Pelton Creek

About

Pelton Creek Campground lies at the convergence of Douglas Creek and Pelton Creek, just outside the Platte River Wilderness in Wyoming's Medicine Bow National Forest. Although the Mullen Fire burned through the area in 2020, the campground was spared and retains tall pine trees providing shade. The 14 sites are arranged in a single loop with one side running parallel to Pelton Creek. Some sites overlook the creek and a meadow, though the grass understory and close spacing provide minimal privacy. The campground serves as a gateway to the Platte River Wilderness, with trailheads for the Douglas Creek Trail and Platte Ridge Trail departing from the north end. Douglas Creek Trail follows the creek for 9.5 miles through an open canyon, and hikers can complete a loop by connecting to the Platte River Trail. Fishing opportunities abound in Douglas Creek and the nearby North Platte River, which offers blue-ribbon trout fishing. A stock unloading facility is located near the campground, though stock are not permitted within the campground itself. Facilities include vault toilets, a water handpump near site 1, picnic tables, and fire grates at each site. Four sites accommodate longer vehicles or trailers as pull-through configurations. Campers must pack out all trash. The 14-day stay limit is enforced.

Directions

From Laramie, take WY 230 west for 40.6 miles to National Forest Recreation Area sign on Forest Route 898. Turn right onto FR 898 and go 8.7 miles to campground.