How much does camping cost at Shell Creek?

Camping fees at Shell Creek are $18.5/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Shell Creek first-come first-served or reservation?

Shell Creek accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Shell Creek before I book?

Yes! Shell Creek has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Shell Creek?

Shell Creek is open May 22 to September 20. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Shell Creek?

Shell Creek does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Shell Creek have?

Shell Creek has 19 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Shell Creek?

Yes, pets are allowed at Shell Creek. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Shell Creek?

Shell Creek offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Shell Creek?

Popular activities at Shell Creek include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Shell Creek

4.65

142 reviews

FOREST ROAD 17, GREYBULL, WY 82426, USA

Top 24% in WYSummer

A-Report Card

Pet FriendlyScenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Fishing Camping Wyoming#1 Fall Camping Wyoming#1 Swimming Camping Wyoming#2 +13 more

Quick Facts

7,500 ft

Price

$18.5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

19 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 5% in state

RV Friendly

Book on Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,500 ft

Price

$18.5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

19 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 5% in state

RV Friendly

Book on Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Shell Creek

$18.50 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $18.50; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $18.50; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $18.50. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

Standard Site Fee$18.50

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

406-587-9054support@rusticfreedom.com

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Campground Map

FOREST ROAD 17, GREYBULL, WY 82426, USA

Shell Creek

FOREST ROAD 17, GREYBULL, WY 82426, USA

Nearby places

Greybull (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive), Shell (approximately 20 miles, around 25 minutes drive), Burgess Junction (approximately 19 miles, around 30 minutes drive).

Weather at Shell Creek

Best Time to Camp at Shell Creek

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities at 7,500 ft — expect sunny days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s. Trails are clear, alpine wildflowers and aspen understory are at their peak, and Shell Creek is fishable and swimmable (bracingly cold) for those who want to cool off. Daytime hiking, biking, creekside picnics and clear, star-filled evenings are at their best; weekends see modest increases in visitors but the campground remains far Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in WY

Best season: warm days, cool nights, full access to hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 20. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open for reservations from May 23, 2025, to September 15, 2025.

About Shell Creek

Shell Creek sits at 7,500 feet in Bighorn National Forest, 30 minutes from Greybull. Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds operates this small alpine campground along Shell Creek, where tent and RV campers fish, hike, and watch wildlife from spacious, private sites. Reviewers praise the clean vault toilets and helpful hosts, though cattle occasionally wander through and some sites lack shade.

Shell Creek Campground offers a mix of tent-only, standard non-electric, and RV-friendly sites. Group camping and cabin lodging options are not available at this campground.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities at 7,500 ft — expect sunny days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s. Trails are clear, alpine wildflowers and aspen understory are at their peak, and Shell Creek is fishable and swimmable (bracingly cold) for those who want to cool off. Daytime hiking, biking, creekside picnics and clear, star-filled evenings are at their best; weekends see modest increases in visitors but the campground remains far Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7500 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryFirs, aspens, and cottonwoods shade the canyon floor where Shell Creek carves through at 7,500 feet. Above the forest canopy, granite peaks climb past 13,000 feet, their weathered faces glowing at sunset. Moose browse the willows at dawn. Elk bugle across meadows in fall. Deer wander through camp often enough that reviewers mention them regularly. The creek itself provides constant background noise. Peaceful to some, though it runs loud during snowmelt.

Lodging & AccommodationsNearby lodges like Elk View Inn provide additional accommodations and amenities such as guided horseback riding, off-road vehicle rentals, dining options, and general stores.

Programs & ActivitiesThe nearby Shell Falls Visitor Center offers interpretive trails, scenic views, and educational displays about the area's flora, fauna, and history.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay limits are explicitly 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Two non-towed vehicles allowed per site
one vehicle included in the basic fee.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov. No further details regarding phone apps or third-party services are provided.

AccessibilityMany single-family sites are accessible, and vault toilets are explicitly marked as accessible. The campground's layout includes shaded and sunny sites, offering options for various needs.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating large RVs or tents. Specific sites like #12 were noted for being 'spacious and flat.

PrivacySites are spaced out to maximize privacy, with some bordering Shell Creek and offering peaceful background noise. One review highlights, 'Sites are large and spaced out to maximize privacy.

Total Campsites19 campsites

Recommended SitesFor shade and creek access, choose sites on the shaded side near the creek (e.g., #13, #7, #8). For larger groups or RVs, most sites are spacious and accommodating.

