Brown Mountain Campground
02 reviewsBrown Mountain Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Overnight fee for a single site is $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on fees for the site they occupy.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Wyoming's wilderness, Brown Mountain Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience with just seven intimate campsites strung like pearls along the pristine Wood River. This rustic hideaway beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, where the only sounds are rushing water and whispering pines. With no garbage collection or modern distractions, visitors embrace the timeless 'pack it in, pack it out' ethos, leaving only footprints in this untouched mountain sanctuary.
Brown Mountain Campground caters to a range of campers, offering sites suitable for tents and potentially small RVs or trailers, given the maximum spur length restrictions. It is a primitive camping environment without modern amenities.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground's tranquil borders lies a haunting reminder of Wyoming's gold rush era—the abandoned mining town of Kirwin. This ghostly settlement whispers tales of fortune seekers and frontier dreams, offering modern explorers a fascinating journey through time. The crumbling structures and forgotten mine shafts stand as monuments to the rugged determination of those who once called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic seasonal symphony at Brown Mountain, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of frigid beauty and deep snow. As spring melts into summer, the campground awakens to comfortable days filled with warm sunshine and cool mountain breezes. The dry summer conditions create perfect camping weather, with starlit nights that showcase the Milky Way in all its glory above the peaceful riverside setting.
ElevationPerched high in Wyoming's mountain country, Brown Mountain Campground sits at an elevation where the air is crisp and pure, and the sky seems close enough to touch. This lofty position offers cooler temperatures even in summer and provides that distinctive high-altitude camping experience cherished by mountain enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodious Wood River serves as the campground's natural centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters dancing over ancient stones while providing a soothing soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. Majestic peaks frame every vista, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and forest. For the adventurous, a rugged 9-mile four-wheel-drive journey leads to the fascinating Kirwin ghost town, where mountain views and mining history converge in spectacular fashion.
Geological RegionBrown Mountain Campground rests within the magnificent Shoshone National Forest, where the Wood River has carved its patient path through countless millennia of mountain geology. This dramatic landscape showcases nature's architectural prowess, with towering peaks, deep valleys, and the ever-present river serving as reminders of the powerful forces that shaped this corner of Wyoming's wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeThe maximum spur length is 16 feet, with one site exception extending to 40 feet.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest that the campground offers a peaceful and spacious setting, providing a sense of tranquility and privacy.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 days
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned in the source material.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of seven campsites, with one spur accommodating a length of 40 feet and others limited to 16 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from early/mid May through mid October
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served only. No reservations available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Brown Mountain Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, making it an appealing location for nature enthusiasts. Highlights include hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and fishing in the Wood River. The area is also suitable for backpacking and exploring the nearby ghost town of Kirwin.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include day hikes and longer backpacking trips within the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The campground is close to scenic trails, although specific trail details are not provided in the source.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Wood River, which runs alongside the campground. Specific fish types or fishing regulations are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, although specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but based on the remote and mountainous location, snow-related activities may be possible.Water Sports
No information about non-motorized water sports is available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country, and proper food storage is mandatory. Roads may be rough or difficult to navigate without appropriate vehicles.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo garbage collection is available at this campground. Visitors must pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to the Wood River, providing opportunities for fishing and enjoying the water.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Cody, WY take State Highway 120 south to Meeteetse, 32 miles. Take State Highway 290 west of Meeteetse 7 miles to County Road 4DT (Wood River Road). Follow the Wood River Road to Forest Road 200, which begins at the national forest boundary. The campground is 3 miles west of the boundary.
The access road includes both county and forest roads. It is mentioned as rough in places, and it is specifically stated that 4-wheel drive is recommended to access the ghost town 9 miles west of the campground.Nearby places
Meeteetse, WY: 25 miles
Cody, WY: 32 miles
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Brown Mountain Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful ambiance, scenic location, and basic amenities like outhouses and fire rings. However, one review notes frustration with campground closure in the past and lack of sufficient communication from the Forest Service.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
- Peaceful and scenic environment
- Availability of fire rings and outhouses
- Proximity to the beautiful Wood River and the ghost town of Kirwin
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Past closures of the campground without adequate public notice
- Lack of garbage collection
- No cell phone service
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own drinking water, as potable water is not available.
- Be prepared for a primitive camping experience and pack out all trash.
- Explore the nearby ghost town of Kirwin, accessible via...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not provide specific seasonal insights, but the campground is typically open from early/mid-May to mid-October, suggesting that it is best suited for warmer months.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "We love this campground outside of Kirwin, Wyoming. It offers more space, outhouses, fire rings, and the beautiful Wood River right by the campground. It's a very peaceful place in the...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground has seven sites, but specific reviews about individual sites are not available in the source material.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
"This site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments."
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet policies or experiences is provided.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025