Dispersed camping sites in the Bighorn National Forest near Saddlestring, Wyoming range in elevation from 7,500 to 9,500 feet, creating microclimates that typically remain 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands during summer months. The forest road system includes over 1,500 miles of designated routes where campers can find free camping opportunities with varying levels of accessibility. Spring and early summer camping often coincides with significant wildlife activity including elk calving and migratory bird nesting periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple dispersed sites provide access to stream fishing throughout the national forest. At Canyon Creek Road Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy "Canyon Creek has a brisk stream of water flowing" according to Ronald C., making it ideal for casual fishing when flows are moderate.
Hiking local trails: The Bighorn National Forest contains hundreds of miles of trails accessible from dispersed camping areas. The Elgin Park Trailhead serves as both a camping area and access point to the trail system, with Jackie M. noting "Great location where you can camp in the trees or on the meadow. Vault toilet available once you drive a ways in on Elgin Park Road."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife spotting conditions. At Circle Road Dispersed Camping, Bruce P. reports "There were also two moose grazing in the meadow for the entire time we were there," while Daniel S. notes weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends for wildlife observation.
Rock formations exploration: The geological features throughout the region offer natural climbing and exploration opportunities. At Crazy Woman Canyon Road, Connor M. describes "towering canyon walls that make you feel so small," with unique boulder formations that create natural climbing opportunities for all skill levels.
What campers like
Cooler summer temperatures: The high elevation provides a natural escape from summer heat. At Canyon Creek Road Dispersed Camping, Ronald C. appreciates that "Elevation of this area is about 9500', so temps are cool and comfortable even in August."
Stargazing conditions: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. One camper at Canyon Creek Road reports "Very dark and clear night sky is great for star gazing," making it ideal for astrophotography and constellation identification.
Seasonal wildflower displays: Spring and early summer bring extensive wildflower blooms to meadow areas. At Grouse Mountain Basecamp, ekastroll notes "Wildflowers were beautiful," while Liona L. calls it a "Wildflower Paradise" and shares "Truly one of the most magical campgrounds I've ever been to."
Private camping spaces: Many areas offer substantial distance between camping spots. At Elgin Park Trailhead, Kristen + Billy P. advise "if you drive for a bit you can find yourself a nice little private out of the way camping spot to set up tent," creating opportunities for secluded free camping near Saddlestring.
What you should know
Local traffic patterns: Weekend traffic differs significantly from weekdays. At Circle Road Dispersed Camping, Daniel S. reports "Weekend was busy with traffic down the dirt road but weekdays we had it all to ourselves," while Milo D. observed "a dozen vehicles an hour on average until the sun set."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Spring thaw and summer thunderstorms can rapidly change road conditions. At Canyon Creek Dispersed, The Wandering Shores advises campers to "be advised you may want to scout the road the further you get into the camping area as it can be a bit rough (with water crossing at one point)."
Seasonal closures: Some areas close temporarily or have restricted access. Nemo D. noted in July that Crazy Woman Canyon Road was "currently closed indefinitely due to construction," while Marshall B. found it "Currently closed about 10 minutes from where google maps was taking us without an indication why."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. At Circle Road Dispersed Camping, Patrick N. explains "Verizon coverage is decent along the road, but I turned off on FR 375 and the Verizon died where I was," while The Wandering Shores discovered "only one place in all the area that has cell coverage and turns out we camped on that hill without knowing it so we had traffic all day with people parking in and around our campers to use their phones."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Rapid temperature changes are common at higher elevations. At Forest Road 131, Erin G. notes sites are "pretty spaced out and some of them are actually really nicely tucked in the pine trees," providing natural shelter from wind and afternoon thunderstorms.
Wildlife awareness: Teaching proper wildlife observation distances ensures safety. Circle Road Dispersed Camping visitor Chelsey R. cautions "Moose were frequenting the lower valley area so beware that you could step out and see a Moose," emphasizing the importance of maintaining distance from all wildlife.
Natural play areas: Many sites offer natural features for children to explore safely. At Grouse Mountain Basecamp, Hayley S. describes the area as "Super pretty spot when we woke up, beautiful sunrise and very meadow like. We enjoyed this spot. Very open and many spots."
Water source considerations: Limited access to potable water requires advance planning. Connor M. reminds visitors to Crazy Woman Canyon Road that "there are no facilities here, no toilets, no potable water, no showers, you need to pack in and pack out. This is true back-country camping."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites require additional effort for leveling larger vehicles. At Grouse Mountain Basecamp, Amy D. shares "We love dispersed camping but hauling a 25' airstream makes a lot of sites inaccessible despite our lift and rugged tires! But not here! It's a level, smooth, dirt road where you pull off the side anywhere you choose."
Dump station locations: Several communities provide access to RV services. For those staying at Canyon Creek Dispersed, The Wandering Shores provides specific resources: "Dump/Water(Cenex): https://maps.app.goo.gl/b44MFQ4ne9h3DpE2A" and "Leigh Creek Dump/Water: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SfJmMrKekzLyTKFNA."
Internet connectivity options: Satellite services provide alternatives to cellular data. At Circle Road Dispersed Camping, Patrick N. reports "I had just purchased the Starlink system before heading this way and I'm getting high-speed internet and Wi-Fi calling, in the middle of nowhere!"
Road navigation tips: Some forest roads have limited turnaround options for larger vehicles. Janelle K. warns that Circle Road Dispersed Camping has "no accessible turnarounds with the camper until Circle Pond Campground at the end of the road" and describes it as a "single lane dirt road just had a couple sporadic pull offs to allow for passing vehicles from other direction."
