Best Campgrounds near Lovell, WY
The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area dominates the camping landscape around Lovell, Wyoming, with Horseshoe Bend Campground serving as a primary destination for both tent and RV campers. This high desert setting offers expansive views of canyon landscapes and Bighorn Lake, with sites ranging from basic to those with water and electric hookups. Within town limits, Lovell Camper Park provides year-round accommodations with full hookups, while more adventurous campers can explore free dispersed camping at Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR. The nearby Barry's Landing and Trail Creek Campground areas extend camping options northward into Montana, creating a regional network of established campgrounds and primitive sites spanning both states.
Summer temperatures in the Lovell area frequently climb into the 90s, making shade structures particularly valuable at exposed sites like Horseshoe Bend. According to camper Annie C., "I highly suggest you pay the extra couple bucks for a site with the covered picnic table to get some shade." Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering drinking water and others requiring campers to bring their own supply. Cell service becomes limited or nonexistent at many recreation area sites, particularly at Horseshoe Bend where visitors note the lack of signal as a feature rather than drawback. Winter camping options narrow considerably, with in-town facilities providing the most reliable year-round access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities rank highly in camper reviews across the region's campgrounds. Visitors to Horseshoe Bend report sightings of bighorn sheep and Pryor Mountain wild horses, adding natural attractions beyond the scenic canyon views. The night sky receives special mention from campers, with Natasha M. noting, "Sky is very, very dark and you can see so much on a clear night. Great for anybody with an astronomy hobby!" Water recreation forms another highlight, with the marina at Horseshoe Bend offering boat rentals and canyon tours. Campground cleanliness consistently earns positive reviews, with most facilities maintaining clean restrooms despite the remote setting. Many campers recommend exploring Devil's Canyon and taking advantage of the numerous hiking trails throughout the recreation area.
