Sibley Lake
4.68114 reviewsUS HIGHWAY 14
Sibley Lake
$20.50 - $25.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.50
Hookup Site Fee$25.50
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20.50 for tent-only non-electric sites to $25.50 for standard electric sites during peak season. An additional $4 fee applies for electric sites. If using Access or Senior discount passes, the total for electric sites can drop to $13 per night.
About this campground
Perched at an breathtaking 7,900 feet in the heart of the Bighorn National Forest, Sibley Lake Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. Here, crystal-clear waters invite anglers to cast their lines while hiking trails wind through pristine wilderness. Each thoughtfully arranged campsite comes complete with sturdy picnic tables and campfire rings where stories are shared under star-filled skies. Modern accessible facilities ensure comfort without compromising the rugged mountain experience that draws visitors back season after season.
Sibley Lake offers camping accommodations including tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and non-electric sites. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceThe echoes of history resonate throughout this mountain sanctuary, where ancient trails once guided Native Americans and early explorers through these rugged peaks. Today's visitors can explore these storied pathways and discover the nearby Shell Falls Visitor Center, a treasure trove of knowledge where interactive displays unveil centuries of natural and human history. Learn how indigenous peoples thrived in these mountains, how pioneers forged new paths, and how the diverse flora and fauna have adapted to this remarkable ecosystem.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 8,000 feet, Sibley Lake's weather tells the dramatic story of mountain seasons. Summer days bring crisp, invigorating air punctuated by afternoon rain showers that paint rainbows across granite peaks. As autumn approaches, golden aspens create a stunning contrast against evergreen forests. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-laden wonderland where temperatures plunge and pristine powder blankets the wilderness. Spring arrives slowly, revealing wildflower meadows as snow retreats to higher elevations.
ElevationAt 7,900 feet above sea level, Sibley Lake Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure where the air is crisp and thin. This elevated paradise rewards visitors with cooler temperatures even during summer's peak, though the altitude demands respect. Take time to acclimate, stay hydrated, and listen to your body as you adjust to the mountain environment. The payoff? Spectacular vistas, refreshing mountain air, and an escape from the heat of lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic lodgepole pines stand sentinel around Sibley Lake, their towering forms creating a natural cathedral that frames views of the surrounding Bighorn Mountains. The campground's crown jewel, Sibley Lake itself, mirrors the sky and reflects the rugged granite peaks that soar beyond 13,000 feet. This dramatic landscape, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millions of years of geological forces, creates an amphitheater of natural beauty where eagles soar overhead and mountain wildlife roams through forests that seem untouched by time.
Geological RegionThe Bighorn Mountains rise like ancient sentinels along the legendary Bighorn Scenic Byway, their craggy granite peaks piercing the sky at elevations exceeding 13,000 feet. This geological masterpiece showcases millions of years of Earth's history written in stone, from Precambrian granite cores to limestone cliffs that once lay beneath prehistoric seas. Dense lodgepole pine forests cloak the mountainsides, creating vital corridors for elk, deer, black bears, and countless other species that call this remarkable ecosystem home. Every vista tells a story of tectonic forces, glacial sculpting, and the enduring power of nature.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible fishing dock, vault toilets, and several amenities designed for ease of use.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some being spacious and others described as small. Specific reviews mention ample parking space and some sites with separate eating areas downhill.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, offering privacy in a heavily forested area with lodgepole pine trees.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #005 is more secluded; site #023 is spacious and well-drained; site #016 offers good views and wildflowers.
Best CampsitesSites like #023 and #024 are praised for spaciousness and proximity to water features.
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
Two non-towed vehicles allowed per site. Guests may have additional visitors with a $10 fee for the second vehicle.
