12 Things to Do While Camping in Wyoming

While Wyoming’s rugged wilderness might seem intimidating to budget-conscious campers, it’s actually one of America’s most accessible outdoor playgrounds. You don’t need expensive gear or guided tours to experience world-class adventures here. From free geothermal shows in Yellowstone to stellar stargazing that rivals any planetarium, Wyoming delivers premium experiences without premium prices. The state’s camping infrastructure makes it surprisingly easy to access everything from alpine lakes to wildlife corridors, but knowing which activities offer the biggest bang for your buck makes all the difference.

Key Points

• Explore Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, staying on designated trails for safety.
• Hike scenic trails in Grand Teton including Jenny Lake Trail and Cascade Canyon, bringing bear spray and layers.
• Fish pristine alpine lakes and streams using elk hair caddis flies during early morning and evening hours.
• Observe wildlife like elk and moose at dawn and dusk while practicing Leave No Trace principles.
• Visit historic ghost towns like South Pass City and Atlantic City for low-cost cultural exploration adventures.

Explore Yellowstone’s Geothermal Features and Hot Springs

When you’re camping in Wyoming, Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders offer some of the most spectacular free entertainment you’ll find anywhere. Old Faithful gets the attention, but you’ll discover incredible hot springs throughout the park without fighting crowds.

Head to Grand Prismatic Spring early morning for fewer travelers and better photos. The Norris Geyser Basin features constantly changing thermal features that’ll keep you fascinated for hours.

Beat the crowds at Grand Prismatic Spring with an early morning visit for stunning photos and peaceful exploration.

Pack a lunch and make a day exploring the Upper Geyser Basin‘s boardwalks. You’ll see dozens of geysers, hot pools, and steam vents.

Mammoth Hot Springs terraces look like frozen waterfalls made of limestone. Don’t forget your camera – these natural formations change daily.

Most importantly, stay on designated trails. The ground’s deceptively thin over scalding water, and park fines aren’t budget-friendly. If you plan to explore any nearby hot springs for soaking, bring defogging tips for your goggles or mask to enjoy the underwater thermal features safely.

Hike the Iconic Trails of Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park delivers some of America’s most breathtaking hiking without the entrance fees of private attractions. You’ll find trails ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging alpine ascents, all showcasing the dramatic Teton Range.

Pack your day hiking essentials and tackle these iconic trails:

• Jenny Lake Trail – Easy 7.2-mile loop around pristine alpine lake with shuttle boat option ($20 round-trip)
• Cascade Canyon Trail – Moderate 9.6-mile hike through stunning canyon with towering peaks overhead
• Taggart Lake Trail – Moderate 3-mile round-trip to beautiful mountain lake, perfect for families
• Death Canyon Trail – Challenging 16-mile trek offering dramatic views and wildlife spotting opportunities

Start early to secure parking at popular trailheads. Bring bear spray, layers, and plenty of water for higher elevation hikes. If you’re planning to bring your RV to Wyoming for camping, research the area thoroughly to avoid common buying mistakes that could impact your outdoor adventure experience.

Fish World-Class Waters in Mountain Lakes and Streams

After working up an appetite on those mountain trails, you’ll discover Wyoming’s waters offer some of the finest fishing experiences in North America without breaking the bank.

Wyoming’s pristine waters deliver world-class fishing adventures at budget-friendly prices after your mountain hiking excursions.

You can cast your line in pristine alpine lakes like Jenny Lake or fish the legendary Snake River for cutthroat trout. The North Platte River provides excellent brown trout fishing, while mountain streams throughout the Rockies teem with brook trout.

A basic fishing license costs under $25 for non-residents, making this an affordable camping activity. Pack lightweight gear and focus on proven flies like elk hair caddis or woolly buggers. Early morning and evening hours produce the best results.

Many campgrounds sit directly beside prime fishing spots, so you won’t waste time or gas driving to access points. Planning your fall camping trip around these prime fishing seasons will ensure you experience the best of Wyoming’s outdoor adventures.

Stargaze Under Wyoming’s Dark Sky Preserves

Once the sun disappears behind Wyoming’s rugged peaks, you’ll witness some of the most spectacular night skies in the lower 48 states. Wyoming’s low population density and minimal light pollution create perfect conditions for stargazing, especially in designated dark sky preserves.

