Dispersed camping near Lysite, Wyoming offers rugged access to the Wind River Basin at elevations ranging from 4,800 to 5,500 feet. The semi-arid climate produces hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with significant wind chill factors. Most dispersed sites in this region require visitors to bring their own water supply and practice Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Fishing access: Ocean Lake Lindholm provides excellent shoreline fishing with multiple jumping fish visible from camp. "Lake teaming with birdlife, and saw fish jumping," notes Gregory, who appreciated the boat ramp access for small watercraft.
Historical exploration: The Outlaw Cave Campground area connects visitors with Wyoming's outlaw history. "Somewhere down at the bottom of the river is also where the hole in the Rock gang used to hide and you can go and find the place," explains Steve M., who visited the canyon rim campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at secluded lake sites offer excellent wildlife observation opportunities. Gregory at Ocean Lake Lindholm reports hearing elk and seeing numerous bird species: "Were the only ones here, so perfect to turn on some music, or sit in the quiet and listen to birds and elk."
What campers like
Sunrise views: Many campers specifically mention morning views over the water. Bob D. at Ocean Lake Lindholm describes a "Great isolated spot" where he "spent a quiet night, awoke to great sunrise over lake."
Canyon vistas: The elevated terrain provides dramatic overlooks that earn high marks from visitors. AJ A. describes the Outlaw Cave Campground setting: "You camp on top of an enormous canyon that you can hike down to the river if you're up for a challenging hike!"
Dark sky viewing: Remote locations away from city lights create prime conditions for astronomy. Gregory notes that Ocean Lake Lindholm offers a "Great dark sky" with minimal light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing during clear nights.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions frequently lead travelers onto private property. Mitch S. warns about Outlaw Cave Campground: "Like another review had said the GPS (or google maps) will try to direct you across private property. If you continue along the road you will find signs that help direct you where you're allowed to go."
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate seasonally and after storms. James C. notes about Outlaw Cave: "Road was pretty smooth accept for the last approximately 2 miles, a little rougher and more narrow but not difficult to do in a car."
Limited amenities: Most sites provide minimal facilities. Gregory describes the Lake Cameahwait facilities: "The pit toilets were the standard Forest Service bathrooms, which were very clean. There were also several group areas, and at least one large covered picnic pavilion further down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities: Lake sites offer accessible fishing for children. According to Steve M., visitors to Outlaw Cave report "they were catching trout left and right" at the river below the campground, though accessing the water requires a steep hike.
Day use popularity: Expect busier conditions during daylight hours at lake sites. Kelda C. notes about Lake Cameahwait: "This is mostly a day use area so it gets pretty busy during the days - especially on the weekends."
Bug protection: Insect populations peak during summer months. Michael U. describes Lake Cameahwait as "Pretty buggy but great views," while Wayne H. advises: "Great place to stay if you can work around the mosquitoes."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many dispersed sites require leveling equipment for RVs. Gregory at Ocean Lake Lindholm advises: "Mostly level sites, but a few levellers wouldn't go amiss."
Wind exposure: Open areas experience significant wind events. Gary S. reports challenges at Lake Cameahwait: "Only spent one night as we had a very strong wind and did not crank up our top on our slide in camper."
Large rig access: Some locations accommodate larger vehicles despite unpaved access. Andrew P. reports: "Plenty of room on a great little lake. Had a 34 ft A class and took in on dirt road which covers about 2/3 of lake."
Legend
