Bighorn National Forest — Dispersed Camping along US-14
Bighorn National Forest — Dispersed Camping along US-14
Scenic free dispersed camping along the US-14 corridor in Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest, with mountain drives, forest roads, alpine scenery, quiet pullouts, and easy access between Sheridan, Burgess Junction, and the Bighorn Mountains.
About This Campsite
Bighorn National Forest offers one of Wyoming’s most scenic dispersed camping experiences, especially along the US-14 corridor through the Bighorn Mountains. This route gives travelers access to forest roads, mountain pullouts, alpine meadows, lakes, overlooks, and quiet public land camping away from developed campgrounds.
This is not a single developed campground. It is a dispersed camping area along and near open Forest Service roads, where campers can look for previously used sites and legal pullouts. Campers should verify current Motor Vehicle Use Map rules, posted signs, fire restrictions, and seasonal road conditions before setting up.
Scenic Mountain Drive
US-14 crosses the Bighorn Mountains with forest scenery, high-country views, winding roads, and access to multiple recreation areas along the way.
National Forest Camping
Dispersed camping is available in many parts of Bighorn National Forest near open roads, making it a flexible option for self-contained travelers.
Cool Summer Escape
The Bighorn Mountains provide cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, making this area especially appealing for summer camping and road trips.
Why Camp Here
This area is ideal for campers who want a scenic Wyoming mountain basecamp without paying for a developed campground. It works well for road trippers, rooftop tents, trucks, SUVs, vans, and self-contained campers traveling between the Black Hills, Sheridan, Yellowstone, or northern Wyoming.
What to Expect
- Primitive dispersed camping near open Forest Service roads.
- Mountain terrain, forest scenery, and seasonal access changes.
- No hookups, water, toilets, or trash service at dispersed sites.
- Cool nights, changing weather, and possible wildlife activity.
- Some roads may require higher clearance depending on conditions.
- Excellent scenic driving along the US-14 corridor.
Nearby Things to Do
- Drive the scenic US-14 corridor through Bighorn National Forest.
- Explore forest roads and dispersed camping pullouts.
- Visit Burgess Junction and nearby recreation areas.
- Look for mountain views, alpine meadows, lakes, and overlooks.
- Enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing.
- Use the area as a scenic stop between Sheridan and northern Wyoming destinations.
What to Bring
- Plenty of drinking water.
- Offline maps and the current Motor Vehicle Use Map.
- Warm layers for cold mountain nights.
- Trash bags and portable toilet kit.
- Camp stove and fire-safe cooking setup.
- Recovery gear if exploring rough forest roads.
- Bear-safe food storage where appropriate.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall is usually the best season for dispersed camping along US-14 in Bighorn National Forest. Higher-elevation roads may be affected by snow, mud, or seasonal closures outside the main summer travel window. Always check current forest alerts, fire restrictions, and road conditions before camping.
Open in Google MapsFrequently Asked Questions
Is dispersed camping allowed in Bighorn National Forest?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of Bighorn National Forest near open roads, but visitors must follow posted signs, local restrictions, Motor Vehicle Use Map rules, and current land management updates.
Is camping along US-14 free?
Many dispersed camping opportunities near the US-14 corridor are free, as long as the site is legal and not inside a developed fee campground, closed area, or restricted zone.
Can rooftop tents camp here?
Yes. Rooftop tents, trucks, SUVs, and vans can work well in Bighorn National Forest when travelers choose a legal, durable, and level campsite off an open road.
Are there toilets or water?
Dispersed sites are primitive. Do not expect toilets, drinking water, trash service, hookups, or maintained campground facilities.
Do I need high clearance?
Some pullouts and forest roads are easy in dry weather, while others may require higher clearance. Conditions can change quickly after rain, snow, or heavy use.
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