Best Dispersed Camping near Lovell, WY

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Lovell, Wyoming, with several free public land sites available for primitive camping. Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR offers lakeside camping with spectacular mountain views, while Cody BLM Dispersed provides wide-open spaces on Bureau of Land Management territory. The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area permits backcountry camping in designated zones. Schuler Park in the Bighorn National Forest features established fire rings at campsites, with dirt access roads reported to be in good condition by recent visitors.

These primitive sites require self-sufficiency as amenities are minimal to nonexistent. No drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available at any of these locations. According to reviews, cell service varies significantly by location, with Cody BLM Dispersed offering good reception for most major carriers. The terrain can be challenging; several campers noted that while main access roads are generally passable for standard vehicles, exploring deeper into these areas often requires high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Weather conditions include frequent high winds, particularly at elevated sites.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, pronghorn antelope, and occasional moose. Visitors report hearing coyotes at night, particularly at the Cody BLM sites. Camping areas range from plateaus with 360-degree views to more sheltered spots near canyons and water features. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with summer offering the most reliable access. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply strictly to all sites. Campfires are generally permitted when no fire restrictions are in place, but visitors should check current regulations with local ranger districts before travel.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lovell, Wyoming (8)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lovell, WY

25 Reviews of 8 Lovell Campgrounds


  • Scott D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 21, 2023

    Cedar Mountain Dispersed - Closed to Camping

    Questionable Location

    Popular with locals as a trailhead for day hikes. Very rough access road. Camping area was marked with no camping signs. Stayed one night then moved on.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2022

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    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. The road in is rocky dirt but easily doable in our 26’ class C. Any size rig should do fine here. The road splits many times and we just used satellite view to check where the roads lead and decided on one. 

    The area we stayed in is flat and quite large with a stone fire pit. It did get very windy but died down through the night. The view is amazing. It was quiet and overall a nice place to hike or bike around. Saw some prong horns on the way in too! 

    There was a group of hunters that came around to check things out in the evening, then returned the next morning and shot an antelope from the next ridge over, then took a very long time doing photoshoot with the carcass. Antelope hunting is big in Wyoming. Not sure when hunting season is but something to watch out for if you’re exploring out here. Other than that we were the only ones here. 

    No water or any other amenities so pack in and pack out. The area was mostly free from litter but there were some bullet casings around which is almost a given in BLM territory. 

    Good cell reception with ATT, Verizon and TMobile.

  • Jeanice H.
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Shoshone Nat Forrest

    We bookdocked for 14 days in this beautiful spot along side a huge canyon! There was a stream at the bottom and 5 springs running out of the mountain across from our camping spot. We also saw lots of deer, a moose and watched locals drive 900 head of cattle down the road. Yes, they said there were 900!

  • Payton M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2023

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Quiet, beautiful

    Dirt road driving in. Only one other camper on site (in view). We attempted to drive down the road to the bottom but stopped + turned around due to muddy terrain. We chose to stay on the top along the right road as you come in. Several clearings- perfect to park.

  • Mary M.
    Jun. 8, 2022

    Cedar Mountain Dispersed - Closed to Camping

    Large open space

    There is a large open space at Lat 44.509971 -Long 109.122568 We parked there along with six other vehicles. Plenty of room. The dirt road was too rough for us to go any farther even with our four wheel drive. Not worth the risk for us since we were only looking for a place to sleep. No services

  • Anna B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Wide Open Spaces

    (October 9th, 2023) This was the perfect place to stop on our way out of Yellowstone! It wasn’t clear if there were designated camping spots, but we parked at the end of an empty plateau like some other vans we could see in the distance. Stargazing was incredible, and the views during sunrise were amazing! It was windy on top of the hills, but fine for car camping.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2023

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Beautiful vista!

    Big flat area up top, another down lower, and multiple spots as you drive down into the basin. It’s desolate, has no services, but these are excellent spots near the road, and are mostly accessible to sedans if the roads are dry.

