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Best Dispersed Camping near Powell, WY

41 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options surround Powell, Wyoming on BLM land, with Cody BLM Dispersed offering the most accessible sites. Located approximately 30 miles west of Powell, this area features multiple pull-offs and clearings along dirt access roads. The terrain consists mainly of open grasslands with panoramic valley views and minimal shelter from wind. Most sites accommodate both tents and RVs, including larger rigs with adequate clearance.

Access roads are generally navigable for standard vehicles in dry conditions, though some sections become challenging after rain. No amenities are available—no water, toilets, or trash service—requiring visitors to pack in and pack out all supplies. A recent camper noted, "Sites were clean and definitely worth a look. Road is rough in just a couple of spots, but we saw vans and a large Class C make it up here no problem." Additional dispersed camping can be found at Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground (40 miles northwest) and Sheep Mountain BLM (45 miles west), both offering similar primitive conditions but with more seclusion.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Powell, Wyoming (11)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Powell, WY

40 Photos of 11 Powell Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Powell, WY

41 Reviews of 11 Powell Campgrounds

  • Steve & Ashley G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Little Sunlight Camping Area

    Incredible Mountain Valley

    This site about 12 miles up sunset road along a very rough washboard dirt/gravel rod. The road was extremely dusty in the summer and almost forced us to turn back. The dispersed sites are very rough and not well maintained. However, the views are some of the best we have ever seen in Wyoming. The sunset in the valley seemed to go on forever and provided light up until 10 pm. You will need 4 wheel drive or high clearance to access the best sites next to the river. If you are willing to endure the drive and don’t mind rough dispersed camping, the beauty of the site more than makes up for it. No facilities here just a stone fire ring. The site is known for grizzly bears. So you need to be an experienced camper to enjoy this area or take precautions.

  • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2025

    Sheep Mountain BLM

    Great location! Free boondocking!

    We were able to haul our 45-ft fifth wheel and find level ground. There are some additional locations to park higher on the hill but the road to get there is a little more rough. I've seen smaller camper vans but we couldn't haul our big rig up there. We boondocked here all week. Not far from Yellowstone and the town of Cody with amenities. The sheep mountain hiking trailhead is right here and lots of off-roading trails for single and double track. Great views. It was rainy and windy half the time we were here (late May). The roads were dirt but still solid and well maintained. Some of the hiking and OHV trails got muddy up on the mountain.

  • D0min0 3.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Sheep Mountain BLM

    Quick over Night

    Just a plot of land, when I showed up there was already a camper van. Next to the water, Stars were amazing!

  • HANNON C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2025

    Sheep Mountain BLM

    Sleep Under The Stars

    We have a truck camper and stayed one evening. There were two other people camping in this area as well. Perfect for rooftop tent/car/van camping. We arrived around 7 PM and had no trouble finding the location or setting up a spot. The views are incredible and very peaceful in the evening. There is a little noise from the roadway in the morning time. There’s a lot of horse poo in the area, be prepared for that. No issues with animals or people for that matter. It was a bit windy. Would definitely stay here again.

  • Scott D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 21, 2023

    Cedar Mountain Dispersed - Closed to Camping

    Questionable Location

    Popular with locals as a trailhead for day hikes. Very rough access road. Camping area was marked with no camping signs. Stayed one night then moved on.

  • Rachel S.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Little Sunlight Camping Area

    Perfect in every way

    Quiet, serene and absolutely beautiful. We were basically alone in the entire campground the week before Labor Day. Completely off the beaten path. The road in is actually quite easy and the area has many 4x4 trails to explore, although the campground should be easily accessible in 2wd. We camped back beyond the developed sites, so we just had a rock fire pit and no picnic table but it was easy to adapt. There is a vault toilet at the developed campground. Absolutely beautiful. -also, there is a ghost town you can reach via a short hike. -when we were here, many spots were “held” by hunters leaving their trailers in a spot, so the developed sites looked very full, but were basically uninhabited.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2022

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Antelope Hunting

    We pulled off of highway 16 to just explore and found that this area has a lot of options for camping. It is a vast stretch of BLM land between Cody and Greybull. The road in is rocky dirt but easily doable in our 26’ class C. Any size rig should do fine here. The road splits many times and we just used satellite view to check where the roads lead and decided on one. 

