Brooklyn Lake
Laramie Ranger District, MEDICINE BOW-ROUTT, WY, USA
Brooklyn Lake
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for campsites during peak season (July 18 - September 13, 2025) is $20. Additional fees such as reservation fees ($8 online) and cancellation fees ($10) may apply.
About this campground
Perched high in the Medicine Bow Mountains at 10,500 feet, Brooklyn Lake Campground offers an authentic alpine escape where crystal-clear waters mirror towering peaks and endless sky. This hidden gem in southeastern Wyoming beckons adventurers seeking solitude among pristine pine forests and sweeping grasslands. Whether you're casting a line into the shimmering lake, paddling quietly across its glassy surface, or exploring trails that wind through wildflower meadows toward Browns Peak, this high-altitude sanctuary promises unforgettable moments far from the crowds.
Brooklyn Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, suitable for tents, RVs, and small groups.
Historical SignificanceWhile Brooklyn Lake Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic markers, it serves as a gateway to the storied Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland—lands that have witnessed millennia of geological drama and ecological evolution. These protected areas preserve not just scenery but entire ecosystems that have shaped the American West, offering visitors a chance to connect with the raw, untamed heritage of Wyoming's high country.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, nature plays by its own rules—even summer nights demand warm sleeping bags as temperatures dip into the crisp 40s. During peak season, you'll wake to frost-kissed mornings that give way to brilliant afternoons under predominantly clear skies (nearly 70% of the time). But mountain weather can surprise: snow may dust the peaks even in warmer months, with a 14.78% chance keeping things interesting. When winter arrives, it transforms the landscape into a snow-globe wonderland, blanketing everything in deep powder and creating a backcountry paradise for those prepared for true alpine conditions.
ElevationAt 10,500 feet above sea level, Brooklyn Lake Campground puts you literally on top of the world—or at least southeastern Wyoming. This dramatic elevation delivers jaw-dropping vistas that stretch for miles, where Browns Peak and neighboring summits pierce the sky in a display of geological grandeur. The thin air here adds an element of adventure to every activity, reminding visitors to pace themselves while their bodies adjust to the altitude. It's this very height that creates the campground's unique alpine environment, where the air is pure, the stars seem close enough to touch, and every sunrise feels like nature's private show.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of Browns Peak reflected in Brooklyn Lake's mirror-like surface, its snow-dusted summit glowing pink in the dawn light. This is daily life at Brooklyn Lake Campground, where dense pine forests give way to expansive meadows dotted with summer wildflowers. The landscape shifts from intimate forest groves to sweeping vistas that showcase Wyoming's raw beauty. Keep your camera ready—and your food secured—as this pristine habitat attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters. Black bears lumber through berry patches, elk bugle across valleys, and if you're lucky, you might spot a moose feeding in the shallows or catch a glimpse of an elusive bobcat padding through the shadows.
Geological RegionBrooklyn Lake Campground sits like a jewel in the crown of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. At 10,500 feet in southeastern Wyoming, this alpine wonderland showcases the dramatic meeting point of ecosystems—where dense pine forests climb toward treeline, pristine lakes fill glacier-carved basins, and rolling grasslands stretch toward distant horizons. The Thunder Basin National Grassland adds another dimension to this geological tapestry, creating a varied terrain that tells the story of ice ages, volcanic activity, and millions of years of natural artistry carved into the heart of the Rocky Mountain region.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites include a mix of standard and pull-through accommodations. Walk-in sites are located close to the water, no more than 25 feet away.
Sites PrivacyNo information is provided regarding the level of privacy at individual campsites.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose walk-in sites for proximity to Brooklyn Lake. Campers should select tent-only sites if seeking a quieter experience.
Best CampsitesAll sites offer lake views, but walk-in sites within 25 feet of the water may be preferred for direct access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 1:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights is allowed during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 29 sites, including 5 pull-through sites for trailers or larger setups. Walk-in sites are close to the lake (within 25 feet).
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season runs from July 18, 2025, to September 13, 2025. The facility may operate outside these dates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, either online or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside the reservable season dates.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online, through the app, or via the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night's fee for late cancellations. No-show reservations incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Brooklyn Lake Campground offers a range of outdoor activities that take advantage of its scenic location and natural resources. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, and horseback riding on designated trails. The 36-acre lake is a serene spot for canoeing, with carry-down access for boats.
Hiking
Hikers can access the Sheep Lake and Lost Lake Trails directly from the campground. The Sheep Lake Trail also accommodates horseback riding.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Brooklyn Lake, with brook trout being the primary catch. Some user reviews mention the lake's water levels affecting fishing quality.Biking
While biking opportunities are noted in the surrounding national forest, specific trails at the campground are not listed.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on the lake, which features carry-down access for small recreational watercraft. There is no boat ramp, and trailered vessels are not allowed.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer, and moose.Winter Activities
Nearby areas offer winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing, but these are not directly associated with the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are supported at Brooklyn Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated USFS-approved metal rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation increases the risk of altitude sickness; visitors are advised to acclimate before arrival. Wildlife hazards include potential encounters with black bears, bobcats, and moose.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, the nearest hospital is located in Laramie, WY (approximately 40 miles away). The Laramie Ranger District office can also be contacted at 307-745-2300.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season for reservations is July 18 - September 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresBrooklyn Lake is directly adjacent to the campground, providing opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsUser reviews suggest overcrowding during peak periods, with complaints about RVs and high vehicle traffic. Fishing conditions may vary due to lake water levels.
HostNo specific information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
Laramie Ranger District, MEDICINE BOW-ROUTT, WY, USA
Driving directionsThe campground is about 40 miles west of Laramie, Wyoming and 8 miles northwest of Centennial on State Highway 130. From Laramie, travel 37 miles west on 130 and turn onto Forest Road 317/Brooklyn Lake Road. Proceed northwest for 2 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessed via Forest Road 317/Brooklyn Lake Road, which is unpaved. Seasonal closures may apply due to snow and weather conditions. Caution is advised due to high elevation and potential road maintenance issues.Nearby places
Centennial, WY (8 miles, 15 minutes)
Laramie, WY (40 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Centennial, WY, 8 miles away, offering fuel, groceries, and basic camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews

Brooklyn Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty and its popularity for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Some users note that weekends can be busy, and the lake's water levels may affect fishing quality.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's picturesque setting, proximity to hiking trails, and the opportunity for non-motorized boating. One reviewer praised the area for 'great camping and hiking.'
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding during weekends, with mentions of RVs, cars, and dogs contributing to a bustling atmosphere. Another review noted that fishing conditions were not ideal due to...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and to prepare for cold nights, even during warmer months.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during weekends in the summer season. Cold temperatures at night are a consistent feature regardless of the time of year.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great camping and hiking, gets cold at night almost year round, fcfs, very busy on wknds.' - Dave Blu
2. 'Beautiful but the improved campground means this popular spot is overrun with people,...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for individual sites are provided.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but some users noted the presence of many dogs as contributing to the busyness of the area.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025