Half Moon Lake Campground
3.9640 reviewsPO BOX 220, 29 E. Fremont Lake Rd, Pinedale, WY, 82941, USA
Half Moon Lake Campground
$7.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Recreation Use Fee varies by method of payment and season. Peak season fees are $12 per night, and may increase from past rates of $7 per night according to user review citations. Scan & Pay system applies for first-come-first-served sites.
About this campground
Tucked away at 7,600 feet in the pristine wilderness of Bridger-Teton National Forest, Half Moon Lake Campground offers an intimate escape from the crowds. This hidden gem features just 17 thoughtfully spaced sites, where three lucky spots grant direct access to the lake's edge through a natural screen of rustling willows. Each site comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and no piped water—encouraging visitors to embrace a simpler way of life—the tranquil setting more than compensates for these basic amenities.
Half Moon Lake Campground caters to a range of camping needs, including tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThe echoes of the Old West still resonate throughout this region, where mountain men once trapped beaver and traded tales. Just a scenic drive away in Pinedale, the Museum of the Mountain Man brings this rich heritage to life with fascinating fur trade artifacts and exhibits honoring the area's Native American history. Time your visit right, and you might catch the legendary Green River Rendezvous each July—a vibrant celebration that recreates the spirited gatherings of trappers, traders, and Native peoples who shaped this rugged frontier.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-altitude retreat into a paradise of perfect temperatures, with daytime highs hovering in the delightful mid-70s before giving way to crisp, star-filled nights that invite cozy campfire conversations. Many seasoned visitors consider these conditions absolutely ideal for outdoor adventures. As with many pristine lakeside locations, mosquitoes make their presence known during the warmer months, so come prepared with your favorite repellent to fully enjoy the evening serenity.
ElevationPerched at 7,600 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary delivers the refreshing coolness that lowlanders crave during scorching summers. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, while treating campers to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and the kind of crisp, clean air that makes every breath feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryHalf Moon Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel, its crystal-clear waters a testament to the ancient glaciers that carved this stunning landscape. Campers consistently marvel at the lake's pristine condition, where sandy beaches invite barefoot wandering and the serene waters beckon for morning paddles. The surrounding tapestry of lodgepole pines and Douglas-firs creates a verdant canopy, while stands of quaking aspen add splashes of green in summer and gold in fall. Scattered throughout the landscape, weathered rocky outcroppings and aromatic sagebrush meadows complete this quintessential Western mountain scene.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground sits in the dramatic foothills of the legendary Wind River Mountains, where ancient glaciers once sculpted the landscape with patient, powerful hands. Half Moon Lake itself stands as a monument to these ice age architects, its waters filling a basin carved by massive glacial movements millennia ago. The surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest showcases nature's diversity, where dense forests of lodgepole pine and Douglas-fir give way to shimmering aspen groves, while hardy sagebrush claims the open meadows between weathered granite outcroppings—each element telling its own chapter in this region's geological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information about accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeReviews suggest that campsites vary in size, with some being large and offering good separation for privacy.
Sites Privacy"Sites were large and well separated from one another," per user review, and many are screened by willows and aspens for added privacy.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite #8 is described as the best site for access to sandy beaches and shade. Site #6 offers excellent privacy and direct lake access.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention sites #8 and #6 as highly desirable due to proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limits apply but were not specified in terms of days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
No specific information about group sites is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are screened by willow and aspen shrubs, offering privacy. Three sites have direct lake access, while others are near the lake’s beaches.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 22, 2025, and closes September 7, 2025, for reservations. First-come-first-served sites available until September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Scan & Pay feature available for some sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available. Approximately half the campground operates on this basis. User reviews cite frustrations with locals reserving sites for extended periods but only occupying them during weekends.
Cancellation PolicyScan & Pay transactions are non-refundable. For reserved sites, cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled after 12:00 AM local time the day before arrival.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Half Moon Lake Campground provides a range of outdoor recreational opportunities centered around its natural lake and surrounding area. Activities include fishing for trout species, water sports such as swimming, canoeing, paddleboarding, and boating, as well as hiking trails located two miles from the campground.
Hiking
An excellent hiking trail is located about two miles down the gravel road. The trail suits users of all abilities, but user reviews noted challenges such as "trail is poorly marked after about a mile and a half."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 opportunities are available for rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, and other species native to the area.Swimming
Swimming access is available off the beach, although reviews mentioned the water as chilly.Boating
Boating activities are supported with a boat launch site and dock located half a mile from the campground.Beach activities
The campground provides access to sandy beaches, described by users as "incredible" and reminiscent of being near the ocean.Winter Activities
No information about winter recreation activities is provided.Water Sports
Various water sports like canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are available. "Kayaking was amazing as I hugged the shoreline full circumstance in quiet bliss," said one user.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are User reviews note issues with quiet hours enforcement, including loud generators and noisy campers.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are noted as a significant issue during summer months. Dirt roads near the campground can be challenging for trailers. Wildlife may pose a risk due to required food storage measures.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 20.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
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 can be accessed in Pinedale, which has a ranger district office, police, and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 07, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is not provided; campers are required to pack out their trash. Several reviews expressed frustration at the lack of disposal facilities, with one quote noting, "It would be helpful and keep the beach cleaner if there were a dumpster for trash disposal."
Proximity to water featuresHalf Moon Lake is directly accessible from the campground, with three campsites offering direct lake access. The boat launch is located half a mile from the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with the reservation system, unclean sites, generator noise during quiet hours, and a lack of garbage disposal. Bugs and overgrown vegetation were also noted.
HostNo campground host onsite, as noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
PO BOX 220, 29 E. Fremont Lake Rd, Pinedale, WY, 82941, USA
Driving directionsTo reach the campground from Pinedale, drive to the east side of town and turn northeast onto the Fremont Lake road, passing the Pinedale Ranger District Office. Continue straight on the main road for approximately 10 miles to Half Moon Lake Road. Turn right onto the road and continue for approximately two miles to campground access road.
The road into the campground is described as narrow and challenging for large RVs or travel trailers. Reviews note sketchy conditions with limited turnaround space for trailers near the hiking trailhead. The last mile is unpaved.Nearby places
Pinedale (approx. 12 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Pinedale, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
40 reviews
Half Moon Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic environment, with positive mentions of the privacy and proximity to the lake. However, common complaints include unclean facilities, lack of garbage disposal, and overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is described as quiet and serene, with well-maintained sites and stunning views of the lake. Many appreciated the privacy and tree coverage. "Great little campground! Spot was...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues raised include bugs, overgrown sites, unstocked restrooms, lack of garbage disposal, and overcrowding during peak times. "Garbage is stashed everywhere, fire pits are broken,"...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users advise arriving before dark due to challenging road conditions and bringing bug spray to combat mosquitoes. Several suggest booking site #13 or #8 for the best experience.
Based on 40 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews show high activity levels and complaints about overcrowding, while spring and late summer reviews highlight peaceful environments. Mosquitoes are mentioned frequently during warmer...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful lake and beach. Good privacy and quiet campsites." "Mosquitoes nearly carried our dog off!" "It was wonderful not hearing generators all night." "Sites were large and well separated from...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #13 is frequently recommended as the best spot, while users noted issues like "fire pit full of water" at site #17. Site #8 is highlighted as the best for its proximity to a sandy beach.
Based on 40 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressed accessibility features.
Based on 40 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be leashed. One user noted, "Dog crap in the tent site," highlighting concerns about pet owners not cleaning up after their animals.
Based on 40 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025