Tail Race Campground
02 reviewsKemmerer Field Office, 430 North Highway 189, Kemmerer, WY, 83101, USA
Tail Race Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Wyoming's historic trapper country, Tail Race Campground offers an intimate escape with just three secluded campsites, each featuring its own fire ring for evening gatherings under starlit skies. This rustic gem sits perfectly positioned between the shimmering waters of Fontenelle Reservoir and the wildlife-rich expanse of Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge. Here, where mountain men once gathered for legendary rendezvous, modern adventurers find exceptional birding opportunities, world-class fishing, and endless water recreation. Despite its small size, the campground provides essential amenities including a vault toilet, making it an ideal basecamp for those seeking authentic wilderness experiences without venturing too far from civilization.
The Tail Race Campground supports primarily primitive camping with minimal facilities. It is suitable for small groups or individuals seeking a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Tail Race Campground, where the echoes of America's fur trading era still resonate across the landscape. This sacred gathering ground once witnessed the boisterous annual rendezvous of mountain men, Native American traders, and adventurers who shaped the American West. Here, beneath the same stars that guided trappers along the Green River, fortunes were made and lost, tall tales were spun around crackling fires, and the foundations of Western expansion were laid. Today's visitors camp on ground steeped in frontier history, where every sunrise connects them to the legendary characters who once made this remote outpost a crossroads of cultures and commerce.
Weather and SeasonsTail Race Campground experiences Wyoming's characteristically dynamic weather patterns, with refreshing breezes that sweep across the reservoir keeping summer days comfortable for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring crisp, invigorating air perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, while gentle precipitation keeps the surrounding landscape lush and vibrant. Winter transforms the area into a quiet wonderland, with occasional dustings of snow creating pristine landscapes and peaceful solitude. The typically moderate conditions throughout much of the year make this an excellent destination for extended camping seasons, though visitors should always pack layers to accommodate the high country's famously changeable moods.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere, where the high desert meets the river valley in spectacular fashion.
Natural Features and SceneryTail Race Campground immerses visitors in a stunning tapestry of Western landscapes where the legendary Green River carves its path through ancient terrain. The sparkling waters of Fontenelle Reservoir stretch to the horizon, creating a vast aquatic playground framed by rolling hills and dramatic skies. Along the riverbanks, cottonwoods and willows create ribbons of green that attract an impressive array of wildlife, from majestic raptors soaring overhead to deer tiptoeing to the water's edge at dawn. The adjoining Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge transforms each day into a naturalist's dream, where great blue herons stalk the shallows and countless songbirds fill the air with their melodies. This convergence of water, land, and sky creates ever-changing vistas that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionPositioned at the remarkable confluence of Fontenelle Reservoir and Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, Tail Race Campground occupies a geological wonderland shaped by millennia of river dynamics and ancient lake beds. This unique location showcases the dramatic interplay between human-engineered reservoir systems and pristine riparian corridors, creating diverse ecosystems that support an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life. The surrounding landscape tells the story of the Green River's patient work carving through layers of sedimentary rock, while the reservoir's creation has added a modern chapter to this ancient geological narrative. This special place where trappers once gathered continues to serve as a crossroads—now between different ecosystems that offer visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the full spectrum of high desert river environments.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are described as large and open.
Sites PrivacySites are not highly secluded, as the campground is small and open.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Three small campsites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThree small campsites in close proximity to water bodies and natural reserve areas.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates only on a first-come-first-serve basis, with no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations allowed; cancellation rules do not apply.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Tail Race Campground is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts interested in birding, fishing, or non-motorized water sports due to its proximity to Fontenelle Reservoir and Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge. The area’s historical significance as a gathering place for trappers adds an educational layer to its appeal.
Fishing
Fishing is available given the campground’s location next to the Green River, although one review mentioned 'terrible fishing.'Wildlife viewing
The campground is adjacent to the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, making it an excellent spot for birding and observing wildlife.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, are encouraged due to the Green River’s proximity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife risks due to proximity to Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge and water-related hazards from Fontenelle Reservoir.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak/shoulder and value season periods aren't described.
Trash and recyclingNo information provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Fontenelle Reservoir and the Green River, enabling fishing and water sports opportunities.
Common complaintsMixed reviews: 'Terrible fishing, crackheads everywhere, smells like rotting corpse nearby, loud music all night' (Brian W Schwisow). Contrasting review: 'Small campground with large open sites next to the Green River. Pleasant view. Vault restroom. Rustic.' (Dale Hicks).
Campground Map
Kemmerer Field Office, 430 North Highway 189, Kemmerer, WY, 83101, USA
Driving directionsLocated 1/4 mile south of Fontenelle Reservoir on the east side of the Green River. To access the campground, travel east on Highway 372 for one mile, cross the Green River Bridge, then immediately turn north for four miles. Turn west before the dam to the river and go one mile further.
Road access involves traveling primarily on Highway 372 and secondary roads, crossing bridges and navigating turns toward the dam and river. The terrain and road conditions are not explicitly described as challenging or seasonal.Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Tail Race Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Tail Race Campground vary widely. While some campers appreciate its open sites and proximity to the Green River, others criticize the lack of facilities and nearby services. The average sentiment score for campgrounds is relatively low at 2.5.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned include the 'large open sites next to the Green River,' 'pleasant view,' and the rustic charm of the area.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include 'terrible fishing,' presence of undesirable individuals ('crackheads'), loud music disrupting the peace, and a pervasive unpleasant smell. Additionally, the lack of nearby...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Potential campers should come prepared for a more isolated and primitive experience. Bring all necessary supplies, including water, as the campground lacks basic amenities.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The small number of reviews does not provide a clear seasonal trend in experiences, but the rustic and primitive nature of the campground is a consistent theme.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Terrible fishing, crackheads everywhere, smells like there’s a rotting corpse nearby, loud music all night, and no services nearby.' - Brian W Schwisow. 2. 'Small campground with large open sites...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or areas within the campground are distinguished in reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features have been noted.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences with pets have been noted.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025