Cabin camping near Jelm, Wyoming provides access to the Medicine Bow National Forest at elevations ranging from 8,000-9,000 feet. This high-country region experiences significant temperature drops after sunset, even in summer months. Most cabins in the area require advanced reservations, with booking windows opening 6 months prior to arrival dates.
What to do
Fishing access: Little Cabin With a View offers convenient river access for anglers. "There is river access very close and they offer a razor ride up jelm mountain and numerous trails to hike on," notes one visitor who appreciated the outdoor recreation options directly from the cabin.
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Jelm provide habitat for moose, elk, and deer. At Wood Landing Campground, situated along the Laramie River, visitors can purchase fishing licenses at the small store. "It has a small store and a gas pump where fishing licenses are sold," mentions a camper who explored multiple nearby recreation areas during their stay.
Mountain exploration: Visitors can access mountain trails and viewpoints from several cabin locations. "We hiked, biked and just enjoyed the view," reports a camper at North Michigan Campground, where outdoor activities continue year-round with seasonal variations.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many cabins offer direct water access. "Our campsite was down a few steps and right next to the river flowing through the property, nestled amongst the pines, and shady," shares a visitor at Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch, highlighting the appeal of waterfront cabin sites.
Cabin coziness: Small cabin interiors provide comfortable shelter regardless of weather conditions. "The views are awesome and the cabin is very cozy," reports a visitor at Little Cabin With a View, who appreciated the comfortable accommodations during their two-night stay.
Multi-season options: North Michigan Campground at State Forest State Park maintains cabin access year-round. "We spent a lot of time sledding and snowshoeing and we were basically the only ones out there," notes a winter visitor who appreciated the gas stove that "kept us nice and toasty all night long."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabins fill quickly during peak seasons. "Reservations are essential" at most locations, with booking windows typically opening 6 months ahead of arrival dates.
Amenity variations: Cabin facilities range from rustic to modern across the region. "The sites are small but the location is feet from fine trout fishing," reports a visitor at Wood Landing Campground, emphasizing the tradeoff between space and location.
Cooking facilities: Bring appropriate cooking equipment based on cabin type. "Firepits do not have any sort of cooking grate...we had to get creative, but made it work," notes a visitor at Laramie River Road Dispersed, describing the need to plan ahead for meals.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid temperature changes. "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level," cautions a visitor, highlighting the need for warm clothing even during summer stays.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Look for cabins with kid-friendly recreation options. "My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails," shares a parent who stayed at North Michigan Campground, noting multiple activities suitable for young children.
Wildlife opportunities: The region provides chances to see large mammals. "We have seen full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears nearby as well as elk and deer," reports a visitor to the area, emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness with children.
Winter family options: Curt Gowdy State Park offers cabin camping with winter recreation. "What really stood out was the helpfulness of the park staff. During a sudden snowstorm that caused I-80 to close... the staff even loaned us a space heater just in case," explains a family who appreciated the extra support during unexpected weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations based on vehicle size and access requirements. "Keep to 1-5 or the Overlook for access," advises an RVer at Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch who discovered some sites were unsuitable for larger trailers.
Dumping facilities: Plan for waste management before arrival. "There is no dump on-site. However, there is a fee-based dump about 1.5 miles away in the Crystal Lakes Community. $10 per use with free water," shares a trailer camper who stayed for nearly a week.
Leveling considerations: Many cabin sites in this mountainous region require leveling equipment. "Level parking area," notes a visitor at Laramie RV Resort, highlighting one of the practical considerations for those bringing camping vehicles to cabin sites.
