Battle Park Trailhead accommodates both equestrian and non-equestrian campers in the Bighorn National Forest. Located at an elevation over 7,500 feet, this area experiences dramatic seasonal changes with summer temperatures ranging from 50-80°F and cool nights even during peak season. The campground connects to an extensive trail network within the forest's 1.1 million acres, making it popular with riders seeking multi-day adventures.
What to do
Fishing nearby creeks: Several streams in the region offer good fishing opportunities. At Circle Park Campground, campers report "a pretty little brook that runs across the back of the campground" and "a hike up to a great lake (several fellows were hooking decent sized fish)."
Wildlife viewing: The Bighorn Mountains provide excellent opportunities to spot wildlife. As one visitor to Circle Park noted, "My neighbors saw a moose with twins on the edge of the meadow the morning I showed up" while others report regular sightings of "deer and elk in the area which is popular with local hunters."
Rock climbing with children: Natural features provide entertainment beyond formal activities. At Circle Park, one camper mentioned they "found a great site with a Boulder yard nearby that the kids spent the entire afternoon playing on."
What campers like
Seasonal temperature relief: The elevation provides a natural air conditioner during summer months. One camper at Circle Park Campground noted it's a "Nice spot to go when it's super hot in town."
Fire privileges during restrictions: Established campgrounds sometimes maintain fire privileges when dispersed camping does not. At Circle Park, a camper observed "The best advantage over dispersed was with dedicated fire rings we were permitted fires during a fire ban."
Solitude in off-seasons: Many campgrounds become less crowded in shoulder seasons. A visitor to Little Goose Campground reported "we had the whole campground to ourselves, in a beautiful creek filled with trout."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements for remote sites: Some campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. At Little Goose Campground, a camper warned "You wouldn't want anything less than a stock Wrangler or equivalent to take this road. In our rig we bottomed out a few times."
Weather considerations: Rain can significantly impact road conditions. A Little Goose camper noted "We were able to crawl our way back out of the camp area after an overnight steady rain, we kept in 4 low and made it safely."
Camping permits and fees: Payment systems vary by location. Circle Park uses a "cash or check self-pay dropbox is available at the entrance. Firewood available for $6 a bundle at the host site."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access nature spots: Some areas provide immediate nature immersion without difficult hikes. At Circle Park Campground, "A short hike quickly gets you away from any noise. The snow-covered mountains in the backdrop are truly stunning."
Natural playgrounds: Look for sites with natural features for entertainment. One camper at Circle Park mentioned their site had "a Boulder yard nearby that the kids spent the entire afternoon playing on."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is limited or non-existent. A Circle Park visitor reported "Cell service is 0-1 bar of 4G on Verizon on a good day, don't plan on having service," making these locations ideal for digital detox.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many horse-friendly campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs but have limitations. At Ten Sleep RV Park, which is "horse friendly," campers can access "water, sewage, and electric" connections.
RV amenities in town: For those needing full services, Ten Sleep RV Park offers "Clean bathrooms with showers and 24 hour laundry" making it suitable for longer stays between trail riding adventures.
Site placement considerations: RV parks in the area often feature natural spacing elements. At Ten Broek RV Park, the "campground is in a grove of trees with the sites along dirt roads in the grove" providing natural shade and separation.
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