Devils Tower became the world’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary, offering unparalleled celestial viewing. You won’t need expensive equipment—your naked eye will reveal countless stars, planets, and the Milky Way’s brilliant arc.

Pack these essentials for prime stargazing:

• Red flashlight to preserve night vision
• Comfortable camp chair or blanket
• Star chart or astronomy app
• Warm layers for cool mountain nights

Visit during new moon phases for the darkest skies, and arrive early to let your eyes adjust. If you plan to fish during your camping trip, consider whether you’ll need a fishing backpack to organize your gear efficiently.

Spot Wildlife in Their Natural Habitat

While Wyoming’s night skies dazzle overhead, the state’s diverse ecosystems below teem with incredible wildlife that you can observe without breaking the bank. You’ll spot elk, deer, and moose grazing in meadows during dawn and dusk hours. Bring binoculars from home rather than buying expensive ones at tourist shops.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton offer prime viewing, but don’t overlook state parks and national forests where entrance fees are lower or nonexistent. Keep your distance—wildlife photography works best with telephoto lenses or smartphone zoom features.

Pack snacks and water since park concessions charge premium prices. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best wildlife activity when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler. Always carry first aid items when venturing into remote areas for wildlife viewing, as you’ll be far from medical facilities if injuries occur.

Experience Backcountry Camping in Remote Wilderness Areas

When you’re ready to escape the crowds and truly disconnect, Wyoming’s backcountry offers some of America’s most pristine wilderness camping experiences at absolutely no cost beyond your permit fees. You’ll find yourself miles from civilization, surrounded by untouched landscapes that few people ever witness.

Essential considerations for successful backcountry camping:

• Pack lightweight, multi-purpose gear – every ounce matters when you’re hiking miles to your campsite
• Master Leave No Trace principles – preserve these wilderness areas for future adventurers
• Plan for extreme weather changes – mountain conditions can shift rapidly, even in summer
• Bring proper navigation tools – GPS devices and paper maps are indispensable when cell service disappears

Research permit requirements beforehand, as popular areas like the Wind River Range fill up quickly during peak season. Many backcountry routes involve river crossings, so familiarize yourself with safe crossing techniques before your trip.

Photograph Stunning Mountain Landscapes and Sunrises

Those remote backcountry locations you’ll discover also happen to be photography goldmines, offering unobstructed views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous. Wyoming’s peaks create dramatic silhouettes against sunrise skies, and you don’t need expensive gear to capture them—your smartphone works perfectly fine.

Wake up thirty minutes before sunrise for the best lighting conditions. Golden hour transforms ordinary mountain scenes into breathtaking shots. Position yourself near lakes or streams to capture reflections that double your composition’s impact. The Tetons and Wind River Range offer particularly stunning backdrops.

Pack extra batteries since cold temperatures drain them quickly. Consider bringing a small tripod or improvise with rocks for stability during longer exposures. Remember, the best shots often happen when weather looks threatening—storm clouds add incredible drama to mountain photography.

Whether you prefer adventure camping or a more relaxing alpine experience, Wyoming’s diverse landscapes provide endless photographic opportunities to suit any camping style.

Visit Historic Sites and Ghost Towns

After you’ve captured those perfect sunrise shots, you’ll find Wyoming’s rich history waiting to be explored through its well-preserved ghost towns and historic sites. These fascinating destinations offer free or low-cost adventures that’ll transport you back to the Wild West era.

Step back in time and discover Wyoming’s Wild West heritage through budget-friendly ghost towns and historic landmarks.

Pack your day pack and explore these remarkable locations:

• South Pass City – Walk through this 1860s gold rush town with original buildings and mining equipment still intact
• Atlantic City – Visit this partially inhabited ghost town where you can grab a meal at the historic Mercantile
• Fort Laramie – Explore this vital frontier military post that protected Oregon Trail travelers
• Independence Rock – Read pioneer signatures carved into this massive granite landmark along the historic trail

Most sites charge minimal entrance fees, making history exploration budget-friendly during your camping adventure. These historic explorations make perfect summer outdoor adventures that combine education with excitement for the whole family.