    The area we stayed in is flat and quite large with a stone fire pit. It did get very windy but died down through the night. The view is amazing. It was quiet and overall a nice place to hike or bike around. Saw some prong horns on the way in too! 

    There was a group of hunters that came around to check things out in the evening, then returned the next morning and shot an antelope from the next ridge over, then took a very long time doing photoshoot with the carcass. Antelope hunting is big in Wyoming. Not sure when hunting season is but something to watch out for if you’re exploring out here. Other than that we were the only ones here. 

    No water or any other amenities so pack in and pack out. The area was mostly free from litter but there were some bullet casings around which is almost a given in BLM territory. 

    Good cell reception with ATT, Verizon and TMobile.

  • Jeanice H.
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Shoshone Nat Forrest

    We bookdocked for 14 days in this beautiful spot along side a huge canyon! There was a stream at the bottom and 5 springs running out of the mountain across from our camping spot. We also saw lots of deer, a moose and watched locals drive 900 head of cattle down the road. Yes, they said there were 900!

  • Payton M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2023

    Cody BLM Dispersed

    Quiet, beautiful

    Dirt road driving in. Only one other camper on site (in view). We attempted to drive down the road to the bottom but stopped + turned around due to muddy terrain. We chose to stay on the top along the right road as you come in. Several clearings- perfect to park.

Guide to Powell

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Powell, Wyoming, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cody BLM Dispersed area offers breathtaking sunsets and expansive views, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
  • Campers can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with minimal noise, as the surrounding hills help block out highway sounds, allowing for a serene night under the stars.
  • This location is accessible for various vehicles, including vans and RVs, ensuring that everyone can experience its beauty.

Wildlife Encounters While Free Camping Near Powell

  • At the Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground, visitors can spot local wildlife, including elk, while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
  • The area is known for its diverse ecosystem, providing opportunities for wildlife watching and photography, especially during early morning or late evening hours.
  • Campers have reported seeing remnants of local fauna, adding an adventurous touch to the camping experience.

Stargazing Opportunities for Dispersed Campers

  • The Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR is perfect for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and clear skies that reveal a breathtaking view of the Milky Way.
  • Campers can set up their tents in wide-open spaces, allowing for unobstructed views of the night sky, making it a favorite spot for astronomy enthusiasts.
  • The peaceful environment, combined with the stunning celestial displays, creates a magical experience for those who appreciate the wonders of the universe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Lake Powell?

Several BLM areas offer dispersed camping near Lake Powell. Sheep Mountain BLM provides spacious areas suitable for various camping setups, from large fifth wheels to smaller vans. Many spots offer water views with incredible stargazing opportunities. For those seeking more remote options, Cody BLM Dispersed features multiple plateaus and clearings perfect for camping. Access typically involves dirt or gravel roads of varying conditions, so check current road status before heading out. Most dispersed areas around Lake Powell allow 14-day stays and are free to use, though amenities are minimal to non-existent.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping at Lake Powell?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant conditions for dispersed camping at Lake Powell, with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Little Sunlight Camping Area can be quite serene the week before Labor Day, with campers reporting having entire areas to themselves. Summer brings intense heat, dusty conditions, and rougher roads that may challenge some vehicles. Winter camping is possible but brings colder temperatures, especially at night. Fall camping provides spectacular views and wildlife viewing opportunities at locations like Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground, though water levels may be lower.

Is a permit required for dispersed camping at Lake Powell?

Most dispersed camping areas around Lake Powell don't require specific camping permits, though you'll need a Lake Powell entrance pass to access Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. For camping within Dispersed/ Backcountry Camping — Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, backcountry permits may be required and are typically free but help rangers track usage. When camping on BLM land like Rock Creek Dispersed, no permits are generally needed, though seasonal fire permits might be required during certain times of year. Always check with the local ranger district or recreation area office for the most current permit requirements before your trip.

What are the rules and regulations for camping on Lake Powell shores?

Dispersed camping at Lake Powell generally follows standard BLM regulations: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, practice Leave No Trace principles, and limit stays to 14 days within a 30-day period. Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR and similar areas require proper waste management—pack out all trash and use portable toilets or proper burial techniques for human waste. Campfires may be restricted seasonally, particularly during dry periods. Some areas like Cedar Mountain Dispersed may be closed to camping despite appearing on maps, so check for posted signs upon arrival. Always respect wildlife closures and cultural sites, which are common around Lake Powell.

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