North Fork Campground

For Wyoming locals seeking a truly authentic and tranquil outdoor experience, North Fork Campground near Laramie offers a beautiful and secluded retreat within the expansive Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. This hidden gem provides an ideal setting for those who appreciate direct access to pristine natural beauty, the soothing sounds of a flowing river, and ample opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you're an avid angler, a passionate hiker, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle for some peace and quiet, North Fork Campground is a destination that embodies the rugged charm of the Cowboy State.

North Fork Campground is celebrated for its serene atmosphere and its unique position along the North Fork of the Little Laramie River. It caters to a range of campers, from those preferring developed sites to adventurous souls looking for a more secluded, dispersed camping experience nearby. Its appeal lies in its balance of accessibility to incredible natural features and the sense of privacy it offers, making it a beloved spot for Wyomingites seeking an unadulterated connection with nature.

North Fork Campground is located near Laramie, WY 82070, USA, specifically within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Its precise location is best described by its proximity to the town of Centennial. From Centennial, take State Highway 130 west for 3.7 miles to Sand Lake Road/Forest Road 101. Turn right onto Forest Road 101 and drive approximately 1.7 to 2 miles to reach the campground entrance on your left.

The campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 9,200 feet, which contributes to its cooler temperatures and provides a refreshing escape, especially during the warmer months. Reviews indicate that while the "road was rocky," it generally does "not need super high clearance," though "AWD highly recommended" for the drive to some of the more dispersed areas or during less favorable conditions. The drive from the main road to the campground and surrounding dispersed sites offers a scenic introduction to the high country. For those looking for more challenging adventures, the campground is a mere "20 min drive to the Medicine Bow Peak trail," one of the most iconic hikes in the Snowy Range. The combination of secluded beauty with reasonable accessibility makes North Fork a popular choice for locals who want to feel immersed in nature without being entirely cut off from key attractions and the nearest town of Centennial.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 60 campsites, with about 10 of those sites located directly along the banks of the North Fork of the Little Laramie River. It is considered a large, RV-friendly campground that also accommodates tent camping.

• Picnic Tables: Each developed campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining and meal preparation.

• Fire Rings: Fire rings are typically available at each site, allowing for safe campfires (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).

• Vault Toilets: Basic, non-flush restroom facilities (vault toilets) are provided for visitor convenience.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available via a hand pump, typically from July to September. However, it's always advisable to "bring your own water or call ahead" to confirm availability, as pump functionality can vary.

• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided within the developed campground, encouraging guests to keep the area clean.

• No Electrical Hook-ups: This is a rustic campground and does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups for RVs.

• Dispersed Camping: Opportunities for dispersed camping (without amenities) are available in the surrounding area, offering more privacy for those who are self-sufficient. One review specifically mentions "Big group of friends did dispersed camping right before the campsites by turning left. Site had space for multiple tents."

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally permitted in the campground but must be kept on a leash and all waste properly disposed of.

• Secluded & Beautiful Setting: Described as a "beautiful and secluded campground," North Fork offers a peaceful escape with a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. The campground is set in a thick forest of lodgepole pine and spruce.

• Riverfront Access: The "sound of the North Fork of the Little Laramie River can be heard throughout most of the campground," with many sites directly along the riverbank, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and enjoying the calming sounds of flowing water.

• Direct Trail Access: "There’s a trail right by the campground which is beautiful and leads to the Little Laramie River," offering convenient access for hikers and anglers. The scenic North Fork Trail #390 is easily accessible.

• Proximity to Medicine Bow Peak Trail: Just a "20 min drive to the Medicine Bow Peak trail," making it an ideal base camp for those looking to conquer one of Wyoming's iconic peaks.

• Excellent Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing for trout in the clear mountain waters of the North Fork of the Little Laramie River.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest environment is home to various wildlife, including black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, marmots, moose, and mule deer, offering ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

• High-Altitude Experience: Located at 9,200 feet, the campground offers cooler temperatures and a true high-country mountain camping experience.

• Privacy (especially in dispersed areas): For those opting for dispersed camping, the area provides "more space and privacy" compared to more developed sites.

North Fork Campground is managed by the Laramie Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests & Thunder Basin National Grassland. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees, water availability, site status, fire restrictions, or any other inquiries, it is best to contact the Ranger District directly.

Address: Laramie, WY 82070, USA (General area within Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest)

Mailing Address: Laramie Ranger District, 3838 Cherrywood East Loop ATTN: Recreation Program, Laramie WY 82070

Phone: (307) 745-2300

Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-2300 (Likely the same line)

Reservations: While some sites may be first-come, first-served, some sources indicate that reservations can be made via Recreation.gov for certain sites. It's best to check with the Laramie Ranger District or Recreation.gov for specific booking details.

Always call the Laramie Ranger District or check their official website for current conditions, especially concerning weather, road accessibility, and water pump functionality, before planning your trip.

For Wyoming locals, North Fork Campground truly encapsulates the essence of the state's wild and beautiful landscapes. Its identity as a "beautiful and secluded campground" directly addresses the desire for peaceful, private escapes that many residents seek. The presence of the Little Laramie River flowing directly through or near the campground offers not just picturesque scenery but also fantastic "fishing" opportunities, a beloved pastime for many Wyomingites. The accessible trail right by the campground provides an immediate invitation to explore, leading to the river and further into the scenic Medicine Bow National Forest.

The experience of high-altitude camping, with its cooler nights, even if it means remembering to "bring bug spray because of the mosquitoes by the creek" and preparing for colder evening temperatures, is a familiar and often cherished aspect of Wyoming summers. For those who prefer a more rugged experience, the option for "dispersed camping right before the campsites" provides "more space and privacy," a significant draw for groups or individuals seeking true solitude, even if it means rougher roads requiring "AWD highly recommended" vehicles and forgoing traditional bathrooms.

Furthermore, its relative proximity to the challenging and rewarding "Medicine Bow Peak trail" ensures that serious hikers have an excellent base for their adventures. North Fork Campground is ideal for locals who prioritize direct engagement with nature, appreciate a less developed environment, and are prepared to be self-sufficient while enjoying some of Wyoming's most stunning and serene high-country wilderness. It’s a place to create genuine outdoor memories, away from the crowds, amidst the very best of what Wyoming's natural world has to offer.

North Fork Campground

Laramie, WY 82070, USA