Best CampsitesSite #13 gets frequent praise for creek views and shade. Sites #7 and #8 work well for tents. Site #12 is spacious and flat, good for larger setups. Site #6 offers space but lacks shade. Fine for cooler weather, less ideal in July. Sites closer to the creek stay cooler and provide better background noise.

Need help booking Shell Creek?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Shell Creek Campground offers a robust selection of amenities aimed at enhancing the camping experience. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with a grill. Accessible vault toilets are available, and drinking water is provided through hydrants. Trash collection is included, but the nearest dump station is 19 miles away at Burgess Junction. User reviews highlight cleanliness and maintenance of facilities, with comments like 'Bathrooms have always been cleaner than some 5-star hotels' and 'Super clean bathrooms!' Firewood bundles can be purchased directly from the campground host. However, showers are not available on-site, which some reviewers noted as a drawback.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Shell Creek

Shell Creek Campground is situated in a region rich with outdoor recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic driving. The Adelaide Trail nearby offers hiking and horseback riding access to Shell Creek and the Shell Creek Trail. Fishing is highlighted as a major draw, with streams offering brook trout. Other activities include off-road vehicle trails, photography, stargazing, and mountain biking.

Hiking4.0/5

Diverse hiking options and nearby Adelaide Trail with access to peaks and creek-side routes.

Fishing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Biking3.5/5

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation, remote and quiet setting implies dark skies ideal for stargazing.

Photography4.5/5Sunsets on granite peaks, riverside scenes and wildlife provide excellent photo subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground, as only vault toilets are provided.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Shell Creek

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From Booking Sources

4.7

142 reviews

Top-Rated

Shell Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Shell Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for cleanliness, scenic beauty, helpful hosts, and proximity to Shell Creek. Many reviewers emphasized the peaceful and remote nature of the campground.

Review Summaries

Based on 142 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 142 reviews.

Site #13Loved
Site #13: Praised for views and sounds, described as worth more than $20 per day.
Site #12Loved
Site #12: Highlighted for spaciousness, flat terrain, and proximity to the creek.
Site #6Mentioned
Site #6: Noted as lacking shade but offering creek access.

What Campers Love

Clean vault toilets, spacious and private campsites, helpful and friendly camp hosts, proximity to Shell Creek, abundant wildlife, and quiet surroundings.

Based on 142 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of showers, issues with livestock occasionally breaching the campground, and windy conditions affecting tent camping.

Based on 142 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own firewood if you don't plan to purchase on-site. Choose shaded sites closer to Shell Creek for better cooling during warmer weather. Plan visits for later in June or July for optimal...

Based on 142 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring visits often highlight fast-flowing Shell Creek due to snowmelt, impacting fishing but enhancing the scenic beauty. Summer reviews praise warm weather, abundant wildlife, and better fishing...

Based on 142 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms have always been cleaner than some 5-star hotels.' 2. 'Fishing starts in late June as Shell Creek is flowing really fast due to snow melt and spring rains.' 3. 'This spot is amazing!...

Based on 142 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets and many single-family sites accommodate those with disabilities. The campground is remote, but its accessible features are appreciated.

Based on 142 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, with leash requirements. One reviewer shared, 'Well-behaved dogs are welcomed here. Belle the blue tick loves camping at Shell Creek.'

Based on 142 reviews

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Shell Creek

$18.50 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $18.50; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $18.50; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $18.50. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

Standard Site Fee$18.50

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-587-9054support@rusticfreedom.com

Go if

You want quiet alpine camping with creek access, wildlife viewing, and helpful hosts in a small, budget-friendly campground.

Skip if

You need shade at every site or want to avoid occasional cattle visitors and seasonal trail closures.

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Ranger Creek Recreation Area

FOREST ROAD 17, Shell, WY, 82441, USA

Ranger Creek Recreation Area sits in the Bighorn National Forest near Shell, Wyoming, at high elevation where alpine meadows meet mountain streams. Operated by Gallatin Canyon Campgrounds, this small seasonal campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites plus group camping options. Visitors fish the creek, hike forest trails, bike mountain routes, and spot moose and other wildlife in a quiet alpine setting.

Shell Creek

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Shell Creek

Campground Map

Weather at Shell Creek

Best Time to Camp at Shell Creek

Planning Tips

About Shell Creek

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Shell Creek?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Shell Creek

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Shell Creek

Best Time to Camp at Shell Creek

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Shell Creek?

Amenities available

Things to do at Shell Creek

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns