Middle Fork
4.6761 reviewsMIDDLE FORK ROAD, BUFFALO, WY 82834, USA
Middle Fork
$17.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard single site fee is $17.00 per day for one non-towed vehicle with trailer. Double sites are $34.00 per day for two non-towed vehicles with trailers. An extra car is charged an additional $10.00 per day. Firewood is available for purchase through the campground host.
About this campground
Tucked into the heart of Bighorn National Forest, Middle Fork Campground offers nine intimate sites where the soothing sounds of Clear Creek create nature's soundtrack. This pristine mountain retreat beckons adventurers with its promise of crystalline fishing waters, scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, and front-row seats to Wyoming's spectacular wildlife theater.
Middle Fork Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping and RV camping. All sites are non-electric and cater to a range of group sizes.
Historical SignificanceGateway to the legendary Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, this campground serves as your basecamp for exploring a landscape that has captivated mountaineers and adventurers for generations. The surrounding peaks, many soaring above 12,000 feet, guard pristine alpine lakes and follow the same historic routes that early explorers traced across these ancient mountains.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here writes its own rules—summer evenings can surprise you with their crisp bite, and snowflakes have been known to dance through July skies. While most days gift visitors with brilliant sunshine and cloudless horizons, wise campers pack layers and prepare for nature's spontaneous performances, including the occasional dusting of snow that transforms the landscape into a fleeting wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 8,310 feet above sea level, Middle Fork Campground invites you into the realm of thin air and big views. At this elevation, morning coffee tastes better with a side of mountain vistas, though newcomers should pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the altitude. The crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures create perfect sleeping weather under a blanket of stars.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through towering pines and quaking aspens, their leaves whispering secrets in the mountain breeze. The Middle Fork of Clear Creek threads through the campground like a silver ribbon, its gentle murmur punctuated by the calls of native birds and the occasional glimpse of deer or elk moving through the shadows. This living postcard captures the essence of Wyoming's wild beauty.
Geological RegionStraddling the iconic Cloud Peak Skyway within Bighorn National Forest, this geological wonderland showcases nature's architectural prowess. Ancient pines and shimmering aspens cloak the mountainsides, while hidden alpine lakes sparkle like sapphires in high mountain bowls. The dramatic peaks standing sentinel over the campground tell a story written in stone—millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible drinking water, accessible vault toilets, and accessible parking. However, the extent of these features is not elaborated in the source material.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some sites accommodating up to 16 people and 4 vehicles. Specific site reviews note generous room for tents and trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are well-spaced for privacy, with user quotes such as 'Sites spacious and fairly level,' 'Tons of space between sites,' and 'Campsites not too close to each other.'
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along the creek are highly recommended for their privacy and proximity to water. Site #1 accommodates larger groups and offers spacious amenities.
Best CampsitesSite #4 is noted as the 'best site of all the 9 sites,' located directly on the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Site #1 is a double site accommodating up to 16 guests. Standard sites allow up to 8.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 16 people, with space for up to 4 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNine spacious sites spread throughout a narrow canyon, emphasizing privacy and direct access to creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to September 14 (reservable June 22 to September 14).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via www.recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served sites are available, though reservation is recommended due to high popularity.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled anytime before the scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Middle Fork Campground provides diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic exploration along creeks and nearby trails. The location on the Middle Fork of Clear Creek offers a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Circle Park Trailhead, located 3.5 miles from the campground, 'accesses numerous alpine lakes and two 12,000' peaks within the Cloud Peak Wilderness.' Additional trails include a short, moderately hilly hike entering the campground, as noted by user reviews. Mountain biking is permissible up to the Cloud Peak Wilderness boundary.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available at the creek within the campground and nearby Tie Hack Reservoir, with opportunities to catch rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout. A user review stated, 'The creek produces abundant trout - brown, rainbow & brook.'Biking
Biking is permitted on roads leading to the wilderness boundary, such as Elgin Park, Pole Creek, and Crazy Woman Canyon Roads.Boating
Nearby Tie Hack Reservoir, a non-motorized lake, offers opportunities for canoeing and calm water activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant in the area, with users mentioning sightings of moose and other animals. The serene natural environment is ideal for viewing fauna.Winter Activities
While not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources, user reviews indicate that snow is possible during any month in Wyoming.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are possible at Tie Hack Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed with on-site firewood purchase; restrictions may apply during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced, though creek noise provides natural background sound.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include bear activity; precautions are advised. Cold weather and high altitude may affect campers.
Active alertsSeasonal closure of facilities; amenities like trash collection and restrooms may be unavailable late season.
Weather forecast
43
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services in Buffalo, WY (13 miles away), including hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided at the campground, with trash cans located near restrooms. One user mentioned a peculiar policy at another campground managed by the same organization, where trash was left along the loop for pickup; however, this was not explicitly reported at Middle Fork Campground.
Proximity to water featuresSituated next to Middle Fork Clear Creek and near Tie Hack Reservoir, ideal for fishing and canoeing.
Common complaintsGenerator noise reported by some users. Challenges in locating the campground due to poor signage.
HostHosts are described as helpful and accommodating, often providing firewood and maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
MIDDLE FORK ROAD, BUFFALO, WY 82834, USA
Driving directionsFrom Buffalo, Wyoming, take U.S. Highway 16 west 13 miles.
Middle Fork Campground is accessible via U.S. Highway 16, which is noted for its scenic drive. Some reviews mentioned challenges with signage, such as ‘Coming down the mountain we never saw a sign and ended up having to backtrack from Buffalo.’Nearby places
Buffalo, WY - 13 miles / Approximately 15-minute drive
Nearby supplies
South Fork Lodge, 10 miles away, offers dining options, guided horseback riding, fishing pond, and a small store with fishing and camping supplies. A dump station is available 18 miles away at Powder River Pass.
Camper Reviews
4.7
61 reviews
Middle Fork is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Middle Fork Campground is widely praised for its beautiful natural setting, clean facilities, and quiet atmosphere. User ratings average 4.58 overall, with campground-specific sentiment at 4.49.
Review Summaries
Based on 61 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the serene creek, and the spacious campsites. Many appreciate the proximity to nature and the opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Based on 61 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users expressed frustration over noise from other campers' generators. A few noted directional signage to the campground as inadequate.
Based on 61 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking 6 months in advance due to high demand, bringing extra warm clothes as temperatures can drop significantly at night, and considering earplugs for those sensitive to the loud...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight the campground's appeal during summer months, with its cool creek and shaded sites offering respite from heat. However, the high altitude leads to cold nights even in summer, and...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms cleaner than a hospital.' 2. 'The creek produces abundant trout.' 3. 'Vault toilets are clean with toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and even an air freshener.' 4. 'Campground impeccably...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #4 is noted as 'right on the creek and the best site of all the 9 sites.' Site #6 is praised for being 'spacious, shaded, and the babbling water added so much to the experience.' Group site #1's...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility from users with disabilities; however, vault toilets and drinking water are noted as accessible.
Based on 61 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets were identified, but general policies allow pets.
Based on 61 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025