Boaters and anglers find direct lake access at Mikesell Potts Recreation Area, a county-managed campground on the shores of Lake DeSmet near Saddlestring, Wyoming. The facility operates on an honor system, with campers filling out envelopes at a self-serve station—reviewers recommend bringing a pen for the check-in process.
The campground spreads across open terrain with a mix of lakefront and interior sites. Several spots sit directly beside the water, while others occupy the back areas where pronghorn frequently wander through camp. Maria S. found it "quiet and had spot right by lake" during her stay. The vault toilets receive consistent praise for cleanliness, though they may close seasonally during colder months.
RV campers can access a limited number of sites with electric and water hookups, with gravel pads that accommodate larger rigs. Tent campers have several grass sites to choose from, though wind can pick up across the open landscape at night. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit, though the fire rings lack cooking grates. A nearby store sells firewood and basic supplies for $7.50 per bundle.
The campground charges $15-20 per night and welcomes pets throughout the facility. A playground provides entertainment for families, while the lake offers opportunities for stone skipping and water activities. Cattle occasionally block the access road, adding a rural element to the approach. Winter visitors will find the area nearly empty, as Nicole L. discovered during her February stay when she was the only camper present.
The location serves as a convenient overnight stop for travelers heading to regional destinations, with Buffalo KOA offering full-service camping about seven miles southeast for those preferring additional amenities.
Description
The Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area is a county owned facility located on the south shore of Lake DeSmet 8 miles north of Buffalo, WY off exit 51 of I-90. Each year, Lake DeSmet is visited by locals and travelers from across the country who enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, camping and pristine views of the water and surrounding mountains. Camping is available on a first come/first serve basis at this site. Over 60 overnight camping spots ($15 per night) 8 camping sites with electricity ($20 per night) Available at no charge: 2 boat ramps Picnic areas for day use at beach area on south side 4 restrooms (1 open year round)
Fee Info
Overnight camping fees are paid on the “honor ” system. Fees are $20 per night for sites with electricity and $15 per night for sites without electricity.
Off months are still "pay" of $15 - November through April
Reservation Info
Reservations are not accepted.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundMikesell Potts Recreation Area is located in Wyoming
Coordinates
44.45230685 N
106.74430027 W
Connectivity
T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 29 usersLast on 4/3/26
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 26 usersLast on 4/3/26
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 29 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 26 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 33 min from Casper, WY
- 2 hrs 11 min from Billings, MT
- 2 hrs 58 min from Rapid City, SD
- 4 hrs from Bozeman, MT
