Closed
Currently closed for the season. Opens late May or early June through late October, weather dependent. Reservations through Recreation.gov. Cold Springs Highway 91 repaving in progress with potential delays.
About
La Prele Guard Station is a historic rental cabin originally built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps to house the LaPrele District Ranger. The entire compound was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Located in the Laramie Peak area at approximately 7,800 feet elevation, the cabin sits in a grassy clearing surrounded by mixed conifer forest with La Prele Creek flowing nearby.
The cabin features two bedrooms with beds and mattresses, a full bathroom with flush toilet and shower (hot water via propane heater), and a kitchen equipped with propane stove, refrigerator, and basic cooking utensils. The living/dining room has a stone fireplace for heating. The cabin now has limited electricity. Cleaning supplies are provided, but guests must bring bedding, towels, food, and drinking water.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with elk and deer commonly seen. Campbell Creek Campground is located just 100 yards down the road for overflow camping. Nearby recreation includes hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hunting.
Directions
From Douglas (37 miles): From I-25 Exit 140, turn right onto S Riverbend Dr. Turn right onto WY-94 (Esterbrook Road) and right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). In 3 miles, turn left on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). Continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles. Alternatively, from I-25 Exit 146, go east on WY-96 for 3.1 miles, turn right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road), and continue on CR 24 for 33.8 miles.