Dispersed camping near Story, Wyoming offers a mix of high-elevation forest sites with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet throughout the Bighorn Mountains region. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day but can drop to 40-45°F at night even in July. Most campgrounds in the region feature pine and aspen forest settings with multiple creeks feeding into the valleys.
What to do
Creek fishing access: Little Goose Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities in a remote setting. "This campground is an amazing off grid location for those looking to escape for a little while... we had the whole campground to ourselves, in a beautiful creek filled with trout," notes Shawn O., who enjoyed the secluded fishing spots.
Mountain hiking trails: Circle Park Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby trails. "The Circle Park trail is incredible, with a hike up to a great lake (several fellows were hooking decent sized fish)," reports Annie C. The campground sits at the edge of Cloud Peak Wilderness with access to numerous day hikes.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Saw lots of pronghorn. Did get a bit windy in the night, especially in a tent," reports N M. about their experience at Mikesell Potts Recreation Area. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing conditions across the region.
What campers like
Open spaces: Grouse Mountain Basecamp receives high marks for its spacious layout. "We got here late in the day after driving through Buffalo Wyoming and found a spot immediately. There's lots of Open spaces for the dog to run and for us," writes Michelle T., highlighting the room to spread out.
Vault toilets: Despite being remote, many campers appreciate the clean facilities. "The vaults are clean and well stocked. We had a spot with no neighbors and trees on three sides," notes David W. about Mikesell Potts Recreation Area's maintenance standards.
Wildflower displays: The mountain meadows burst with color during summer months. "Truly one of the most magical campgrounds I've ever been to. At night we had a gorgeous sunset and woke up in a cloud! Very few other campers but there's so much space I doubt there would be much crowding," shares Liona L. about Circle Park Campground's floral displays.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some campsites require more rugged vehicles. "Little Goose Campground led us down a nice easy dirt road that eventually lead to a pretty rough Jeep trail. You wouldn't want anything less than a stock Wrangler or equivalent to take this road," cautions Shawn O.
Temperature fluctuations: Night temperatures drop significantly even in summer. "The temperature got down to 45° which is perfect for me for sleeping," notes Lisa D. about conditions at Grouse Mountain, highlighting the need for proper sleeping gear.
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds operate seasonally with limited facilities. "South Fork was perhaps the most pleasant surprise I've ever had as I pulled into a campground. Beautiful creek, clean, spatially distanced sites, tall Ponderosa pines at each site. USFS had invested great thought and resources into this campsite," shares Mac M., though most Forest Service campgrounds close by late September.
Tips for camping with families
Boulder play areas: South Fork Campground offers natural play spaces. "Found a great site with a Boulder yard nearby that the kids spent the entire afternoon playing on. Good views and quiet. Some sites might be tough with bigger trailers," notes Patrick W., highlighting how natural features keep children entertained.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include playground facilities. "This is a nice family-oriented campground with a basketball court, horseshoe pits, mini golf, swimming pool, and some fun looking tricycles," writes Kari T., detailing recreation options at the Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA.
Creek exploration: Water features provide entertainment for younger campers. "This is a great little camp ground with both RV camping and designated Tent Camping areas. The Campground is well maintained and with a creek running through," explains Anna E. about South Fork Campground's family-friendly layout.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Peter Ds RV Park offers dedicated dog areas for RVers traveling with pets. "Sites are very tight but amenities are new and clean. Saw no better and a lot worse in Sheridan. Nice field out back to let dogs run. Also a dedicated dog park," notes Mary F., providing insight for those traveling with animals.
Electrical hookups: Many RV sites have limited access to electricity. "There are only a few spots with power, so get there early," advises David W. about Mikesell Potts Recreation Area, noting the competitive nature of powered sites during peak season.
Level site access: Gravel surfaces help with RV leveling across many campgrounds. "We were in RV site 6, which was right next to the pool. The site was level, and included water, electric, and sewer hookups," reports Selena H. about Indian Campground, highlighting the convenience for RVers seeking full hookups.
