Middle Piney Lake Campground

For Wyoming locals and visitors who crave a true wilderness experience, the Middle Piney Lake Campground offers an escape into some of the state's most breathtaking scenery. This is not your typical RV park with manicured lawns and endless amenities; it is a primitive campground designed for those who appreciate raw, natural beauty and a genuine connection to the outdoors. Situated in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, the campground provides a stunning backdrop of the Wyoming Range and a serene setting on the shores of Middle Piney Lake. It is a place where adventure is not just an option but the main attraction, with a focus on activities like fishing, hiking, and exploring the expansive trail systems.

The core of the Middle Piney Lake experience is its rustic charm and the incredible opportunities it provides for outdoor recreation. Visitors consistently praise the "amazing views" and the excellent fishing. The lake is a well-known spot for both open-water and ice fishing, with many anglers reporting successful trips with a good number of catches, including the sought-after Lake Trout. The campground serves as a gateway to the Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail and provides access to a network of trails for both hiking and ATV riding. This makes it an ideal basecamp for anyone looking to explore the rugged beauty of the area.

While some past campers have noted a change in the campground's setup, specifically the removal of some primitive camping areas and the addition of large boulders along the shoreline, this has been part of broader management decisions for improvement and conservation efforts. Despite these changes, the fundamental appeal of the location—its stunning views, the sense of peace, and the wealth of recreational activities—remains intact. For a real, no-frills Wyoming adventure where you can truly unplug and immerse yourself in nature, Middle Piney Lake Campground is a destination that delivers. It’s a place for those who are willing to pack in their own supplies and leave no trace, in exchange for an unforgettable experience in a magnificent natural setting.

Location and Accessibility

Middle Piney Lake Campground is located near Big Piney, Wyoming, with its address being Big Piney, WY 83113, USA. The campground is situated in a remote but accessible area within the Bridger-Teton National Forest. To reach it, visitors typically turn west on WY 350 off Highway 189 in the town of Big Piney. This road transitions from paved to a well-maintained gravel road, leading deeper into the forest. It is a scenic drive that gradually takes you higher into the mountains, offering a preview of the magnificent landscape ahead.

Given its primitive nature, accessibility is focused on providing a viable route for campers to reach the area. It is a "first come, first served" campground, which means visitors should plan accordingly, especially during peak season. It is essential to note that this is a "pack-in/pack-out" site, meaning visitors are responsible for taking all their trash with them. The lack of a phone number directly for the campground, and its remote location, reinforces the need for visitors to be self-sufficient and prepared. While some road conditions may vary, particularly in different seasons, the well-maintained gravel road generally allows access for most vehicles and camping trailers.

Services Offered

• Vault Toilet: The campground provides a vault toilet that is regularly cleaned and maintained for visitor convenience.
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available at the lake for launching non-motorized and electric-powered boats, as regulated by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

Features / Highlights

• Amazing Views: Offers spectacular views of Middle Piney Lake and the surrounding Wyoming Range, creating a beautiful and inspiring atmosphere.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake is known for its great fishing opportunities, including ice fishing during the winter months. Fish species include Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout.
• Hiking and ATV Trails: The campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, providing direct access to the Wyoming Range National Recreation Trail and nearby ATV trails.
• Primitive Camping: A no-frills, authentic camping experience where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
• First Come, First Served: This adds to the genuine feel of the wilderness experience, without the need for advance reservations.
• Scenic Drive: The journey to the campground along a well-maintained road offers its own scenic beauty.

Contact Information

Address: Big Piney, WY 83113, USA

What is worth choosing

For those in Wyoming and beyond who are seeking an authentic, rugged, and rewarding camping experience, Middle Piney Lake Campground is a compelling choice. The most significant reason to visit is the unrivaled natural beauty and the wealth of outdoor activities. Unlike many developed campgrounds that feel like sanitized versions of nature, Middle Piney Lake offers the real deal. The stunning views and the pristine, clear lake are worth the journey alone. The fishing opportunities, as highlighted by a satisfied customer who "caught six fish each," are a major draw for anglers. This is a place where you can create your own adventure, whether you're fly fishing in the summer or ice fishing in the winter.

Another key reason to choose this campground is its role as a basecamp for exploration. The immediate access to a vast network of trails—for hiking, biking, and ATV riding—is a huge benefit. This means you can spend your days actively exploring the Wyoming Range, then return to a quiet and beautiful campsite by the lake. This blend of tranquility and adventure is what makes a camping trip truly memorable. The rustic amenities, such as the vault toilet and the "pack-in/pack-out" policy, are a part of the experience, encouraging a greater sense of responsibility for the environment and a deeper connection to nature.

While some visitors may have concerns about the lack of amenities like water and trash services, these features are consistent with the primitive nature of the campground and are a key part of its identity. This is a place for those who are well-prepared and willing to embrace a more traditional camping style. For a genuine, no-frills outdoor getaway with incredible scenery and endless recreational opportunities, Middle Piney Lake Campground is an unparalleled choice that promises a truly unforgettable Wyoming experience.

Middle Piney Lake Campground

Big Piney, WY 83113, USA