Tent campsites near Lovell, Wyoming sit at elevations between 3,800 and 7,000 feet, with the highest dispersed sites in Bighorn National Forest experiencing temperature drops of 20-30 degrees compared to town. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F during daytime hours, while night temperatures can fall below 50°F even in July. Limited cellular service exists throughout most camping areas, with strongest signals near Afterbay.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Bighorn Canyon area hosts over 200 bird species, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons. Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR provides prime locations for viewing wildlife in their natural habitats.
Fishing access: Multiple camping areas offer direct fishing access to the Bighorn River and reservoir. A camper at Afterbay mentions, "We also went to the lake that was close by! Enjoyed swimming and playing fetch in the water with our dog." Fishing licenses must be purchased in advance from stores in Lovell.
Hiking trails: Numerous trails connect camping areas throughout the region. At Afterbay, a reviewer noted, "One hike is 8 miles round trip and it has the most amazing views ever. Views of the lake and mountains all around." Most trails require sturdy footwear as terrain can be rocky and steep in sections.
What campers like
Remote atmosphere: Many tent sites provide significant separation from other campers. Big Quiet Farm Stay & Campground receives praise for its isolation, with a reviewer stating, "Stunning Views! There's nothing like it." Sites at this location are spaced to maximize privacy.
Easy water access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for swimming and boating. However, campers should note water conditions vary seasonally. A reviewer at Afterbay commented, "Within the campground there is a large grass area where people were playing horseshoes, volleyball and spike ball."
Affordable options: Multiple free and low-cost tent camping locations exist near Lovell. Greybull KOA Holiday offers a mid-range option with additional amenities, as one camper notes: "This campground has cabins, full hook-ups, water-electric sites, long-term sites, and tent sites. Amenities include a heated pool, walking path, wi-fi, propane, firewood, pizza, and bathrooms."
What you should know
Limited boat-in access: Several campgrounds can only be reached by water. A reviewer at Black Canyon Campground warns, "There is no road access to any of the campgrounds located inside the canyon. The only road access campsites are downstream of dam in the afterbay."
Seasonal maintenance issues: Some campgrounds receive minimal maintenance outside peak season. At Bighorn National Forest Cabin Creek Campground, a visitor reported, "It appears this was at one time a campground. Now overgrown and has one pit toilet that has been neglected."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night occur frequently, even in summer months. A camper at Afterbay advises, "We have come in the winter and stayed in our RV and we have come in the summer." Bring appropriate clothing layers regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Group activity areas: Some campgrounds provide open spaces for group games and activities. At Afterbay, a reviewer mentioned, "My family and I enjoyed hanging out in this area, throwing a frisbee around with our dog."
Bug prevention essential: Mosquitoes can be particularly intense during summer evenings near water. An Afterbay camper warns, "Lots of bugs and mosquitoes during the summer so I'd recommend good mosquito spray."
Restroom planning: Many dispersed camping areas have no toilet facilities whatsoever, requiring appropriate preparation. At Cabin Creek Campground, even established sites may have limited facilities, with one visitor noting a "pit toilet that has been neglected."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups available: Most campgrounds near Lovell lack full RV hookups. Check site specifications before arrival. One RV camper at Greybull KOA noted the campground offers "full hook-ups (pull-thru, back-in sites) water-electric sites, long-term sites, and tent sites."
Road noise considerations: Some otherwise pleasant camping locations experience significant noise. A Greybull KOA camper mentioned, "The only negative thing is the noise of the trains through the night."
Winter RV camping: Select locations remain open for winter camping with proper preparation. At Afterbay, a visitor shared, "We have come in the winter and stayed in our RV," though this requires appropriate cold-weather equipment and supplies.
