Tent camping around Thayne, Wyoming centers primarily on the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Wyoming Range, which ranges from 6,000 to 11,000 feet in elevation. The camping season typically runs from late May through mid-October, with higher elevations accessible only from July through early September due to snowpack. Weather patterns include frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and temperature drops of 30-40 degrees between day and night, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing access points: Spring Creek Trailhead offers proximity to both Greys River and Spring Creek for anglers. According to Carrie C., "The Greys River is right near camp as well as Spring Creek," making this location convenient for those looking to fish multiple waters without relocating camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Wyoming Range provides habitat for moose, elk, and numerous bird species. At Fisherman Creek Road, campers report regular wildlife sightings. Tee C. notes, "Really had the place to ourselves," which increases chances for wildlife observation during morning and evening hours.
Mountain hiking trails: Wyoming Peak trailhead is accessible from Spring Creek Trailhead camping areas. "Wyoming Peak was a wonderful hike, highly recommend! This summer has had the most amazing wildflowers!" reports one camper who used the area as a base for summit attempts.
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: Fisherman Creek Road dispersed camping receives high marks for privacy. Angie S. shares, "This spot is absolutely beautiful! Only 1 other camper here and we only saw him when driving in and out. Perfect spot to be away from the crowds."
Accessibility for various vehicles: While some forest roads require high clearance, Fisherman Creek Road accommodates most vehicles. Dakota H. reports, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs." This accessibility allows tent campers to reach prime spots without specialized vehicles.
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with established fire rings, especially along Fisherman Creek Road. Donald B. observed, "Lots of large sites with fire pits and turnarounds. I went 2-3 miles to find an isolated site." These pre-existing fire rings help minimize impact while providing essential amenities for tent campers.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Thayne offer minimal or no facilities. At Tincup Campground, Daniel W. confirms, "There's no amenities or anything," which requires campers to pack accordingly with sufficient water and waste management solutions.
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from maintained gravel to rough forest roads. According to Witek C. at Fisherman Creek Road, "The road was pretty good, even for our overloaded car and rented trailer," but conditions can change rapidly with weather.
Insect pressure: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity throughout the region. Witek C. warns about "the crazy amount of mosquitoes" at Fisherman Creek Road, suggesting campers "Bring bug spray!" for comfortable evening hours around camp.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is sparse or nonexistent at most camping locations. At Fisherman Creek Road, one camper noted, "I had a bar of service via Verizon," but this is unusual for the area, and tent campers should plan for offline navigation and emergency communication.
Tips for camping with families
Shade availability: When camping with children, sites with natural shade are valuable during hot summer days. At Fisherman Creek Road, Dakota H. mentions, "Most spots have shade and fire rings," making afternoon rest periods more comfortable for young campers.
Noise considerations: Family campers should consider timing and location for quieter experiences. Dakota H. reports that at Fisherman Creek Road, "there were lots of motorcycles and ATVs. It was quiet from 7 PM to 7 AM," suggesting families might prefer midweek visits or sites further from main roads.
Supply access points: Families need to plan for supplies with limited services near camping areas. Angie S. notes Fisherman Creek Road is "About 5 miles west of Rim Station with an RV park and a little country store. Dump and fill station available there if needed," providing a nearby resupply option.
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Larger vehicles need adequate space to maneuver. At Fisherman Creek Road, Witek C. appreciated that "The spot was large enough to turn around and easily maneuver the trailer," an important consideration even for tent campers with larger vehicles.
Seasonal road closures: Access to many camping areas depends on seasonal conditions. One visitor to Cutthroat Trout Campground encountered unexpected access issues, writing, "I drove all the way out here only to find the gate to someone's ranch with a no trespassing sign," highlighting the importance of checking current access conditions.
Dispersed site selection: When seeking dispersed tent sites, don't settle for the first available spot. Donald B. recommends at Fisherman Creek Road, "I went 2-3 miles to find an isolated site. Many sites had campers parked but no people. Little traffic on the road."