Best Tent Camping near Fort Laramie, WY
Tent camping options near Fort Laramie, Wyoming include several primitive sites with varying amenities and terrain. Waters Point in Glendo State Park offers 12 basic tent sites with vault toilets, bench seating, and fire pits, though fire bans may be in effect seasonally. Other options include Packer Lake Campground and Gilbert-Baker Wildlife Management Area across the border in Nebraska, which provides both drive-in and walk-in tent access.
Most tent campgrounds in the Fort Laramie region provide minimal amenities, requiring campers to pack in their own water and supplies. Waters Point features primitive tent sites with bench and fire pit combinations, though campers should check current fire restrictions before planning to cook over open flame. Vault toilets are available at most established tent areas, but shower facilities are not provided. The sites typically have natural, ungraded surfaces that work well for standard tent setups but require proper staking. Pets are permitted at most locations, including Waters Point and Gilbert-Baker Wildlife Management Area.
Tent campers in the Fort Laramie area benefit from relatively uncrowded sites even during peak seasons. The primitive nature of these campgrounds appeals to visitors seeking a more authentic outdoor experience without the disturbance of RVs or large camping setups. Gilbert-Baker Wildlife Management Area provides excellent access to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. A recent review noted, "We had a blast hiking and fishing around the area. The sites were well kept." Waters Point offers a more compact camping experience with sites that, while not exceptionally scenic, provide adequate spacing between neighbors. Packer Lake Campground has received less favorable feedback regarding maintenance, with visitors reporting debris and limited appeal despite offering both walk-in and drive-in tent camping options.
