Camping at Curt Gowdy State Park

Overview of Curt Gowdy State Park

Curt Gowdy State Park is situated in southeastern Wyoming between the cities of Cheyenne and Laramie. It is named after the famous sportscaster Curt Gowdy. This park boasts a diverse landscape with rolling hills, extensive trails, and varied outdoor activities. The area is known for its scenic beauty and offers a range of recreational activities including camping.

Camping Facilities

The park provides a variety of camping options catering to both RV travelers and tent campers. The campgrounds are well-maintained and include:

• Tent Sites: Designated areas for tent camping, often including a fire ring and a picnic table.
• RV Sites: These usually come with electric hookups and often water hookups.
• Group Camping: Areas set aside for larger groups, often with additional facilities to accommodate more people.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: It’s recommended to make reservations for campsites especially during peak seasons, as the park can become quite busy.
• Fees: Camping fees vary depending on the facilities and the type of campsite. There might also be additional fees for vehicle entry.

Campsite Regulations

Camping in Curt Gowdy State Park comes with certain rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, as well as the protection of wildlife and the environment:

• Fire Safety: Observe any fire bans, use designated fire rings, and ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
• Wildlife: Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife, and observe all wildlife from a safe distance.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in, and leave the campsite as you found it.

Activities and Amenities

The park offers a variety of activities for campers, including:

• Hiking and Biking Trails: There are numerous trails of varying difficulty for both hiking and mountain biking.
• Fishing: The park has several reservoirs known for trout fishing.
• Boating: Non-motorized and motorized boating is allowed, including kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing.
• Rock Climbing: Certain areas in the park provide opportunities for rock climbing.
• Horseback Riding: There are trails available for equestrian use.
• Picnicking: Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park.

The park also has amenities such as restrooms, showers, boat launches, and visitor centers.

Weather and Clothing

The weather in Wyoming can be quite variable. It’s wise to prepare for both warm and cool weather because the temperature can swing drastically:

• Summer: Days are usually warm, while nights can still be cool. Precautions for sun exposure and hydration are important.
• Spring/Fall: These seasons can be especially unpredictable with a chance of snow, rain, or sunny days.
• Winter: The park is often snowy and cold, and many facilities might be closed or have limited access.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly to ensure that you have the proper clothing and gear for your camping adventure.