Ten Sleep Camping
Several options exist for camping around Ten Sleep! Due to their low/no cost, the three most popular sites among climbers are the Ten Sleep Rock Ranch, Ten Sleep Brewing Company, and the “Old Road.” With excellent camping options and stellar climbing, it’s hard to leave Ten Sleep. Check out the amenities for each site below:
Leigh Creek Campground
The Leigh Creek Campground is located Forest Service land in the lower part of the canyon, between the town of Ten Sleep and the climbing. At $15 per site, the sites are spacious with their own fire rings and picnic tables. The campsites border the creek that runs through the canyon, and the campground provides pit toilets and potable water. The campground is closed mid-September through May. Head elsewhere for showers or WiFi.
Old Road
For you “dirtbag, PBR drinking, van living” climbers (thanks, Aaron Huey), what’s more punk rock than free camping? Several opportunities for dispersed camping line the “Old Road” (Rd 435), which is a dirt road on the opposite side of the canyon than Highway 16. From the town of Ten Sleep, access the Old Road from either the bottom of the canyon near the Fish Hatchery or just past the Valhalla parking area on the first right. The sites lack amenities beyond free camping, but there are a few porta potties located along the road. Camping on the higher end of the road puts you closer to the climbing and provides cooler temperatures than other Ten Sleep camping options!
Ten Broek RV Park
Located on the edge of the town of Ten Sleep, the Ten Broek RV Park is walking distance from the town’s restaurants and other establishments. However, you’re farther away from the climbing! The RV park offers tent sites for $23 and cabins starting at $49. The RV park has all the amenities – showers, laundry, WiFi, water, etc. The laundry is reportedly expensive, so consider doing your laundry on a rest day in Thermopolis (Wishy Washy Washateria).
Ten Sleep Brewing Company
If the camping area was bigger, the Ten Sleep Brewing Company could be the next Miguel’s. A field next to the brewery parking lot has room for a few tents to camp for $3 per person. Pay for your campsite inside the brewery via cash or credit card. Guests share one porta potty and picnic table, but they can also walk thirty seconds to hang out at the brewery. The brewery has an outside sink for washing dishes, potable water, WiFi, and $2 showers. The brewery also has free popcorn, $4 pints, $12 pitchers, live music and food trucks on the weekend, and multiple outlets. Both locals and climbers head to the brewery at night for a fun, relaxed vibe! Check here for the climbing guidebook ($25 for the paperback version).
Ten Sleep Rock Ranch
You’ll find easy living at the Ten Sleep Rock Ranch! The Rock Ranch has 26 separate sites for $5 per person. Pay for your site with cash at the pay-box under the pavilion or visit the owner’s home during “business hours” to pay via credit card. Each site has a fire ring, parking spot, and picnic table. Campers share a community fridge, microwave, sink, and pavilion with several outlets. The WiFi can be slow, but it works well for email and social media. Most camp sites have an apple tree, so you can hold off on buying fruit. The owners sometimes make apple sauce to share with the Ranch guests! Showers are included in the camping fee, but non-campground guests are asked to donate money for showers. This is a great place to meet other climbers! Check with the owners for the climbing guidebook ($25 for the paperback version).
No matter which campsite you choose, be sure to check out the Ten Sleep Brewery when you’re in town!
