Big Game Campground

Introduction / Overview

Tucked away in the scenic North Fork River valley, just a short drive from the historic town of Cody, Wyoming, Big Game Campground offers a tranquil and no-frills camping experience. This is a place for those who appreciate the simple pleasures of the outdoors and seek a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. While it may not be a luxury resort, Big Game Campground provides a solid foundation for your Wyoming adventure, especially if your plans include exploring the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Its rustic charm and strategic location make it a compelling choice for travelers and locals alike. The campground is known for its fragrant surroundings, which some visitors describe as a truly unique and delightful aroma from a particular grove of trees. This natural fragrance adds to the serene ambiance and is a defining feature of the area. Big Game Campground is designed for a more self-sufficient style of camping, often referred to as "dry camping," making it a great option for those with their own equipment and a love for a more authentic outdoor experience. It's a family-friendly spot, offering a safe and natural environment for children to explore and play.

Location and Accessibility

Big Game Campground is conveniently situated at 2311 N Fork Hwy, Cody, WY 82414, USA. This prime location places it west of Cody, along the North Fork Highway, a major route leading toward the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Its proximity to both Cody and Yellowstone makes it a highly accessible and practical base camp for a wide range of activities. Whether you're planning to spend the day exploring the historical attractions of Cody, such as the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, or embarking on a scenic drive to the national park, the campground's location simplifies travel logistics. While it is out of the main forested area of the mountains, it is nestled in the river valley, offering a different but equally beautiful landscape. This valley setting means that during wet periods, the ground can be soft and some areas may have standing water, as it is in a river basin. It's important to be prepared for these conditions, especially during the spring and early summer. The campground is easily accessible by vehicle, with on-site parking available for campers.

Services Offered

• Public restroom: The campground provides access to public restrooms, offering basic facilities for campers. It's worth noting that these are rudimentary, fitting the rustic nature of the campground.
• Restroom: Separate restroom facilities are available for camper use.
• Running water: While the campground itself may have limited direct access to running water at each site, there is a convenient spigot located at the entrance of a larger, nearby campground just to the west, which campers can utilize.
• Tent sites: Big Game Campground is well-suited for tent campers, with sites large enough to accommodate various tent sizes.
• Camping fee: A fee is required for camping, which helps maintain the grounds and facilities.

Features / Highlights

• On-site parking: Each campsite comes with the convenience of on-site parking, allowing for easy access to your vehicle and gear.
• Good for kids: The natural, open environment of the campground provides a great place for children to enjoy the outdoors. With plenty of space to run and explore, it's a family-friendly destination.
• Rustic and authentic atmosphere: For those who prefer a less-developed, more natural camping experience, Big Game Campground fits the bill. It's a place where you can feel truly connected to the surrounding environment without the distractions of modern amenities.
• Proximity to Yellowstone and Cody: Its location is arguably its strongest feature, serving as an ideal stopover or base camp for trips to two of Wyoming's most popular destinations.
• Unique fragrance: Many visitors comment on the remarkable and pleasant fragrance that permeates the area, believed to come from a specific type of tree or flower. This unique feature adds to the overall experience and sense of place.
• Bear boxes: As the campground is located on the edge of bear territory, it provides bear boxes for safe food storage, which is a crucial safety feature for all campers.

Contact Information

Address: 2311 N Fork Hwy, Cody, WY 82414, USA

Phone: (307) 527-6921

Mobile Phone: +1 307-527-6921

What is worth choosing

Big Game Campground is worth choosing for several key reasons, particularly for those with specific preferences for their camping trip. First and foremost, its strategic location is a major selling point. If you're traveling from Cody toward Yellowstone National Park and are looking for a place to rest for the night or set up a temporary home base, this campground is a perfect fit. It is often the closest available site to Yellowstone, especially during peak season when other campgrounds are fully booked. The rustic and low-key nature of the campground is another significant advantage for certain campers. If you are well-equipped for "dry camping" and prefer a more self-reliant and authentic outdoor experience, you will find Big Game Campground to be an excellent choice. The large sites provide ample space to set up your gear and enjoy a sense of privacy. For families with children, the open layout and natural setting are a plus, providing a safe and stimulating environment for young ones to explore. While the amenities are basic, they are sufficient for a comfortable stay. The provided public restrooms and the accessible water spigot at the nearby campground are functional and meet the essential needs of a camper. The unique natural fragrance of the area adds a memorable and pleasant sensory experience that you won't find just anywhere. Finally, the presence of bear boxes demonstrates a commitment to camper safety, which is reassuring when camping on the edge of bear country. Big Game Campground is a pragmatic and peaceful choice for the prepared camper seeking to maximize their time enjoying the natural wonders of Wyoming, without the frills of a more developed site.

Big Game Campground

2311 N Fork Hwy, Cody, WY 82414, USA