Sugarloaf Campground (Wy)

Star4.65
23 reviews
2468 JACKSON ST, LARAMIE, WY, 82070
Sugarloaf Campground (Wy)
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The peak season nightly fee for standard nonelectric campsites is $20. Additional reservation service fees apply: $8 for online reservations, $9 via...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(307) 745-2300

About this campground

Perched at an extraordinary 10,800 feet in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Sugarloaf Campground claims the title of Wyoming's highest organized campground—a distinction that comes with unparalleled alpine rewards. Here, 16 rustic sites nestle among ancient spruces and firs, each offering front-row seats to the dramatic peaks of the Snowy Range. More than just a place to pitch your tent, this high-altitude haven serves as your gateway to an angler's dreamscape, with over 100 pristine alpine lakes scattered like sapphires across the surrounding wilderness. Simple amenities—tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and a hand-pumped water source—keep the focus on the raw beauty that surrounds you.
Sugarloaf Campground provides options for tent camping and can accommodate small trailers up to 22 feet. Primitive camping features are emphasized due to the lack of hookups and the rustic nature of the site.
Historical SignificanceThe surrounding peaks and trails carry stories of centuries past, with the Medicine Bow Peak trail standing as a testament to the generations of adventurers who've tested themselves against these mountains. This steep but rewarding path has earned praise from countless hikers who've conquered its challenging grades to reach panoramic views that stretch across Wyoming and Colorado. The very name 'Medicine Bow' speaks to the Native American heritage of these mountains, where tribes once gathered the mountain mahogany used to craft their finest bows.
Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Mother Nature writes her own rules. Summer nights can plunge to a teeth-chattering 10°F, while fierce winds test even the sturdiest tents—veteran campers know to bring heavy-duty gear and extra stakes. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through with dramatic regularity, painting the sky with lightning and thunder that echo off granite peaks. As September wanes, the hand pump may run dry, reminding visitors that this is truly wilderness camping. Those brave souls who embrace these conditions are rewarded with crisp mountain air and star-filled skies that seem close enough to touch.
ElevationRising to 10,800 feet above sea level, Sugarloaf stands as Wyoming's highest organized campground—a superlative that brings both challenges and rewards. At this altitude, where the air holds 30% less oxygen than at sea level, your body works harder with every breath. Wise travelers spend a day or two at moderate elevations before ascending, allowing their bodies to adjust to the thin mountain air. The payoff for this preparation? Access to a pristine alpine world where few campgrounds dare to venture.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape painted in nature's most dramatic palette: emerald spruce and fir forests cascade down hillsides, while the jagged peaks of the Snowy Range pierce a cobalt sky. During August, alpine meadows explode in a riot of yellow and purple wildflowers, creating a living tapestry that shifts with each breeze. Even in the height of summer, stubborn patches of snow cling to north-facing slopes, testament to the fierce winters that rule this realm. With over 100 alpine lakes glittering in the surrounding basins, each sunrise reveals a new masterpiece of reflected peaks and sky.
Geological RegionSugarloaf Campground sits within the Snowy Range, a dramatic subrange of the Medicine Bow Mountains that forms part of the greater Rocky Mountain system. This ancient landscape tells a story written in granite and glaciers, where massive tectonic forces thrust these peaks skyward millions of years ago. Today, at 10,800 feet, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where spruce and fir forests give way to alpine tundra. The surrounding terrain, sculpted by Ice Age glaciers, cradles over 100 pristine lakes in granite bowls—each a mirror reflecting the endless Wyoming sky.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate small trailers up to 22 feet long. Some sites may be tight for larger trailers, as noted in user reviews.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as well laid-out, with some offering privacy and others being closer together than at other campgrounds in the area. Specific user reviews highlight site-specific differences.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 4 is noted as large enough to accommodate a 34’ fifth wheel, but other sites may be too tight for larger RVs. Sites near the edges offer better views and privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 12 is highlighted as a "great location" with favorable wind conditions and views.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is after 2:00 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out time is 1:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people per site.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features 16 sites equipped with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Sites are laid out with flat parking areas and well-maintained tent pads.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from July 18, 2025, through September 13, 2025. Water availability and other conditions may vary due to late-season weather.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served (FCFS) sites are available, but are limited to 4 out of 16 total campsites. FCFS sites fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-refundable, non-cancellable, and cannot be modified if made via Scan and Pay. For other reservation methods, cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled after 12:00am local time the day before check-in. Late cancellations of one-night reservations will result in forfeiture of the full amount paid.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Sugarloaf Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. The area is known for its alpine lakes and breathtaking views of the Snowy Range.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant and cater to various difficulty levels. Three trailheads are accessible from the area, including a trail to climb Medicine Bow Peak, which is described as steep but rewarding. Wildflowers are noted as particularly stunning during July and August.
Fishing
Both Libby and Lewis Lakes near the campground contain brook trout and splake. Fishing is supported, but the use of live-bait fish is prohibited. Lewis Lake is stocked annually by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Biking
Biking is possible around the campground and along the Scenic Byway. Cycling in the area may involve hilly terrain, as noted by users.
Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed on Libby and Lewis Lakes. Boats must be carried to the lakes' edges as no docking facilities are provided.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, chipmunks, black bears, elk, and pikas are commonly spotted. A user described seeing a bull moose feeding in the nearby valley.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for Sugarloaf Campground, but the surrounding Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest offers winter sports opportunities such as skiing and snowshoeing.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are possible on nearby alpine lakes.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are only permitted in USFS-approved metal fire rings.
  • Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include altitude sickness at 10,800 feet, strong winds, thunderstorms, and wildlife such as bears and moose.

