5 Best Boondocking Areas in Wyoming
Have you ever been boondocking in Wyoming? Wyoming is a beautiful state with many opportunities for RV boondocking. Being from Colorado, we love the boondocking opportunities in the Rocky Mountains, but we also love to venture up north and explore Wyoming. Here are some of the best Wyoming boondocking areas we’ve found.
What is Boondocking?
Boondocking is RV camping without any hookups or amenities. Boondockers typically choose very remote locations, like national forests for extra privacy. We love Wyoming boondocking as a way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
There are three types of boondocking:
Dry Camping: Established campgrounds without hookups
Dispersed Camping: Public lands away from developed campgrounds
Parking Lot Camping: Overnight stays in commercial parking lots
We love boondocking in Wyoming for these reasons:
It’s cost-effective
More privacy
Set your own schedule
Eco-friendly
The scenic beauty
Ideal for wildlife viewing
The many outdoor activities
Now that you know what boondocking is, let’s go over our top five areas for boondocking in Wyoming.
5 Areas for Boondocking in Wyoming
Photo: USDA Forest Service
1. Bridger-Teton National Forest
This forest covers over 3.4 million acres and offers plenty of opportunities for Wyoming boondocking. There are dispersed camping sites throughout the forest, including near the Gros Ventre River and in the Upper Green River Basin.
Things to do:
Hike Phelps Lake Trail
Fish and paddleboard on the Snake River
Spot wildlife such as elk, moose, bison, deer, and bears
Mountain bike Cache Creek trails
Drive through Signal Mountain Summit Road
Explore Yellowstone National Park
Photo: USDA Forest Service
2. Bighorn National Forest
Bighorn National Forest offers stunning views of the Bighorn Mountains and over 30 campgrounds. However, if you're looking for a more secluded Wyoming boondocking experience, there are also dispersed camping areas throughout the forest.
Things to do:
Hike Shell Falls Trail
Fish trout in the Tie Hack Reservoir
Look for wildlife at Sibley Lake
Boat, kayak, or canoe on Meadowlark Lake
Take guided horseback rides
Drive along Bighorn Scenic Byway
Stargaze
Explore the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark
Photo: PeakVisor
3. Medicine Bow National Forest
Medicine Bow National Forest offers over a million acres of wilderness and plenty of opportunities for RV boondocking. There are several campgrounds, but for a more secluded experience, consider dispersed camping in areas such as Pole Mountain or Vedauwoo.
Things to do:
Hike Mirror Lake Trail
Fish, swim, boat, kayak, or canoe on Rob Roy Reservoir
Mountain bike Happy Jack Trails
Explore the Snowy Range Ski Area
Enjoy a picnic by a nearby lake
Photo: Travel Wyoming
4. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range and several campgrounds. However, for a more secluded experience, consider Wyoming boondocking in the Bridger-Teton National Forest near the park.
Things to do:
Hike Jenny Lake Trail
View wildlife at Oxbow Bend
Mountaineer Grand Teton peak
Explore the Chapel of the Transfiguration
Photo: The Dyrt
5. Shoshone National Forest
Shoshone National Forest offers over 2.4 million acres of wilderness and several opportunities for RV boondocking. Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of the forest, including near the Wind River and Absaroka Mountains.
Things to do:
Hike Beartooth Loop Trail
Fish North Fork Shoshone River
Boat and swim in Brooks Lake
Drive along Beartooth Highway
Explore the Pahaska Tepee
5 Tips for Boondocking in Wyoming
Are you excited for your boondocking in Wyoming adventure? Before you head out, keep these tips in mind.
Plan Ahead: Research potential Wyoming boondocking sites and understand the rules of the area. Print a map or have a version available offline, as many locations do not have reliable connections. Don’t forget to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits for camping and activities where required.
Water Conservation: Use water sparingly by taking quick showers and washing dishes efficiently. Even though you have plenty of power with your RV solar system, water can run out!
Wildlife Safety: Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Store food securely and maintain a safe distance from animals. In bear country, use bear-proof containers and be cautious about food storage. Know how to react if you encounter a bear or other wild animal.
Safety Preparedness: Remote locations pose safety concerns. Have a first aid kit and emergency supplies on hand, and let someone know your plans.
Environmental Responsibility: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Avoid damaging vegetation, and don’t create new roads or campsites. Leave the site cleaner than you found it!
With these stunning areas in Wyoming, you're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable RV boondocking experience. With its vast natural beauty and plenty of dispersed camping areas, there's no shortage of places to camp for free and enjoy the great outdoors. Boondocking in Wyoming has something for everyone. So, pack up your RV and hit the road to explore the beauty of Wyoming boondocking destinations.
Need a solar system before you head out? Get a free estimate.
Become campground optional
Once you've accepted your quote and set an appointment, just drop off your rig and we’ll take it from there. Your solar powered RV will be ready in three days or less, and you'll hit the road more free than ever.
