Exploring Wyoming with a camping compass is a must-do outdoor activity for any enthusiast, so pack your things, and check out the west.
The Rocky Mountain West region of the United States is known for larger than life rugged mountains, a variety of wild animals, and large swaths of undeveloped land ripe for exploration. States like Montana, Colorado, and Utah are known for their vast National Parks, quaint ski towns, and are often on destination lists for outdoor recreation focused vacations.
With the exceptions of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming is a mountain state that is often overlooked as a fun destination. But from the Tetons to the wide open plains to the Wind River Range, Wyoming has something for every outdoor adventurer.
Perfect for those that love to get outside, hike, camp, mountain bike, and fly fish, Wyoming should be on every recreationists' list. It’s also home to Brunton—all of our compasses are manufactured in Riverton, where there are open plains, and plenty of places to navigate.
Here are some of the highest rated campgrounds in the Cowboy State where you can test out your camping compass:
Brooks Lake Campground, Shoshone National Forest
Photo courtesy of Julie W.
Shoshone National Forest is home to diverse wildlife. There are grizzly bears, cougars, a variety of ungulates, and the largest herd of bighorn sheep in the country. Brooks Lake Campground is located within the Shoshone National Forest and boasts waterfront views and a trail system to various mountain lakes. The one caveat to this camping getaway is that, due to bears, no tent camping is allowed—hardside camping only. Hiking, camping, and fishing are all enjoyable and easily accessible activities from Brooks Lake.
Circle Park Campground, Bighorn National Forest
Photo courtesy of Annie C.
If you’re looking for a quiet campground just off of a little forest service road, than Circle Park Campground is for you. This is a great spot if you want a little basecamp near a lot of hiking trails. The network of trails accesses Cloud Peak Wilderness which preserves the wildest section the Bighorn Mountains. The campground is surrounded by meadows with pine trees, and mountains can be seen in the distance. Be sure to pack your monocular along with you camping compass, like a TruArc, so you can try to spot some wildlife nearby.
Popo Agie Campground, Sinks Canyon State Park
Photo courtesy of Carrie C.
The Wind River Range is rugged backcountry getaway for those who love to hike, summit peaks, rock climb, and backcountry ski. Sinks Canyon State Park, where the Popo Agie Campground is located, can be found in the Winds and less than 10 miles from Lander, Wyoming. Next to a roaring river, campers can enjoy hikes nearby or simply falling asleep to the sound of natural water. Beyond hiking, you can also visit the sinks of Sinks Canyon, this is where the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River into the underground for a quarter of a mile, and then resurfaces at an area called “The Rise.” So grab your camping compass and go explore all of the natural wonders of Sinks Canyon and the Winds.
Granite Creek Campground, Bridger-Teton National Forest
Photo courtesy of Natalie B.
Valleys surrounded by high mountain peaks are often some of the most picturesque nature scenes, and that’s where you can find the Granite Creek Campground. Located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, this campground is right next to a creek, which provides great fishing opportunities in the mornings and evenings. You can also visit the nearby Granite Creek Hot Springs, and take a soak amongst mountain views, which is perfect after a strenuous day of hiking or mountain biking. You can also visit Granite Falls, which is just a short hike from the campground, or continue on a different trail and explore the grandness of Bridger-Teton.