers like
Secluded locations: Many tent campers appreciate the relative isolation available at primitive sites near Kemmerer. At Lake Alice, "For a primitive camping area this place is pretty sweet! They have metal fire rings with grills and there is an outhouse as well. The picnic tables are built of half hewn logs."
Natural beauty: The high desert and mountain landscapes provide distinctive scenery. "The views more than make up for it, though! This lake is the most beautiful blue-green color. Lake Alice is home to the only pure lake strain of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming," reports a visitor.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate that some areas have no fees. The Tail Race Campground provides free camping, though facilities are basic: "The campground itself leaves more to be desired, but it is FREE. The picnic tables are in need of a fresh coat of paint, but are sturdy."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most tent camping near Kemmerer requires self-sufficiency. "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. about Kemmerer Tent Park.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal variations with strong winds common in the afternoons. One camper advises: "Fish AM/PM, the wind can pick up in the afternoons, and temps rise making fishing not so great in the afternoon."
Pack-out requirements: Limited trash facilities mean campers need to pack out all waste. "We packed out trash we found in the campground. #leaveitbetterthanyoufoundit," mentions a conscientious camper about maintaining backcountry sites.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: For families seeking water activities, Bear Lake State Park Campground offers gradual-entry swimming. "The beach has fine sand and the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep," notes Heather C.
Day use options: Some areas work better for day trips than overnight stays with children. "Down a bit is a picnic area where you could do a day camp but no overnight. After all that we ended up going towards Garden City area and ended up finding a beach to swim and have lunch at."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "It was 1st come 1st serve and I would suggest you get there as early as you can," advises Shani C., noting that Bear Lake areas become crowded after noon.
Tips from RVers
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking a tent camping experience with more amenities, Conestoga Ranch offers luxury tent options. "Located in Garden City, Utah on the beautiful Bear Lake Conestoga Ranch offers luxury tents and a chance to stay in a covered wagon," explains Glen B.
RV hookup options: Full service RV sites are limited near Kemmerer. "We had a wonderful time! Great campsite near the water," reports a camper at Cottonwood Campground, which offers full hookups approximately an hour from Kemmerer.
Narrow roads: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Kemmerer require careful navigation. Some routes like those to Lake Alice require parking and hiking in, making them unsuitable for large rigs.
