Dispersed camping near Fort Laramie provides affordable access to Wyoming's high plains ecosystem at approximately 4,300 feet elevation. The region experiences wide temperature swings between day and night, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 90°F and evenings cooling to the 50s. Wind patterns across the open terrain create challenging conditions for tent campers throughout the camping season.
What to do
Historical exploration: 15 miles from Guernsey State Park Oregon Trail Ruts and Register Cliff are short drives from camping areas. "The Oregon Trail Ruts located just a short distance away. Be sure to visit Register Cliff just a few miles away and Fort Laramie is 30 minutes down the highway," notes a camper at Larson Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Available at multiple reservoirs Several camping areas provide direct water access. "Great campground very quiet with a good little fishing spot right on the golf course," writes a visitor to Larson Park Campground. The North Platte River also offers seasonal fishing conditions.
Water recreation: Peak season July-August Grayrocks Reservoir Public Access supports multiple water activities. "If you are looking for trees, this is not the place. Bring lots of water toys," advises one camper. Another mentions, "We found a spot right on the lakeside which was secluded from everyone."
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Grayrocks Reservoir sites The reservoir features numerous lakeside camping opportunities. "When you get to the beginning of the lake it's very full of RVs and campers. As you keep driving there are a few dispersed spots," shares a visitor. Another notes, "This place offers waterfront camping with beautiful views and plenty of privacy from other campers."
Yurt accommodations: $40/night with electricity Guernsey State Park Campground offers alternative lodging options. "Guernsey has 4 yurts you can rent for $40/night. Clean, all have electricity. Bunk beds with mattresses and fold out futon couch. Wood fire stove if you need heat," according to one camper who stayed during the silt run.
Easy road access: Well-maintained routes Most camping areas feature good approach roads. At Grayrocks Reservoir, "We arrived late but it was easy to find and the road was one of the better paved roads we've traveled on." Another camper notes, "Easy access into campgrounds, good view of the lake, nice level camping spots for tents and smaller campers."
What you should know
Weather extremes: Prepare for sudden changes The region experiences high winds and temperature fluctuations. "It can be noisy if neighbors are running generators but otherwise very nice," mentions a camper at Two Moon — Glendo State Park. Wind protection is minimal at most sites.
Insect populations: Flies particularly problematic Multiple campers mention insect issues. "The mosquitos were present but didn't bite much. The flies were definitely biting but nothing pants and a sweatshirt can't fix," reports one Grayrocks visitor. Another simply states, "Cows everywhere, water close by and beautiful hills around this area. Only downside is the insane amount of flies."
Train noise: Affects several camping areas Nearby railroad tracks impact sleep quality at multiple campgrounds. "There is a train nearby that was loud but we were so tired it didn't bother us," notes a Lewis Park visitor. At Pony Soldier RV Park, "The train is across the road and loud horns. The last train we heard was 10p and it ran approximately every 40 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Available at city parks Pioneer Park in Torrington offers family-friendly amenities. "There is a stream and river within the park. There are trails, frisbee golf, horseshoes, playground, amphitheater, and basketball hoop," reports one visitor. Another mentions it's "a nice city park with water & electric on concrete pads."
Swimming options: Municipal pools near camping Several camping areas provide water recreation. Lewis Park includes "a nice little miniature golf course, tennis courts, a skateboard park, pavilions, a small amphitheater and playground equipment" plus "community pool," making it suitable for families with children.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper protocols Children should understand how to behave around wildlife. Cattle frequently roam near camping areas, with one Grayrocks visitor noting, "We drove by cattle crossing the road but they were kind and slowly crossed for us to get by."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited at dispersed sites Chuck Wagon RV Park offers full hookups close to Fort Laramie. "Each site has a picnic table but no fire ring (which we are finding normal for this area)," according to a visitor. For those seeking more natural settings, note that Grayrocks has no electric hookups.
Leveling challenges: Bring appropriate equipment Many sites require leveling blocks. At Lewis Park, "Individual sites are reasonably maintained but could use a little mowing and leveling." Sites are "reasonably level side to side, but far less so front to back."
Dump station access: Plan ahead Several campgrounds offer dump facilities. At Pioneer Park, "Dump station is easy to get to" according to a visitor. RVers should note that most dispersed areas lack dump stations entirely.
