Cabin rental options near Elk Mountain, Wyoming range from basic forest service accommodations to more developed lodging on the Laramie River. Located in southeastern Wyoming at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, this area experiences dramatic temperature shifts throughout the year with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and winter temperatures frequently below freezing. Wind conditions can be significant in this region, making secure tent stakes essential during summer months.
What to do
Fishing access: 50 feet from Wood Landing Campground provides direct access to the Laramie River for trout fishing. A small store sells fishing licenses on site. "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 sites are small but the location is feet from fine trout fishing," notes camper Rich D.
Hot springs visit: 1-hour drive from Rawlins KOA to the Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs. "Saratoga Hobo hot springs within an hour. There are some camping cabins here and they are actively remodeling the park," explains Rachel G. The natural hot springs provide a relaxing break from camping activities.
Hiking to Crater Lake: 12 miles from Bow River Ranger Station cabin, offering moderate terrain on dusty trails. The area features small creeks and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," shares Cameron M.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Laramie RV Resort maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Hot showers bathroom are clean. 30 amp hook up and water. We were good to go not the Taj Mahal but it served our needs. Level parking area," states Tony D. Even during busy periods, these facilities remain well maintained.
Riverside location: Lazy Acres Campground sits directly on the Encampment River with a mix of primitive and full hookup sites. "Excellent small campground. Everything from full hookups to grassy tent spots. Bathroom with showers. Laundry facilities. Sits on the Encampment River," explains camper B W. The riverside setting provides both scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Mountain views: Little Cabin With a View offers panoramic mountain scenery and outdoor recreation options. "The views are awesome and the cabin is very cozy. There is river access very close and they offer a razor ride up jelm mountain and numerous trails to hike on," shares Jeff M. The cabin's elevated position provides expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Prepare for significant winds at exposed sites like Western Hills Campground. "This is a really big gravel lot with zero shade, zero privacy, and highway noise. Prices vary depending on what kind of site you choose," warns Ashley M. Secure loose items and ensure RV stabilizers are properly deployed.
Limited cell service: Verizon coverage gaps exist throughout the region. "Very quiet and calm when we stayed in June. Easy highway access, but virtually no cell service with Verizon. The campground provided WiFi was decent," notes Becky K. about Lazy Acres. Download offline maps before arrival.
Busy summer season: Book cabins 3-6 months in advance for peak summer dates (June-August). Most forest service cabins have limited availability and fill quickly for weekend dates. Winter bookings generally require less advance planning except during holidays.
Tips for camping with families
Mini-golf activities: Western Hills Campground features a small putt-putt course ideal for children. "The grounds are very simple as other reviewers have stated, but it is very clean. The mini golf is a great touch that is different than most campgrounds," mentions Amber W. The course provides entertainment between outdoor adventures.
Craft-friendly spaces: Bow River Ranger Station cabin offers large tables suitable for group activities. The cabin layout accommodates multiple children with space for indoor activities during inclement weather. Kitchen facilities support meal preparation for larger groups.
Dog-friendly options: Enclosed dog areas available at select campgrounds. "Small enclosed dog area in the rear of the park," notes L H. about Laramie RV Resort. Western Hills Campground also features a designated pet area that "was well kept grass in fenced area," according to Steven V.
Tips from RVers
Electrical pedestal placement: Check hookup locations before setting up. "If you have a long setup I suggest bringing an extension cord for your electric. Inexplicably, the pedestal for the electric was pretty close to the front of the pull through," advises Ryan L. about Rawlins KOA.
Weather preparation: Bring stabilizers and wind protection for RVs in this windy region. "It gets windy here so be prepared," warns Rachel G. about Rawlins KOA. Winter travelers should carry chains and emergency supplies from October through April.
Limited privacy between sites: Expect close quarters at most developed campgrounds near Elk Mountain. "Sites are too close and tight," notes Melanie T. about Rawlins KOA. Private camping cabins offer more seclusion than RV parks in the area.
