Ranger Creek Recreation Area
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather dependent. Open to self-supported camping when weather permits after season closures with no services (no trash collection, water, or cleaning). Reservations required during the operating season.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to protect the public health and safety in the Rocky Mountain Region. This Order is supplemental to and does not rescind or replace those restrictions in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A, or any Forest Supervisor Order issued under 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart B.
Cave Closure and Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.
Forest Special Order 02-02-06-25-11 Black Mountain Lookout Building Closure
The Black Mountain Fire Lookout building and deck are closed to entry.
Forest Special Order 02-02-06-25-10 Burgess Junction Visitor Center
Area closure to protect Burgess Junction Visitor Center building.
Forest Special Order 02-02-03-25-01 Medicine Wheel Area Closure
Restrictions in the Medicine Wheel Area.
Forest Special Order 02-02-01-25-02 West Tensleep Corridor
Restrictions to camping and human waste management in West Tensleep Corridor, Forest System Road 27.
Forest Special Order 02-02-03-25-05 Shell Falls Interpretive Site Closure
Shell Falls Interpretive Site trails, pathways, grounds, viewing platform, buildings, parking areas, and road closed to public entry.
Forest Special Order 02-02-25-03 Over Snow and Motor Vehicle Restrictions
Travel management restrictions including S-Areas.
Forest Special Order 02-02-06-24-09 Gravel Pit Area Closures
Burgess and Copper Creek Gravel Pit closures to public entry.
Forest Special Order 02-02-24-02 Occupancy and Use Camping Regulations
Regulations related to camping and use of areas in the Bighorn National Forest.
About
Ranger Creek Recreation Area is located just off the Bighorn Scenic Byway at 7,800 feet elevation in the Bighorn Mountains. This group campground sits on the banks of Ranger Creek and can accommodate up to 150 people for overnight camping or day use picnicking. The site features a shelter, campfire ring, grill, vault toilet, drinking water during the operating season, and trash collection. The area is forested with a mix of pine and aspen trees where craggy granite peaks rise over 13,000 feet above sea level. Diverse hiking opportunities include the nearby Adelaide Trail for hiking and horseback riding, providing access to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Many creeks, lakes, and ponds dot the region, offering excellent trout fly-fishing. Scenic off-road driving is available on Battle Creek Road to Medicine Lodge Lake, Ranger Creek Road to Shell Reservoir, and Hunt Mountain Road. Shell Falls Visitor Center is approximately 8 miles west at the overlook of Shell Falls, offering interpretive trails, scenic views, and educational displays. The site is located 34 miles east of Greybull on U.S. Highway 14, then 3 miles south on Forest Road 17.
Directions
From Greybull, take US Highway 14 east for about 32 miles to Forest Road 17. Turn right onto Forest Road 17 and continue about 3 miles to the campground sign.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $99 - $176 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 75ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 75ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| SM.FS.bighorninfo@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (307) 765-4435 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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