Deer Park Campground

Deer Park Campground, located in the beautiful Bighorn National Forest near Ten Sleep, Wyoming, offers a serene and rustic camping experience for those looking to truly escape into the mountains. This campground provides a lovely spot in the woods, with a natural setting that is both peaceful and engaging. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the natural world, surrounded by tall trees and the sounds of the forest. The campground is known for its quiet atmosphere and its sense of being a secluded hideaway, even when it is full. Its charm lies in its simplicity, providing a clean and well-maintained base camp from which to explore the vast and rugged beauty of the Bighorn Mountains. For those who appreciate a less-developed environment and a chance to truly unplug, Deer Park is an ideal choice.

The campground's design and natural features contribute to a very pleasant stay. The campsites are widely spaced, often with natural brush providing a sense of privacy from neighboring campers. This allows for a more intimate and secluded experience, as noted by a visitor who appreciated the brush for privacy. While the terrain of some sites may be uneven with exposed tree roots, this is a natural part of the setting and a testament to the authentic, undeveloped feel of the area. Deer and squirrels are frequent visitors, adding to the wildlife viewing opportunities. The campground’s commitment to providing a clean environment is highlighted by the reviews mentioning that the public restrooms are kept clean, which is a significant factor in a comfortable stay. Deer Park Campground is a perfect destination for families and individuals who want to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Wyoming wilderness.

Deer Park Campground is located near Ten Sleep, WY 82442, USA, situated in the high country of Bighorn National Forest at an elevation of 8,900 feet. Its address, while providing a general location, points to its presence on West Tensleep Lake Road (Forest Road 27), which is a turn-off from U.S. Highway 16. To reach the campground from Ten Sleep, you take U.S. Highway 16 east for about 20 miles, then turn onto West Tensleep Lake Road and travel for approximately 6 miles. This journey takes you through breathtaking mountain scenery, with the road to the campground itself being a maintained gravel road. The high elevation provides a cool, comfortable climate even in the heat of summer. While the road is manageable, its gravel surface and remote location should be taken into consideration when planning your trip.

The accessibility of the campground is well-suited for both tents and smaller RVs, though the sites are not designed for large rigs. As one reviewer noted, the roads are all gravel, and the terrain is what one would expect in a remote, forested area. The presence of a small stream and the Highline trailhead nearby adds to the accessibility for outdoor activities. The "easy outhouse access even for handicap" is a valuable feature, making the campground more inclusive. While the lack of cell service might be a deterrent for some, it is a key reason for choosing this campground for others, as it provides a true opportunity to disconnect. The campground is well-known to locals and is a popular spot, often filling up in late August, so planning your visit accordingly is a good idea. Its location serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Bighorn National Forest.

Services Offered:

• On-site public restrooms, specifically vault toilets, are available for all campers.
• Running water is provided through a hand pump, ensuring a source of potable water.
• A camping fee is required for overnight stays, contributing to the upkeep of the facilities.
• On-site parking is available at each campsite, with ample space for vehicles.

Features / Highlights:

• The campground is located in a lovely, wooded area, offering plenty of shade and a serene atmosphere.
• It is good for kids, providing a natural playground and access to kid-friendly hikes.
• The campsites are widely spaced, with brush for added privacy between sites.
• The location is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your pets along on your trip.
• Hiking is a major activity, with the Highline trailhead a short walk away, leading to beautiful trails.
• The area is rich with wildlife, and visitors can expect to see deer and other forest creatures.
• The campground is a non-reservable, first-come, first-served site, which makes it perfect for a spontaneous trip.
• It serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the nearby West Tensleep Lake and the Cloud Peak Wilderness.

Contact Information:

Address: Ten Sleep, WY 82442, USA

Phone: (307) 684-7806

Mobile Phone: +1 307-684-7806

What is worth choosing:

Deer Park Campground is an excellent choice for a camping trip in Wyoming for several key reasons. It provides a perfect balance between being remote enough to feel like a true escape and having the essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The cleanliness of the facilities, especially the vaulted toilets and the availability of running water, is a significant advantage in a secluded setting. These features, combined with the fact that the sites are spacious and provide a great deal of privacy, make for a very pleasant and relaxing experience. One reviewer highlighted the short walk to the Highline trailhead and the easy access to the West Tensleep trailhead, both of which are major draws for hiking enthusiasts. The abundance of wildlife, including moose and deer, is a consistent highlight that adds a touch of magic to the stay, turning a simple camping trip into a memorable nature experience.

The campground’s first-come, first-served policy is also a major benefit for those who prefer to be spontaneous and avoid the hassle of reservations. It allows for a more flexible travel schedule, which is perfect for a last-minute weekend getaway. The fact that the campground is "good for kids" is a testament to its safe and engaging environment, with kid-friendly hikes that cater to younger explorers. While some visitors have had issues with inconsiderate neighbors and generator noise, the overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and quiet, which is a main reason people come to this spot. The campground is a perfect base for exploring the Cloud Peak Wilderness and enjoying the trout fishing in the nearby creek, adding layers of adventure to your stay.

Ultimately, Deer Park Campground offers an authentic mountain camping experience without being overly primitive. It's a place where you can enjoy the beauty of the Bighorn National Forest, whether you're hiking, relaxing, or simply enjoying the company of friendly squirrels. For anyone in Wyoming looking for a peaceful, clean, and beautiful location with essential amenities and excellent access to outdoor activities, Deer Park Campground is a reliable and highly-recommended choice. Its natural charm and well-maintained grounds ensure a fantastic experience for all who visit and respect the natural environment.

Deer Park Campground

Ten Sleep, WY 82442, USA