Best Tent Camping near Ten Sleep, WY
Dispersed tent camping is available throughout the Bighorn National Forest near Ten Sleep, Wyoming, with multiple free options along Crazy Woman Canyon Road and Canyon Creek Road. Ten Sleep Brewing Company offers tent camping on their grounds for those seeking convenience near town, while Ten Sleep Rock Ranch provides established tent sites with amenities for climbers. Both locations serve as popular bases for accessing the limestone cliffs that make the area a rock climbing destination.
Most dispersed tent sites require campers to be self-sufficient with no amenities beyond established fire rings. Canyon Creek Road dispersed camping sits at approximately 9,500 feet elevation, providing relief from summer heat with cool temperatures even in August. The dirt roads are generally well-maintained but contain rocky sections requiring slower speeds. Crazy Woman Canyon Road descends steeply into a canyon, making it challenging for vehicles with low clearance, especially after rainfall. Sites along both roads typically allow 14-day stays, with rangers requesting campers move approximately five miles if staying longer.
Tent campers at Crazy Woman Canyon enjoy sites positioned along rushing water, creating natural white noise for sleeping. The creek access provides both scenery and a water source, though filtering is necessary. While some areas can accommodate multiple groups, early arrival is recommended during peak season to secure the most desirable sites. The more remote dispersed areas offer exceptional night skies for stargazing due to minimal light pollution, with several campsites featuring stone fire rings and creek-side locations. A visitor noted, "There are many free dispersed primitive campsites along this road, including one next to a nice waterfall." Winter camping is possible in some locations, though seasonal closures for construction or weather conditions occur periodically.