Groups
No specific details on designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout24 sites arranged in loops, with some offering electricity. Sites are spaced for privacy, nestled within lodgepole pine forests.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 5, 2025 to September 15, 2025. Reservations can start from June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly stated, but reservations are highly encouraged during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyRefund requests made through Recreation.gov incur a $10 processing fee. Late cancellations result in the forfeiture of the first night's fees. Changes to reservations, including date modifications, incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sibley Lake Campground provides a range of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and birding. Visitors highlight the beauty of the trails, lake, and surrounding wildlife as key attractions.
Hiking
Numerous trails ranging from easy creekside hikes to challenging treks into the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Well-marked trails are praised in reviews, with highlights including Black Mountain Lookout Trail and Porcupine Falls.Fishing
Rainbow, brown, and brook trout are common catches. Accessible fishing dock is available, and fishing streams around the campground are also popular.Swimming
The lake is described as suitable for swimming, with some reviews noting the lack of swimming-specific amenities but praising the experience.Biking
The area includes off-road vehicle trails and scenic jeep roads suitable for biking.Boating
Non-motorized craft are allowed on Sibley Lake, with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing frequently mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife sightings including moose, deer, elk, and osprey. The forested area provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Limited winter activity information is available, but seasonal camping closures suggest reduced usability during winter months.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site, and firewood can be purchased from campground hosts.
- Quiet hours are enforced, although some reviews mention violations by other campers.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and moose. Steep trails and wet conditions during thaw periods can present challenges.
Active alertsSeasonal closures and weather-related advisories may limit access or amenities.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.5 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
Closest emergency services are likely in Dayton, WY, approximately 25 miles away. Buffalo, WY, approximately 45 miles southeast, may offer more comprehensive services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 5, 2025 - September 15, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided. Multiple reviews applaud the campground hosts for maintaining cleanliness and ensuring trash removal.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Sibley Lake and Prune Creek, with accessible fishing docks and water activities like kayaking and canoeing.
Common complaintsSeveral complaints about rude or overbearing campground hosts, dust from traffic on gravel roads, and loud RV generators.
HostCampground hosts actively maintain the site, enforce rules, and sell firewood. Mixed reviews about host interactions, ranging from friendly and helpful to overbearing.
Campground Map
US HIGHWAY 14
Driving directionsFrom Dayton, Wyoming, take U.S. Highway 14 southwest about 25 miles to the campground.
The campground is close to U.S. Highway 14, making it easily accessible without requiring long travel on forest roads. However, some highway noise may be heard in the campground.Nearby places
Dayton, WY (25 miles southwest)
Buffalo, WY (approx. 45 miles southeast).
Nearby supplies
Dayton, WY (25 miles southwest) has basic supplies
Buffalo, WY (45 miles southeast) offers larger stores and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.7
114 reviews
Sibley Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sibley Lake Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and range of activities. Some negative experiences with campground hosts and high levels of dust are noted in specific reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 114 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly hosts, abundant wildlife sightings, great fishing and hiking opportunities, and beautiful scenery. Many campers described their experience as peaceful and relaxing. 'The...
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Common Concerns
Issues with dust from vehicle traffic, noise from neighboring campers, and highway proximity. A few reviewers reported negative interactions with specific campground hosts and site conditions during...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bear spray, mallets for tent stakes, and prepare for potential late-season closures. Early booking recommended for electric sites.
Based on 114 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are most popular, with frequent mentions of wildlife and enjoyable weather. Negative experiences are more prominent in early spring due to snow-covered sites and delayed facility...
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Camper Quotes
'Sibley Lake has been on my list for a while. It is truly magnificent.' - James T. 'We saw moose both years that we have been here!' - Alexis V. 'Beautiful reservoir high in the Bighorn mountains.' -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1: Great forested campsites. Site #5: Challenging to find flat ground for tents. Site #16: Spacious and quiet with wildflowers. Site #23: Well-maintained and level ground even during rain.
Based on 114 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and fishing dock. No specific reviews addressing accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 114 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly campground with hosts ensuring compliance with leash rules. Visitors frequently bring pets and appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere.
Based on 114 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025