Porcupine Campground

For those of us in Wyoming, the Bighorn National Forest is a local treasure, a place of stunning vistas and true mountain wilderness. Tucked away on the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Byway, Porcupine Campground offers a prime location for experiencing this natural beauty firsthand. It’s a place that balances a remote, in-the-forest feel with essential amenities, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned campers and families seeking an authentic outdoor escape. With a location near the historic Medicine Wheel and a rugged landscape perfect for exploration, Porcupine Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to adventure in the heart of the Bighorns.

Porcupine Campground is a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the high-elevation forest environment. Situated at 8,900 feet, the air is crisp and the surroundings are quiet, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking or sightseeing. The campground is family-friendly and provides key amenities that make a stay comfortable, including picnic tables and running water. However, as is the case with any popular outdoor destination, a clear understanding of the site's rules and procedures is essential for a stress-free visit. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of camping at Porcupine Campground, from its reservation system to its unique features, and why its location makes it a standout choice in northern Wyoming.

A recent review from a camp host provides valuable insight into the local reality of this popular spot. It highlights that the campground’s "Full" sign is accurate and that reserved sites are just that—reserved. This underscores the importance of planning ahead, especially for weekend trips. But it also points out that a great experience awaits those who come prepared and follow the rules, emphasizing the friendly, community atmosphere that the host aims to maintain. The overall consensus is that the campground itself is "great," with spacious sites and a beautiful environment, as another reviewer noted.

Porcupine Campground is nestled in the Bighorn National Forest, with the address listed as Forest Road #136, Lovell, WY 82431, USA. Its location is a significant part of its appeal. The campground is situated along the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 14A), placing it in a remote but accessible part of the Bighorn Mountains. For those driving from Lovell, the journey is approximately 33 miles east on Highway 14A before turning onto the gravel Forest Road #136 for a couple of miles. While this gravel road may be a concern for smaller vehicles, it is a small price to pay for the spectacular mountain views and seclusion that await. It is important to remember that this road is not a major highway and should be driven with caution.

The accessibility of the campground is well-thought-out, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which shows a commitment to inclusivity. The on-site parking at each site is a standard but much-appreciated feature, ensuring that you can keep your vehicle close by. For those who want to explore beyond the campground, this location is ideal. It is only four miles from the revered Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, a truly unique and powerful cultural site that adds a layer of history and spirituality to your trip. There are also nearby trailheads for hiking, offering access to beautiful spots like Bucking Mule Falls and Porcupine Creek.

Visitors should be aware that cell service is not available at Porcupine Campground. This is a crucial detail that reinforces the remote nature of the area. It means that reservations should be made in advance through the official channels like recreation.gov, as highlighted by a camp host. It is a place to unplug and truly enjoy the natural world without the constant interruption of technology.

• On-site parking
• Running water (from a hand pump)
• Public restrooms (vault toilets)
• Picnic tables at each site
• Campfire rings with grills at each site
• Camping fee required
• Good for kids / Children welcome

• A high-elevation campground at 8,900 feet with cool temperatures and a true mountain environment.
• Located in the Bighorn National Forest along the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Byway.
• Situated only four miles from the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark.
• Features spacious, well-maintained sites with plenty of space and tree cover.
• A mix of reservable sites and first-come, first-served sites, providing options for different travel plans.
• Campground amenities include picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets, and running water.
• Accessible features, including wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.
• A popular spot for families and children, offering a safe and engaging outdoor environment.
• Close to hiking trails and other recreational activities within the Bighorn National Forest.

Address: Bighorn National Forest, Forest Road #136, Lovell, WY 82431, USA

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is a general Recreation.gov reservation line; for specific campground inquiries, it may be best to look up the Bighorn National Forest district office.)

For a local user in Wyoming, what makes Porcupine Campground a compelling choice is its perfect blend of natural beauty and practical accessibility. Unlike some more developed campgrounds, it maintains a rugged, forested feel that is central to the Bighorn experience. The spacious sites, as noted by a reviewer, ensure that you won't feel crowded, even on a busy weekend. This sense of personal space and tranquility is a significant draw, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy the scenery.

The location is another major reason to choose Porcupine. Being so close to the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark means you can easily visit this culturally significant site. This proximity adds a layer of depth to your trip, combining a relaxing outdoor stay with a unique historical and spiritual experience. The fact that the campground is located on a scenic byway also means that the journey itself is a beautiful part of the adventure, with numerous overlooks and opportunities for photography.

Finally, the camp host's detailed and frank review about the reservation system is incredibly helpful and shows a strong commitment to managing the campground fairly. While it highlights the need for advanced planning, it also points to a well-organized system where reserved sites are protected. For those who prefer a more spontaneous trip, the three first-come, first-served sites offer a chance to stay without a reservation, particularly if you arrive early in the week. The amenities, including running water and picnic tables, provide just the right amount of comfort without taking away from the wild feel of the forest. In an area known for its grandeur, Porcupine Campground offers a down-to-earth, well-managed, and beautiful place to call home for a few days.

Porcupine Campground

Bighorn National Forest, Forest Road #136, Lovell, WY 82431, USA