Dead Indian Campground
4.579 reviewsState Highway 296, Wyoming
Dead Indian Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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 use fee is $15 per night for single campsites. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single sites occupied by the pass holder. Payments accepted in cash or check.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged embrace of the Absaroka Wilderness, Dead Indian Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 secluded campsites. This peaceful retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, with a trailhead just across State Highway 296 leading to the crystalline waters of Dead Indian Creek. From here, winding paths beckon you deeper into the wilderness, revealing the untamed beauty of Dead Indian Meadows and the commanding presence of Dead Indian Peak. Surrounded by towering conifers and delicate wild roses, this remote sanctuary promises the kind of profound quiet that modern life rarely allows.
Dead Indian Campground offers primitive camping for tents and small RVs. It has 10 combined sites, with no RV pull-throughs or designated RV sites. Equestrian camping is available across the road at Trout Peak Trailhead.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Dead Indian Campground follows the historic Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, a route steeped in the poignant history of the American West. This scenic corridor traces the 1877 flight of the Nez Perce people, led by Chief Joseph, as they sought freedom across these very mountains. Every mile of this byway tells a story of courage, survival, and the complex tapestry of cultures that have shaped this landscape for generations.
Weather and SeasonsHigh-country weather brings dramatic seasonal contrasts to this mountain refuge. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, with snow blanketing the ground and temperatures plunging well below freezing. As late spring emerges, the campground awakens under increasingly warm days and brilliantly clear skies, perfect for stargazing and mountain exploration. Summer visitors should come prepared for nature's moods – sudden winds can sweep through the canyon, reminding everyone that at 6,000 feet, mountain weather writes its own rules.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Dead Indian Campground sits in that sweet spot where mountain air feels crisp and clean without leaving you gasping. This elevation brings refreshingly cool nights even in summer, perfect for campfire gatherings and deep sleep under star-filled skies. Visitors from lower elevations should take it easy their first day, allowing their bodies to adjust to the thinner air while soaking in the expansive mountain views.
Natural Features and SceneryThe gentle murmur of a mountain creek provides nature's soundtrack throughout the campground, its soothing presence a constant companion to your wilderness experience. Majestic conifers mingle with aromatic junipers and graceful deciduous trees, creating a diverse forest canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns. Wild roses add splashes of color and sweet fragrance, while the well-maintained grassy understory gives the campground an almost park-like quality despite its remote location. It's a place where rugged wilderness meets natural elegance.
Geological RegionDead Indian Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring the legendary Absaroka Wilderness, where ancient volcanic peaks rise above pristine valleys carved by glaciers and time. This is a landscape that tells Earth's story in stone and stream – from the rushing waters of Dead Indian Creek cutting through bedrock to the sprawling Dead Indian Meadows where wildflowers paint the alpine canvas each summer. The surrounding coniferous forests cloak mountains that have stood sentinel for millions of years, creating one of the most unspoiled wilderness areas in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeMaximum spur length of 32 feet.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites are open and surrounded by a mix of trees and understory grass, providing limited privacy. Some sites are close to the creek.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to Dead Indian Creek for scenic views and proximity to water features.
Best CampsitesSites next to Dead Indian Creek are highlighted as particularly beautiful by user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No explicit check-in time stated.
Check-out
No explicit check-out time stated.
Stay Limit
16 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limits provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into two sections, separated by Dead Indian Creek. Most campsites are open and surrounded by conifer and deciduous trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with services available May 22 through September 15. One loop remains open without services in the winter.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability for all 10 campsites. The campground is lightly used and quiet per user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation rules are specified as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Dead Indian Campground can enjoy hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and scenic vistas. The Trout Peak Trail #485, accessible from the trailhead across the highway, offers day hikes and extends deeper into the Absaroka Wilderness.
Hiking
The Trout Peak Trail #485 is a 20-mile trail accessible from the campground. It is suitable for both foot and horse travel, providing access to the North Absaroka Wilderness.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the area, with rainbow and cutthroat trout as the primary catch.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in a wilderness area that is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears. Visitors are encouraged to practice safe food storage techniques.Winter Activities
The south loop of the campground remains open for free use (without services) during the winter, providing opportunities for winter camping.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed if there are no bans in place.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is grizzly bear country, and campers must follow strict food storage practices using bear-proof lockers. Steep switchbacks on access roads may pose hazards for vehicles.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11 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 located in Cody, WY, approximately 32 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and general emergency facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - September 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash services are not available after September 13th. Campers are encouraged to pack out their trash during the off-season.
Proximity to water featuresDead Indian Creek runs through the campground and is audible from most sites. No swimming, boating, or fishing amenities provided onsite.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention lack of water, need for mowing to reduce mosquitoes, and small campsite sizes that may be difficult to navigate for larger campers.
HostOne of the 10 sites may be occupied by a host. No further details about host services provided.
Campground Map
State Highway 296, Wyoming
Driving directionsFrom Cody, travel north on State Highway 120 for 16 miles. Turn left (west) on Chief Joseph Scenic Highway (State Highway 296). Travel west about 16 miles to the campground. Be advised, steep switchbacks.
The campground is accessible via paved roads but includes steep switchbacks on State Highway 296. Seasonal closures do not apply as one loop remains open year-round.Nearby places
Cody, WY - 32 miles, approximately 45 minutes driving.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, fuel, and camping gear can be found in Cody, WY, approximately 32 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
9 reviews
Dead Indian Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic nature of Dead Indian Campground. Positive mentions include its tranquility, proximity to a creek, and suitability as a base for exploring nearby attractions like Yellowstone National Park.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's quiet atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and the presence of a small stream running through the site. Vault toilets are noted for their cleanliness.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water during certain times, small campsite sizes, and the absence of trash services after mid-September. Mosquitoes in summer and the need for regular...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water during the off-season and being prepared to pack out all trash. Firewood should be brought along if desired, and mosquito repellents are advised in summer.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is quieter and less crowded in the off-season, such as September and October. However, services such as trash collection and water are unavailable during this time. Summer months may...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Spectacular scenery and a great little campground." - Mark McIntyre. "Very, berry quiet and great base camp for exploring the area." - Lydia Long. "Not busy in September *Note: no trash services...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The sites closest to Dead Indian Creek are highly appreciated for their proximity to the water and scenic views. However, some campers found the sites too close together.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
One reviewer noted that the campground is 'handicapped friendly,' but the official description states that the site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific mentions of pet policies or pet-friendly features in the available reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025