Cabin accommodations near Centennial, Wyoming provide rustic lodging options at elevations between 7,200 and 10,800 feet in the Medicine Bow National Forest. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Most forest cabins require advance booking through recreation.gov and many close during winter months or have restricted access during snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access: Wood Landing Campground offers direct access to the Laramie River. According to visitor Rich D., "This small campground is located on the Laramie River at historic Wood's Landing. It has log cabins with common facilities and 5 available water/30 amp electric and a dump station... the location is feet from fine trout fishing and a good restaurant open Wednesday through Sunday."
Mountain hiking: Curt Gowdy State Park Campground offers cabins with proximity to trails and water recreation. One visitor noted, "We hiked several trails and saw lots of fishing spots—definitely a great stop for anyone who loves outdoor activities." The park has multiple trail systems ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels.
Wildlife viewing: Forest service cabins provide excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. The cabins at Keystone Ranger Station sit at 8,700 feet elevation with access to meadows frequented by elk, mule deer, and moose during early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Historical structures: Many cabin rentals near Centennial occupy repurposed forest service buildings. The Bow River Ranger Station offers a glimpse into ranger life with its 1960s construction. A recent visitor described it as a "Cute little place, very quiet and pretty. Creekside cabin, with fire ring and picnic table."
Seasonal flexibility: Some cabin options remain open during shoulder seasons. One camper at Curt Gowdy State Park explained, "During a sudden snowstorm that caused I-80 to close, we thought our propane might run out, and weren't able to refill on propane because of road closure. We were able to move to an electric site for an extra $10 and the staff even loaned us a space heater just in case."
Kitchen amenities: Many forest cabins include basic cooking facilities. At Bow River Ranger Station, a visitor noted the cabin "has three sinks, two showers, one toilet, plus a long outdoor laundry line... The four-burner electric stove and the white fridge-freezer work just fine." Most cabins provide basic utensils but require bringing specialized kitchen tools.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All cabin facilities require advance booking, with peak season reservations filling 3-6 months ahead. For cabins in the Medicine Bow National Forest, booking windows open six months prior to arrival date.
Varied amenities: Cabin facilities differ dramatically across locations. Snow Survey Cabin offers electricity but no running water or toilets, requiring guests to bring water supplies and use vault toilets at nearby campgrounds.
Supply needs: Most cabins require bringing essential supplies. As one Bow River visitor cautioned: "BYO toilet paper, just in case... we had 1/2 a roll... You may want to bring a measuring cup, spoons, knives, napkins, sponges (for washing up). DONT FORGET TO PACK OUT ALL OF YOUR TRASH."
Tips for camping with families
Access considerations: Road conditions to remote cabins vary seasonally. The Brush Creek Work Center Barrack provides water and electricity but requires navigating unpaved forest roads that become impassable after heavy rain or snow.
Recreation planning: When staying at cabins with limited on-site activities, day trips to nearby lakes provide additional recreation. One group staying at Bow River Ranger Station reported, "We drove 12 miles from this cabin to hike to Crater Lake; it's pretty country. Dusty roads, loads of stars, other little creeks nearby."
Temperature preparation: Mountain cabins experience significant temperature fluctuations. Pack layers even in summer months when overnight temperatures can drop below 40°F. Winter cabin stays require serious cold-weather gear with temperatures regularly reaching subzero levels.
Tips from RVers
Alternative cabin options: When forest service cabins are unavailable, Laramie RV Resort offers cabin rentals with more consistent amenities. A guest mentioned, "The cabins were cozy with air conditioning and a mini fridge."
Seasonal considerations: Facilities at private campgrounds offer more reliable year-round access. A winter visitor at Laramie RV Resort noted, "I decided to stay here while a spring winter storm blew through. Making the reservation was easy. Then when I arrived they were helpful in showing me where my site was."
Internet connectivity: Most forest cabins lack connectivity, while some private facilities offer limited service. At Laramie RV Resort, a camper warned, "WiFi available but it's not strong enough for much," a common situation throughout the region where cell service remains spotty outside population centers.
