Lake Side Campground

Introduction / Overview

Welcome to Lake Side Campground, a destination for those seeking a straightforward and scenic camping experience in the heart of Wyoming. Located on the Wind River Reservation near Shoshoni, this campground offers a rustic charm that appeals to campers who appreciate the essentials of outdoor living. It provides a simple yet effective basecamp for exploring the natural beauty of the area, particularly the nearby Boysen Reservoir. The campground is well-suited for a variety of visitors, from families and seasoned tent campers to those just passing through who need a place to rest and enjoy the Wyoming landscape.

Lake Side Campground is known for its classic state park camping feel. It’s a place where the focus is on the environment and the experience, not on an extensive list of modern amenities. The atmosphere is laid-back and natural, encouraging visitors to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. While it is conveniently located just off the highway, providing easy access, it also offers a sense of being “tucked away,” as noted by a recent camper. This dual nature makes it an excellent choice for a quick stopover or a multi-day stay. The main attraction is the proximity to the lake, which offers stunning views and a wide range of recreational activities. The campground’s name is a true reflection of its primary appeal: a lakeside retreat where the scenic beauty of the water and the dramatic Wyoming sunsets take center stage.

The campground’s appeal is its simplicity and its authentic connection to the local landscape. It’s a place where you can pitch a tent, start a campfire, and enjoy the vast, open skies that Wyoming is famous for. For families, the "good for kids" feature means a safe and engaging environment for children to explore and learn about nature. While some reviews mention minor issues like scattered litter, the main paths and designated camping areas are generally well-kept, and the overall experience is a positive one for those who appreciate a more rustic and less-commercialized camping trip. The cost, while noted by some to be in the $35-40 range, is a standard price for access to a state park camping area with this level of convenience and natural beauty.

Location and Accessibility

Lake Side Campground is located on the Wind River Reservation, near Shoshoni, Wyoming, with its address noted as Wind River Reservation, Shoshoni, WY 82649, USA. This places it in a prime position for campers who want to be close to the Boysen Reservoir and its many recreational opportunities. Its location just off a major highway makes it particularly accessible, providing a great option for travelers who are on the road and need a convenient place to stay without venturing too far off their route. The easy access is a significant advantage, reducing travel time and hassle, allowing visitors to get to their destination quickly and start their vacation sooner.

Despite its proximity to the highway, the campground offers a sense of seclusion, with designated tent camping areas that are "tucked away" from the main thoroughfare. This clever layout helps to minimize the feeling of being right next to a busy road while still providing the convenience of easy access. A key feature of the campground is its on-site parking, which is an important amenity for all campers. It allows visitors to park their vehicles securely and close to their campsite, making the process of loading and unloading gear much more efficient. This is particularly beneficial for tent campers who need to transport all their equipment to their site. The combination of a scenic location with practical, on-site parking makes Lake Side Campground a practical and desirable choice for a wide range of visitors.

The campground's location on the Wind River Reservation also offers a unique cultural and scenic experience. The surrounding area is rich with natural beauty and opportunities for exploration. The convenience of being near Shoshoni means that campers have access to essential services and supplies, ensuring that their trip is as comfortable as possible. This strategic placement strikes a perfect balance between a rustic, natural camping experience and the convenience of being close to civilization.

Services Offered

Lake Side Campground focuses on providing the essential services needed for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. These amenities are designed to meet the basic needs of campers while allowing the natural environment to be the main attraction.

• Tent sites: The campground offers dedicated tent sites, providing a specific area for campers who prefer to stay in tents. This is a key amenity, as it ensures there is a suitable place for this type of camping, which is often a preferred method for many outdoor enthusiasts.
• On-site parking: This service is crucial for convenience, allowing visitors to park their vehicles directly at or near their camping spot. It simplifies the process of setting up and breaking down camp, as well as providing easy access to vehicles throughout the stay.

Features / Highlights

Lake Side Campground stands out for several key features that contribute to its appeal and overall value.

• Good for kids: The natural setting and wide-open spaces make this a great spot for families. Children can safely explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors, making it an excellent choice for a family-friendly camping trip. The proximity to the lake also offers opportunities for fun water-based activities.
• Scenic sunsets: A standout highlight mentioned in reviews is the "wicked" sunset. The campground's location near the lake provides an unobstructed view of the horizon, creating a stunning and memorable spectacle each evening. This is a major draw for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and photography.
• Proximity to the lake: Being a "lakeside" campground means direct and easy access to the Boysen Reservoir. This is ideal for activities like fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the tranquil views of the water.
• Tucked-away feeling: Despite its highway access, the tent camping area is described as being "tucked away," which provides a sense of privacy and quiet that is often sought after in a camping environment.
• Lots of space: The campground offers "lots of space," which is a significant feature for campers who prefer not to feel crowded. This allows for a more relaxed and private experience, even during busy periods.

Contact Information

For any questions or to get more information about Lake Side Campground, you can use the provided contact details. It is always a good idea to call ahead for the most current information on availability and any specific regulations.

• Phone: (307) 876-2796
• Address: Wind River Reservation, Shoshoni, WY 82649, USA

What is worth choosing

Choosing Lake Side Campground is a decision to embrace a straightforward, classic camping experience with beautiful natural features. The reviews, while noting some minor issues like trash in certain areas and highway noise, highlight the core strengths of the campground. The presence of a "pretty nice" tent camping area that is "tucked away" is a major plus, as it provides a sense of peace and seclusion. The availability of pit toilets and the standard state park feel meet the basic needs of campers without over-developing the site. The cost, while not inexpensive, is standard for the level of access and the beauty of the location, representing a fair trade for a spot in this scenic area.

What truly makes this campground worth choosing is the combination of its natural beauty and convenience. The stunning sunsets and the proximity to the lake are priceless features that create lasting memories. For those who are not bothered by the common sounds of a nearby highway and who are prepared to handle a few minor rustic elements, this campground offers a fantastic value. It provides a simple and effective basecamp for enjoying the Boysen Reservoir and the vast, open landscapes of Wyoming. The "lots of space" also contributes to a more relaxed experience, allowing campers to spread out and enjoy their surroundings without feeling cramped.

In conclusion, Lake Side Campground is an ideal spot for campers who are seeking a scenic and accessible location for a no-frills outdoor adventure. It is particularly well-suited for tent campers and families who will appreciate the dedicated spaces, the beautiful views, and the opportunity to experience the authentic essence of Wyoming's wilderness. The minor trade-offs are well worth the reward of a beautiful lakeside stay with stunning sunsets.

Lake Side Campground

Wind River Reservation, Shoshoni, WY 82649, USA