Camping cabins near Shell, Wyoming offer shelter options in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, where elevations range from 4,200 feet in Shell to over 9,000 feet in the nearby mountains. The area experiences dramatic temperature variations, with summer days reaching the 90s and nights dropping into the 40s. Wind conditions can be significant throughout the region, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ten Sleep Rock Ranch provides access to Tensleep Creek, which runs alongside the property. "A climbers campground on the west side of the Big Horn Mountains... Tensleep Creek drowns out most of the highway noise (especially if you get a site on the creek)," notes Annie C.
Brewery visits: The Lazy R Campground positions visitors near local food and drink options. "The park is close to two great eateries - the Tongue River Brewery (Pizza) and Innominate (which means un-named) coffee shop with an incredible array of pastries, quiche, and hot and cold breakfast-type beverages," according to Glen C.
Wildlife viewing: Camping in the Bighorn National Forest allows for wildlife observation. "We camped way back below Freeze Out Point and woke up to a spectacular sunrise and 4 moose right in camp," reports Jessica, highlighting the animal encounters possible in this area.
What campers like
Creek access: Many cabin sites feature water proximity. "We camped along a stream in a 32 foot RV. We were visited by a mother and baby moose," shares Meghan G. about her Bighorn National Forest experience.
On-site bakeries: Morning food options enhance the cabin camping experience. "Hard to beat rolling out of your tent, walking 100 feet and getting reasonably priced gourmet coffee and fresh baked pastries for breakfast," writes Mitchell M. about Lazy R Campground.
Community amenities: Ten Sleep Rock Ranch offers shared facilities that campers appreciate. "This place is great, showers, toilets, community fridge, wifi, good vibes, everything you'll need!" according to Anthony D., highlighting the communal atmosphere.
What you should know
Seasonal cabin availability: Most cabins operate from May through October, with limited winter availability. "We stayed here in the fall of 2016 just as the campground was closing for the season, so there was no one around," Linette G. notes about Ten Broek RV Park.
Small town services: Limited services exist in Shell and surrounding communities. "Just know, you need to come prepared or drive to Sheridan. On Wed and Thurs there was no restaurant open (we only found 1 in 'town'). There is no grocery either," warns Nancy C. about staying in Ranchester.
Site differences: Foothills Campground in Dayton has undergone renovations changing the cabin experience. "Starting April 2023, the campground has been getting updates, remodels and new additions. If you have been here previously, you may not recognize it anymore," explains Chrysti B.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some locations offer swimming facilities for children. "My 4 yo son loved the pool and the playground. My 12 daughter loved the WiFi and extra clean showers and bathrooms," shares Vena B. about her stay at Greybull KOA.
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