Vedauwoo Campground

Hello, fellow Wyoming adventurers! When the call of the wild echoes across our vast landscapes, there are few places that answer with the same distinctive charm and rugged beauty as Vedauwoo Campground. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's an immersive experience within a geological wonderland, a true testament to the raw and awe-inspiring nature of our state. For locals seeking a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and natural spectacle, Vedauwoo stands as a premier destination, offering something truly special for every outdoor enthusiast.

This article is crafted with you, the Wyoming resident, in mind. We'll guide you through what makes Vedauwoo Campground an exceptional spot for your next escape, from its remarkable location nestled among ancient granite formations to the practical services that ensure a comfortable stay. We'll highlight the unique features that draw visitors from far and wide, and provide all the necessary contact information to help you plan your visit seamlessly. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview that highlights why Vedauwoo is perfectly suited for your local adventures. Get ready to explore a place where nature's artistry is on full display and unforgettable memories are just waiting to be made.

Location and Accessibility

Vedauwoo Campground is strategically located in southeastern Wyoming, making it highly accessible from major population centers like Laramie and Cheyenne. You'll find this geological marvel at Vedauwoo Campground, Forest Rd 720, Buford, WY 82052, USA. This address places it squarely within the picturesque Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, a region celebrated for its diverse ecosystems and stunning natural features.

For those traveling from Laramie, Vedauwoo is approximately 15.8 miles east on Interstate 80 (I-80). Take Exit 329, turn left onto Vedauwoo Road, and continue for about 1.2 miles. From there, you'll turn left at the sign for the campground and proceed approximately 0.2 to 0.3 miles to the campground entrance. If you're coming from Cheyenne, you'll travel about 30 miles west on I-80, taking the same Exit 329.

What truly sets Vedauwoo's location apart are the iconic Sherman granite formations that define the landscape. These colossal, weathered boulders, some appearing as if stacked by playful spirits, create a dramatic and unique backdrop for your camping experience. The campground itself is integrated into this rocky terrain, with sites winding around the outcrops, offering privacy and a deep connection to nature. Despite its seemingly remote feel, the excellent access via I-80 ensures that getting to Vedauwoo is a straightforward journey for both cars and RVs, allowing you to quickly transition from highway to wilderness. The ease of access makes it a prime candidate for a spontaneous weekend trip or a planned longer stay for any Wyoming resident eager to immerse themselves in unparalleled natural beauty.

Services Offered

Vedauwoo Campground provides a range of essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, catering to both tent campers and those with RVs or trailers. While it offers a rustic, authentic outdoor feel, basic necessities are thoughtfully provided.

• Campsites: The campground features a variety of sites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (with a maximum trailer length of around 32 feet). There are also dedicated walk-in tent sites for a more secluded experience. The campground is divided into two loops, offering 28 or 29 developed campsites in total, plus a separate loop with 20 tent-only sites.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for preparing meals, dining al fresco, or simply enjoying a moment of quiet reflection amidst nature.
• Campfire Rings/Pedestal Grills: For those quintessential camping evenings, individual sites typically include a fire ring or a pedestal grill, allowing for cooking over an open flame and gathering around a warm, crackling fire.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and accessible vault toilets are available throughout the campground for the convenience of campers.
• Trash Receptacles: Designated trash receptacles are provided to help campers maintain the pristine environment and responsibly dispose of waste.
• Water Handpump (Seasonal): Potable water may be available via a handpump within the main campground, typically from July to September. However, it's always advisable to bring your own water or call ahead to confirm availability, as conditions can vary.
• Mixed Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: For the 2025 season, Vedauwoo Campground will offer a mix of reservable sites and first-come, first-served options, providing flexibility for your planning.

It's important to note that Vedauwoo Campground does not offer electrical, water, or black water hook-ups, maintaining its natural, semi-primitive ambiance. This allows campers to truly unplug and embrace the outdoor experience. For the most current information on services and any seasonal changes, checking the Recreation.gov website or contacting the Laramie Ranger District is always recommended.

Features / Highlights

Vedauwoo Campground is much more than just a place to sleep under the stars; it's a gateway to an array of unique features and highlights that promise an unforgettable Wyoming outdoor adventure.

