Ranger Creek Recreation Area

Star4.80
39 reviews
FOREST ROAD 17, Shell, WY, 82441, USA
Family Friendly

Quick Facts

7,500 ft

Price

$18.5 - $160/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 23–...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Ranger Creek Recreation Area
$18.50 - $160.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Display rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges. Group reservation prices depend on the number of people. Extra fees are...
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Standard Site Fee$18.50
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$160.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
406-587-9054gccampgrounds13@gmail.com
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What Campers Say

4.80

Top-Rated

Based on 39 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spacioushikingfriendlysites

"Reviews for Ranger Creek Recreation Area generally highlight the beauty of the setting, the quality of facilities, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. However, some site-specific issues and seasonal challenges are noted."

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Campground Map

FOREST ROAD 17, Shell, WY, 82441, USA

Ranger Creek Recreation Area

FOREST ROAD 17, Shell, WY, 82441, USA

Driving directionsLocated 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.
The campground is accessible via paved roads until the turn onto Paintrock Lake Road (Forest Road 17), which is likely unpaved. No information on seasonal closures or challenges in terrain is explicitly provided.
Nearby places
Greybull is 34 miles east (approximately 45-minute drive). Shell Falls Visitor Center is 8 miles west (approximately 15-minute drive), Burgess Junction Visitor Center is 20 miles north (approximately 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Elk View Inn and other nearby lodges provide camping supplies, fishing supplies, guided adventures, dining options, and general stores. These facilities are likely near Burgess Junction, about 20 miles north.

Best Time to Camp at Ranger Creek Recreation Area

Experience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of the Bighorn Mountains, where each season paints the landscape in new colors. From May through September, warm days and cool mountain nights create perfect camping conditions under star-filled skies. As autumn arrives, golden aspens dance in crisp breezes, while winter transforms the forest into a snow-draped wonderland where temperatures plunge and silence blankets the peaks.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Reviews and seasonal notes cite May–Sept peak season; summer called best time to visit.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn colors and cooler weather enhance mountain experience; fall recommended though shorter season.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.5 / 5

Spring melt/wash-outs cause trail closures; site open season begins in late May for peak use.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Peak season is May–Sept; winter access and services not detailed and trails face seasonal issues.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 to September 15, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season: May 23–September 15, 2025.

About Ranger Creek Recreation Area

Nestled deep within the majestic Bighorn National Forest, Ranger Creek Group Campground offers an unforgettable wilderness retreat where up to 150 adventurers can gather beneath towering pines. This expansive group site serves as your basecamp for endless mountain adventures—from casting lines into crystal-clear streams to exploring rugged backcountry trails, navigating thrilling off-road routes, and discovering prehistoric wonders frozen in time.
Ranger Creek Recreation Area is designed to cater primarily to group camping but also accommodates individual campers.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
You may stay for up to 14 nights during a visit.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Ranger Creek Recreation Area offers a range of activities focused on nature and recreation. Visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, off-road driving, and more, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
HikingThe area offers diverse hiking opportunities, including the Adelaide Trail leading to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Trails vary from loop routes to challenging mountain treks.
FishingFishing opportunities are plentiful, with many creeks, lakes, and ponds offering some of the best trout fly-fishing in the state.
BikingBiking is mentioned as an activity, although no specific details about trails or paths are provided.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with species like moose and deer frequently seen. Shell Creek, with its natural environment, offers excellent opportunities to observe native fauna.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMoose and other wildlife frequent the area, requiring caution. Additional risks might include severe winter-weather conditions.

Weather at Ranger Creek Recreation Area

Reviews

4.8
39 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Ranger Creek Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Ranger Creek Recreation Area generally highlight the beauty of the setting, the quality of facilities, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. However, some site-specific issues and seasonal challenges are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praise the natural beauty, spacious campsites, friendly camp hosts, and the range of outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. Wildlife sightings, including moose, are frequently...
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Based on 39 reviews

Common Concerns

Some negative feedback includes issues with previous campers not vacating sites on time and seasonal trail closures due to wash-outs.
Based on 39 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend selecting specific campsites, such as site #1 for its prime location. It's advised to visit later in the summer to avoid trail wash-outs. Those with RVs may need to plan for the...
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Based on 39 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is highlighted as the best time for a visit, with late summer being ideal to avoid wash-out-related trail closures.
Based on 39 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'A beautiful place to camp! A lot of the trails are closed due to wash-outs. A little later in the summer might be a better time to go.' - Pauline Headings 2. 'This is a great place to go as a...
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Based on 39 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #8 is noted for its seclusion. Site #1 is frequently praised as the best location in the campground. Site GRP1 is reviewed positively for its group camping capacity and scenic location.
Based on 39 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is generally positive, with vault toilets and water access highlighted as accessible features.
Based on 39 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but specific amenities or reviews related to pets are not detailed.
Based on 39 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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