Glendo State Park sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation along the North Platte River in eastern Wyoming. The reservoir covers 12,000 acres when full, though water levels fluctuate seasonally based on irrigation needs. Campgrounds in the Glendo area experience significant temperature variations throughout the year, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Boating during silt run: Mid-July offers a unique experience at Guernsey State Park Campground when water released from Glendo Reservoir flushes silt downstream. "The best time we had here was during the silt run, which is in mid-July each year. Water being released from Glendo Reservoir will flow through Guernsey Reservoir flushing silt from Guernsey Reservoir into the canals of downstream irrigators," explains Sarah N.
Kayaking in low water: When water levels drop at Sandy Beach Dune and Willow, muddy conditions create a challenging but rewarding paddling experience. "Transporting kayaks through the mud proves challenging - don't fall down or lose a shoe. The reward is a fantastic, easy float of the North Platte river from the reservoir all the way to the edge of town," notes a visitor.
Hiking local trails: Multiple trails under 2 miles wind through the park. "Nice for boating and swimming activities. Stayed at Sandy point loop. Sites were nicely spread out for a major CG. Most near water had trees. Ones in middle not much shade," reports lee's freelance M.
What campers like
Beach access: The sandy shoreline extends for two miles along certain sections of the reservoir. "Sandy Beach campground, being true to its name, provides a great two mile long beach to relax and play on," reports Holly R.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting outside peak summer months provides more solitude at Douglas KOA. "There weren't as many campers this year and staff thought maybe because the high gas prices and that Yellowstone flooded might be the cause. The staff was really friendly," shares Shannon G.
Historical attractions: The area serves as a base for exploring pioneer history sites. "Douglas, Wyoming has some interesting history and historical sites nearby so it's worth a visit if your exploring the old west or just driving through. Make sure you keep your gas above 1/2, the highways are a long way between gas stations," advises Shelly S.
What you should know
Limited shade availability: Many campsites lack tree cover. "Not much shade AT ALL, and the wind whip's through a lot. I was informed though that's a Wyoming thing anyway," notes a visitor to Douglas KOA.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Facility availability varies throughout the year at Mountain View Park. "Clean bathrooms, coin showers and laundry right across the street. We didn't need the hook ups, just pulled in and out early next morning," reports a traveler named C.
Variable water levels: Reservoir levels change dramatically throughout the season. "The water level of the lake had shrunk significantly each time we came back which shows that it was not being refilled at all," notes Lady B. about Sandy Beach.
Tips for camping with families
Insects on beaches: Prepare for ant activity near shoreline campsites. "When we got to the campsite on the beach we were so excited! Walked out to put our stuff down, and looking at the ground it was OVERRUN with giant ants! Definitely recommend not camping straight on the beach unless you don't mind ants and buggy critters," warns CarrieIsWhere? P.
Yurt camping alternatives: For families seeking yurt camping near Glendo, Wyoming, Chuck Wagon RV Park offers canvas accommodations as an alternative to state park yurts. "It is a small park with 16 Full hook up sites. Each site has a picnic table but no fire ring (which we are finding normal for this area)," notes Shannon G.
Activity options: Multiple recreation choices keep children entertained. "Fun place to go. Cool hiking trails, fun biking trails, good place to explore history, swim and boat. Campsites are spread out so you can find what you need," shares James K.
Tips from RVers
Noise considerations: Train activity affects some campgrounds in the area. "Spots are just off the highway but it was quiet, pull through parking lot with no trees," reports C. about Mountain View Park.
Space constraints: Some sites have limited room for larger rigs and tow vehicles. "Although it was affordable for our 25 foot 5er, we barely fit in our assigned spot length wise. We parked the truck beside the camper which took up most of the outdoor space," explains Mary about Douglas KOA.
Utilities and amenities: Water quality varies between locations. "The water tastes a bit funny even after our filter system. We stayed twice, coming and going so not a horrible place but also not a destination campground," notes an RVer at Douglas KOA.
