The Meeteetse area features multiple equestrian camping options within the Shoshone National Forest and surrounding BLM land. Elevation ranges from 5,800 to 7,500 feet, creating variable weather conditions with dramatic temperature drops after sunset even during summer months. Several campgrounds accommodate horse trailers with dedicated corrals, though advance planning is essential due to limited specialized equestrian sites.
What to do
Fly fishing access: Double Cabin Campground sits next to the Wiggins Fork of Wind River, offering excellent fishing opportunities. "Great fishing for brookies and cutthroat trout," notes Nathan K., who mentions that "there are corrals for horses nearby" making it convenient for anglers traveling with horses.
Explore ghost towns: The area surrounding The Crippled Spider Campground provides access to historic sites and abandoned settlements. According to Amy A., "The ranch is near the historic Oregon Trail, and there are great opportunities for treasure hunters like metal detecting and exploring old ghost towns."
Scenic photography: East Fork Road Dispersed camping areas provide striking mountain backdrops. One visitor describes, "I got there around dark, and the colors were otherworldly. Also same for the drive in. Mountains that make animators look like fools."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. As Jon G. describes at Double Cabin Campground, "The stars go on forever & we were lucky enough to stay here for 3 clear nights & a full moon. It is a top notch spot."
Isolation and privacy: Many camping areas offer secluded sites despite being established campgrounds. At East Fork Road Dispersed camping area, Morgan Y. reports, "We were on a loop by ourselves with a bathroom nearby, kinda surprising since it was dispersed. Just a 100 yards or so from a beautiful river. We never saw another person."
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding wilderness hosts diverse wildlife populations. According to Jon G. who stayed near Double Cabin, hunters informed him that "grizzlies, moose, black bears, elk at times, & mule deer are very present in the valley although we only saw deer."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to prime horse campgrounds near Meeteetse often involves challenging driving conditions. One camper at Double Cabin warns, "Getting to this place with our 30' TT was a challenge. Most of the road there is a one lane, winding road with dropoffs at times. There are lots of horse trailers that use this road so be prepared."
Water availability: Water access varies seasonally and by location. Josh R. notes that at Double Cabin Campground, "a sign posted at the campground says water won't be available again until the 2022 season."
Mapping inaccuracies: Several campground coordinates may be incorrectly marked on maps and GPS devices. At East Fork Road, Emma C. advises, "The coordinates are way off. Try 43.58428° N, 109.45601° W and you should get to the place with the bathrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety precautions: Families should prepare for bear country camping. Renee G. found that East Fork Road camping areas have helpful safety features: "There were bear boxes, restrooms, and a creek nearby. Also at this site was an informational sign that showed where all the campsites were off this road."
Noise considerations: Be aware that hunting activity may create early morning disturbances. Emma C. reports from East Fork Road, "We were though woken up at 6am from hunting caravans pulling up and using the campsites as parking while they took their 4x4s out. Very loud very unfortunate."
Water recreation options: Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground offers family-friendly water activities. As Lia T. describes, "The reservoir is perfect for fishing, floating and cooling off after a hike."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. Campers at Double Cabin Campground suggest scouting dispersed sites: "We camped at a dispersed site just past the actual campground which was completely vacant during our stay."
Resource management: RVers should plan for limited amenities at most equestrian sites. At Double Cabin, Jon G. shares, "We got our water from a mountain stream 20 minutes away, it was cleaner than tap water. Both of us drank it & lived. Firewood is very plentiful along the road, just watch for marked areas where it can't be gathered."
Extended stay discounts: For RVers planning longer equestrian trips, some private facilities offer reduced rates. At The Crippled Spider Campground, Amy notes, "For those looking for an extended stay, they even offer 15% off for bookings over 7 days!"
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