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Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site
Overview
Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site is a hidden gem tucked away on the western slopes of the Bighorn Mountains in Hyattville, Wyoming. This destination is renowned for its **prehistoric rock art**, where towering sandstone cliffs showcase thousands of years of human history through petroglyphs and pictographs. Travelers visiting this park aren't just finding a place to park their rig; they are stepping into a living museum surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Wyoming wilderness.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the scenic Big Horn Basin, the park is defined by its **towering red sandstone cliffs** and the vibrant greenery along the banks of Medicine Lodge Creek. The contrast between the arid high-desert environment and the lush, tree-lined creek creates a unique microclimate that is both refreshing and visually stunning. RVers will find themselves in a remote, peaceful setting that feels worlds away from the busy interstate corridors, offering a true sense of **Wyoming solitude**.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground offers a mix of rustic charm and essential conveniences. Many of the sites are nestled under **mature cottonwood trees**, providing ample shade during the warm summer months. Park features include:
- Designated campsites with **electric hookups** available at several specific locations.
- Access to seasonal potable water and well-maintained vault toilets.
- Individual picnic tables and fire rings provided at each site for evening campfires.
While the park is primarily geared toward a primitive experience, these features make it a comfortable base for those who enjoy a traditional camping atmosphere amidst a historical landscape.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the massive cliff face featuring **Native American rock art** that dates back over 10,000 years, easily accessible via interpretive trails. Beyond the archaeology, the area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Medicine Lodge Creek offers excellent **trout fishing**, while the surrounding trails are perfect for hiking and wildlife photography. Being at the foot of the Bighorn National Forest, the park also serves as a gateway to high-altitude adventures and scenic mountain drives.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal fit for travelers who prioritize **tranquility and history** over resort-style amenities. It is perfect for those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in a significant cultural landscape. Because of the park's layout and some narrow access points, it is particularly well-suited for **smaller to mid-sized RVs** and campers looking for a quiet, contemplative retreat in one of Wyoming's most unique geological settings.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Haly Jensen
What an amazing place to camp and view history! The camp grounds were beautiful! This is by far the most well kept camp ground with potable water available at several spigots, super clean camping spots, quite and nice hiking/walking trails. The pictographs are awesome and show up better in photos than with the naked eye. A great place for families.
Hunter Ostrem
Beautiful historic site with free entry, a very informative pamphlet, and clean restrooms. The campsites look quite interesting but we didn’t camp here. Definitely worth the drive to see this history. There are several reviews that say the petroglyphs are difficult to see. I did not find this to be the case. There are some that you have to find the right angle to see— just back up a bit and it’ll reveal itself to you. Can’t get too mad about having to do this: that’s our beautiful Wyoming weather plus time causing erosion on the rocks.
M C
I went just for the petroglyphs. I have seen many petroglyphs before. These were nice because they were different. I really enjoyed the animals, especially the life size deer. It takes about 20-30 minutes to see them. The area is quite scenic. I did a short walk also. The whole park is well done. It looks like most people go for the camping.
Danae Anceso
I have been coming here since I was a child, and now I bring my own children. It is one of the cleanest, nicest and most serene campgrounds in the wyoming parks system! Perfect for fishing, picnics, hiking, and doing the immersive experience with hike to the petroglyphs and pictograms. They have done an absolute phenomenal job on the education and display end. I love so much you can walk easily to the petroglyphs and admire them for as long as you want. TAKE YOUR TIME! The bathrooms are very clean and well stocked with necessary toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Loved seeing the wild turkeys roaming around and listening to the birds in the trees and the running water from the streams. Was a little disappointed that reservations are a year out on renting the group shelter, but I will be putting in my notice so we can use it for a small group next year. It's very very wonderful place, perfect for families, or solo who just wants peace and quiet while surrounded by nature. The campsites are wonderful! 10/10 will always recommend this place, they hold it to a very high standard!
J Horn
An amazing location! The brand new interpretive exhibit at the visitor center is amazing! (Kinda impossible to get good pictures, it is inside and they use lights and darks really effectively. Amazing in person, but impossible to photograph.) Really demonstrates the importance of the site to Native American peoples. The short trails are beautiful! Real earns its name, Medicine Lodge, you feel a sense of peace here.