The Lysite area sits at approximately 4,900 feet elevation in central Wyoming, positioned between the Wind River Range and the Bighorn Basin. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with cool nights, while winter months can drop well below freezing. Camping conditions vary dramatically by season with July and August seeing higher occupancy at established sites and spring bringing more wind.
What to do
Fishing access: Upper Wind River Campground at Boysen State Park features fishing opportunities along the river with dedicated access points. "The fly fishing in the tail waters of Boysen Reservoir is spectacular! There are more trees and there are launch sites. We wade fished, but if you float you need a permit to float through Wind River Indian Reservation," notes camper Carrie C.
Explore thermal features: Take a day trip to the thermal pools in Thermopolis, just 20 miles north of Lysite. "One day we went to Thermopolis and checked out Dino museum and hot springs. Last day we just hung around camp and relaxed," shares Eli R. about their stay at Upper Wind River Campground.
Wildlife watching: The area provides opportunities to observe local birds and wildlife during your glamping adventure near Lysite. At Ocean Lake, you'll find diverse water birds. "If you sit and look at the lake, you'll see a lot of jumping fish. Seagulls fly over like at the ocean," notes Jessica M.
What campers like
Mineral hot springs: The Fountain of Youth RV Park features large thermal pools open daily. "We have stayed here quite often over the past 30 years or so and thouroly enjoyed soaking for hours in enormous pools there. A great place to hang out and relax in central Wyoming," writes camper Danny D.
Shaded campsites: Sites with mature trees provide relief during hot summer months. "We stayed at upper campground and there were a lot of spots that overlooked the river. We were there in the early spring, but you can tell the trees provide lots of shade for the summer months," says Zach R. about Upper Wind River Campground.
Spacious sites: Some areas offer more separation between camping spots. "We found this place in the dark on our way to Grand Teton and decided to stop for the night. We had then entire place to ourselves and when we woke up we fell in love with the place," shares Adrian about Ocean Lake.
What you should know
Train noise: Several glamping accommodations near Lysite are located near train tracks. At Eagle RV Park, the highway proximity can create noise. Similarly, Fountain of Youth has nearby tracks: "This place was stunning and you can't beat the mineral hot spring. The facilities could use some updating, you have the sulfer smell constantly, and the train tracks run right by it," reports Dylane S.
Water quality concerns: Check current water conditions before swimming. At Ocean Lake, "the water is hazardous and has to be avoided. Sadly the algae in the water could be toxic (the sign was posted on the bathrooms, not near the boat launch)," warns Katie J.
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "No cell or WIFI," reports Bill R. about Upper Wind River Campground, though some locations maintain better connections than others.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For luxury camping in Lysite area with children, Upper Wind River Campground offers play facilities. "There's a good amount of open space in the middle of campground, surrounding the playground. Also, stairs for easy water access down to the river for fishing," shares Zach R.
Educational opportunities: The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis provides family-friendly activities. "I couldn't believe my eyes when we ended up with what looked like an ocean view. Each spot had a building with a picnic table and a grill," shares Katie J. about Ocean Lake, which makes a good base for exploring the area.
Weather preparation: The area experiences significant temperature swings, even in summer. "We spent one night surviving a massive thunderstorm. It was quiet for good sleep with panoramic views and some wildlife viewing," notes Jessica M. about Ocean Lake conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully review site dimensions when booking. "I had reserved site 54 through recreation.gov but at the time I thought it odd the site would not let me put in my rig size. So I just went with it. Mistake. My 30 footer wouldn't begin to fit since the pull off the road is shared between 54 and 55," warns Linda M. about Upper Wind River Campground.
Full hookup options: For luxury glamping experiences near Lysite with RV amenities, some parks offer complete utilities. "This great little RV park is outside of Thermopolis by a couple of miles, but it is worth the extra drive. Very friendly staff, the sites are close to gather but comfortable. All hook ups included for a reasonable price," shares Brent J. about Fountain of Youth RV Park.
Generator policies: Check if generator use is permitted at your chosen location. Sites like Fountain of Youth and Eagle RV Park provide electrical hookups, eliminating the need for generators, while more rustic options may have restrictions.
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