    Place was empty on a recent Tuesday eve.

  • B
    Jul. 13, 2024

    Cedar Mountain Dispersed - Closed to Camping

    Fantastic view and plenty of space to camp

    Had the large lot at the coordinates (marked with a fire pit) to ourselves, but there are two or three smaller camping spots along the way up that you can stop at. View was beautiful!! Takes about 30min to get to the site bc of the rocks on the road and is just wide enough for one vehicle but if you have decent clearance and four wheel drive you can make it. Also great signal bc you are close to the tower at the top, had 5G. Says no camping at the bottom bc that small area is a parking lot for the horse tours next door, but there are camping signs as you go up.

  • Chris N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Solitude Granted

    Getting into the area was easy and there wasn't much there other than solitude over a vast long and wide grasslands valley and a humongous 360 degree sky view. 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. July 1 was dry and there were herds of deer and a small pack of coyotes wailing in the distance at night. Not too far from Cody, which has an endless rodeo in the summer, it was easy to stay here for free and be close to society too. I will stay here again in my future travels through the area.


Guide to Lovell

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lovell, Wyoming, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Lovell

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Cody BLM Dispersed, where the sunsets paint the sky in vibrant colors, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
  • The Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground provides a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views, ideal for stargazing and enjoying the serenity of nature.
  • At Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR, campers can soak in the stunning surroundings while enjoying the freedom of a less crowded space.

Wildlife Watching for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cody BLM Dispersed area is known for its diverse wildlife, including elk and coyotes, providing an exciting opportunity for nature lovers to observe animals in their natural habitat.
  • Campers at Gravel Pit Dispersed Camping can enjoy the lush surroundings and the chance to spot various species of birds and other wildlife that thrive in the area.
  • The Schuler Park offers a unique experience with its off-the-grid setting, where wildlife sightings are common, making it a great spot for those who appreciate nature.

Campfire Nights at Dispersed Camping Spots

  • Gather around a campfire at Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground, where each site is equipped with a fire pit, perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
  • Enjoy the warmth of a fire at Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR, where fires are allowed, creating a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings.
  • The Cody BLM Dispersed area also allows campfires, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Bighorn Canyon near Lovell?

When dispersed camping near Bighorn Canyon, you must follow standard Leave No Trace principles. Dispersed/ Backcountry Camping — Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area requires campers to set up at least 100 feet from water sources and 200 feet from developed areas. Campfires are allowed only in established fire rings where available, and permits may be required for certain areas - check with the visitor center. Maximum stay is typically 14 days within a 30-day period. Pack out all trash and use established roads - no off-road driving to create new campsites. Be aware that some previously popular areas like Cedar Mountain Dispersed now have no-camping restrictions, so always confirm current regulations before setting up.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Lovell, Wyoming?

Several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Lovell. Cody BLM Dispersed offers vast stretches of public land between Cody and Greybull with multiple camping spots along dirt roads that are generally accessible to all vehicle types when dry. The area features beautiful canyon views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Another option is Schuler Park, an off-grid site with established fire rings. While Cedar Mountain was previously a camping option, recent reports indicate it's now closed to overnight camping but remains a popular trailhead for day hikes. For those exploring Bighorn Canyon, dispersed camping is available on BLM and Forest Service land surrounding the recreation area, though specific regulations apply.

Are there any dispersed camping spots with amenities near Lovell?

True dispersed camping around Lovell is primarily primitive with minimal to no amenities. Gravel Pit Dispersed Camping and Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground offer slightly more developed options while still maintaining a rustic experience. Most dispersed sites like Schuler Park have fire rings but lack facilities such as restrooms, potable water, or garbage service. For amenities like vault toilets or picnic tables, consider semi-developed campgrounds within Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area instead of true dispersed sites. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent in these areas, so plan accordingly. Always bring your own water, waste disposal bags, and supplies for a self-contained camping experience.