About Ranger Creek Recreation Area
Overview Ranger Creek Group Campground is located just off the Bighorn Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 14) at an elevation of 7,500 feet. The Bighorn National Forest offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, scenic driving and a number of historic sites. The administering organization is Rustic Freedom/Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds; e-mail: support@rusticfreedom.comRecreation Scenic off-road driving is available on Battle Creek Road to Medicine Lodge Lake, Ranger Creek Road to Shell Reservoir, Hunt Mountain Road and the Burgess Overlook Jeep trail. Diverse hiking opportunities vary from loop trails to treks along creeks and over mountain peaks including access to the Cloud Peak Wilderness. The Adelaide Trail, for hiking and horseback riding is nearby, providing access to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Many creeks, lakes and ponds dot the region, offering some of the best trout fly-fishing in the state.Facilities The campground offers one large group site that can accommodate up to 150 people for overnight camping or day-use picnicking. A shelter covers several picnic and serving tables, and a campfire ring and grill are on-site. Accessible vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. The nearest dump station is 20 miles away at Burgess Junction.Natural Features The campground is situated on the banks of Ranger Creek in the Bighorn Mountains, where craggy granite peaks rise over 13,000 feet above sea level. The area is forested with a mix of pine and aspen trees. An abundance of wildlife lives in the area. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (307) 431-7446. Nearby Attractions The Shell Falls Visitor Center, at the overlook of Shell Falls, is about 8 miles west. Burgess Junction Visitor Center is 20 miles north. Both centers offer interpretive trails, scenic views and educational displays about natural features like flora and fauna, and area history. Elk View Inn and other nearby lodges provide guided
How to Get There
Located 34 miles east of Greybull, Wyoming on U.S. Highway 14. Turn off onto Paintrock Lake Road (Forest Road 17). Ranger Creek Campground is 3.5 miles from the turnoff, 2 miles beyond Shell Creek Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Ranger Creek Recreation Area
Heading to Ranger Creek Recreation Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Ranger Creek Recreation Area?
No central reservation system listed for Ranger Creek Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231834) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Ranger Creek Recreation Area?
Located 34 miles east of Greybull, Wyoming on U.S. Highway 14. Turn off onto Paintrock Lake Road (Forest Road 17). Ranger Creek Campground is 3.5 miles from the turnoff, 2 miles beyond Shell Creek Campground.
How do I contact Ranger Creek Recreation Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-587-9054 or email: support@rusticfreedom.com.
References & Official Resources
