Camping near Thermopolis, Wyoming offers access to Wind River Canyon's distinctive geological formations and natural hot springs. The area maintains summer highs around 90°F with cool nights near 50°F. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing, with occasional heavy snow affecting campground access.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: At Fountain of Youth RV Park, visitors can enjoy mineral hot springs without traveling to the state park. "We have stayed here quite often over the past 30 years or so and thouroly enjoyed soaking for hours in enormous pools there. A great place to hang out and relax in central Wyoming," notes Danny D.
Lake activities: Water recreation options abound at Lake Cameahwait, with clear water ideal for swimming and fishing. "The water is very clear. Is very easy to find. GPS got us there no problem," reports Wayne H. For larger watercraft, the nearby Boysen Reservoir provides additional options.
Historical exploration: Visit the remnants of Wyoming's past at Gebo Road. "You can hike up bluffs and walk through the old 1880's coal mining town. We would stay at this location again as its very convenient to get to if in route out west," writes UnnamedAdventures.
What campers like
Canyon scenery: The Wind River Canyon offers distinctive views from several camping areas. At Lower Wind River Campground, "Great views of the Wind River and the tunnels, but right next to the highway and not much privacy between sites due to lack of underbrush," notes Annie C.
Star gazing: Low light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At Brannon Campground, campers appreciate the "low light pollution, makes for beautiful star-gazing at night," according to canyongirl100.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "Plenty of wildlife to watch come down to river in the evening or early mornings. Kids love the train that runs thru the canyon," writes Mickey J. about Boysen State Park campgrounds.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Wind can significantly impact camping experiences in this region. "We had spectacular views. We were here in early November. Pretty much had the whole of the reservoir campgrounds to ourselves," describes Robert B. at Brannon Campground, though noting it was "suuuuper windy."
Train noise: Railway lines run through Wind River Canyon, affecting some campgrounds. "The highway will show a little longer route to your destination but the views! Cons: the wind and near the highway but offset with river sounds," explains Kim B. about Boysen State Park Campground.
Facility limitations: Many campgrounds offer basic amenities only. Lake Cameahwait is "Mostly set up for day camping" with "several pit toilets available around the perimeter of the lake," according to Carrie C., who visited during July heat when "there are provided shade structures."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Upper Wind River, "There's a good amount of open space in the middle of campground, surrounding the playground. Also, stairs for easy water access down to the river for fishing," notes Zach R.
Educational opportunities: The area offers learning experiences for children. One visitor to Eagle RV Park mentioned, "The owners were very knowledgable about attractions nearby. The petroglyphs were some of the best I have seen," making it a good base for exploring cultural sites.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Thermopolis: Many sites welcome pets with specific areas for walking. Eagle RV Park has a "Grassy dog area complete with poop bags, shovel & rake," according to Audrey F., though they are "very strict about leashes."
Tips from RVers
Limited site spacing: Some RV parks have tight arrangements. At Eagle RV Park, "The sites are ridiculously close together and your neighbor's sewer hookup is nearly in your site," reports Ashley M., though she noted it is "close to the mineral hot springs, and the Dinosaur museum is amazing."
Hookup availability: The Crippled Spider Campground offers full-service options for longer stays. One camper reports the campground has "71 spacious spots, including full and partial hookups for RVs, and plenty of space for dry camping. The sites are well-maintained, and the full hookups provide everything you need for a comfortable stay."
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Fountain of Youth RV Park, one camper shared, "We had a terrible time trying to reach someone here to make a reservation but we finally did," noting they offer "full hook-up, pull through" and "just electric and water sites as well" though "WiFi is inconsistent, no real cell coverage."
