Dispersed camping near Lander, Wyoming provides direct access to the Wind River Range wilderness at elevations ranging from 5,300 to over 8,000 feet. The summer camping season typically runs May through October with average July temperatures reaching 85°F during the day and dropping to 50°F at night. Winter visitors staying in the year-round accommodations should prepare for temperatures frequently below freezing.
What to do
Hiking to cascading waters: Popo Agie Falls trail offers an accessible adventure from Sinks Campground. "Gorgeous hiking in this part and Pop Agie Falls trail nearby," notes Dave L., who found the rustic sites beautiful despite arriving late.
Kayaking on alpine lakes: The serene waters at Worthen Meadow Campground provide ideal conditions for paddling. "We would make the drive up anytime to stay here... bring the kayak the lake is amazing," recommends Jaci T., who appreciated the connection with nature.
Climbing limestone faces: The canyon walls surrounding Lander offer world-class climbing routes. According to Carrie C., the area features "Amazing limestone climbing, although I prefer the Wild Iris crag." Sinks Canyon serves as a convenient base camp for accessing various climbing spots.
Mountain biking the Brewers Trail: Experienced riders can access challenging trails directly from campgrounds. "Upper Brewers trail starts at the main parking lot, it's great biking with beautiful views the entire ride, although very rocky," explains Carrie C., who visited Worthen Meadow in July when wildflowers were still blooming.
What campers like
Affordability for extended stays: Wyoming resident campers appreciate the reasonable fees. "For Wyoming residents, cost is only $6.00 a vehicle. Not per site. It is $11 if you are from out of state which is still more reasonable than the surrounding forest service campgrounds," notes Carrie C. about Popo Agie Campground.
Lakeside positioning: Sites at Louis Lake Campground offer immediate water access. "Our car was set up on the lake, and it was beautiful to wake up to," shares Michelle E., though she cautions the experience varies greatly depending on crowds.
Winter glamping options: Heated accommodations allow for year-round luxury camping experiences. Sarah N. explains, "We have stayed in the Sinks yurt system many times, but winter is our favorite. There is electricity, spotty internet and a heater you can turn on. 10 below zero outside and we keep it at about 45-50 deg inside."
White noise from river: Many campsites back up to the rushing Popo Agie River. Charles C. notes, "The crashing waters helped me sleep well all night, while it kept my wife awake for the same reason," highlighting how the natural soundscape affects different campers at Sawmill Campground.
What you should know
Self-registration process: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come basis. "Vault toilet, first-come-first-serve and self-pay ($20), lots of hiking trails nearby," explains Liam F. about Sawmill Campground, adding there's an overflow parking area when main sites fill.
Limited potable water: Several campgrounds lack running water. Carrie C. advises about Louis Lake Campground, "Bring plenty of drinking water as there is no potable water here. The camp sites are kind of close together, but it is also fun to get to know your fellows campers."
Wildlife awareness: Moose present the primary wildlife concern in certain areas. Annie C. observed at Popo Agie, "Campsites are small and close to each other, but level and clean. Each site has the usual picnic table, fire pit, and bear box; but the concerns were less about bears and more about moose."
Afternoon weather patterns: Summer visitors should prepare for predictable weather changes. "Be prepared for afternoon rain," cautions Carrie C., recommending water supplies when visiting Louis Lake during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children can use dedicated recreation areas. Marion S. notes about Sawmill Campground, "Spot 25, 26, 27 and 28 are directly next to the playground. Waterpump available, non-flush-toilets, no running water. Every space has a parking spot, tent spot, fire ring and picnic table."
Sliding rock features: Natural water features provide unique recreational opportunities. Suzy H. recommends, "If you drive a little ways from Louis Lake Campground you can do an AMAZING hike that ends in beautiful waterfalls and a 'slide rock' that is very smooth and you can slide over the falls."
Fishing with children: Kids enjoy watching large fish in the area's waters. "The rise is about another half mile away and has the biggest trout I've ever seen!" exclaims Carrie C. about the viewing opportunities near Popo Agie Campground.
Glamping alternatives for families: Elevated camping experiences provide comfort for less outdoors-oriented family members. Elizabeth S. shares her experience: "I took my 4 teens and 3 dogs tent camping here last summer and it was the best of the best. The surroundings are magnificent."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven surfaces requiring equipment. Steve & Ashley G. advise about Sleeping Bear RV Park: "The paved sites are a bit uneven. So you will need levelers if parking a camper."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs have limited campground options. Rose C. warns, "Small campground with vault toilet and potable water. NOT recommended for larger RV," regarding Sinks Campground.
Loop road navigation: The mountain roads provide scenic but challenging driving. CHris B. suggests, "Follow the road into Shoshone National Forest for some spectacular views of the valley," but adds that motorhome size constraints required staying at the Sawmill portion of the campground due to his 38' vehicle.
Seasonal road conditions: Access to certain campgrounds changes dramatically with seasons. Winter glamping guests should verify road plowing schedules, as Sarah N. notes, "The park plows and shovels before your arrival," allowing winter yurt access at Sinks Canyon State Park.
