Happy Jack

Open — Open year-round. Most campsites are reservable May 15 through September 30 via ReserveAmerica. October 1 through May 14, all sites operate first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Water in campgrounds is shut off for winter on October 1, though flush toilets and showers remain available at the visitor center.

About

Happy Jack campground is one of several camping areas within Curt Gowdy State Park, positioned in the Happy Jack Mountains halfway between Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming. The park encompasses multiple camping loops around freshwater reservoirs, with Happy Jack being one of the primary camping areas. The campground features 179 total sites spread across various loops, offering a mix of RV and tent camping options with both reservable and first-come, first-served sites. The park's location along Happy Jack Road provides convenient access from Interstate 80, making it a popular destination for Front Range visitors. The area offers extensive recreational opportunities including fishing in the reservoirs, hiking and mountain biking on designated trails, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding forest. The campground serves as a base camp for exploring the park's 35 miles of trails that wind through ponderosa pine forests and around the scenic reservoirs. While most sites operate with modern amenities during the peak season, winter camping provides a quieter, more rustic experience. The park remains accessible year-round for those seeking shoulder-season and winter camping opportunities in the mountains, with the visitor center maintaining some services even when campground water systems are winterized.

Directions

Located 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie. Take State Route 210 (Happy Jack Road) to Granite Springs Road.

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