Hettinger Group Area
04 reviewsHettinger Park Road, Buffalo, WY, 82834, USA
Hettinger Group Area
$90.00 - $160.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$160.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site rates vary based on the number of people: $90 for 1-35 people, $110 for 36-60 people, $130 for 61-120 people, and $160 for 121-150 people. Firewood may be purchased from the campground host. Refund requests incur a $10 processing fee retained by the reservation contractor.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Hettinger Group Campground, where 150 adventurers can gather beneath towering lodgepole pines just 14 miles west of Buffalo, Wyoming. This expansive group retreat sits at the doorstep of the magnificent Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear waters, paddling across serene mountain lakes, spotting elk and deer at dawn, or hiking through pristine forests, Hettinger provides the perfect basecamp for your Wyoming adventure.
Hettinger Group Campground primarily supports group camping. It features one designated group site catering to up to 150 people.
Historical SignificanceJourney through time along the historic Cloud Peak Skyway, where Native American tribes once traversed these sacred mountains and early settlers carved their legacy into the wilderness. Hettinger Group Campground stands as a gateway to the storied Bighorn National Forest, a testament to America's conservation heritage. Here, centuries-old wilderness preservation efforts have protected these lands for future generations, allowing modern adventurers to experience the same untamed beauty that has captivated visitors for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Wyoming's changing seasons at Hettinger. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures ranging from a crisp 9°F to 28°F, perfect for those who embrace the cold. Clear blue skies dominate the forecast—expect sunshine 61% of the time—while gentle snowfall (averaging 1.374 inches) blankets the pines in pristine white. Though winter winds can gust up to 21 mph, the surrounding forest provides natural shelter. Summer brings warmer days ideal for hiking and fishing, while fall paints the aspens in brilliant gold.
ElevationPerched high in the heart of Bighorn National Forest, Hettinger Group Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, and the stars shine brilliantly in the thin mountain air. While specific elevation details await confirmation, visitors can expect the invigorating effects of Wyoming's high country.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own 'cute campground nestled in the pine trees,' as enchanted visitors have described this hidden gem. Hettinger's scenic meadow provides a natural amphitheater surrounded by a cathedral of lodgepole pines, their straight trunks reaching skyward like nature's columns. The nearby Tie Hack Reservoir mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, while babbling creeks provide a soothing soundtrack to your stay. This dense forest sanctuary offers both intimate spaces for quiet reflection and open meadows perfect for group gatherings under star-filled skies.
Geological RegionNestled within a picturesque mountain meadow, Hettinger Group Campground showcases the geological wonders of the Bighorn National Forest. The surrounding lodgepole pine ecosystem tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient seas gave way to towering peaks. Located near the renowned Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, the campground offers front-row seats to Wyoming's dramatic mountain landscape. Tie Hack Reservoir and numerous mountain creeks carve through this terrain, creating a diverse ecosystem where forest meets water, and meadows bloom with wildflowers each summer.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeAs a group-only site, the campground accommodates up to 150 people and includes picnic tables and grills.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly detailed; the group site design suggests communal use within a meadow surrounded by lodgepole pines.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for large groups and families due to spacious capacity. Provides picnic tables, grills, and a campfire circle.
Best CampsitesGroup site accommodating up to 150 people is the sole site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out times not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 150 people for the group site.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 150 people for camping or day-use picnicking. Guests are advised that exceeding the booked number of people will incur an additional fee.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group site located in a meadow surrounded by dense forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 30 to September 14, 2025. Reservable window starts June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityGroup area not listed as walk-up; advance booking through Recreation.gov recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Refund requests are handled through Recreation.gov.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hettinger Group Area offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to different interests, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. Its proximity to Tie Hack Reservoir and Circle Park Trailhead allows for canoeing and fishing opportunities, along with trails that lead to alpine lakes and high peaks within the Cloud Peak Wilderness.
Hiking
Circle Park Trailhead is located 3 miles from the campground and offers access to alpine lakes and 12,000-foot peaks. Additional trails are available in the Bighorn National Forest.Fishing
Tie Hack Reservoir, near the campground, is a prime location for fishing. Anglers can catch rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout. "Great location for fishing" according to source materials.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on nearby scenic roads, including Elgin Park, Pole Creek, and Crazy Woman Canyon Roads.Boating
Tie Hack Reservoir allows non-motorized boating such as canoeing.Wildlife viewing
The dense forest and nearby water bodies offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, although specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described.Water Sports
The nearby Tie Hack Reservoir supports non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within provided campfire circles. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent tree-killing organisms.
- Quiet hours not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters possible in lodgepole pine area. Review fire safety rules while camping.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
18 miles away on Powder River Pass (nearest dump station), nearest emergency services: null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30, 2025 - September 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided directly on-site, and one reviewer noted that the campground host kept trash well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresTie Hack Reservoir is a short drive away, featuring fishing for trout and canoeing opportunities.
Common complaintsNo recurring issues mentioned aside from refund and cancellation policy complexities.
HostThe campground host is exceptionally attentive: 'Walt was AMAZING! Always had the trash picked up and bathrooms spotless!'
Campground Map
Hettinger Park Road, Buffalo, WY, 82834, USA
Driving directionsFrom Buffalo, Wyoming, take U.S. Highway 16 west for 14.5 miles.
The dirt road leading to Hettinger Group Area is well-maintained (as noted by a user: 'The dirt road leading to Hettinger is in good shape. Kudos to the Forest Service.') making it easily accessible. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Buffalo (14 miles, approximately 20-25 minutes).
Nearby supplies
South Fork Lodge nearby offers dining, lodging, fishing pond, and a small store with camping and fishing supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Hettinger Group Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users praise the cleanliness, natural beauty, and suitability for group camping. Sentiments are overwhelmingly positive, with an average campground-specific sentiment score of 4.75.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights from user reviews emphasize cleanliness ("The bathrooms were spotless!"), scenic surroundings ("Cute campground nestled in the pine trees"), and well-maintained facilities.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
No notable complaints are evident from the user reviews. Issues, if any, are not documented.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest Hettinger Group Area is ideal for large gatherings or family outings. Proximity to hiking trails and Tie Hack Reservoir was frequently recommended.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User reviews do not provide specific insights on seasonal trends.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Walt was AMAZING! So friendly and inviting. He took great care of us while we were there. Always had the trash picked up and the bathrooms were spotless!" 2. "Very clean and well maintained. The...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user specifically reviewed campsite '01' on Hettinger Group Area loop, mentioning a positive experience with spotless facilities and attentive service.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews highlight pet experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025