Dubois is a town steeped in history. The ancient Mountain Shoshone who lived here first left no written records, but many tantalizing traces remain like mysterious petroglyphs, fantastic rock art images carved with great effort and skill by unknown hands, hunters’ blinds and sheep traps constructed with fallen limbs and branches, were used to capture the bighorn sheep which were a major part of their diet. In the badlands lies a collection of teepee rings, and stone circles that once supported their dwellings.
Recent History
From its early days as a trading post on the Oregon Trail to its role in the development of the Old West, our town preserves its heritage with pride.
Butch Cassidy walked and rode these streets. He owned a ranch property north of town, shopped at Welty’s General Store, and utilized, but never robbed, the old red stone bank. Some local guides identify structures in the woods as hideouts for the Hole in the Wall gang. A few old-timers have insisted that they saw and spoke with Butch here after he was reportedly killed in South America.
The town of Dubois was incorporated in 1914. In the same year, Wyoming Tie and Timber Company opened log milling operations here, eventually becoming the nation’s largest source of railroad ties. The “tie hack” operations ended in 1949, after which Louisiana Pacific operated a sawmill in town until 1988.
Today the valley’s original attractions for its settlers — ranching, lumbering, and respite or adventure for people who want a break in the mountains or an authentic Western experience — remain central to the character of Dubois.
While there are several camping options around Dubois, heading into the Shoshone National Forest is always your best bet. The Pinnacles Campground on Brooks Lake is a popular destination, known for fishing, hiking, and incredible views of Pinnacle Butte.
Brooks Lake.
What Makes It Great
Just 27 miles from the town of Dubois, Pinnacles Campground gives you the feeling of being out in the wilderness while still being a reasonable drive from a hot meal and the comforts of small town America. Driving toward the campground, look for the impressive Pinnacle Butte rising up ahead of you. Once you reach the lake, spend some time taking in the views and casting a line in the waters. You can fly fish or rent a canoe and float out on Brooks Lake to try your luck at reeling in a rainbow trout. Other fishing hot spots in the area include Upper Brooks, Rainbow Lakes, or Cub Creek.
With fire rings, picnic tables, bear boxes, a vault toilet, and potable water, this campground may not have modern amenities, but will instead spoil you with the endless natural beauty found all around. Here, you’ll also have the chance to experience an uncrowded and spectacular region that many pass by en route to Yellowstone or the Grand Tetons. Out on Brooks Lake, time slows down, allowing you to enjoy each minute of daylight to its fullest.
Who is Going to Love It
This campground is pretty basic, making it a good destination for those hoping to get into nature without having to drive very far. Between the lake and the hiking trails, the campground is great for families or anyone looking to explore the surrounding wilderness.
If you enjoy fishing, postcard-worthy views, and stargazing with zero light pollution, you’ll love this campground. Just keep in mind that there are no real amenities here, so this is for individuals who are comfortable car camping away from the comforts of home.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
Head northwest out of Dubois on US-26 W/US-287N for 20 miles. Turn right on Brooks Lake Road and continue for 4.3 miles. Turn right and follow the signs for Pinnacles Campground.
There are 21 sites and RVs can have a maximum spur of 32 feet. Hard-siding camping only.
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