Campsites near Smoot, Wyoming sit at elevations between 7,200 and 8,500 feet in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from July through August. The area's camping season runs primarily from late May through mid-September when mountain roads become accessible after snowmelt.
What to do
Hiking to Lake Alice: Access this alpine lake via a 1.5-mile trail from Hobble Creek Campground. "If you continue along Poker Creek Trail that follows the east side of the lake, you can visit Mount Isabel which is 5 miles from the start of Lake Alice. Poker Creek Trail will reach LaBarge Creek Road at mile 9," notes a visitor to Lake Alice Campground.
Fly fishing on Salt River: The river supports brown and cutthroat trout populations accessible from several campsites. At Allred Flat Campground, one camper noted "Great flyfishing on the Salt River. Fairly private and quiet. Good Verizon cell service."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts numerous beaver dams visible from campgrounds. "Some hiking trails along the creek where beavers have made extensive dams," reports a camper who stayed at Allred Flat Campground. Early morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities for viewing wildlife.
What campers like
Private sites with natural separation: Campers appreciate the space between sites at many dog friendly campgrounds near Smoot. "The sites are spread out nicely to give you a little extra privacy. The price is right at $10 a night," writes a reviewer about Allred Flat Campground.
Quiet forest settings: Most campgrounds prohibit ATVs within camp boundaries. "Very easy access for any vehicle on a well maintained road. There's picnic tables and fire pits per individual site and super clean pit toilets throughout. Beautiful Aspens changing colour and heaps of beaver dams," reports one camper.
Alpine lakes for dogs: Cottonwood Group Campsite provides access to a striking alpine lake. "The lake is spectacular! it is the prettiest shade of teal. There is a boat dock at the far end of the lake. Near the parking area there is a beach area where you can kayak and paddle board from."
What you should know
Limited water reliability: Most pet-friendly camping areas have minimal facilities. "There are hand pump water faucets, but a sign said that water is not tested and water should be boiled or treated prior to drinking. We did not try the water but another camper said he pumped for about 30 times and no water came out," reports a visitor to Allred Flat Campground.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs dramatically between locations. At Salt River Pass, a camper noted "There is no cell service at all ATT wise, my onstar WiFi wouldn't even connect." Meanwhile, Allred Flat reportedly has "Good Verizon cell service."
Access road conditions: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "The road is HEAVILY rutted, and would be impassible for a regular car, but it was easy to pass in my Sprinter Van," notes one Salt River Pass visitor. Another warns, "The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water play areas: Kids can safely splash in creek areas throughout dog-friendly campgrounds. At Summit View Campground, "There is also a small spring/marsh bordering between the camp ground and main road. It's not deep enough for kids to play in, but does help keep the area green."
Wild berries for picking: Some areas offer seasonal foraging opportunities. "Added bonus, there were a lot of wild strawberries and raspberries in the area," reports a camper who visited Hobble Creek Campground with children.
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "The evening dew point and thick mulch coverage can result in damp kindling and fallen wood. We found success in splitting our wood early in the day allowing it to dry off a bit before an evening fire," advises one family who camped in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Many dog-friendly campsites near Smoot have limited pull-through capacity. "I had no problems pulling my 26' TT into here, but I don't know if I would attempt to bring anything in much larger than that," notes a visitor to Hobble Creek Campground.
Turning radius challenges: Campground loops may present maneuvering difficulties. "Use caution with large rvs/trailers if your worried about getting a scratch on your vehicle. The loops to turn around at the end of the camp sites appeared challenging for some longer vehicles towing 35'+ trailers staying on the road and out of the trees."
Limited level spots: Larger RVs may struggle at some locations. As one camper at Allred Flat observed, "Several sites are pull through sites... Anyone from tent campers to large trailers can easily find a spot, larger fifth wheels and class A rigs may have a bit of trouble finding a suitable campsite here. Sites, however are not very level."
