Red Gulch Group

Welcome to Red Gulch Group, a distinctive destination within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category that offers far more than just a place to pitch a tent. Situated in the fascinating landscape near Shell, Wyoming, Red Gulch Group is intrinsically linked to the globally significant Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite. This makes it an ideal spot for educational groups, families, and friends seeking a unique blend of outdoor adventure and paleontological discovery in the vast and beautiful Bighorn Basin.

The environment surrounding Red Gulch Group campground is truly remarkable, transporting visitors back 167 million years to the Middle Jurassic Period. The area is characterized by the vibrant red hills of the Chugwater formation, rugged, steep canyons, unique table rocks, and sweeping views of the Bighorn Mountains. This arid, high-desert landscape, while appearing stark, holds incredible geological and historical significance. The campground itself is part of an area accessible via the Red Gulch/Alkali National Back Country Byway, a scenic, unpaved route that showcases the colorful geography and history of the region. This 34-mile route is remote, with no towns, stores, gas stations, or telephones along the way, emphasizing a true wilderness experience. The climate can vary, with warm, dry conditions from May to October being ideal for exploration, but visitors should be prepared for potential changes in weather. The most prominent environmental feature is the limestone layer that preserves millions of dinosaur footprints, providing tangible evidence of an ancient marine shoreline. While today it's a dry landscape, these tracks indicate a past covered periodically by the Sundance Sea. The unique geological formations, carved by wind and water, add to the dramatic vistas and offer excellent opportunities for photography. The flora consists mainly of sparse, hardy desert vegetation, adapted to the dry conditions, contributing to the open, expansive feel of the area. Wildlife, though not as abundant as in more heavily forested areas, includes various desert creatures, adding to the sense of wildness.

As a "Group" campground, Red Gulch Group is specifically designed to accommodate larger parties, making it perfect for educational excursions, scout groups, family reunions, or organized outdoor clubs. While specific detailed information on direct services at a dedicated "Red Gulch Group" campground is less prevalent in general public searches compared to the dinosaur tracksite itself, understanding its likely context within Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or similar public land management generally implies basic, yet essential, amenities for group wilderness camping. Typically, group sites on public lands are intended to be self-sufficient, providing space and minimal infrastructure. Based on the nature of similar remote group campgrounds in the region, expect services to focus on supporting a low-impact, leave-no-trace camping experience for a larger number of people.

• Designated Group Area: The primary service is a designated area large enough to accommodate multiple tents and communal gathering spaces for a group.
• Basic Facilities: Expect fundamental facilities such as picnic tables suitable for group meals, and designated fire rings (where fires are permitted and under current fire restrictions, typically only dead and down wood for campfires is allowed).
• Vault Toilets: Given the remote nature, vault toilets (non-flush) are the most common type of restroom facility. Potable water is generally not available on-site at such remote locations, requiring groups to pack in all their water or have a reliable purification system for natural sources if available.
• Trash Management: A pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy for trash is typically enforced, meaning all waste must be carried out by the group to maintain the pristine environment.
• Educational Information: While not a direct "service" of the campground itself, the proximity to the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite means groups will have access to interpretive panels and information kiosks that provide educational context about the geology and paleontology of the area.
• Reservations: Group sites typically require advance reservations to manage usage and minimize impact, and may have minimum and maximum group size limits.

The most compelling features of Red Gulch Group camping are the unique opportunities for geological exploration and the direct engagement with prehistoric history.

• Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite: This is the crown jewel. Located just a short drive from where a group camping area might be, the tracks provide a direct, tangible link to dinosaurs that walked along an ancient ocean shoreline 167 million years ago. Visitors can walk on the interpretive trail and observe actual dinosaur footprints—primarily from small to medium-sized bipedal dinosaurs—imprinted in the limestone. This is the largest tracksite in Wyoming and one of the few worldwide from the Middle Jurassic Period.
• Fossil Hunting: While strict rules apply, visitors are often allowed to collect invertebrate fossils from the mud walls (please verify current regulations as they can change). This hands-on experience enhances the educational value of the visit.
• Red Gulch/Alkali Scenic Back Country Byway: The byway offers a rugged and scenic drive through varied terrain, providing access to stunning geological formations and expansive views. It's an adventure in itself, allowing groups to experience the remote beauty of the Bighorn Basin.
• Stargazing: Given the remote location and lack of light pollution, Red Gulch offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing, providing clear views of the night sky that are rarely seen near urban areas.
• Photography: The vibrant red hills, unique rock formations, and vast open skies create a dramatic backdrop for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Wildlife Viewing: While dinosaurs are long gone, the area is home to various desert wildlife, offering opportunities for observation of contemporary species.

For educational institutions, paleontological enthusiasts, or large groups seeking an extraordinary outdoor adventure, Red Gulch Group offers an unparalleled opportunity within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" domain. It's more than just a camping trip; it's a journey back in time, an immersive lesson in geology and ancient life, set against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming's Bighorn Basin. Imagine gathering your group around a campfire (where permitted), discussing the mighty creatures that once roamed these very grounds, and then waking to the quiet vastness of a landscape virtually unchanged for millions of years. This unique destination provides a profound sense of connection to Earth's deep history, fostering curiosity and respect for natural heritage. Due to its remote nature and the importance of preserving the tracks, careful planning is essential. Ensure your group is prepared for self-sufficient camping, including bringing all necessary water and adhering strictly to Leave No Trace principles. Check current conditions and regulations with the Bureau of Land Management Worland Field Office before your visit. Red Gulch Group promises not just a place to sleep, but a living classroom and an unforgettable adventure for all who are ready to explore the untamed beauty and ancient secrets of Wyoming.