Dickinson Creek Campground

For those who dream of a genuine wilderness experience, far from the crowds and the hum of modern life, Dickinson Creek Campground offers a rare and authentic escape into Wyoming's backcountry. Located in the majestic Shoshone National Forest near Lander, this campground is a destination for the adventurous at heart. It's a place where the landscape, defined by rugged mountains and pristine creeks, takes center stage. This campground is not for the faint of heart; it's for those who appreciate the challenge and the rewards of a truly remote setting. It caters to a specific type of camper—one who is self-sufficient, prepared for an off-grid experience, and eager to immerse themselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Wyoming's wilderness. Its serene atmosphere is a key feature, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground’s reputation as being “absolutely beautiful” and a place where you can find true solitude is well-deserved, providing a stark contrast to more developed and crowded camping areas.

Dickinson Creek Campground is also a special destination for those with an equestrian interest. It is noted for being very accommodating for visitors who wish to ride horses through the wilderness, offering a public corral and a separate campground area for horse enthusiasts. This unique feature adds to its appeal, making it a hub for a variety of outdoor pursuits. The remoteness of the site is its main draw, promising a deep connection with nature and a chance to truly disconnect. While this off-the-beaten-path location presents a series of challenges, it also offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure, from exploring nearby trails that lead into the Popo Agie Wilderness to simply enjoying the solitude and a sky full of stars. This is a place for those who are willing to put in the effort to be rewarded with breathtaking scenery and a peaceful, undisturbed camping experience.

It's important to set proper expectations for a trip to Dickinson Creek. This is a primitive campground, which means it offers a much more rugged experience than a typical RV park. The lack of certain amenities, such as running water beyond natural creeks and cell signal, is not a drawback but rather a core part of its identity. It's a place that forces you to be present and prepared, reinforcing the true spirit of wilderness camping. For those who are properly equipped and ready for the journey, it is a one-of-a-kind destination that encapsulates the wild beauty of Wyoming.

Dickinson Creek Campground is located on Forest Road 329, Lander, WY 82520, USA, deep within the Shoshone National Forest. The journey to the campground is a significant part of the adventure itself. The road in is a 12-mile stretch of dirt switchback roads on the side of a mountain, and a high-clearance, off-road vehicle is highly recommended. The journey can take up to an hour and should ideally be done during daylight hours for safety. This rugged access is a natural filter, ensuring that those who reach the campground are prepared for the remote setting and are seeking a more secluded experience.

A key consideration for visitors is that to access the national forest in this area, you must pass through the Wind River Indian Reservation. Travelers are required to seek permission to cross this territory. Additionally, tribal fishing licenses must be purchased by everyone in a party who intends to cross tribal lands, a requirement that highlights the need for careful planning and respect for the local land and its people. This extra step in the journey is a small price to pay for the privilege of experiencing such a unique and pristine natural area.

For those who make the trip, on-site parking is available for vehicles. However, it's important to note that the maximum trailer length is limited to 20 feet, and the road conditions can be very challenging for standard vehicles. The rugged terrain and elevation of approximately 9,400 feet contribute to the authentic wilderness feel of the campground, rewarding prepared campers with a secluded and unforgettable experience. The challenging access ensures that the area remains quiet and less crowded than more easily reached destinations, preserving its raw, natural beauty for those willing to make the effort.

• **Tent Sites:** The campground offers sites for tent campers who are seeking a rustic experience.
• **Public Restrooms:** Two vault toilets are available on-site for public use.
• **Running Water (Creeks only):** There is no potable, running water available. Water sources are limited to nearby creeks, and campers should be prepared to bring their own supply or use a filtration system.
• **On-site parking:** Parking is available for vehicles, though the campground is not suited for large RVs or trailers over 20 feet.

• **Remote and Secluded:** This campground is ideal for those seeking a quiet, remote, and off-grid experience away from the crowds and noise of more developed sites.
• **Dog-friendly:** The campground allows dogs, making it a great destination for those who want to bring their pets along for the adventure.
• **Horse Accommodation:** A public corral and a separate campground are available for those who wish to ride horses into the wilderness.
• **Kid-friendly:** The location is considered "good for kids," offering a chance for children to experience the raw beauty of nature and enjoy a truly wild environment.
• **Backcountry Access:** The campground provides access to several trails that lead into the Popo Agie Wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring mountain lakes.
• **Spectacular Scenery:** The journey to the campground and the site itself offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
• **Wildlife Viewing:** The area is rich in wildlife, including the possibility of spotting elk, a common sight for visitors. Bear boxes are available for proper food storage.

Address: Forest Road 329, Lander, WY 82520, USA

Phone: (307) 332-5460

Mobile Phone: +1 307-332-5460

Choosing Dickinson Creek Campground is a deliberate choice to embrace the wild and untamed spirit of Wyoming. This is not a place for a casual weekend trip in a standard family vehicle; it is a destination for the prepared, the adventurous, and those who find solace in true wilderness. The challenging 12-mile drive on a dirt switchback road is a testament to the rewards that await at the end of the journey. What you are choosing is a level of solitude and natural beauty that is increasingly rare to find. This campground is for those who are seeking an escape from constant connectivity and want to rely on their own skills and supplies.

The highlights of Dickinson Creek are a direct result of its remoteness. It offers unparalleled access to the Popo Agie Wilderness, a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The fact that it is accommodating for horseback riders adds a unique layer to the experience, making it a special place for equestrians. The lack of amenities like running water (beyond natural creeks) and cell service is a feature, not a bug; it forces a true connection with the environment and a break from digital distractions. The provided vault toilets are a basic comfort that supports this primitive experience. The campground’s setting is simply stunning, with pristine creeks, beautiful meadows, and a sky so clear you can see shooting stars. This is a place to be a witness to nature's grandeur, from the geological formations to the local wildlife.

For Wyoming residents and visitors who understand and respect the demands of the backcountry, Dickinson Creek Campground is an ideal choice. It offers an authentic, rugged camping experience that other, more developed sites simply cannot replicate. The warnings about food-aggressive bears and the need for high-clearance vehicles are not deterrents but important information for a safe and rewarding trip. The journey through the Wind River Indian Reservation, with its necessary permits, adds to the sense of a grand adventure. This campground is worth choosing because it represents the very best of what Wyoming's wilderness has to offer: a challenging, beautiful, and deeply rewarding experience for those who are ready for it.

Dickinson Creek Campground

Forest Road 329, Lander, WY 82520, USA