Weather forecast

12
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 52%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 26.5 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest hospital: Ivinson Memorial Hospital, Laramie (~43 miles); Law enforcement: Albany County Sheriff's Department, Laramie (~43 miles); Nearest ranger station: Laramie Ranger District (~43 miles).

Good to know

Peak season datesJuly 18, 2025 - September 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. Recycling services are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to two snow-melt lakes, Libby and Lewis Lakes, which are stocked with trout species. Non-motorized boats are allowed.
Common complaintsLimited shade due to pine beetle infestation and removal of hazard trees; occasional water pump issues; crowded conditions during peak season.
HostHosts, Scott and Jody, received praise for being helpful, welcoming, and maintaining clean facilities.

Campground Map

2468 JACKSON ST, LARAMIE, WY, 82070
Driving directionsThe campground is 43 miles west of Laramie, WY and 39 miles east of Saratoga, WY on State Highway 130. Coming from either Laramie or Saratoga on State Highway 130, turn north on to Forest Service Road 346 and the campground will be in three quarters of a mile on your right.
Access is via State Highway 130 and Forest Service Road 346, which are relatively well-maintained. The dirt road leading to the campground has occasional potholes, but is generally in good condition.
Nearby places
Laramie, WY - 43 miles (~1 hour drive)
Saratoga, WY - 39 miles (~50-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Laramie (~43 miles away) or Saratoga (~39 miles away). At the campground itself, basic supplies are limited.

Camper Reviews

4.7
23 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Sugarloaf Campground (Wy) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty of Sugarloaf Campground, including its alpine lakes, breathtaking views of the Snowy Range, and abundant wildlife. The campground's high elevation (10,800 feet) results in colder nights and windy conditions, which are frequently noted by reviewers.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the spectacular scenery, proximity to hiking trails, clean vault toilets, and the helpfulness of the campground hosts. Wildlife sightings, such as moose and chipmunks, are...
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Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the windy and cold conditions at night, the effects of high elevation on some campers, and the limited availability of water during late-season visits.
Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure a campsite, especially during weekends. Bringing a strong tent is advised due to the windy conditions, and carrying extra water is suggested as the water...
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Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends indicate that the campground is busiest during summer, with snow and water shutdowns impacting visits in late September. Wildflowers are highlighted as a summer feature, while winter...
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Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

"At nearly 11,000 feet it gets COLD at night." "The scenery is SPECTACULAR!! Great short hikes right out of the campground, with an abundance of alpine lakes." "One memorable encounter was witnessing...
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Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews mention that site 4 had slightly more traffic but was suitable for a 34’ fifth wheel. Site 12 offered favorable wind direction and views.
Based on 23 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility considerations are not detailed in the source materials.
Based on 23 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and visitors report that dogs enjoyed the streams and trails. However, dogs must be leashed as per campground rules.
Based on 23 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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