Bighorn Backcountry wilderness guide
National Forest · WY

Bighorn Backcountry

Bighorn Backcountry is a pristine wilderness located in the Bighorn National Forest, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.

National Forest1,107,6714+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,107,671

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Bighorn Backcountry

Bighorn Backcountry is a pristine wilderness located in the Bighorn National Forest, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Bighorn Backcountry is situated within the expansive Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming, known for its sweeping vistas, diverse ecosystems, and rugged terrain. This area boasts a unique blend of lush alpine meadows, striking granite peaks, and dense coniferous forests. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the backcountry offers endless opportunities for exploration, from challenging hikes and mountain biking to serene fishing spots and wildlife viewing. The area is home to iconic species such as moose, elk, and black bears, which roam freely within this protected land. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Medicine Wheel, an ancient stone arrangement with cultural significance to Native American tribes, or take scenic drives along the Cloud Peak Skyway for breathtaking views. Bighorn Backcountry is especially appealing for those seeking solitude and connection with nature, thanks to its remote trails and campgrounds.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Bighorn Backcountry

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cloud Peak, the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains offering panoramic views.✦ The Medicine Wheel, a sacred and historic Native American site.✦ Shell Falls, a stunning waterfall that can be viewed from a convenient roadside stop.✦ The Solitude Trail, a lesser-known route providing wilderness seclusion.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Bighorn Backcountry

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Bighorn Backcountry
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Bighorn Backcountry.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Bighorn Backcountry

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bear Lodge Campground

Located in the northern section, accessible via Highway 14, popular for its amenities and proximity to trails.

Shell Creek Campground

Situated near beautiful Shell Creek, known for its fishing opportunities and quiet ambiance.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Bighorn Backcountry

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Greybull, Wyoming
⌖ 22.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greybull, Wyoming

Greybull offers an authentic Wyoming adventure with access to the majestic Big Horn Mountains. Hike, bike, or fish in serene landscapes, and enjoy the quiet charm of this prairie town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Dayton, Wyoming
⌖ 24.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dayton, Wyoming

Dayton, Wyoming is a rugged outdoor hub close to Yellowstone’s north entrance. It offers hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and snowmobiling amid stunning mountain and plain landscapes.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Ranchester, Wyoming
⌖ 30.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ranchester, Wyoming

Ranchester, Wyoming, offers a peaceful base for outdoor lovers with hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and winter sports nearby. Experience the scenic Bighorn National Forest, wildlife along the Tongue River, and iconic Devils Tower.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather and Winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Lovell, Wyoming
⌖ 35.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lovell, Wyoming

Lovell serves as the perfect base for exploring Bighorn Canyon's stunning vistas and the mystique of the Pryor Mountains' roaming wild horses. Experience hiking, fishing, and more in this tranquil Wyoming escape.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Fort Smith, MT
⌖ 43.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Smith, MT

Fort Smith, MT offers world-class fly fishing on the Bighorn River and serene camping under vast skies. Adventurers can hike, raft, and capture stunning wildlife and landscapes in this remote paradise.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Worland, Wyoming
⌖ 48.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Worland, Wyoming

Worland in Wyoming is a tranquil gateway to outdoor exploration in Bighorn National Forest. Known for hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports, it's a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Bighorn Backcountry

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Face to Flippers: A Family-First Dolphin Swim in Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
DolphinADV Bookable

Face to Flippers: A Family-First Dolphin Swim in Sheridan

A 50-minute, family-friendly dolphin swim that pairs certified trainers and first-class facilities with small-group attention—this guide explains what to expect, who it’s for, and what to bring.

DolphinPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Face-to-Fin: A Family Dolphin Meet-and-Greet in Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
DolphinADV Bookable

Face-to-Fin: A Family Dolphin Meet-and-Greet in Sheridan

A concise, 20‑minute, family-focused encounter with dolphins that emphasizes safety, certified trainers, and small groups—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

DolphinPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
ZIPLINES & MONKEYLAND: Treetop Speed and Shoulder‑Perched Squirrel Monkeys
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
ZiplineADV Bookable

ZIPLINES & MONKEYLAND: Treetop Speed and Shoulder‑Perched Squirrel Monkeys

A five‑hour outing that pairs 12 adrenaline zip lines—including two of the longest in the Dominican Republic—with coffee and chocolate tastings, a botanical garden stroll, and close encounters with squirrel monkeys; this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

ZiplinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Defender Max Limited: Comfort and Brawn into the Bighorn Backcountry
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Defender Max Limited: Comfort and Brawn into the Bighorn Backcountry

A rugged, six-seat UTV with a fully enclosed cab and high ground clearance for extended exploration of the Bighorn Mountains; this guide explains the vehicle’s features, pick-up options, and what to plan for on the trails.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Honda Monkey Rentals: Backroad Scrambles out of Sheridan
ADVEXPEDITION
Sheridan, Wyoming
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Honda Monkey Rentals: Backroad Scrambles out of Sheridan

A concise field guide to renting nimble 125cc Honda Monkey motorcycles in Sheridan, Wyoming — what the bikes are, who can ride them, and the practical limits of a 160‑mile fuel range.

Bike RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Three‑Seat Sea‑Doos and Full‑Day Runs on Lake De Smet
ADVEXPEDITION
Buffalo, Wyoming
Jet Ski RentalADV Bookable

Three‑Seat Sea‑Doos and Full‑Day Runs on Lake De Smet

Full‑day Sea‑Doo rentals on Lake De Smet (10:00–17:30) with a brief orientation — this guide clarifies what to bring, how fuel and damage policies work, and the on‑water rules you need to know.

Jet Ski RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip