FAQs
Check here for some of the Bighorn National Forest's most frequently asked questions
Q). When do campgrounds open?
A). Late May to early June
Q). When is Medicine Wheel accessible?
A). Depending on the snowpack, the area is typically open by late June or early July.
Q). What do I need for my ATV or UTV?
A). It depends on the size of the machine and a few other factors. Please visit Wyoming State Trails for website details https://wyoparks.wyo.gov/index.php/orv-trails/orv-permits-trails
Q). Where can I find firewood?
A). Most of the forest is open to personal firewood collection. A permit is required to remove firewood from the Forest. Please see https://nfs.fs2c.usda.gov/r02/bighorn/forest-products-industry or your local forest office for more information. Firewood can be gathered using motorized vehicles up to 300 feet off Forest roads.
Q). Where can I disperse camp or boondock?
A). Most Forest service roads have adjacent dispersed camping spots. Camping outside of developed campgrounds is permitted throughout much of the Forest. You are allowed to drive up to 300 feet off of an open road to set up camp, providing it will not result in damage to the land, is in an area that is not signed otherwise, or if restrictions are in place prohibiting that use.
Q). How can I reserve a camping spot or cabin?
A). All reservations are made at https://www.recreation.gov
Q). When can I access Cloud Peak Wilderness?
A). Depending on the snowpack, most trails and areas are free of snow by early July.
Q) Where are the elk?
A). The Bighorn mountains are excellent elk habitat, and these animals can be found throughout the Forest depending on the time of year. As snow falls, elk migrate to lower elevations to access food.
Q). Where should I fish?
A). Many of lakes and streams in the Bighorns have wonderful fishing opportunities. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department's Interactive Fishing Guide is a great place to find what species to expect in each location. Please check with https://wgfd.wyo.gov/ for licensing and regulations
Q). When is the best time to see wildflowers?
A). June is typically when wildflower viewing in the Bighorns is at its best.
Q). What is the rule on burials services on NFS Lands, including cremated remains?
A). It is Forest Service policy to not permit commercial scattering of cremains on National Forest System lands (NFS) lands by flying services, mortuaries, or funeral homes. While there are substantial differences between a traditional cemetery and the scatter of cremains, our existing permitting authorities do not provide for the permanent use of NFS lands. Neither burial nor scattering of ashes are an appropriate use of the Forest and are not authorized on NFS lands. The placing of remains creates a permanent occupancy of the land and the placing of headstones or monuments documenting the location are similarly permanent. Placing of statues, flowers, and other items of remembrance would be considered a monument. The use of National Forests for these purposes would need a Special Use Authorization (36 CFR 250). In determining if an authorization can be issued, the proposed use or application to use the Forest must pass the screening criteria found at 36 CFR 251.54. However, burial of remains or scattering of ashes would not pass the initial screen found at 36 CFR 251.54(e) 1.iv; "The proposed use will not create an exclusive or perpetual right of use or occupancy," or the second level screen found at 36 CFR 251.54(e) 5.i; "The proposed use would be inconsistent or incompatible with the purposes for which the lands are managed."