Campsites near Douglas, Wyoming primarily cluster around the North Platte River, which runs through the eastern Wyoming high plains at approximately 4,700 feet elevation. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak months. Weather patterns can change rapidly in this high plains environment, making preparation for wind and occasional thunderstorms essential at any campground near Douglas.
What to do
Fishing access: The North Platte River offers productive fishing spots accessible from several campgrounds. At Ayres Natural Bridge Park, "the North Platte River runs underneath the arch and right up against the campground," making it convenient for anglers. One visitor noted, "There's a short hiking trail that leaves from the campground and brings you up on top of the arch, giving you a better view of the river."
Hiking options: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access. When camping at Esterbrook Campground, visitors can enjoy "a great trail to Sunset Hill with amazing views and a rock structure where you can overlook the mountains." The campground's wooded setting creates "perfect hammocking opportunities" according to recent visitors.
Water recreation: Glendo State Park offers substantial water activities at several camping areas. At Two Moon Campground, visitors appreciate that it's "a great spot to bring your boat and a group. We had a ton of fun on the water." The reservoir provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and motorized boating during summer months.
What campers like
Free camping options: Riverside City Park remains popular for budget travelers. Recent visitors appreciate that it offers "Free dump station, water, showers, trees, green grass, river, level for RV parking." Another camper mentioned, "It's first come first serve with a 2 night max stay. Fires and liquor are not allowed and you can fish if you have a permit."
Quiet, natural settings: Many campgrounds provide peaceful environments despite their accessibility. At Memory Bridge Campground, one camper described their experience as "Super quiet. The deer came and tucked me in for the night." The riverfront property offers hammocks and space to relax.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. A visitor to Two Moon Campground noted, "The birding here is amazing and hiking is plentiful." Another camper appreciated that "Esterbrook Campground is beautiful" with "the vault toilet bathroom was seriously the cleanest I have ever seen."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Water availability varies significantly by season. At Elkhorn Campground, "The water level is very low. Not sure if it fills back up in the spring but it's about a 1/2mile hike to get to the water from the camp site." Plan accordingly when visiting during late summer or fall months.
Pet policies: Restrictions vary between campgrounds. At Ayres Natural Bridge Park, pets are not allowed, which can be a surprise for travelers. As one camper noted, "As we traveled up the road toward the park we were able to see tons of antelope and a herd of Buffalo... We were surprised to see signs that pets were not allowed in the park."
Campground occupancy patterns: Some areas experience higher traffic on weekends. At Glendo State Park campgrounds, a visitor observed, "Lot's of people on weekends June and July. Best in August for camping." Weekday stays typically offer more privacy and choice of sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation. The Glenrock South Recreation Complex features "a small playground and it looks like maybe a rodeo set up. Each site has a grill set up... There's also a picnic table and there is water available." The complex also includes a disc golf course.
Site selection: Families should prioritize location when choosing campsites. At Douglas KOA, "There is a dog run, mini golf, and pool," making it suitable for children. However, one visitor noted "not much shade AT ALL, and the wind whip's through a lot," suggesting requesting sites with natural windbreaks when possible.
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds offer family activities beyond standard camping. Memory Bridge Campground provides a unique experience where "the kids loved the relaxing hammock park(at night there is twinkling lights in the trees), bonfires, community 'kitchen', there was a band during 4th of July!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup options exist but are limited. The Douglas KOA provides "full hook ups with cable and WiFi," though one RVer mentioned the WiFi is "very spotty." Sites accommodate various sizes, but larger rigs should call ahead as "we barely fit in our assigned spot length wise. We parked the truck beside the camper which took up most of the outdoor space."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. When visiting campgrounds off main highways, drivers should note that "the road approaching the campground from the east is a little rough in places." At Colter Bay Campground, a visitor observed "the road is in bad shape. Big potholes. A car could still do it but be careful."
Parking logistics: Level sites can be found throughout the region. At Riverside City Park, RVers appreciate that there is "green grass, level for RV parking." One visitor recommended, "No designated campsites, just find a spot along either side of the driveway fence and parallel park."
