Tent camping near Powell, Wyoming features sites with varied terrain from high plains to mountain foothills between 4,000-5,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-90°F with cooler nights at higher elevations. The camping season runs primarily from May through September, though weather conditions can vary significantly with strong winds common in the shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR provides direct access to fishing spots along the Shoshone River where campers can catch trout and other native species. According to John H., the site offers "Amazing views" while camping "next to the water."
Mountain biking: Meeteetse campground serves as a starting point for several gravel and dirt trails suitable for mountain biking. Rebekah R. notes, "Roads aren't super well maintained, so make sure you're comfortable with driving on gravel, and 4WD."
Dam exploration: North Fork Campground provides convenient access to the Buffalo Bill Dam. Ashley M. mentioned, "We enjoyed visiting the dam and the bike park in the town of Cody, WY." The dam offers informative displays about local hydrology and history.
Wildlife photography: The diverse ecosystems around Powell create excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at dawn and dusk. Early morning hours offer the best lighting conditions for photographers seeking to capture the local fauna.
What campers like
Privacy features: North Fork Campground includes design elements that create separation between sites. A camper noted, "We rented. The camp sites are in the open. Not secluded but the dividing walls worked great. Near the road but traffic noise was not a issue."
Value compared to national parks: The campgrounds near Powell typically cost less than those within Yellowstone. Sara S. commented, "Prices were outstanding compared to other parks near. I would definitely come back here if visiting Yellowstone again."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous sizing of tent sites in the area. Alyssa M. enthusiastically reported, "We had so much space, a beautiful Mountain View on both sides, and easy access to firewood for a small donation."
Clean facilities: Greybull KOA Holiday maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. According to a reviewer, "Overall, pleasant stay and the campground was clean and well cared for. The only negative thing is the noise of the trains through the night."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Most tent sites around Powell experience significant wind exposure, particularly those at higher elevations. Benjamin C. advises bringing proper gear: "site: clean. large. level. decent privacy."
Water availability varies: Big Quiet Farm Stay & Campground provides drinking water, while dispersed sites require bringing your own supply. Ashley F. notes, "Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're so excited to have Rod's property on our platform! So many ways to stay, from Tee-Pees to tents!"
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds around Powell operate from May through September. Some sites near Buffalo Bill State Park close earlier or later depending on weather conditions.
Shower facilities: Shower availability differs between campgrounds. At Buffalo Bill State Park, Ashley M. noted, "There are vault toilets scattered and near the entrance is a single person flush toilet stall with coin shower."
Train noise: Campsites near Greybull experience railway noise throughout the night. One camper mentioned this was "the only negative thing" about an otherwise pleasant stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children, though availability may be affected by seasonal or other restrictions. Ashley M. observed during her visit: "The playground was fenced off due to Covid in August 2020."
Large tent accommodation: Buffalo Bill State Park provides spacious tent pads that easily fit family-sized tents. James N. reported, "Great campsite. Lots of room. Facilities were very clean. Ice playground for the kids."
Breakfast options: Some campgrounds offer meal services. Big Quiet Farm Stay provides breakfast made with local ingredients, which can be convenient for families not wanting to cook every morning.
Proximity to town supplies: Most campgrounds are within 20-30 minutes of Powell or Cody for restocking supplies. HANNON C. shared, "We spent extra time in Cody, WY and it was a divine experience."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Powell offer partial hookups only. Ashley M. noted, "We got a pull through site with electricity but no water hookup. Potable water was available throughout the park, however."
Dump station access: Black Canyon Campground requires specific planning for access. John H. warns, "Beware- Boat in only. There is no road access to any of the campgrounds located inside the canyon. The only road access campsites are downstream of dam in the afterbay."
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites in the Powell area require some leveling. Pat H. described sites at Buffalo Bill State Park as having "Electric, pull through sites. Boat landing. Pit toilets. No showers."
