Twin Buttes Public Access Area

For Wyoming locals seeking a peaceful and easily accessible outdoor escape without the fuss of reservations or fees, Twin Buttes Public Access Area near Laramie offers a compelling option. This sprawling area, centered around the Twin Buttes Reservoir, provides expansive opportunities for dispersed camping, fishing, and enjoying the vast, open landscapes that define much of southeastern Wyoming. It’s a place where the high desert meets the horizon, offering stunning sunsets, quiet nights, and a chance to truly unwind by the water.

Twin Buttes Public Access Area is primarily a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, meaning it offers primitive, dispersed camping. This translates to the freedom to find your own spot along the lake or off the access roads, providing a sense of solitude often hard to find in more developed campgrounds. While it means fewer amenities, it also means a more authentic and self-sufficient camping experience, which many Wyomingites prefer. Reviews highlight the peace and quiet, with visitors often noting the beauty of the area, especially at sunrise and sunset. The lake itself is a focal point, drawing anglers and those who enjoy water-based activities like kayaking and boating.

One of the distinct characteristics of Twin Buttes is its open, relatively treeless landscape. While this means less shade and potentially strong winds, it also contributes to the dramatic, unobstructed views of the surrounding buttes and distant mountains. It's an interesting place to "hang out," as one reviewer put it, where the wind can sometimes be a blessing, helping to keep bugs at bay. The convenience of having basic restroom facilities available is a welcome touch for a dispersed camping area, adding to the comfort of your stay. Just remember to bring your own toilet paper and be prepared to pack out all your trash, as this is a "Leave No Trace" environment.

Whether you’re looking to fish for trout, enjoy a serene night under a blanket of stars, or simply find a peaceful spot to camp for a few days, Twin Buttes Public Access Area provides a versatile and welcoming environment for Wyoming locals. Its year-round accessibility (weather permitting on dirt roads) even extends to winter activities like ice fishing, making it a truly multi-season outdoor haven.

Twin Buttes Public Access Area is conveniently located just west of Laramie, Wyoming. Its address is Twin Buttes Rd, Laramie, WY 82070, USA. This places it within the Laramie Plains Lakes region, a collection of popular fishing and recreation areas managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and private landowners.

The area is highly accessible from Laramie, making it a very popular spot for local residents. From downtown Laramie, you would typically head west on Snowy Range Road (WY-130), then follow directions that lead to Pahlow Lane (County Rd 422) and eventually to Twin Buttes Road. The roads leading to the reservoir and camping areas are generally described as paved for a good portion, transitioning to easy-to-navigate dirt or gravel roads as you get closer to the lake. While some dirt roads can be washboarded, many vehicles, including larger RVs, can access the primary camping areas near the lake. It's generally not a challenging drive, though a little bumpy.

For Wyomingites from other parts of the state, Twin Buttes Public Access Area is also within reasonable driving distance:

• From Cheyenne: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes (via I-80 W to Laramie).

• From Rawlins: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours (via US-130 E).

• From Casper: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (via US-220 S and then connecting to Laramie).

The accessibility allows for year-round visitation, although winter conditions (snow and ice on dirt roads) should always be monitored. The ability to drive right up to many lakeside camping spots is a significant convenience, especially for those with RVs or a lot of gear. Its proximity to Laramie means easy access to supplies, gas, and other town amenities, blending the wildness of dispersed camping with the convenience of a nearby urban center.

Twin Buttes Public Access Area is managed as a dispersed camping and recreation area by the BLM and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. As such, services are limited, emphasizing a primitive, self-sufficient experience.

• Campsites: The area offers abundant opportunities for dispersed camping. There are no designated campsites with numbers or specific amenities at each spot. Campers can find numerous pull-offs and flat areas along the lakeside and access roads suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers. Reviews indicate "lots of spaces available even on the weekend."

• Vault Toilets: There are some vault toilets (outhouses/pit toilets) available in the parking areas and potentially near some popular camping spots around the lake. These are generally appreciated by visitors for their availability and cleanliness, especially for a primitive area. However, it's advised to bring your own toilet paper.

• No Potable Water: There is no source of potable drinking water available at Twin Buttes Public Access Area. Campers must bring all the water they need for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

• No Trash Disposal: There are no trash cans or collection services. Campers must adhere strictly to "Pack It In, Pack It Out" principles, meaning all trash, including food scraps, must be removed from the area.

• Boat Ramp: The area features a public boat ramp, providing access to Twin Buttes Reservoir for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

• Fire Pits (Limited/Informal): While some informal fire rings or previously used fire pits might be found, there are generally no officially constructed fire rings at every dispersed site. Open fires are often permitted but always subject to current fire restrictions and bans, which should be checked with the managing agencies before lighting any fire.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs or trailers. This is strictly dry camping or boondocking.

