Dispersed camping areas around Moorcroft, Wyoming include several free primitive sites on public land, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property. Storm Hill BLM Land and Hartman Rock are two established dispersed sites in the region, both located within driving distance of Devils Tower National Monument. Additional options include Roadside Rodeo Dispersed and Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow, which provide campers with alternative locations for primitive camping without facilities or designated campgrounds.
Access roads to many dispersed camping areas near Moorcroft may become impassable when wet, particularly at Storm Hill BLM Land where steep, rocky terrain requires careful navigation. Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles are recommended for most sites, especially after rainfall. Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days and allow campfires when no fire restrictions are in effect. None of these dispersed sites offer amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash collection. One camper noted, "The dirt road right off the highway is pristine, not even washboardy. Once you branch right for the last mile or so, there are a few small rocks and ruts but still smooth." Visitors should come prepared with sufficient supplies and plan to pack out all waste.
These dispersed camping locations provide scenic views and relative seclusion compared to developed campgrounds. Storm Hill BLM Land features panoramic vistas of Devils Tower and surrounding countryside. The areas experience variable seasonal conditions with wind being common at higher elevations. Wildlife sightings and grazing cattle are frequently mentioned in visitor reports. A reviewer at Storm Hill mentioned, "We were the only people using the site that night. If you walk up to the grassy area, you can catch a view of Devils Tower." Hartman Rock typically offers multiple camping spots along a forest road with wildflowers and occasional cattle sightings during summer months. Winter access may be limited or restricted at some locations, as several reviews indicate seasonal closures.
"Single lane forest road with a pull-off camp. Will fit maybe, 2 medium rigs."
"Unfortunately, there’s a fire ban but you can’t really help that. Road was decent, didn’t go very far up though. Would recommend. Such cool bugs around as well!"
"Site was flat and gravel. Spot for tents just up the hill. No fire ring, no picnic table, no hook-ups or garbage. Dispersed camping / boondocking. No fee. "
"The dirt road right off the highway is pristine, not even washboardy. Once you branch right for the last mile or so, there are a few small rocks and ruts but still smooth."
"Flat opening with a fire ring left by someone. Beautiful trees. No toilet. No cell service with ATT."
"There is a pit toilet at each and several places where others have made fire rings out of rocks. The sand creek has plenty of fish to try your luck at."
"Access to the local creek. Sort of difficult to find a level spot but we made it work. We fit comfortably in a truck camper but I wouldn't go too much bigger here. Good Verizon service!"
GuideFound a beautiful site if the paved road to the left. Amazing view down into the valley. Occasional visits from cattle, fall colors in the birch trees, and breathtaking night skies are making this one of my favorite boondocking locations. Sundance is only a fifteen minute drive away, so resupply is no problem. Definitely a place I'll return to
LegendOnly about 2-3 sites Up a very steep and bumpy road Would not take rv here
TravelerVery nice view of the tower just 50ft walk from my truck. Enough space to park several overland rigs.
GuideWe absolutely loved this spot, the creek is crystal clear and a little chilly which is perfect on hot days. Just upstream there’s a small waterfall. Signs say you can only stay for 5 days at a time but it is free. Many spots for people to stay. Locals say teenagers like to come here on weekends which I can confirm bc we picked up a whole pile of empty alcohol cans (pack in pack out PLEASE) try to keep this area clean so they don’t take it away as it is ran by the county.
GuideIf I’m camping in the Bear Lodge, I go here. Always easy to find a spot. Totally dispersed: no toilets or picnic tables. If there are fire rings, I haven’t noticed them yet.
All sites that I’ve seen are just wide spots in the road, so other campers may drive right by you looking for their own site.
GuideFeels like i’m totally alone. Unfortunately, there’s a fire ban but you can’t really help that. Road was decent, didn’t go very far up though. Would recommend. Such cool bugs around as well!
GuideWe have stopped here multiple times. Typically a lovely quiet spot with great views. A bit noisy tonight with 2 dogs barking. One constantly.
LegendNeeded to get to a higher elevation and some shade with consistent winds, and I found it. Last spot on the left at end of the road, or at least the fairly easy part. Very isolated and quiet, save for the birds and the breeze.
LegendOnce again, I got a primo place to view the creek from. Might be better down in the loop but it's chock full of people. That makes it a 4.
Dispersed camping near Moorcroft, Wyoming offers numerous free sites across public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The area sits at approximately 4,200 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate characterized by significant temperature variations between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while winters can drop well below freezing with occasional snow making many sites inaccessible.
