Primitive camping near Thayne, Wyoming offers secluded sites scattered throughout Bridger-Teton National Forest at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,500 feet. Summer nights commonly drop into the 30s at higher elevations, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Most primitive sites feature established fire rings and natural clearings for tents and small trailers.
What to do
**Wildlife photography: Near the Snake River Alpine Dispersed Camping area, opportunities abound for photographing various bird species along the riverbank. "Beautiful place to camp. The water is shallow and surrounded by mountains. You have to wade through mud to get to the water (which is also muddy)... Pet friendly and lots of bird watching," notes camper Audra W.
**Water recreation: The reservoir near Melvin Brewing provides calm waters for paddle sports. "We easily found a spot right next to the water! It was quiet and peaceful. We could kayak right off from our spot," reports Megan D. Water levels fluctuate significantly, so monitor carefully when setting up camp.
**Short hikes: Multiple social trails connect camping areas with water access points. "If this is Grey's River Dispersed Camping then this is where we were trying to stay. Some free spots along river, kind of on long bumpy gravel road. We were able to see lots of kayakers on the river and trails to hike," says Jamie C.
What campers like
Brewery access: Campers at Grey River Dispersed Camp appreciate the proximity to local establishments. "So there's a few good spots. There's a shooting range near by so you'll hear gun shots but it's all very safe. I usually camp down here every time I'm in town," mentions Mike J., highlighting the convenience despite occasional noise.
Privacy between sites: Most primitive camping spots offer substantial separation from neighbors. "Number of dispersed sites along the waters edge. The spots are spread out nicely," writes Azaali J. about the Snake River area, adding that there's "not much shade" but the spacing provides good seclusion.
Guard station rental: For those seeking more facilities, Diamond Creek Guard Station offers an alternative to tent camping. "I loved staying at the guard station! There is a spot to hang your hammock. You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided. Make sure to bring your own water," advises Jasmine C.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. Camper Charles W. notes about Lynx Creek: "Town was only about 5-10 minutes away but we felt very isolated and area was private." Despite proximity to services, primitive roads can make sites feel remote.
Limited facilities: Bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water. "This is about a quarter mile before the Bridger day use site. Two dispersed camping sites. No access to the river but there is a nice view of the canyon and you can walk down to the day use area and use the bathroom and river access," explains Donitza I.
Water level changes: Reservoir and river levels fluctuate significantly based on season and releases. One camper at Reservoir Dispersed Camping warns: "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water."
Shooting range proximity: Several camping areas sit near local shooting ranges with regular activity. "We have guns going off constantly. Some guns are large and make a lot of noise, scares us and our dog," reports Christine D. about Grey's River camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Check for flat terrain: Find level spots for easier tent setup with children. "We pulled off the road and were a little confused on where the camp sites were but drove around a little and found the best spot! Close to the water and the ground was nice and flat for our tent," advises Marissa P.
Scout for wading areas: Shallow water access points provide safer play spaces for children. However, one reviewer notes: "The water is shallow and surrounded by mountains. You have to wade through mud to get to the water (which is also muddy)."
Consider temperatures: Even summer nights get cold at these elevations. Diamond Creek visitor Lisa C. shares: "We cheated. It was too cold to sleep outdoors the month we arrived at the Diamond Creek Campground... give us a break, we're from Arizona! The guard station can be rented cheaply through Recreation.gov and it was worth every penny!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive camping areas accommodate smaller rigs only. "This spot is strange its 2 minutes off the highway but its right out front of a brewery restaurant and seems to be on a disc golf course. The road from the brewery is about 100 yards and dirt. Its very bumpy but go slow with some clearance and its 2wd fine," advises johny R.
Limited hookups: No sites offer electrical or water connections. "Our first time boondocking in a camper van and we may be spoiled for life! Had a spot right on the water, with an brewery 100 yards away," reports Caroline D. about Reservoir Dispersed Camping.
Watch turn restrictions: Some forest roads have tight turns and poor traction areas. "The road from the Alpine was fine but then got worse when trying to turn left onto Forest Rd 10023. The scenery is beautiful but someone is shooting at the river. Stayed one night on the grass between forest rd 10138/10023 for safety reasons," cautions fred F.
