Wyoming Camping - Camping in the Big Horn Mountains Via Buffalo Wyoming and Sheridan Wyoming
Written by Jared Livingston Friday, 30 January 2009 00:00
The Big Horn Mountains, located in Big Horn National Forest in Wyoming, are the epitome of the term "purple mountains majesty". One of the most scenic areas of the United States, the Big Horn Mountains are half-way between Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park. The lush grasslands, crystal clear glacier lakes, and alpine meadows offer countless accommodations for all level of campers and backpackers, including families. One of the more picturesque and direct routes to the Big Horns is at the southern end of the Big Horn National Forest, taking exit 299 off I-90 onto Hwy 16, known as the Cloud Peak Scenic Highway. This will lead directly into the town of Buffalo.
Around Buffalo, along the historic Bozeman Trail, there are numerous lodges, picnic areas, tent sites, and RV sites complete with extra-clean restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and fire rings. At the Big Horn Mountains Campground, located at the base of the mountains, amenities include a heated pool, camp store, and playgrounds. Lake DeSmet, about five miles north of Buffalo, is excellent for fishing, boating, and swimming. Besides camping, there are over 1,500 miles of hiking trails in Big Horn National Forest. The Clear Creek Trail off Highway 16 runs east of Buffalo, through the city itself, and continues west into the mountains. It is around 11 miles long and easily accessible.
Those wanting less of a trek should plan to browse Buffalo's Historic District, which includes the Occidental Hotel. The Occidental Hotel was referenced in The Virginian, a famous novel by Owen Wister. Close by is the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, where the frontier way of life is preserved through artifacts, art, and exhibits. The museum is open on weekdays starting in May and has discount admissions for families.
Other pastoral routes are found outside of the town of Sheridan at the northern end, namely Bighorn Scenic Byway along US Highway 14 and Medicine Wheel Passage along US Highway 14A. Both are worth traveling. Campsites such as Bald Mountain and Porcupine offer panoramic views and accommodations for car, tent, and RV. One word of advice, the nearest grocery store is twenty-five miles away, so stock up before exploring this wondrous area of the Big Horn National Forest.
Don't forget to visit the Little Big Horn National Monument, where General Custer made his famous Custer's Last Stand on June 25, 1876. Rich in history, every family member will enjoy this diversion into our country's quest to settle the West. In the past twenty years, archeological discoveries have been made, lending a realistic view into the lives and times of the Lakota and Cheyenne Indians as well as the post Civil War cavalry. Little Big Horn National Monument is located off I-90, exit 510 at Junction 212. There are even bus tours from Sheridan to the historical site.
Then of course there is the wildlife to photograph along the way, no matter which route you decide to take.
Antelope, moose, elk, mule deer, and whitetail deer are among the most popular. In Sheridan, visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Visitor Center just off of I-90 on 5th Street for guides and tour information.
During the spring months, the wildflowers are absolutely breathtaking, as is the foliage in the autumn. The hunting enthusiast will find an abundance of game on both private and public land. For the winter sports buff, the National Park offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobile tours.
As you can see, the Big Horn Mountains offer something for everyone year-round whether you prefer staying in a lodge, tent camping in the wilderness along rugged trails, or just a weekend in the RV.
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