• Cell Service: Some reviewers indicate fair to good cell service (e.g., Verizon) in parts of the area, which can be a useful feature for a dispersed camping location.

• Camping Limit: There is typically a 5-day camping limit at Twin Buttes Public Access Area, as it is a public access area managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission.

• Lakeside Dispersed Camping: A primary highlight is the availability of free, dispersed camping right along the shores of Twin Buttes Reservoir. This allows campers to choose their own secluded spot with beautiful lake views.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Twin Buttes Reservoir is a popular fishing destination, known for its populations of Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Yellow Perch. It's suitable for shore fishing, boat fishing, and even ice fishing in winter, making it a year-round angler's paradise.

• Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets: The open, unobstructed landscape provides dramatic and incredibly peaceful sunrises and sunsets over the lake and surrounding buttes, creating stunning photographic opportunities.

• Quiet and Peaceful Nights: Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere, especially at night. Far from city lights, the area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, allowing for peaceful and undisturbed sleep.

• Water-Based Activities: Beyond fishing, the reservoir is suitable for non-motorized boating activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a refreshing way to explore the lake.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area supports various wildlife, including waterfowl (especially given the lake environment), birds, and potentially other high desert animals. It's a great spot for birdwatching.

• Accessible to Most Vehicles: The access roads are generally well-maintained dirt/gravel, making the main camping areas reachable for most vehicles, including RVs of various sizes, without requiring high clearance or 4WD.

• Winter Recreation: In colder months, when the lake freezes over, Twin Buttes becomes a popular spot for ice fishing, offering a unique winter outdoor experience for hardy locals.

• Proximity to Laramie: Its close distance to Laramie allows for easy resupply runs, access to amenities, and is ideal for quick day trips or overnights for those living in or near the city.

Twin Buttes Public Access Area is primarily managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). As a dispersed camping area, there isn't a dedicated campground office or direct phone number for the site itself.

Address: Twin Buttes Rd, Laramie, WY 82070, USA (This is the general address for the access area; specific camping spots are informal pull-offs along the roads.)

For information regarding Twin Buttes Public Access Area, including fishing regulations, hunting seasons, and general public access rules, you should contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

Phone: While a specific number for Twin Buttes isn't typically listed, you can contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department's Laramie Regional Office for local inquiries: (307) 745-4046.

Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-4046 (This is the same number for ease of mobile or international dialing.)

When contacting them, inquire about:

• Current fishing conditions, regulations, and stocking information for Twin Buttes Reservoir.

• Any specific rules or limitations for camping at the Public Access Area (e.g., the 5-day limit).

• Current road conditions, especially if planning a winter visit or after heavy precipitation.

• Any fire restrictions or advisories for the area.

• Information on hunting seasons and regulations if you plan to hunt in the surrounding area.

Additionally, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department's official website (wgfd.wyo.gov) is an excellent resource for detailed maps, regulations, and advisories for all Public Access Areas across the state.

For Wyoming locals, Twin Buttes Public Access Area offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing outdoor experience that perfectly encapsulates the state’s spirit of accessible wilderness and self-reliant adventure. Its strong appeal stems from several key factors that cater directly to the preferences and lifestyles of residents.

Firstly, its unparalleled accessibility and status as a free, dispersed camping area make it an ideal choice for both spontaneous day trips and extended stays. Being just a short drive from Laramie means less travel time and more time spent enjoying the outdoors, a significant advantage for those seeking a quick escape. The ability to drive directly to lakeside spots, accommodating various rig sizes, further enhances its convenience for local campers, whether they're in tents or large RVs.

Secondly, the prime focus on recreational activities that are deeply ingrained in Wyoming’s culture—fishing and boating—makes it a natural draw. Twin Buttes Reservoir is a well-known fishing spot, offering diverse trout species and year-round opportunities, including popular ice fishing in winter. This provides a constant source of outdoor enjoyment that many locals actively seek. The expansive, open environment also makes it ideal for capturing stunning sunrises and sunsets, offering a daily dose of Wyoming's iconic scenic beauty.

Furthermore, the quiet and peaceful atmosphere is a significant highlight. For those looking to truly disconnect from urban noise and crowds, Twin Buttes delivers. The vastness of the landscape allows for ample space between campers, fostering a sense of solitude and calm. While it lacks developed amenities like running water or full hookups, the presence of clean vault toilets adds a touch of comfort that is highly valued in a primitive setting. The requirement to pack out all trash also aligns with the "Leave No Trace" ethic that many environmentally conscious Wyomingites embrace.

In essence, Twin Buttes Public Access Area is more than just a place to camp; it's a readily available slice of Wyoming's high desert paradise. It perfectly combines the freedom of dispersed camping with convenient access to a beloved reservoir, offering locals a versatile and authentically wild escape right in their backyard.

Twin Buttes Public Access Area

Twin Buttes Rd, Laramie, WY 82070, USA