Shell Creek
4.6868 reviewsFOREST ROAD 17, GREYBULL, WY 82426, USA
Shell Creek
$18.50 - $18.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.50
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for standard non-electric and tent sites is $18.50 during peak season. Additional fees include $9.00/day for a second vehicle. Firewood bundles may be purchased from the campground host.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Bighorn Mountains at 7,500 feet, Shell Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where the rushing waters of Shell Creek provide nature's soundtrack. This peaceful retreat features thoughtfully spaced non-electric sites nestled among towering trees, with modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and regular trash service ensuring comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Far from the crowds, this hidden gem rewards those seeking authentic mountain solitude.
Shell Creek Campground offers a mix of tent-only, standard non-electric, and RV-friendly sites. Group camping and cabin lodging options are not available at this campground.
Historical SignificanceJourney through time at the nearby Shell Falls Visitor Center, where interpretive trails wind past thundering waterfalls while revealing stories of the region's rich past. Just a scenic drive away, the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite preserves an extraordinary window into prehistory – ancient footprints left by dinosaurs 167 million years ago, perfectly preserved in stone and waiting to spark imagination in visitors of all ages.
Weather and SeasonsShell Creek transforms with each passing season, offering visitors a dynamic mountain experience year-round. Spring awakens the landscape with thundering snowmelt that swells the creek to impressive levels, while summer brings blissful days perfect for hiking and star-filled nights that demand an extra layer. As autumn approaches, crisp winds sweep through the canyon, painting aspens gold before winter's first snowflakes dust the peaks. Many visitors joke they've witnessed 'all four seasons in a single weekend' – a testament to the mountains' mercurial moods.
ElevationPerched at 7,500 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Shell Creek Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude retreat from summer's heat. Here, the mountain atmosphere transforms everyday camping into an elevated experience, with noticeably cooler temperatures and that distinctive clarity of light found only in the high country.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of fir, aspen, and cottonwood creates a living cathedral around Shell Creek Campground, where sunlight filters through branches to dance on the creek's surface. Above this forested sanctuary, the Bighorn's craggy granite peaks soar beyond 13,000 feet, their ancient faces catching alpenglow at sunset. Keep your camera ready – moose browse the willows at dawn, elk bugle across the meadows in fall, and deer often wander through camp, reminding visitors they're guests in this mountain wilderness.
Geological RegionShell Creek Campground sits within the dramatic embrace of the Bighorn Mountains, where ancient granite peaks thrust skyward over 13,000 feet, their weathered faces telling stories of geological upheaval millions of years in the making. Below these stone sentinels, a diverse forest ecosystem thrives – stately firs standing guard alongside quaking aspens and gnarled cottonwoods that follow Shell Creek's winding course through the canyon.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMany single-family sites are accessible, and vault toilets are explicitly marked as accessible. The campground's layout includes shaded and sunny sites, offering options for various needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating large RVs or tents. Specific sites like #12 were noted for being 'spacious and flat.'
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out to maximize privacy, with some bordering Shell Creek and offering peaceful background noise. One review highlights, 'Sites are large and spaced out to maximize privacy.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade and creek access, choose sites on the shaded side near the creek (e.g., #13, #7, #8). For larger groups or RVs, most sites are spacious and accommodating.
Best CampsitesSite #13 is frequently praised for views and proximity to the creek. Sites #7 and #8 are noted as ideal for tents. Site #6 is described as spacious but lacking shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is typically at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is typically at noon.
