Lake Owen Campground
03 reviewsLake Owen Campground, Medicine Bow National Forest, Laramie Ranger District, Wyoming
Lake Owen Campground
$10.00 - $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
Campsites are available for $20 per night. A fee change has been approved for this site as per the official webpage.
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About this campground
Nestled beneath a cathedral of towering Lodgepole pines and whispering Aspens, Lake Owen Campground offers 35 thoughtfully spaced sites across two scenic loops. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets and regular trash service. The soft, grassy understory creates natural privacy barriers between sites, while many spots reward early arrivals with stunning views of Lake Owen's pristine waters and the majestic Snowy Range beyond. Whether you're seeking solitude under the pine canopy or a front-row seat to mountain vistas, this well-maintained campground delivers the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort.
Lake Owen Campground caters exclusively to traditional camping experiences, with 35 available sites suitable for tents and small trailers (up to 22 feet). RV camping is limited by the lack of hookups and the dirt parking aprons.
Weather and SeasonsLake Owen awakens from its winter slumber typically in June, welcoming campers through mid-September as weather permits. Summer days bring brilliant sunshine and cool mountain breezes, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly with dramatic winds that remind visitors of nature's power. As autumn approaches, crisp nights hint at the frigid winter ahead, when deep snow blankets the landscape and the campground rests until spring's return.
ElevationPerched at 8,600 feet above sea level, Lake Owen Campground sits in the thin, crisp air of the high country. This elevation offers cooler temperatures and spectacular views, but visitors should take time to acclimate, staying hydrated and taking it easy during their first day or two. The altitude adds an extra dimension to your camping experience, from more brilliant stars at night to that satisfying deep sleep that only mountain air can provide.
Natural Features and SceneryLake Owen Campground showcases the raw beauty of Medicine Bow National Forest, where dense stands of Lodgepole pines create a natural amphitheater around the 55-acre Lake Owen. Morning light filters through the evergreen canopy while Aspen groves add splashes of green in summer and gold in fall. The lake itself invites anglers to try their luck in its cool waters and boaters to explore its peaceful coves. Above it all, the dramatic peaks of the Snowy Range paint an ever-changing backdrop of alpine grandeur, their snow-capped summits reflecting in the lake's mirror-like surface on calm mornings.
Geological RegionSet within the expansive Medicine Bow National Forest, Lake Owen Campground occupies a unique ecological niche where mountain meadows meet dense coniferous forest. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, from the ancient granite peaks of the Snowy Range to the glacially carved basin that cradles 55-acre Lake Owen. This pristine pocket of Wyoming's high country offers visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem, complete with its distinctive Lodgepole pine forests and pockets of quaking Aspens that have adapted to thrive in this challenging alpine environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRestrooms are available; however, it is noted that they are not wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates a maximum trailer length of 22 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-separated, providing adequate privacy. The grassy understory further contributes to the secluded atmosphere.
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended Campsites'Be considerate of camping near dead trees,' advises a user review.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
There is a 14-day stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site information is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo loops under dense Lodgepole pine and scattered Aspen trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 1 through October 15, but is weather dependent and typically available from June 7 to September 15.
Reservation PlatformsThis campground does not allow reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 35 sites are first-come-first-serve, with no reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are allowed, but cancellation policies are not applicable as walk-up availability is standard.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Owen Campground offers several recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing and boating are the primary activities centered around Lake Owen, which spans 55 acres and is home to Splake and Cutthroat trout. While there are no hiking trails within the campground, the scenic views of the Snowy Range add to the outdoor experience.
Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Lake Owen. Anglers can catch Splake and Cutthroat trout. A valid Wyoming fishing license is required to fish in the lake.Boating
Boating is allowed on Lake Owen, with access supported by a boat ramp. Both power boating and non-motorized boating options are available, and carry-down access is provided.Winter Activities
The provided information does not mention any winter recreational activities at this campground.Water Sports
Power and non-motorized boating, such as kayaking and canoeing, are supported. However, water skiing is not allowed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Make sure fires are completely extinguished before leaving or sleeping.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews highlight treacherous winds and storms that topple trees. Campers should secure tents and gear. Avoid camping near dead trees.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
Nearest emergency services are likely in Laramie, Wyoming, approximately 32.6 miles away, which should have hospitals, police stations, and other facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7 to September 15 is the peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available for campers. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Owen, a 55-acre lake suitable for fishing, power boating, and non-power boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews note frequent generator use, poorly maintained campsites, and windy conditions.
Campground Map
Lake Owen Campground, Medicine Bow National Forest, Laramie Ranger District, Wyoming
Driving directionsFrom Laramie, take WY 130 west 21.7 miles to WY 11. Turn left onto WY 11 and continue onto Albany, 10.9 miles. Continue on NFSR 500 past the forest boundary for 2.2 miles to NFSR 513. Turn left onto NFSR 513 and continue for 2.5 miles to NFSR 517. Turn left onto NFSR 517 and continue for 1.5 miles to NFSR 540. Turn right onto NFSR 540 and continue 2.8 miles to the campground.
The route includes paved roads (WY 130 and WY 11) transitioning to unpaved dirt roads (NFSR 500, NFSR 513, NFSR 517, and NFSR 540). Single-lane sections with few turnouts may pose challenges for large vehicles.Nearby places
Albany (approx. 10.9 miles), Laramie (approx. 32.6 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Albany, Wyoming (approximately 10.9 miles away), including groceries and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Lake Owen Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed for Lake Owen Campground, with some users praising the natural beauty and well-maintained environment, while others criticize the lack of upkeep in certain areas and disturbances caused by other campers using generators.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the scenic views of the lake and Snowy Range, the well-separated campsites, and the natural setting under Lodgepole pines and Aspen trees.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the frequent high winds, limited maintenance of some campsites, and the noise from campers running generators.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers highlight the importance of securing tents and equipment due to frequent high winds and sudden storms. They also recommend camping after September 1st to avoid crowds and generator noise.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is more crowded and noisy during peak summer months, while it offers a quieter and more serene experience in the fall. High winds are a recurring issue throughout...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"So this campground and the lake it is on its a true gem. However there is a need for a really clear understanding that the winds here can be treacherous, without exaggeration, and the storms can...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific issues were noted in some campsites, with one user stating, 'Don't camp in sites they're poorly maintained and not worth a penny.' However, no particular site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility appears to be limited, as restrooms are not wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or features are available.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025