Fishing at Sand Creek: The public access areas along Sand Creek provide good fishing opportunities during summer months. "The sand creek has plenty of fish to try your luck at," notes a visitor to Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow Dispersed Camping.
Sunset viewing: Position your campsite for optimal sunset views at higher elevation sites. "If you can get a spot for the sunset, it's worthit," recommends a camper who stayed at Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Hiking nearby peaks: Several unofficial trails lead from dispersed camping areas to scenic viewpoints. "If you're heading west on the road we're camped off of the very first turn hundred yards away 200 yards away. It'll lead you to the ridge that sticks out into the valley and you get even better views of Devils Tower," shares a visitor who spent four days at Storm Hill BLM Land.
Wildlife encounters: Many sites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. "Wildflowers, wildlife, and lots of space! Turn right off the sundance-warren peak road and watch out for cows crossing," advises a camper who stayed at Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites maintain usable connectivity. "Good Verizon service!" reports a camper about Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow Dispersed Camping, while another noted "1 bar of ATT even though there are several cell towers less than two miles away" at Hartman Rock.
Temperature relief: Higher elevation sites provide welcome cooling compared to highway travel in summer. "Temps on 90 were in the 90s but up here a great breeze and cool. So peaceful!" shares a returning visitor to Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads require careful assessment, especially after rain. "Paved road leading to gravel turn-offs, very manageable terrain," reports a camper at Hartman Rock Dispersed Site, contrasting with "Be careful with the drive up. The dirt road is very ugly & might damage your car/trailer" from a Storm Hill visitor.
Seasonal closures affect access: Several sites become inaccessible during winter months. "Would have loved to visit but closed in the winter!" reports a visitor to Hartman Rock, while another camper noted "I would have loved to have stayed here. Unfortunately, about 2 miles from the coordinates listed here, the road was blocked and stated no wheeled vehicles."
Site competition varies by location: Some areas offer multiple sites while others have limited prime spots. "Plenty of spots down the entire road," notes a camper about Roadside Rodeo Dispersed, while Storm Hill visitors consistently mention "One good spot" and "There's only one good spot."
Consider recreation areas with facilities: For families who need basic amenities, seek out locations with pit toilets. "There are three pull outs along the road where you can camp. There is a pit toilet at each and several places where others have made fire rings out of rocks," notes a visitor to Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow Dispersed Camping.
Plan for weather extremes: The area experiences significant wind, especially at higher elevations. "We experienced intense wind overnight, but still loved the location," shares a camper who stayed at Storm Hill BLM Land.
Pack adequate supplies: With no services available, preparation is essential. "We arrived early evening and about half of the sites were available," reports a camper at Hartman Rock, highlighting the importance of arriving with time to set up before dark.
Size restrictions limit large rigs: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller setups best. "I camped with my tundra double cab and 5x8 trailer and could maneuver through dispersed sites comfortably," notes a visitor to Hartman Rock Dispersed Site, while another camper mentioned "Great wild camping spot that's big enough for 30ft Travel trailer. Site is fairly level and has a nice fire ring."
Leveling challenges: Finding flat spots can be difficult in some areas. "Sort of difficult to find a level spot but we made it work. We fit comfortably in a truck camper but I wouldn't go too much bigger here," advises a camper who stayed at Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow.
High clearance often necessary: Access roads may require vehicles with good ground clearance. "Single lane forest road with a pull-off camp. Will fit maybe, 2 medium rigs," notes a visitor to Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Moorcroft, WY from Sturgis, SD for Sturgis Rally camping?
Moorcroft, WY is approximately 80 miles (about 1.5 hours driving time) from Sturgis, SD, making it a viable option for Sturgis Rally attendees seeking quieter accommodations. For those planning to camp during the rally, Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow Dispersed Camping offers three pull-out areas along the road, each with pit toilets and established fire rings. Another option is Roadside Rodeo Dispersed, which provides basic roadside boondocking spots that can serve as convenient overnight stops when traveling between Moorcroft and Sturgis.
What are the best dispersed camping locations near Moorcroft, WY?
The Moorcroft area offers several excellent dispersed camping options. Storm Hill BLM Land Dispersed Site is a popular choice about 15 minutes from Devil's Tower, featuring flat grassy areas for tents and larger dirt areas suitable for campers with stunning views. The access road can be rough with deep ruts, so AWD/4WD is recommended, especially in wet conditions. Hartman Rock Dispersed Site provides more accessible options with paved roads leading to gravel turn-offs and manageable terrain for vehicles with trailers.
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Moorcroft, WY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Moorcroft, WY is Hartman Rock Dispersed Site with a 4.7-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Moorcroft, WY?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Moorcroft, WY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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