Dispersed camping near Lovell, Wyoming offers primitive sites spread across public lands managed by multiple agencies. Elevation at these sites ranges from 4,000 feet at lower BLM lands to over 8,000 feet in the Bighorn National Forest. The area's dry climate creates fluctuating temperatures, with summer highs averaging 85-95°F and nighttime lows dropping to 45-55°F.
What to do
Hunting opportunities: Cody BLM Dispersed areas support seasonal antelope hunting. "We pulled off of highway 16 to just explore and found that this area has a lot of options for camping. It is a vast stretch of BLM land between Cody and Greybull. Saw some prong horns on the way in too!" notes Laura M.
Wildlife photography: The open terrain at Cody BLM Dispersed provides excellent visibility for spotting wildlife. "July 1 was dry and there were herds of deer and a small pack of coyotes wailing in the distance at night," shares Chris N.
Fishing access: Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground provides water access for anglers. "The reservoir is perfect for fishing, floating and cooling off after a hike," reports Lia T.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "It was a great 360 view next to the flag pole," writes Sophie B. about her stay at Cody BLM Dispersed.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many rustic camping locations near Lovell, Wyoming, some sites maintain communication capabilities. "I love that there's very good phone reception," mentions Mariana T. about Cody BLM Dispersed, while James B. notes "Verizon cell reception was poor but did work. Starlink had super fast speeds."
Wildlife encounters: Meadow Camp on Forest Road 231 offers natural wildlife viewing. "During the evening, we saw a large herd of Elk on the forest perimeter," reports J C.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between sites. "The road in is rocky dirt but easily doable in our 26' class C. Any size rig should do fine here," explains Laura M. about Cody BLM dispersed camping.
Wind exposure: Many sites offer limited shelter from Wyoming's persistent winds. "Very little shelter from the wind, however if you set up against the small hills just right, you'll have just enough shelter when things a blowing," advises Chris N.
Site identification: Finding designated camping areas can be challenging. Patricia F. notes about Cody BLM Dispersed, "its not really clear where we can stop to camp, but we just found a grassy area and stopped there."
Seasonal considerations: Sites at higher elevations remain inaccessible during winter and early spring due to snow. Lower elevation sites experience extreme summer heat with minimal shade.
Tips for camping with families
Primitive bathroom solutions: No established restroom facilities exist at most sites. Robert B. mentions about Gravel Pit Dispersed Camping, "No bathroom so you'll be going in the woods unless you drive to a picnic area."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some sites. Kerstin S. reports, "You here a little bit of noise when u sleep in a tent," regarding Cody BLM Dispersed.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides natural learning experiences. "Upon exploration we found several bones (femur of a cow we think, spine of a smaller animal, and coyote skull we think)," describes Sophie B.
Water recreation: Some sites offer swimming options during hot summer months. Hogan Reservoir provides "floating and cooling off after a hike," according to Lia T.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Schuler Park in Bighorn National Forest offers established sites. Kale R. notes, "Great experience! Off the grid campsite with no service or bathrooms. Fireplaces set up at the sites."
Rig accessibility: Most access roads require careful navigation. "We saw vans and a large Class C make it up here no problem," shares James B. about Cody BLM Dispersed, while adding "The road is rough in just a couple of spots."
Surface conditions: Many sites feature uneven, natural terrain. "Hardscape if you are in a tent," warns Lia T. about Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground.
Group spacing: For larger groups traveling together, some areas provide ample room. Robert B. explains about Gravel Pit Dispersed Camping, "Great area with trees and wildlife. Spots for campfires, and plenty of space. You can get multiple groups of people in here."
