LA PRELE GUARD STATION

About

La Prele Guard Station is located south of Douglas, Wyoming in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. It was originally built as a remote ranger station in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and was converted into a work center when the La Prele Ranger District was discontinued in 1956. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Today, it provides a unique lodging experience and delightful spot for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in south central Wyoming. The guard station is open from late May or early June through late October each year and is accessible by car except after snow events at the beginning and end of the season. Weather and road closures may impact opening and closure dates. Many modern conveniences are provided, but guests will need to bring a few of their own supplies to make their stay comfortable. We try to keep a supply of firewood available to guests but there is no guarantee. The site now has limited propane lighting. Please note that due to the historic nature of the facility, pets, candles or other flame producing items are not permitted in the cabin.The historic log structure has two bedrooms equipped with beds and mattresses that can accommodate up to six people. The kitchen offers a refrigerator, stove, table with chairs, basic cooking and eating utensils, and cookware. The cabin has indoor plumbing which gives guests access to running water, a shower, and a flush toilet. A propane water heater provides hot water. The cabin now has electricity. The fireplace is usually adequate for heating the guard station during the summer season. No other flame producing sources are allowed inside the cabin, including candles. A campfire ring and picnic table are just outside. Guests need to provide their own food, sleeping bags, pillows, towels, dish and bath soap, matches, and first aid kit. It is recommended that you bring drinking water. Battery operated lanterns are provided. We will now be offering trash collection at this site. Please limit food waste, and take all large items with you at check out. For larger parties, Campbell Creek Campground, about 1/2 mile east of the La Prele Guard Station, has six campsites that can accommodate tents, campers and trailers up to 22 feet. Campsite #1 can accommodate a longer trailer of 30 feet. No Vehicle or ORV operation is allowed outside of the gravel parking area. RV's, campers, or tents are NOT allowed on the property. Guests travelling through in an RV

Directions

From Douglas (37 miles) From I25 Exit 140, turn right onto S Riverbend Dr. Turn right onto WY-94 (Esterbrook Road) and right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). In 3 miles, turn left on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). Continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles. From I25 Exit 146, East on WY-96. In 3.1 miles, turn right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). Continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles. From Laramie (105 miles) Follow HWY 30 (N) from Laramie to Medicine Bow. Take HWY 487 North and turn right on CR 62 (32 Mile RD/Little Medicine Road) for 29.8 miles and continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 4.4 miles.

Details

State

Wyoming

City / area

Douglas

Agency

USDA Forest Service

Parent area

Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG

Campsites

1

Reservable

Yes

Typical price

$100 / night

Rating

4.58 / 5 (12 reviews on Recreation.gov)

Equipment

See Recreation.gov

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Nearby campgrounds

• Campbell Creek Campground 0.3 km away
• Curtis Gulch Campground 18.0 km away
• Friend Park Campground 36.1 km away
• Esterbrook Campground 42.2 km away
• Rim Campground 43.0 km away
• Lodgepole Campground 43.2 km away