Brooklyn Lake Campground

For Wyomingites seeking an unparalleled mountain escape, Brooklyn Lake Campground offers an extraordinary high-altitude experience in the heart of the Medicine Bow National Forest. Perched at an impressive elevation of approximately 10,500 feet, this campground is a true gem in the Snowy Range, renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery, pristine lake access, and a sense of peaceful seclusion. It's the ideal destination for those who crave crisp mountain air, stunning vistas, and direct access to some of Wyoming's most beautiful wilderness areas. This article will guide local residents through what makes Brooklyn Lake Campground a must-visit for their next outdoor adventure.

Brooklyn Lake Campground consistently receives glowing reviews from campers who appreciate its well-maintained facilities and the genuine hospitality of its hosts. Visitors frequently commend the cleanliness of the restrooms and the overall upkeep of the campsites, making for a comfortable and enjoyable stay even at such a high elevation. The allure extends beyond just comfort; the campground's setting right by the serene Brooklyn Lake provides picturesque views from many sites, inviting campers to truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding them.

More than just a place to pitch a tent, Brooklyn Lake offers a gateway to a myriad of outdoor activities. From fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the lake to exploring extensive hiking trails that wind through the subalpine forest, there's something to captivate every outdoor enthusiast. The ability to gather firewood and access potable water on-site (during operational seasons) adds to the convenience, while the clear night skies present an incredible opportunity for stargazing. This detailed overview aims to equip Wyoming residents with all the necessary information to plan a memorable and rewarding trip to Brooklyn Lake Campground.

Brooklyn Lake Campground is majestically situated at an approximate elevation of 10,500 to 10,526 feet in the Medicine Bow National Forest, roughly eight miles northwest of Centennial, Wyoming. The address is Forest Rd 317, Centennial, WY 82055, USA. This places it directly within the stunning Snowy Range, a sub-range of the Rocky Mountains known for its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and numerous alpine lakes.

Access to Brooklyn Lake Campground is primarily via Forest Road 317, also known as Brooklyn Lake Road, which branches off Wyoming Highway 130 (the Snowy Range Scenic Byway). From Laramie, visitors would typically travel west on Highway 130 for about 37 miles, then turn onto Forest Road 317 and proceed northwest for approximately 2 miles to reach the campground. While the Scenic Byway itself is paved, the last few miles on Forest Road 317 are typically gravel. This road is generally well-maintained, making the campground accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers up to 22 feet in length, though caution is always advised on unpaved mountain roads. Visitors with larger RVs should verify compatibility. Because of its high elevation, the campground's open season is relatively short, usually from mid-July (weather dependent due to snowmelt) through early October. It's crucial to check current conditions and opening/closing dates with the Laramie Ranger District before planning your trip, as snow can linger well into summer and return early in the fall.

• Designated Campsites: Brooklyn Lake Campground features 19 campsites, offering a mix of reservation and first-come, first-served sites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate.
• Potable Water: Hand pumps are available within the campground for potable water, a highly valued amenity, as noted by visitors. It is advised to call ahead to ensure pumps are operational, especially during shoulder seasons.
• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are provided for camper convenience.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available for waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean and pristine.
• Campground Hosts: Friendly campground hosts are often on-site, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere and helping to ensure the grounds are well-maintained.
• Firewood: While firewood is not sold on-site, picking up dead and downed wood for campfires is allowed, as confirmed by past visitors (always adhere to current fire restrictions).
• RV Accommodation: Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers, with a maximum length of 22 feet. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups, promoting a more rustic camping experience.

