Ten Sleep, Wyoming camping sites lie within the Bighorn National Forest at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Camping near Ten Sleep offers access to limestone climbing routes, trout fishing streams, and over 30 miles of mountain biking trails that connect multiple campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing at Meadowlark Lake: This 57-acre lake sits near several Sitting Bull Campground sites, where campers report excellent catches. "Great trout fishing there per the host. Campsites are right on the creek #4 is RIGHT on the creek and you can just walk down to it to fish," notes Suzie S.
Rock climbing in canyon walls: The limestone walls near Ten Sleep Rock Ranch attract climbers from across the country. "We were drawn here for the rock climbing, can't wait to return for more!! Ten Sleep is only about 10 miles away and they have a store called 'dirty Sally's' that will rent you the guide book for the area for $5 a day," shares Carrie C.
Brewery visit with camping: Just 5 miles outside Ten Sleep, the local brewery allows camping on their property. "We stayed here on a Friday and Saturday in July of 2018 while on a climbing trip. The brewery offered dispersed tent camping on their spacious front lawn for $5/night," reports Marty J.
What campers like
Stream-side camping: Campers consistently praise creek-adjacent sites at Leigh Creek Campground for natural white noise and fishing access. "The creek runs right next to some of the sites and makes the best noise to sleep to! Sites have a picnic table, metal fire ring with grate and a metal table," writes Carrie C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer meadow access with moose sightings. "Watch for the majestic moose wandering around the campground," advises N.I. at Boulder Park, while another camper at Island Park reports, "Pulled into spot and two moose were browsing on the stream bank in front of us."
Cleanliness of facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathrooms despite remote locations. "Cleanest vault toilets we have ever seen," notes Suzie S., while at Ten Broek RV Park, a camper appreciates "very clean restroom and shower facilities."
What you should know
Free camping options exist: While many campgrounds charge $16-20 per night, free alternatives are available. "We thought about camping at Leigh Creek campground, but on the same road there is a bunch of free campsites more upland from the creek and have beautiful views of ten sleep canyon," shares Jess D.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others operate first-come, first-served. At Island Park Campground, "Not first come first serve, but in early September mid-week, there were several sites available."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically across the area. Larry F. notes Island Park's "Only drawback was no cell service (Verizon)," while the brewery campground offers better connectivity as "campers have access to wifi."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Families appreciate the creek and lake access for recreation. "Lakeview Campground has a path down to Meadowlark Lake. The trail and entire campground was surrounded by lupine and countless other wildflowers in bloom," reports Kate N.
Onsite activities: Boulder Park Campground provides built-in entertainment beyond hiking. "There are some great family activities areas in the campground with horseshoes, cornhole, and other games set up in a central activities area," notes Annie C.
Evening wildlife viewing: Schedule family time for animal spotting in meadow areas. "In the evening there was a lot of wildlife in the meadow to watch, so try and get a site on the outside of the loop so you can watch," advises Annie C.
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Many Ten Sleep area campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. "This campground is very small with small sites so it is more appropriate from small vans or very small trailers," warns N.I. about Leigh Creek.
Full-hookup options: For those needing complete services, Castle Gardens offers accessibility for larger vehicles. "This is a free BLM campground. It's about 5 miles off of Hwy 16, gravel with occasional washboarding, but overall doable for most vehicles," notes Laura M.
Site leveling challenges: RVers should bring leveling blocks as many campgrounds have uneven sites. At Castle Gardens, "None of the sites were very level," while at Island Park, "Few sites are level."
