Camping opportunities around Glenrock, Wyoming include both free and paid options within a 30-mile radius. The area features prairie landscape at approximately 5,000 feet elevation with significant temperature variations between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach the 80s while nights cool considerably, requiring campers to prepare for temperature swings even during peak camping months.
What to do
River access activities: Platte River RV and Campground offers direct river access for fishing, paddling, and water play. One camper noted its location advantages despite finding the campground itself "a little underwhelming."
Disc golf course: The Glenrock South Recreation Complex features a disc golf course among its recreational options. A reviewer mentioned, "There's also a disc golf course set up" alongside other amenities like a playground and what appears to be a rodeo setup.
Visit the Jackalope Capital: Douglas KOA serves as a convenient base to explore Douglas, the self-proclaimed Jackalope Capital. "They claim the original 'discovery' of the Jackalope and everyone else just followed suit. There is a Jackalope silhouette outside of town on a hill, there are Jackalope lick Nessie's throughout town."
What campers like
Free camping with amenities: The South Recreation Complex offers no-cost camping with surprising amenities. One camper shared, "It has the vibes of a paid campground - only free. When you get to the complex drive past the vault toilets and initial picnic area. You'll see 5-6 campsites with concrete beds, picnic tables and grills."
Quiet environment despite highway proximity: While some campgrounds sit near highways, many campers report minimal noise disruption. As one visitor to South Recreation Complex stated, "It is right next to the interstate so there is interstate noise but it's not all that bad. Especially since it's free...both of us agreed the traffic was not a bother last night at all."
Family-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds in the area cater to families with children. Platte River RV and Campground received positive mentions for its dog park and river access, with one camper appreciating "the little dog park and there's also river access, adding a touch of nature's charm to the experience."
What you should know
Limited shade availability: Several campgrounds in the region lack substantial tree cover. At Douglas KOA, a camper observed "not much shade AT ALL, and the wind whip's through a lot. I was informed though that's a Wyoming thing anyway."
Bathroom availability schedules: Campground facilities often operate on specific schedules. One camper at Douglas KOA reported, "Check out at 11 and they close bathrooms 10 to 12, not smart since u have tent sites and they need a bathroom."
Water quality considerations: Some campers mention water quality issues at certain locations. One visitor to Douglas KOA noted, "The water tastes a bit funny even after our filter system."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. A South Recreation Complex visitor mentioned, "there is a small playground and it looks like maybe a rodeo set up," providing recreational options for families with young campers.
Activities for children: Douglas KOA offers numerous family-oriented activities. "This KOA Has putt putt golf for $2, activities, a tennis court, basketball and swimming. Also something extra is a s'more shack and coffee cabin," noted one camper.
Holiday considerations: For families concerned about noise during holidays, one visitor shared a positive experience: "We arrived on July 4 for an overnight stay. Great staff...It was quiet, even for a holiday, and the fireworks were a couple miles away, so we could see them but not hear them. A plus for our super anxious pup who doesn't like thunder or fireworks!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizing limitations: RVers should verify space requirements before booking. A Douglas KOA visitor cautioned, "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."
Wi-Fi reliability issues: Internet connectivity varies across campgrounds. One Douglas KOA camper mentioned, "The WIFI, I'm sorry to say, sucks and is not private. I've noticed in my travels though that NONE of the KOA's have very good WIFI."
Weather preparedness: Wyoming's climate can change rapidly even in summer. A Douglas KOA visitor shared, "A few days before I arrived in early September it had already snowed and the temperature had dropped into the 20's. It was in the 50's my first day and is a comfortable 75 today with a lite breeze."
