Tent campsites near Lander, Wyoming offer access to the eastern gateway of the Wind River Range, with elevations ranging from 5,300 feet in town to over 13,000 feet in the nearby mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop well below freezing, with snow possible from October through May.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bull Lake provides productive shore fishing with both fly and bait casting methods. As Anthony M. notes, "The fishing is great up there. Just make sure u have your rez pass, cuz they'll hassle you about it when they're drunk and in a pack."
Wildlife viewing: Half Moon WMA - Pole Creek Campground serves as a wildlife management area with multiple recreational uses. According to GoWhereYouAreDraw N., "This area is used for fishing, hunting, trapping, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing."
Mountain biking: The area hosts the Jurassic Classic Mountain Bike Festival near Hugh Otte Camping Area, featuring technical trails. A camper described the nearby trail as "a difficult bike trail, beyond my skill level with very rocky terrain. It is popular with hikers and trail runners."
What campers like
Lakeside camping: When water levels are low at Bull Lake, campers can access shoreline sites that would otherwise be underwater. Glen B. reports, "Following the road up then crossing the dam got us on the side of the lake where we made camp, it was early summer so the water was pretty low and gave us access to sites that would otherwise be underwater."
Solitude and quiet: Smaller campgrounds in the area provide peaceful experiences away from crowds. At Pilot Butte Reservoir Spillway Campground, Kent H. observed, "The campground is very small, and I assume mostly used by locals."
Creek access: Several camping areas provide streamside sites ideal for anglers and those seeking water access. At Half Moon WMA, one visitor mentioned, "It's also by a creek, so you have fishing and water."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Camping on tribal lands requires proper permits. Robert T. warns about Bull Lake: "Be aware, you MUST have a reservation pass to camp here. I was told that you can get into serious trouble if you don't have one. Enquire at Lander or Dubois about getting a pass."
Vehicle clearance needs: Many access roads deteriorate as you approach the best camping spots. Matt R. notes about Hugh Otte, "Getting into the first few spots the road is ok, getting down by the river it gets rough. We have a 4 wheel drive truck and it was easy for us."
Limited amenities: Most tent campsites in the region have minimal facilities. Kent H. describes Pilot Butte Reservoir Spillway Campground: "There is a vault toilet, a covered picnic, and a metal fire ring. There's also a small dumpster as you drive in."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: For families with standard vehicles, stay at sites closer to main access points. At Hugh Otte Camping Area, one reviewer mentioned, "Area is small but no reservations needed. Beautiful views of the mountains and the river. It was very quiet."
Self-sufficiency planning: Prepare to bring all necessary supplies. Glen B. advises about Bull Lake, "Firewood is easily found, but there is not much for stores so be prepared and take in what you will need."
Capacity considerations: Smaller campgrounds have limited space for multiple tents. Kent H. observed at Pilot Butte: "If pushed you could probably fit 5 car/truck campers, but better with no more than 2. Not much room for anything but a small trailer."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Gravel roads with steep sections limit larger rigs in many areas. GoWhereYouAreDraw N. cautions about Half Moon WMA: "The main road in is improved gravel and easy, but there are hairpin turns on the hill, so I don't recommend long rigs or long 5th wheels."
Site identification: At primitive camping areas, look for established fire rings to locate appropriate sites. One camper noted that at Hugh Otte Camping Area, "Campsites are identified by a rock fire ring. That's all they have to identify sites."
Weather contingencies: Dirt roads become problematic after rain. Glen B. warns about Bull Lake access: "The road is not bad, but can be tricky depending on the time of year and weather. It is a dirt road and prone to mud holes."
