Closed
— Closed for the season. Opens late May or early June through late October annually. Weather and snow events may impact opening and closure dates. Accessible by car except after snow events at the beginning and end of the season.
About
La Prele Guard Station is located south of Douglas, Wyoming in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Originally built as a remote ranger station in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it was converted into a work center when the La Prele Ranger District was discontinued in 1956. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 and today provides a unique lodging experience for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in south central Wyoming.
The guard station sits in a grassy clearing surrounded by mixed conifer forest at an elevation of 7,800 feet, with La Prele Creek flowing nearby. Mountains define the landscape, and wildlife viewing is abundant, including elk, deer, migratory birds, squirrels, and occasional black bears or moose.
The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hunting. The Twin Peaks OHV trail trailhead is three miles north and provides great access for elk and deer hunters, with views of the Laramie Mountains from the peaks. Anglers enjoy fly fishing for trout in La Prele Creek and its beaver ponds, some within walking distance from the cabin. The cabin features propane lighting and many modern conveniences, though guests need to bring some of their own supplies.
Directions
From Douglas (37 miles): From I-25 Exit 140, turn right onto S Riverbend Dr, right onto WY-94 (Esterbrook Road), and right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). In 3 miles, turn left on WY-91 and continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles. From I-25 Exit 146: East on WY-96 for 3.1 miles, turn right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road), continue on CR 24 for 33.8 miles.
Nearby Campgrounds
