Eastern Wyoming's Hartville region sits at approximately 4,600 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate characterized by significant temperature swings throughout the year. Camping opportunities extend beyond Hartville proper into Glendo State Park, where multiple campgrounds offer varying degrees of access to the 12,000-acre Glendo Reservoir. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Boating and water activities: Grayrocks Reservoir Public Access provides direct water access with multiple boat launches. "Free public access camping. Many spots right on the water. Great boat launches. Arrive Thursday or Friday AM to get a decent spot," notes camper Chris M.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for anglers at various campgrounds around Glendo Reservoir. At Two Moon — Glendo State Park, one camper observed the area was "Perfect for fishing" with "large area for the kids to play and water all around us."
Historical exploration: Within 30 minutes of Larson Park Campground, visitors can explore several historical landmarks. "A must see is 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," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Many campers appreciate sites directly on the water. At Sandy Beach Dune and Willow, a reviewer noted their sites "were spacious, clean, and sat right against the high water line providing great views of the reservoir."
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers excellent night sky viewing when conditions permit. At Reno Cove, campers mentioned they "would have better enjoyed the clear dark skies if the trailer across from us wasn't lit up like a Christmas tree."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to trail systems. At Two Moon campground, visitors reported they "spent the weekend kayaking, swimming and floating on tubes and also took some time to enjoy several of the hiking trails in the park."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Not all campgrounds have year-round water access. A camper at Custer Cove — Glendo State Park warned: "Beautiful sites but no potable water in the entire park until mid May so be sure to fill up before you get here."
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common throughout summer months. At Grayrocks Reservoir, fires are prohibited entirely, with one visitor noting: "Be advised as of Jun 2025 no fires are permitted. Bring propane gas cookers, or cook in your camper/RV."
Insects and wildlife: Prepare for seasonal bugs, especially in waterfront areas. A camper at Grayrocks Reservoir reported: "Minimal bugs at my specific site but the more trees, the more bugs you have." Another at Sandy Beach mentioned: "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!"
Noise considerations: Railroad noise affects campgrounds near tracks. At Chuck Wagon RV Park, a reviewer warned of "Commercial Trains goes all night and day with loud horn."
Tips for camping with families
Consider yurt accommodations: Guernsey State Park Campground offers four yurts for families wanting more shelter. "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," reports a camper.
Best swimming areas: Sandy Beach offers a two-mile shoreline for water access. "Sandy Beach campground, being true to its name, provides a great two mile long beach to relax and play on," notes one visitor.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play structures for children. Regarding Two Moon campground, a reviewer mentioned it has "a lot of options for camping spots" with a playground area near the electric sites.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: At Reno Cove, RVers should note the electrical layout. "We were in RC-11, which is a large, wide back-in with 50/30/20AMP electric," reports one RVer, adding "The electric sites are stretched around the playground area."
Water fill stations: Plan water fills before arriving. A Reno Cove visitor advised: "The nearest potable water is straight past the main park entrance a couple of miles away just past the Marina across from the State Park Headquarters at the dump station."
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. A reviewer at Colter Bay warned: "I would not suggest traveling around Two Moon with a large 5th wheel as there are pine trees overhanging and narrow roads that would have scraped the heck out of our 39' 5th Wheel. You'd be fine with a smaller travel trailer."
