A First-Timer’s Guide to a Bighorn National Forest RV Trip

Planning your first RV trip to Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest? With endless mountain scenery, wildlife, waterfalls, and scenic byways, it’s an RVer’s dream. But first, you have to figure out where to stay, what to do, what to pack, and how to prepare your RV or tow rig for mountain roads. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer western road trip, keep reading for our guide to getting the most out of every mile.

Why Visit Bighorn National Forest in an RV?

Located in north-central Wyoming, Bighorn National Forest spans more than one million acres of alpine meadows, towering pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic mountain overlooks. An RV lets you experience it all at your own pace with the comforts of home along for the ride.

Popular stops in the forest include:

• Shell Falls
• Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark
• Burgess Junction
• Cloud Peak Scenic Byway
• Numerous hiking trails and fishing lakes

We’ve found that first-time visitors tend to underestimate just how much there is to see. We recommend planning two to four days in the forest to enjoy the scenery without rushing.

How Do You Prepare Your RV for Mountain Travel?

Mountain driving is profoundly different from highway cruising. Before leaving home for Bighorn National Forest, carefully inspect your RV and complete routine maintenance. Be sure to check:

• Tire pressure and tread depth
• Brake condition
• Engine coolant levels
• Transmission fluid
• Battery health
• Exterior lighting

Fuel stations are few and far between inside the forest, so make sure to fill your tank before heading into higher elevations. Downloading maps is also a good idea since cell coverage can be spotty.

Choosing the Best Bighorn National Forest RV Campground

Bighorn National Forest has both developed and dispersed campgrounds. At the developed campgrounds, you’ll find picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The dispersed campgrounds, on the other hand, provide greater solitude for experienced campers.

Popular RV-friendly campgrounds in the forest include:

• Boulder Park Campground
• Sitting Bull Campground
• Porcupine Campground
• Lakeview Campground

Some of the campgrounds require a reservation, but others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving at these sites early in the day for a better chance of securing a site.

What Should You Pack for a Bighorn National Forest RV Trip?

Mountain weather changes quickly. Warm afternoons can turn into cool evenings, and afternoon thunderstorms often develop with little warning. We recommend packing:

• Layered clothing
• Rain jackets
• Extra drinking water
• Bear-safe food storage containers
• First aid kit
• Flashlights
• Bug spray
• Binoculars
• Hiking boots

We’ve found that travelers who are prepared for varying weather have a more enjoyable trip.

Driving Tips for Your Bighorn National Forest RV Adventure

The Cloud Peak Scenic Byway is one of Wyoming’s most beautiful drives, but keep in mind that mountain roads demand extra attention. Be sure to:

• Drive slower on steep grades.
• Use lower gears when descending long hills.
• Allow faster traffic to safely pass.
• Watch carefully for deer, elk, and moose.
• Check the forecast before crossing higher elevations.

There are several overlooks that are highly photogenic. Just be sure to pull over in designated areas to keep traffic flowing safely.

Outdoor Activities for First-Time Visitors

Bighorn National Forest has outdoor recreation for every kind of traveler. Some favorite activities include:

• Hiking scenic mountain trails
• Fishing trout streams and alpine lakes
• Wildlife photography
• Scenic drives
• Picnicking
• Bird watching
• Stargazing

Based on client travel experiences, many RVers discover that simply slowing down and enjoying the mountain scenery becomes the highlight of their trip to Bighorn National Forest.

How Can You Protect Your RV During the Trip?

Gravel, loose debris, and construction zones are all part of the mountain road experience. Over time, all those rocks, mud, and road spray can damage the rear of your RV or tow rig. That’s why we recommend installing quality mud flaps to help reduce debris from striking your RV, tow vehicle, or trailer. This type of durable protection is especially valuable during longer western road trips where the road conditions frequently change.

At DuraFlap, our heavy-duty mud flaps stand up to demanding travel conditions. Whether you’re exploring Wyoming, crossing mountain passes, or traveling thousands of highway miles, we help keep your investment protected every mile of the way.

When Is the Best Time for a Bighorn National Forest RV Trip?

Most visitors plan their trip between late spring and early fall.

• Late Spring: Wildflowers begin blooming, and the crowds are smaller.
• Summer: Warm weather, open campgrounds, and ideal hiking conditions.
• Early Fall: Cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn colors, and fewer visitors.

Snow can linger at higher elevations, so always verify seasonal road openings before you leave.

Plan Your First Bighorn National Forest RV Adventure with Confidence

Your first Bighorn National Forest RV trip is sure to bring unforgettable scenery, peaceful campgrounds, abundant wildlife, and countless opportunities to explore Wyoming’s mountains. By planning ahead, packing smart, and preparing your RV, you can enjoy a relaxing experience from the first mile to the last.

Before heading west, make sure your RV is ready for the journey. A pair of custom DuraFlap mud flaps helps keep your rig protected from rocks, gravel, mud, and whatever the road throws your way. Design and order your set of Classic Line or sleek, tapered-edge BlackLine mud flaps today.