Primitive camping near Ralston, Wyoming offers access to the western edge of the Bighorn Basin with elevations ranging from 4,000-5,000 feet across open grasslands and plateaus. The area experiences high wind conditions throughout much of the year, particularly in spring and fall when gusts can exceed 30 mph. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Big Horn NRC Dispersed SR, you'll find shoreline camping with direct water access. According to John H., the site offers "amazing views" with multiple spots for anglers to set up along the reservoir edge.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The open grasslands provide excellent opportunities for viewing pronghorn antelope. One camper at Cody BLM Dispersed noted, "Saw some prong horns on the way in too! It was quiet and overall a nice place to hike or bike around." Hunters frequently use these areas during fall hunting seasons.
Dark sky stargazing: The remote location means minimal light pollution. James B. described his experience: "We got a great spot with amazing views of the sunset. It was very quiet at night. There is a highway to the north, but the hills block most of the noise."
What campers like
Solitude and space: The vast dispersed camping areas provide ample room between campers. Chris N. explained, "Getting into the area was easy and there wasn't much there other than solitude over a vast long and wide grasslands valley and a humongous 360 degree sky view."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites maintain decent connectivity. "I love that there's very good phone reception," notes Mariana T. at Cody BLM. Another camper reported, "Verizon cell reception was poor but did work. Starlink had super fast speeds."
Cool water options: Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground provides rare water access in this arid region. As one visitor described, "The reservoir is perfect for fishing, floating and cooling off after a hike."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Strong winds affect camping comfort. At Sheep Mountain BLM, Lisa D. reported, "We have a rooftop tent and platform in the van. It felt like the RTT was the sail to our van, so much so that we moved camp again to the 1st lower gravel area which helped."
Road conditions vary: Many access roads deteriorate during wet periods. According to campers, "The road in is rocky dirt but easily doable in our 26' class C." However, several reviews mention bottoming out in low-clearance vehicles.
Limited shade options: Most backcountry camping near Ralston lacks tree coverage. One visitor noted, "Very little shelter from the wind, however if you set up against the small hills just right, you'll have just enough shelter when things a blowing."
Waste management requirements: With no services, pack-in/pack-out practices are mandatory. Bruce S. emphasized, "PLEASE pack in/pack out and keep the area clean as possible. I always pick up after other people so please try to keep the campsites clean."
Tips for camping with families
Locate natural barriers: When choosing a campsite with children, find locations with some topographical shelter from wind. At Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping, campers noted, "There are at least half a dozen wooded spots, setback. Three have bear boxes and are right by a hiking trail."
Wildlife encounters: Be aware that children might encounter wildlife. One camper mentioned, "I watched cows grazing down the power line clearing through the trees and at one point watched eight cows walking by single file right by my site."
Consider vault toilets: For families, sites with basic toilet facilities make extended stays more manageable. Rebecca B. mentioned, "Add to this the beautiful mountains, ease of access to Yellowstone or Red Lodge, and a clean vault toilet and we would stay again."
Tips from RVers
Levelness assessment: The open terrain requires careful positioning. At Lower Sunshine Reservoir, a reviewer noted, "Most of the spots are on a ridge above the reservoir, but there is a way to drive below the ridge and camp. The vault toilet is on the water level, so a walk up after use!"
Solar capability: The open terrain provides excellent solar charging opportunities. "It's great for groups and perfect for solar and cattle watching," mentioned one camper about the exposed areas.
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure limited premium spots. One RVer advised, "We had hoped to stay across the street along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. That area has 2 pretty shaded spots, and both were taken."
