Tent camping near Thermopolis, Wyoming centers around the Wind River Canyon area, where elevations range from 4,300 to 6,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours while dropping to 50-60°F at night, requiring campers to pack accordingly for temperature variations. The region's volcanic hot springs and red rock formations provide a unique geological backdrop for tent campers seeking both thermal features and rugged landscapes.
What to do
Hot springs access: The primary draw for tent campers visiting Thermopolis is Hot Springs State Park, though most visitors day-trip from nearby camping areas rather than staying within the park itself. At Ten Sleep Brewing Company, campers can establish a convenient base camp while planning hot springs excursions. One visitor noted, "We stayed here on a Friday and Saturday in July of 2018 while on a climbing trip. The brewery offered dispersed tent camping on their spacious front lawn."
Climbing excursions: The Ten Sleep Canyon area offers extensive limestone sport climbing routes within 15-20 minutes of camping options. Tent campers frequently mention the climbing access as a key benefit, with one reviewer sharing, "My family stayed here for a night on a long road trip around the NW of US/Canada. We booked site 1 with the intent of being on an end with privacy on at least one side."
Fishing opportunities: Local reservoirs provide fishing access for tent campers willing to venture to water sources. Pilot Butte Reservoir Spillway Campground offers direct water access for anglers. As one camper observed, "The campground is very small, and I assume mostly used by locals. The sign says it is ran by the Bureau of Land Reclamation, U.S. Department of Interior."
What campers like
Evening entertainment: Unlike typical backcountry camping, Ten Sleep Brewing Company offers evening activities directly at the tent camping area. Campers appreciate the social atmosphere, with one noting, "They had an annual event with live music, and tons of people when we stayed, but we didn't mind the sound at all."
Family-friendly amenities: Despite being a brewery location, the Ten Sleep site caters to families with specific amenities. A reviewer highlighted, "The space was very family friendly with lots of outdoor seating. There was a sandy playspace with toys for the kids. The staff was fantastic... friendly and accommodating."
Star viewing: The minimal light pollution around Meeteetse and other backcountry sites provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. One camper specifically mentioned the celestial benefits of tent camping in the area: "Beautiful Area! Roads aren't super well maintained, so make sure you're comfortable with driving on gravel, and 4WD."
What you should know
Cost variations: Pricing for tent camping sites has changed significantly in recent years. Ten Sleep Brewing Company's tent camping rates increased substantially, as one visitor reported, "Update to cost $18/night. $3/shower."
Limited capacity at water sites: Reservoir campgrounds near Thermopolis have strict space limitations. A reviewer at Pilot Butte observed, "If pushed you could probably fit 5 car/truck campers, but better with no more than 2. Not much room for anything but a small trailer."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping areas, while brewery sites have their own noise patterns. One camper at Ten Sleep noted, "Unfortunately, and not the fault of the brewery/site managers, the folks camped in new site # -1 ended up coming and going all night with loud rumbling vehicles pulling in and out next to us with tons of noise at 3am."
Tips for camping with families
Brewery camping benefits: Ten Sleep Brewing Company offers an unconventional but family-friendly tent camping environment. A parent shared, "We had a great time at the brewery which was less than 100 yards away listening to live music, eating from the food trucks (2), and sipping on beers."
Water access planning: When camping with children near Thermopolis reservoirs, prepare for limited facilities. There are vault toilets but typically no running water at sites like Pilot Butte, where a camper noted, "There is a vault toilet, a covered picnic, and a metal fire ring. There's also a small dumpster as you drive in."
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature swings, especially with children. Tent campers should bring extra layers for evenings when temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Thermopolis have limited space for larger vehicles. At Pilot Butte, a visitor advised, "There's a paved ADA parking spot next to the toilet, and another near the picnic table," but otherwise noted the area is not suitable for big rigs.
Access road conditions: Gravel and unmaintained roads limit RV access to several tent camping areas. For reaching more remote locations, four-wheel drive is often necessary, with tent camping being the only practical accommodation option.
