Pine Island Group Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Wyoming residents and visitors planning large family reunions, corporate retreats, scouting trips, or other substantial gatherings, the Pine Island Group Campground offers an ideal solution deep within the breathtaking Bighorn National Forest. Located along the scenic U.S. Highway 14 near the vibrant community of Dayton, this campground is specifically designed to accommodate large parties, providing a reserved, dedicated space for groups of up to 150 people. It is not a typical dispersed campsite; rather, it is a curated group area focusing on convenience, capacity, and an authentic high-altitude experience.

Situated at a cooling elevation of approximately 7,650 feet (or 8,400 feet, depending on the source, but decidedly high-mountain), the campground offers a spectacular natural setting. The site is nestled among mature lodgepole pines, with the soothing sounds of the South Fork Tongue River running right alongside the area. The campground is a single, large reservable site that includes a unique, three-sided log shelter, blending a rustic aesthetic with essential modern amenities. As many previous guests have attested, the location is exceptionally clean, well-kept, and provides a relaxing and enjoyable environment, making it a highly valued asset for group excursions into the Bighorn Mountains.

Its seasonal operation, typically running from Memorial Day through Labor Day (weather permitting), means that Pine Island is perfectly timed for Wyoming's best summer outdoor activities. Reservations are required, ensuring that when your group arrives, your spacious, private mountain escape is ready and waiting.

Location and Accessibility

Pine Island Group Campground boasts a highly accessible yet stunningly remote location along one of Wyoming's most famous drives. The campground's official address is US-14, Dayton, WY 82836, USA, placing it directly on the Bighorn Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 14).

Key access details include:

Proximity to Dayton:

The campground is located approximately 24 to 27 miles west of Dayton, WY. This short drive from the eastern base of the mountains provides relatively quick access to services, gas, and supplies in the town of Dayton.

Scenic Byway Advantage:

Being right off Highway 14 means excellent, paved road access, which is crucial for groups traveling with multiple vehicles, including large RVs or trailers. The campground can accommodate vehicles up to 75 feet.

Near Burgess Junction:

The site is conveniently located only a few miles east of Burgess Junction (the intersection of U.S. 14 and 14A). This junction is a key hub for Bighorn National Forest services and information.

River Setting:

The campground is situated directly on the banks of the South Fork Tongue River, offering beautiful scenery and immediate access to a prime fishing stream.

The convenience of a major highway location, combined with the solitude and beauty of the high mountain forest, makes Pine Island an exceptional location for large-scale gatherings where ease of travel is paramount.

Services Offered

Pine Island Group Campground is designed as a self-contained group area, offering several essential amenities to comfortably support up to 150 people for overnight camping or day-use picnicking.

Group Shelter:

A large, three-sided log shelter provides covered space for eating and gathering, complete with an attractive stone fireplace for warmth.

Electrical Access:

The shelter is equipped with 30-amp electrical plugs, a significant convenience for modern group events that require power for cooking, music, or medical devices.

Cooking & Dining Facilities:

Multiple picnic and serving tables, a large group grill, and a massive fire ring with attached benches are provided for communal cooking and enjoyment.

Water and Waste:

Potable drinking water is available on-site, along with accessible vault toilets and trash collection services.

Recreational Amenities:

The grounds include a volleyball court and horseshoe pits for group games and activities, as noted by the site map.

Reservation & Management:

The site is reservable through Recreation.gov or by phone, with fees structured based on the size of the attending group. The fee structure ensures fair pricing for groups ranging from 1 to 150 people.

It is important to note that, as a traditional Forest Service campground, Pine Island does not offer RV hookups (electric, water, or sewer at the parking apron), and showers are not available.

Features / Highlights

Pine Island Group Campground distinguishes itself with features that maximize the group camping experience in the spectacular setting of the Bighorn National Forest.

Capacity and Privacy:

As the sole group site in the immediate area, it guarantees privacy and ample space for up to 150 attendees, allowing for multiple RVs (without hookups) and endless tent camping space within the designated area.

The Rustic Log Shelter:

This charming, historic-feeling three-sided log shelter with a stone fireplace becomes the natural centerpiece for group activities, offering a crucial windbreak and warmth on cool mountain evenings.

Riverside Location:

The proximity to the South Fork Tongue River offers easy access for fishing (rainbow and brook trout) and provides a calming, natural soundtrack for the entire stay. The sound of the river is often cited as a key feature of the relaxing atmosphere.

Proximity to Historic Sites:

It’s an excellent launching point for day trips to the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark (approximately 27 miles away) and the stunning Shell Falls Visitor Center (about 22 miles away), adding a rich cultural and geological element to the trip.

Clean and Well-Maintained:

Guest reviews consistently highlight the site's cleanliness and the excellent upkeep of the large building and surrounding areas, which is a significant factor when planning for large groups.

Contact Information

For reservations, current seasonal status, and specific fee information for your group size, contact the Bighorn National Forest's reservation line or the managing service.

Address: US-14, Dayton, WY 82836, USA

Reservation/Information Phone: (406) 587-9054 (Often managed by a concessionaire)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-587-9054

For the most up-to-date conditions and local forest information, the Tongue Ranger District Office in Sheridan, WY, is an excellent resource at (307) 674-2600.

What is worth choosing

For any Wyoming-based organization, extended family, or large circle of friends looking to host a memorable event in the Bighorn National Forest, Pine Island Group Campground is arguably the best choice. What makes it worth choosing is its unmatched ability to handle large crowds while still delivering a secluded, authentic mountain experience. Unlike trying to coordinate multiple separate campsites, Pine Island offers a single, reserved, and fully equipped group area.

The unique combination of the spacious grounds, the essential three-sided shelter with electricity, the massive fire ring, and dedicated recreation features (volleyball, horseshoes) means the logistics of a large gathering are simplified. The positive customer reviews emphasizing the clean, relaxing atmosphere and excellent condition of the facilities further cement its reputation as a reliable and high-quality location. Furthermore, its placement along the beautiful Bighorn Scenic Byway and its proximity to both the South Fork Tongue River and key historical landmarks provide endless opportunities for group recreation and exploration. Pine Island takes the stress out of group event planning and puts the focus back on enjoying the unparalleled natural beauty of the Bighorn Mountains.