• Iconic Granite Formations: The most striking feature of Vedauwoo is its spectacular 1.4-billion-year-old Sherman granite formations. These weathered boulders, slabs, and cliffs are truly "spell-binding," as one visitor noted, creating a visually dramatic and unique landscape that is perfect for exploration and photography. Many campers find joy in simply identifying shapes in the rock formations, from giants to animals.
• World-Class Rock Climbing: Vedauwoo is renowned globally as a premier destination for rock climbing, particularly for its challenging "off-width" and "fat crack" routes. Whether you're an experienced climber looking to test your skills or simply enjoy watching the experts, the climbing opportunities here are unparalleled.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The area offers a robust network of trails catering to various activity levels. The popular Turtle Rock Trail, a roughly 3-mile loop, winds through meadows, streams, beaver ponds, and between massive rock formations. The Box Canyon Trail, accessible from the picnic area, offers great views and is even fully accessible for people with disabilities. Many trails are also suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest provides excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, moose, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, various bird species, and even beavers near the waterways.
• Privacy and Spacing: As highlighted by visitor reviews, the campsites are often "spaced out enough to give you some privacy," allowing you to truly immerse yourself in nature without feeling crowded. This thoughtful layout enhances the serene atmosphere.
• Wildflower Displays: Depending on the season, especially in late spring and early summer, the landscape transforms with vibrant displays of native wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the rocky terrain and forested areas.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Vedauwoo offers phenomenal stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, the Wyoming sky puts on a breathtaking show, with countless stars and the Milky Way visible in stunning detail.

These captivating features ensure that every visit to Vedauwoo is rich with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and a deep appreciation for Wyoming's natural wonders.

Contact Information

To help you plan your unforgettable trip to Vedauwoo Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Vedauwoo Campground, Forest Rd 720, Buford, WY 82052, USA

Phone: (307) 745-2300 (This number typically connects to the Laramie Ranger District, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 307-745-2300 (This is the same contact number, formatted for international dialing.)

For the most up-to-date information regarding reservations, campsite availability, current conditions, fire restrictions, or any specific inquiries, it is always recommended to contact the Laramie Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. You can also find valuable information and make reservations through the Recreation.gov website, searching for "Vedauwoo Campground (WY)." This will provide details on fees, opening and closing dates, and site-specific amenities.

Conclusion: Why Vedauwoo Campground is Suitable for Locals

For us, the proud residents of Wyoming, Vedauwoo Campground isn't just a destination; it's an accessible natural sanctuary that embodies the rugged beauty and adventurous spirit of our state. Its unique geological formations, extensive recreational opportunities, and serene atmosphere make it an ideal escape that truly resonates with the local love for the outdoors.

What makes Vedauwoo particularly suitable for locals is its remarkable blend of accessibility and profound natural immersion. Located conveniently off I-80, it's a short and straightforward drive from Laramie and Cheyenne, meaning less time traveling and more time enjoying. We appreciate quick access to truly wild spaces, and Vedauwoo delivers this in spades. The ability to easily reach such a world-renowned climbing mecca, with fantastic hiking trails and opportunities for quiet reflection among ancient rocks, is a significant advantage for Wyomingites.

The reviews from fellow campers echo this sentiment. The "spectacular" nature and "fabulous views" combined with sites "spaced out enough to give you some privacy" speak directly to what many locals seek: a genuine, uncrowded connection with nature. Whether it's an impromptu Thursday arrival that turns into a full weekend stay, or a planned family adventure, Vedauwoo offers the flexibility and natural allure that appeals to our independent spirit. It’s a place where you can let your "4 dogs run and play," explore endless rock formations, and witness the raw power and beauty of Mother Nature—all within a comfortable day trip or a short drive from our communities. Vedauwoo isn't just a campground; it’s a cherished piece of Wyoming's natural heritage, inviting us to explore, relax, and create lasting memories right in our own backyard. We highly encourage you to experience its magic for yourself.

Vedauwoo Campground

Vedauwoo Campground, Forest Rd 720, Buford, WY 82052, USA