US Forestry Department

For those in Wyoming with a deep appreciation for the great outdoors, the area surrounding Centennial, managed by the U.S. Forest Service (specifically the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests), offers an unparalleled array of camping experiences. Far from a single campground, this region is a tapestry of natural beauty, encompassing developed sites with some amenities and vast expanses for those who prefer the solitude of dispersed camping. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry explorer or a family looking for a memorable weekend under the stars, the U.S. Forest Service in Centennial provides a gateway to some of Wyoming's most breathtaking landscapes.

The U.S. Forest Service is dedicated to managing and preserving these incredible natural resources for public enjoyment. This means that while you'll find well-maintained areas, the emphasis is always on respecting the environment and fostering a connection with nature. From the majestic peaks of the Snowy Range to the tranquil shores of alpine lakes, the opportunities for recreation are as diverse as the scenery itself. This overview will help local Wyoming residents navigate the various camping options available through the U.S. Forest Service in the Centennial area, ensuring they can plan their perfect outdoor adventure.

Understanding the different types of camping, from developed campgrounds with facilities to the more self-sufficient dispersed camping, is crucial for a successful trip. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests offer a variety of choices, each with its unique charm and requirements. By providing factual information on location, accessibility, services, and highlights, this article aims to empower Wyomingites to make informed decisions and fully experience the natural wonders that are right on their doorstep.

The U.S. Forest Service's presence in Centennial, Wyoming, primarily covers the eastern portion of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, including the popular Snowy Range area. The general address for the Forest Service presence is Centennial, WY 82055, USA, but this refers to the administrative area rather than a single camping location. Instead, numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping areas are scattered throughout the surrounding forest lands, accessible via various forest roads branching off Wyoming Highway 130 (the Snowy Range Scenic Byway) and other local routes.

Accessibility to these campgrounds varies. Many developed campgrounds, such as Sugarloaf, Brooklyn Lake, and North Fork, are typically accessible by paved or well-maintained gravel roads, though some sections can be narrow or winding, especially for larger RVs. For instance, the drive into Sugarloaf Campground involves about a mile north into the Sugarloaf Recreation Area from Highway 130. Brooklyn Lake Campground is approximately eight miles northwest of Centennial, often accessed via Forest Road 317/Brooklyn Lake Road. North Fork Campground is situated along the North Fork of the Little Laramie River, also within easy reach of Centennial.

Dispersed camping areas, often found along various Forest Service roads like Forest Road 318 or Forest Service Road 330C, may require vehicles with higher clearance or even four-wheel drive, particularly after inclement weather. These roads can be unpaved, rocky, and have ruts. Visitors should always check current road conditions, especially in spring and early summer when snowmelt can make some routes impassable. The high elevation of many of these areas means that campgrounds typically open in late June or early July, depending on snow depth, and close by early October. Planning ahead and checking with the Laramie Ranger District (307-745-2300) is highly recommended for the most up-to-date information on openings and road conditions.

• Developed Campsites: Most developed campgrounds feature designated campsites with picnic tables and fire rings/grates.
• Vault Toilets: Common in developed campgrounds; some may also offer flush toilets at specific sites.
• Potable Water: Hand pumps or spigots are often available in developed campgrounds, though availability can be seasonal or impacted by conditions (always check ahead, as some may not be operational, requiring campers to bring their own water).
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are usually provided in developed areas.
• Tent Pads: Some campgrounds, like Sugarloaf, may require tents to be set up on designated tent pads.
• RV Accommodation: Many sites can accommodate RVs, with varying length restrictions (e.g., Sugarloaf has a 22-foot max trailer length, Nash Fork allows RVs up to 22 feet). Hook-ups (electric, water, sewer) are generally not available in these forest campgrounds, emphasizing a more rustic experience.
• Host Sites: Some campgrounds may have a dedicated host on-site during peak season.
• Dispersed Camping: Large areas of the forest are available for dispersed camping, where campers can set up outside of developed sites. These areas typically offer no services (no water, toilets, or trash collection), requiring campers to be entirely self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.