Take Day Trips to Devils Tower National Monument

Moving beyond Wyoming’s historic treasures, you’ll discover one of America’s most iconic geological wonders just waiting for your camera and hiking boots. Devils Tower National Monument sits just across the border in South Dakota, making it a perfect day trip from northeastern Wyoming camping spots.

The drive takes you through rolling prairie landscapes before this massive volcanic neck suddenly erupts from the horizon.

You’ll pay a modest entrance fee, but it’s worth every penny for the hiking trails that circle the tower’s base. The Tower Trail offers easy walking with incredible photo opportunities, while Red Beds Trail provides wildflower displays and wildlife viewing.

Pack your lunch to save money and enjoy picnicking with million-dollar views of this otherworldly formation. Before setting out on any of the trails, remember to follow essential safety tips to ensure your hiking experience remains both memorable and secure.

Enjoy Rock Climbing and Mountaineering Adventures

While Devils Tower offers spectacular views from the ground, Wyoming’s rugged terrain becomes your ultimate playground when you’re ready to scale vertical heights. You’ll discover world-class climbing opportunities without breaking the bank, especially when camping provides affordable basecamp accommodations.

Wyoming’s diverse rock formations cater to every skill level:

• Grand Teton National Park – Tackle technical alpine routes on dramatic granite peaks
• Vedauwoo Recreation Area – Practice crack climbing on unique Sherman granite formations
• Wind River Range – Experience multi-day mountaineering expeditions with pristine wilderness access
• Fremont Canyon – Master sport climbing on limestone walls near Alcova Reservoir

You’ll save money by camping nearby instead of booking expensive lodges. Pack essential gear, check weather conditions, and consider hiring local guides for technical routes.

Wyoming’s climbing season typically runs May through September, offering months of adventure. Even experienced climbers should stay vigilant about common climbing mistakes that can occur regardless of skill level.

Explore Wind River Range’s Alpine Lakes

Where else can you find over 1,300 pristine alpine lakes scattered across 2.25 million acres of untamed wilderness? The Wind River Range delivers this incredible experience without breaking your budget.

Over 1,300 pristine alpine lakes across 2.25 million acres of untamed wilderness await your discovery in the Wind River Range.

You’ll discover crystal-clear lakes nestled between towering granite peaks, perfect for fishing, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Pack lightweight gear since you’ll be hiking to reach most lakes. Popular destinations include Island Lake, Titcomb Basin, and the Cirque of the Towers.

Bring a fishing license – these waters hold native cutthroat trout and golden trout.

Start early to secure parking at trailheads like Green River Lakes or Elkhart Park.

Most lakes require 3-8 mile hikes, so wear sturdy boots and carry plenty of water.

The payoff? Unforgettable mountain reflections you won’t find anywhere else.

While Wyoming offers incredible fishing opportunities, consider exploring Canada’s top fishing locations for your next angling adventure beyond the alpine lakes.

Experience Authentic Western Culture and Rodeos

After conquering mountain trails and alpine lakes, you’ll want to experience Wyoming’s rich cowboy heritage firsthand. The state’s rodeos and western events offer authentic glimpses into frontier life that shaped America’s identity.

Summer brings numerous rodeos across Wyoming, from small-town gatherings to major competitions. You’ll witness bronc riding, bull riding, and barrel racing while enjoying affordable family entertainment. Many events cost under $15 for admission.

Essential western experiences include:

• Cheyenne Frontier Days – The world’s largest outdoor rodeo held every July
• Local county fair rodeos – Intimate community events with genuine cowboy culture
• Dude ranch visits – Day trips offering horseback riding and ranch activities
• Western heritage museums – Educational stops showcasing pioneer history

These exciting activities perfectly complement your camping experience by immersing you in the local culture between outdoor adventures.

Pack your boots and embrace Wyoming’s cowboy spirit during your camping adventure.

Sum Up

You’ll carry Wyoming’s magic long after you’ve packed up camp—the echo of geysers erupting at dawn, the silhouette of the Tetons against star-filled skies, and the thrill of spotting elk in morning mist. These adventures won’t break your budget, but they’ll fill your soul with memories that’ll last a lifetime. Pack your gear, grab your camping permits, and let Wyoming’s wild beauty remind you what true freedom feels like.