• Stunning High-Altitude Scenery: The campground is located at approximately 10,500 feet, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Snowy Range, including snow-capped Browns Peak, and the picturesque Brooklyn Lake itself. Every site offers some view of the lake, ranging from good to spectacular.
• Pristine Brooklyn Lake Access: The campground is directly on Brooklyn Lake, a 36-acre lake with a maximum depth of 38 feet. It's perfect for hand-powered boating (canoeing, kayaking) with carry-down access; internal-combustion motors are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful experience.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Brooklyn Lake and the nearby Little Brooklyn Lake are popular fishing spots, stocked by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department with brook trout, cutthroat trout, and Splake (a hybrid). This makes it a prime destination for anglers.
• Clean Facilities & Friendly Hosts: Reviewers consistently praise the "clean restrooms" and the "awesome campground" environment, specifically mentioning how "the hosts were friendly" and did a great job keeping the place ready.
• Stargazing Paradise: At such a high elevation and away from city lights, Brooklyn Lake Campground offers "a good spot for stargazing." The clear Wyoming night skies provide an unparalleled view of the Milky Way and constellations.
• Well-Maintained Campsites: "The campsites were well maintained," indicating attention to detail and care for the camping environment.
• Access to Extensive Hiking Trails: The campground provides direct trail access to the Sheep Lake Trail #389 and the Glacier Lakes Trail, opening up numerous opportunities for day hikes or longer backcountry excursions into the Snowy Range Wilderness.
• Firewood Availability (Picking Allowed): The ability to collect downed firewood is a convenient feature for campers, reducing the need to transport wood from afar.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests are home to diverse wildlife, including elk, moose, mule deer, and various bird species, offering opportunities for nature viewing.

Address: Forest Rd 317, Centennial, WY 82055, USA

Phone: (307) 745-2300 (This is the phone number for the Laramie Ranger District, which manages Brooklyn Lake Campground. It is the primary contact for current conditions, reservations, and general inquiries.)

Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-2300 (Same as above, for general contact with the managing Forest Service district.)

For reservations, visitors can also check Recreation.gov.

For residents of Wyoming, Brooklyn Lake Campground stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable destination for outdoor recreation, embodying the very essence of the state’s rugged beauty and adventurous spirit. Its location at a staggering 10,500 feet in the Snowy Range offers an authentic high-country experience that is both accessible and profoundly rewarding, right in their own backyard.

The "awesome campground" experience, bolstered by "friendly hosts" and "clean restrooms," as highlighted by fellow campers, means that Wyomingites can expect a comfortable and well-managed visit. This level of care allows locals to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings without concerns about basic amenities, something valued by anyone seeking a true escape.

The direct access to Brooklyn Lake for "hand-powered boating" like canoeing and kayaking, coupled with "awesome fishing" opportunities for brook trout, cutthroat trout, and Splake, directly appeals to the strong angling and water sports culture prevalent in Wyoming. Being able to enjoy these pristine alpine waters with non-motorized vessels ensures a tranquil environment, perfect for a peaceful day on the lake.

Furthermore, the availability of numerous hiking trails, including access to Sheep Lake Trail and Glacier Lakes Trail, caters to Wyoming's passionate hiking community. Whether it's a strenuous trek to a higher peak or a leisurely stroll through subalpine meadows, the opportunities for exploration are vast. The chance to "pick firewoods" also aligns with the self-reliant nature often found in local outdoor enthusiasts, adding a touch of rustic charm to the camping experience.

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons for locals is the unparalleled opportunity for "stargazing." Away from significant light pollution, the high elevation of Brooklyn Lake Campground transforms the night sky into a dazzling spectacle. For anyone who appreciates the vastness of the cosmos, this feature alone makes the journey worthwhile. The cooler temperatures, even in July, provide a refreshing respite from summer heat often experienced in lower elevations, making it an ideal mountain retreat.

While the campground is heavily used, especially during its short season, the mix of reservation and first-come, first-served sites, coupled with the commitment to maintenance, ensures a quality experience. For Wyomingites seeking a truly authentic, high-altitude mountain camping adventure with fantastic amenities and a stunning natural backdrop, Brooklyn Lake Campground is not just a recommendation; it's a local treasure waiting to be explored.

Brooklyn Lake Campground

Forest Rd 317, Centennial, WY 82055, USA