Guernsey State Park Campground offers multiple camping options at 4,600 feet elevation along the shores of Guernsey Reservoir, about 28 miles northeast of Wheatland, Wyoming. The park encompasses over 6,000 acres of terrain and maintains several distinct camping areas with varying levels of amenities and access to water recreation. Campsites are distributed across multiple loops, with some situated directly along the shoreline and others positioned on elevated terrain with reservoir views.
What to do
Water recreation on Guernsey Reservoir: The reservoir provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. "Nice for boating and swimming activities. Stayed at Sandy point loop. This loop has about 1/2 mile on gravel road. Sites were nicely spread out for a major CG," notes a visitor to Guernsey State Park Campground.
Hiking trail exploration: The park features a network of trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking through diverse terrain. "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 a camper who visited Guernsey State Park.
Historical sites: Explore nearby Oregon Trail ruts and register cliff where pioneers carved their names. A visitor at Sandy Beach Dune and Willow mentioned, "We 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 campers like
Peaceful lakeside settings: Many campsites offer direct access to the water with beach areas for swimming. "It was absolutely beautiful. Calm and quiet. We had a wonderful time!" reports a visitor to Guernsey State Park.
Diverse camping options: From basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups and unique accommodations. At Mountain View Park, a camper noted, "Spots are just off the highway but it was quiet, pull through parking lot with no trees. Clean bathrooms, coin showers and laundry right across the street."
Panoramic viewpoints: Elevated camping areas provide sweeping vistas across the water and surrounding landscape. "Easy access and views of the lake. Forested; private sites available. Interesting history/museum. Some short trails. Bring bug spray," suggests a Guernsey State Park visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal water level changes: The reservoir sometimes experiences significant drawdowns, particularly in mid-July during the annual silt run. A camper at Chuck Wagon RV Park shared, "Located in Fort Laramie on US Hwy 26 is the Chuckwagon Rv Park. 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)."
Train noise at some locations: Several campgrounds in the area experience railroad noise that may disturb light sleepers. "Then the train came... and another one... all night long. At least there was water this time," mentions one Guernsey State Park visitor.
Varying amenity access: Facilities and hookups differ significantly between camping areas. "My area had no water, and I noticed the same from Beachside spots. Skyline View campgrounds was the one with the potable water," notes a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping precautions: Sandy areas may harbor insects, especially ants. At Sandy Beach Dune and Willow, one camper warned, "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."
Budget for vehicle fees: Plan for possible additional vehicle charges beyond the base camping fee. "When we got there we were told that only two of the cars were covered and the other two had to pay extra ($36/car I believe), which was close to the amount we had already paid for the campsites," shared a visitor at City Slickers RV Park.
Consider mid-week visits: Weekend traffic significantly increases, especially during summer months. "We stopped at the RV park on our drive home and stay for a night. Nice white box with hook ups for water and for power and a nice laundry room close by an offer less than 50 bucks," reports a Mountain View Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: For glamping close to Wheatland, Wyoming, choose sites based on size and proximity to amenities. "It is a small park with 16 Full hook up sites. It would work for the night or if you prefer to be in town," notes a camper at City Slickers RV Park, where sites cost $20 daily and accept only cash or check.
Check shower availability: Facilities may close seasonally or undergo maintenance. "My only complaint is that the showerhouse is closed! I wish it had stated that on the website, it said it was open as of April 15th but they haven't turned the water on yet. If you plan to use the showerhouse, call the park first and check it's open!" advises a Packer Lake Campground visitor.
Hookup limitations: Water availability varies by campground section. "Sandy Beach Willow campground one of the only two sites with power but no water. Water was so far away we didn't bother," shares a camper about their experience.