Stay Limit
Stay limits are explicitly 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two non-towed vehicles allowed per site
- one vehicle included in the basic fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are generally spaced out for privacy. Many are located along Shell Creek. Tent-only sites (#7 and #8) and shaded sites (#13) are available.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 23, 2025, to September 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov. No further details regarding phone apps or third-party services are provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground appears to offer some walk-up availability but does not specify site numbers or fill patterns.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed anytime before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Shell Creek Campground is situated in a region rich with outdoor recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic driving. The Adelaide Trail nearby offers hiking and horseback riding access to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Fishing is highlighted as a major draw, with streams offering brook trout. Other activities include off-road vehicle trails, photography, stargazing, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Diverse hiking options are available, from loop trails to treks along creeks and over mountain peaks. The Adelaide Trail provides nearby access to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Reviewers noted 'great hiking' as a highlight.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
Many creeks, lakes, and ponds offer trout fly-fishing opportunities. Brook trout were specifically mentioned by several reviewers, who described the fishing as 'challenging' yet rewarding.Swimming
Shell Creek itself serves as a swimming area for campers, especially for cooling off during warm days. One user stated, 'The creek is perfect for cooling off.'Biking
Mountain biking was noted by reviewers as a popular activity. One review mentioned, 'We saw lots of mountain bikers.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of moose, deer, elk, and pronghorn regularly reported. One reviewer noted, 'We saw moose and lots of deer.' Another highlighted, 'Saw lots of mountain bikers and wildlife.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Shell Falls Visitor Center offers interpretive trails, scenic views, and educational displays about the area's flora, fauna, and history.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed, though the elevation and remote nature suggest potential for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.Water Sports
Limited to non-motorized activities such as swimming in Shell Creek.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated campfire rings and grills. Firewood bundles may be purchased onsite.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high creek flows during spring snowmelt, wildlife such as moose and elk, and cattle breaching campground fences as described in some user reviews.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.3 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
A ranger station is approximately 1 mile away; nearest hospital or clinic is in Greybull, Wyoming, 32 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, and some hosts were noted for assisting with garbage disposal, such as one review mentioning 'Dale was nice enough to take our big garbage from our site to the dump in his gator.'
Proximity to water featuresShell Creek runs directly through the campground, providing opportunities for fishing, cooling off, and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsReviews mention issues with cattle entering campsites, lack of shade at some sites, and occasional late-season closures of trails.
HostHosts are consistently praised for their friendliness and cleanliness of facilities. Dale and Loretta are mentioned multiple times as helpful and generous.
Campground Map
FOREST ROAD 17, GREYBULL, WY 82426, USA
Driving directionsLocated 32 miles east of Greybull, Wyoming, on U.S. Highway 14. Turn off onto Paintrock Lakes Road (Forest Road 17). Shell Creek Campground is 1.5 miles from the turnoff.
The campground is accessible via paved scenic Highway 14, followed by a 1.5-mile dirt road (Forest Road 17). The dirt road is described as steep, though manageable. Four-wheel drive may be helpful, particularly for larger vehicles or motorhomes.Nearby places
Greybull (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive), Shell (approximately 20 miles, around 25 minutes drive), Burgess Junction (approximately 19 miles, around 30 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
The nearest dump station is at Burgess Junction (19 miles away). Additional supplies such as dining, showers, and general stores can be found at Elk View Inn or other nearby lodges.
Camper Reviews
4.7
68 reviews
Shell Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Shell Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for cleanliness, scenic beauty, helpful hosts, and proximity to Shell Creek. Many reviewers emphasized the peaceful and remote nature of the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 68 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, spacious and private campsites, helpful and friendly camp hosts, proximity to Shell Creek, abundant wildlife, and quiet surroundings.
Based on 68 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of showers, issues with livestock occasionally breaching the campground, and windy conditions affecting tent camping.
Based on 68 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood if you don't plan to purchase on-site. Choose shaded sites closer to Shell Creek for better cooling during warmer weather. Plan visits for later in June or July for optimal...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring visits often highlight fast-flowing Shell Creek due to snowmelt, impacting fishing but enhancing the scenic beauty. Summer reviews praise warm weather, abundant wildlife, and better fishing...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms have always been cleaner than some 5-star hotels.' 2. 'Fishing starts in late June as Shell Creek is flowing really fast due to snow melt and spring rains.' 3. 'This spot is amazing!...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #13: Praised for views and sounds, described as worth more than $20 per day. Site #6: Noted as lacking shade but offering creek access. Site #12: Highlighted for spaciousness, flat terrain, and...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and many single-family sites accommodate those with disabilities. The campground is remote, but its accessible features are appreciated.
Based on 68 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, with leash requirements. One reviewer shared, 'Well-behaved dogs are welcomed here. Belle the blue tick loves camping at Shell Creek.'
Based on 68 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025