Equestrian camping near Ten Sleep, Wyoming provides access to the expansive trail systems of the Bighorn Mountains at elevations between 4,000-9,000 feet. The region experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours and cooler nights dropping to 45-55°F. Most horse-friendly sites are accessible from June through September, with snowfall typically closing higher-elevation trails by mid-October.
What to do
Trail riding through meadows: Circle Park Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for equestrian activities with multiple trail options. "We observed deer and elk in the area which is popular with local hunters," notes Steve & Ashley G., who appreciated the natural wildlife viewing opportunities from their campsite.
Fly fishing streams: Doyle Creek Campground offers direct access to quality trout waters. "There is a stream for good fly fishing and we always see a bunch of wildlife!" reports Kailey A., who found the combination of fishing and trail access ideal for mixed-activity camping trips.
Evening entertainment in town: For riders wanting amenities after trail days, Ten Sleep RV Park provides a convenient base. Kimberly L. mentions, "It is right in the little town of Tensleep with a couple restaurants/bars and evening entertainment (when I stayed on a weekend, there was live music playing right down the road)."
What campers like
Large sites with shade: Ten Broek RV Park offers tree coverage appreciated by summer visitors. Kathy C. describes the layout: "Sites are on either side of small streets. Sites are very close to each other. Trees all over. Park is on edge of town—great location."
Horse-specific amenities: The Battle Park Trailhead specifically caters to equestrian camping with specialized facilities. Shannon T. explains, "This camp is primarily a horse camp. There are several corrals and high lines as well as a horse water trough fed by a nearby creek. There is also ample parking for horse trailers."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality as important for longer stays. As natalie S. notes about Ten Broek RV Park, "Very clean restroom and shower facilities. Laundry facilities are a little dated but worked. Owners were personable and attentive."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to some horse camps requires planning for vehicle type. About Battle Park Trailhead, Shannon T. cautions, "The road getting to the camp was pretty good but can get pretty rutted up at times. The road in is also really long and narrow in some spots. Which makes two-way traffic difficult."
Seasonal limitations: Most high-elevation sites close by early fall. At Circle Park Campground, Lanna M. advises, "Circle Park is an awesome spot. It's so close and easy to get to from Buffalo, and there are plenty of different spots so you can find something you like... Nice spot to go when it's super hot in town."
Reservation considerations: During peak summer months, availability can be limited. Kim B. warns about Circle Park, "We saw lots of wildlife, even moose, since the campsites are right in the forest. There weren't too many sites and there are no reservations so don't expect to pull up late and get a campsite (we didn't get a site in July at 4pm but were ok for September at 6pm)."
Tips for camping with families
Boulder play areas: Look for natural features that entertain children. At Circle Park Campground, Patrick W. shares, "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. Mosquitoes got pretty bad."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families often appreciate educational nature experiences. Genia C. recommends Circle Park for wildlife, noting, "We've stayed here a few different times... Quite a few people bring their horses and/or off road toys. Great mountain views! Worth the trip every time."
On-site amenities: Crippled Spider Campground offers activities beyond trail riding. Amy A. details, "There's something for everyone—whether it's hiking on the BLM land that borders the property, petting zoo visits for the kids, or even learning to ranch and milk cows!"
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Not all horse camps accommodate larger rigs. Glen B. cautions about Doyle Creek Campground: "Small but beautiful campground located in the Bighorn Mtns of Wyoming. Off hwy 16 a little ways this campground is big on scenery if not amenities. Although tree covered they are rocky and small. However the equestrian area at the back has some beautiful spots."
Extended stay discounts: For longer trail riding trips, some campgrounds offer rate reductions. At Crippled Spider Campground, Amy mentions, "For those looking for an extended stay, they even offer 15% off for bookings over 7 days!"
Water and power considerations: Full-service sites are limited in the region. Carl S. notes about Doyle Creek, "Well-managed site in ponderosa stand with scenic drive... No services only water and clean loo. Nice campground."