• Stunning Mountain Scenery: The campgrounds are nestled within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, offering spectacular views of the Snowy Range peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests of lodgepole pine, spruce, and fir.
• Access to Snowy Range Scenic Byway (Highway 130): Many campgrounds are conveniently located along or near this scenic byway, providing easy access to numerous overlooks, trailheads, and points of interest.
• Abundant Recreation Opportunities:
  • Hiking: Extensive networks of hiking trails cater to all skill levels, from short walks to challenging backcountry treks leading to high-elevation lakes and peaks like Medicine Bow Peak. Popular trails include those near Silver Lake, Lake Marie Falls, Mirror Lake, and the French Creek Canyon Trail.
  • Fishing: Streams and over 100 lakes in the area provide excellent recreational fishing opportunities. Lakes like Libby Lake, Lewis Lakes, and Brooklyn Lake are popular for brook trout and Splake.
  • Boating: Non-motorized boating is permitted on many lakes, such as Silver Lake and Brooklyn Lake.
  • Wildlife Viewing: The forests are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, moose, black bear, bobcat, and various bird species, offering fantastic viewing opportunities.
  • Mountain Biking & Horseback Riding: Designated trails and forest roads are often open for mountain biking and horseback riding, providing different ways to explore the landscape.
• Secluded & Rustic Experience: Many sites, particularly those away from the main thoroughfares or in less developed campgrounds, offer a truly serene and "hide-away" feel, perfect for those seeking solitude. Even developed campgrounds like Sugarloaf are described as "rustic" and "picturesque."
• High Elevation Camping: Campgrounds like Silver Lake (nearly 10,500 feet) and Brooklyn Lake (10,500 feet) offer unique high-altitude experiences, with cooler temperatures and stunning alpine environments.
• Proximity to Centennial: While offering a wilderness feel, the campgrounds are relatively close to the small town of Centennial, providing access to basic services, local eateries, and a sense of community.

Address: Centennial, WY 82055, USA (Note: This is a general area address for the Forest Service presence. Specific campgrounds have their own access points within the larger forest.)

Laramie Ranger District (U.S. Forest Service):

Phone: (307) 745-2300

Mailing Address: 3838 Cherrywood East Loop, Laramie, WY 82070 (This is the administrative office for the district that manages the Centennial area campgrounds).

For residents of Wyoming, the U.S. Forest Service campgrounds and dispersed camping areas near Centennial represent the quintessential Wyoming outdoor experience, making them incredibly suitable for local adventurers. This region offers a diverse array of camping styles, from well-appointed developed sites to raw, untouched backcountry, catering to every preference and skill level within a relatively short drive from major population centers like Laramie.

The abundance of recreational opportunities here is a major draw for locals. Wyomingites are known for their love of outdoor activities, and the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests around Centennial deliver. The fantastic fishing in the numerous clear, cold lakes and streams, particularly for trout, is a perennial favorite. Anglers can spend days exploring different waters, from the well-known Libby Lake to more secluded spots. Hikers have an endless choice of trails, whether they seek a challenging ascent to a mountain peak or a peaceful stroll through an alpine meadow bursting with wildflowers. The opportunities for wildlife viewing, from moose foraging in wetlands to elk grazing in open fields, offer unique moments of connection with the state's wild inhabitants.

Furthermore, the high-elevation setting of many of these campgrounds provides a welcome escape during Wyoming’s warmer summer months. The cooler temperatures in the mountains offer a refreshing contrast to the heat of the plains, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking to beat the summer warmth. The pristine air and quiet solitude found in these forest environments are also a significant draw, providing a chance to truly decompress and reconnect with nature away from the demands of daily life.

The Forest Service's management ensures that while the areas are accessible, they retain their wild character. The emphasis on self-sufficiency in dispersed camping areas, and even in some developed sites that lack full hook-ups, aligns perfectly with the independent spirit often found in Wyoming communities. Locals are typically well-versed in outdoor ethics and prepared to pack in and pack out, minimizing their impact on these cherished landscapes. This respect for the environment ensures these areas remain pristine for future generations.

Finally, the sheer variety of options means there's always something new to explore. A local family can start with a developed campground like Brooklyn Lake for its amenities and lake access, then gradually transition to more primitive sites or even dispersed camping as their comfort and skills grow. The proximity to the charming town of Centennial also adds a layer of convenience, offering last-minute supplies or a meal after a long day of adventuring. For any Wyoming resident looking for an authentic, accessible, and endlessly rewarding outdoor experience, the U.S. Forest Service lands around Centennial are an irreplaceable local treasure.

US Forestry Department

Centennial, WY 82055, USA