Tent camping opportunities surround Douglas, Wyoming with options ranging from riverside locations to mountain settings at elevations between 5,000 and 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F during day and drop to 50°F at night, with significant cooling in spring and fall seasons. Camping areas provide varying levels of seclusion and accessibility depending on their distance from highways and populated areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Waters Point at Glendo State Park provides access to reservoir fishing within walking distance of tent sites. One camper notes, "Not the prettiest area but not on top of each other," making it suitable for anglers seeking some privacy while staying close to water.
Mountain trails: Lodgepole Campground offers hiking trails accessible directly from the camping area. According to a visitor, there are "trails to walk that are easy for everyone," making this location particularly suitable for casual hikers and beginners wanting to explore the Muddy Mountain area.
Reservoir recreation: Multiple water bodies near Douglas provide opportunities beyond just fishing. As one camper at Lodgepole mentioned, "Had a blast great fishing and the water was great!" indicating options for both angling and water activities during summer months.
What campers like
Affordable rates: The camping areas maintain reasonable costs compared to other Wyoming destinations. A camper at Lodgepole Campground specifically mentioned, "the campsite was really cheap! will definitely be back there," highlighting the value for budget-conscious tent campers.
Mountain views: The elevation of certain campgrounds provides scenic vistas not available at lower-lying areas. A reviewer noted that "From the lodgepole campground, you can see beautiful views on top of Muddy Mountain," making it appealing for those seeking panoramic landscapes.
Clean facilities: Where available, maintained facilities enhance the camping experience. According to reviews, Lodgepole features "Nice and clean bathrooms, quiet..." which matters significantly when choosing established tent camping locations over completely primitive options.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds require self-sufficiency. Elkhorn Springs Campground lacks drinking water and toilets, necessitating complete supply planning before arrival.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations can be significant, particularly at higher elevations. A camper at Elkhorn Springs advises, "anticipate a slight chill in the air, particularly as the season's edges draw near. A little preparation on the clothing front can prevent any unexpected shivers."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently affect camping areas. At Waters Point, despite having fire pits, a camper observed "there is a fire ban at the moment," indicating the importance of checking current restrictions before planning cooking methods.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for multiple tents: When camping with larger groups, certain areas offer more spacious arrangements. Lodgepole Campground sites have "room for more than one tent" at most locations, allowing families to cluster their sleeping accommodations.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sleep quality, particularly with children. Lost Springs City Park provides a town-adjacent option with toilet facilities while avoiding the highway noise issues noted at other locations.
Trail difficulty assessment: When bringing children, identifying appropriate hiking paths matters. Lodgepole offers trails described as "easy for everyone," making them suitable for families with younger children or varying ability levels.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many of the best tent camping near Douglas, Wyoming areas restrict larger vehicles. None of the reviewed campgrounds indicate big-rig friendly status, making these locations primarily tent-focused rather than suitable for larger recreational vehicles.
Generator policies: Campers seeking quieter experiences should note that generators are typically not permitted. At Elkhorn Springs, the absence of electric hookups combined with generator restrictions means tent campers won't experience mechanical noise disruptions from RV neighbors.
