La Prele Guard Station

Overview

La Prele Guard Station is located south of Douglas, Wyoming in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. It was originally built as a remote ranger station in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and was converted into a work center when the La Prele Ranger District was discontinued in 1956. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Today, it provides a unique lodging experience and delightful spot for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in south central Wyoming. The guard station is open from late May or early June through late October each year and is accessible by car except after snow events at the beginning and end of the season. Weather and road closures may impact opening and closure dates. Many modern conveniences are provided, but guests will need to bring a few of their own supplies to make their stay comfortable. We try to keep a supply of firewood available to guests but there is no guarantee. The site now has limited propane lighting. 

Please note that due to the historic nature of the facility, pets, candles or other flame producing items are not permitted in the cabin.

Recreation

Opportunities for hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hunting can be found within the vicinity. OHV riders can access trails in the area as well.



The trailhead for the Twin Peaks OHV trail is three miles north of La Prele Guard Station and provides great access for elk and deer hunters. The trail meanders through public land to the base of Twin Peaks. From the top of the peaks, views of the Laramie Mountains dominate the landscape.



Anglers will enjoy fly fishing for a variety of trout in La Prele Creek and its many beaver ponds, some within walking distance from the cabin. Please respect the private land mixed in with public lands along the road and creek.

Facilities

The historic log structure has two bedrooms equipped with beds and mattresses that can accommodate up to six people. The kitchen offers a refrigerator, stove, table with chairs, basic cooking and eating utensils, and cookware. The cabin has indoor plumbing which gives guests access to running water, a shower, and a flush toilet. A propane water heater provides hot water. The cabin now has electricity. The fireplace is usually adequate for heating the guard station during the summer season. No other flame producing sources are allowed inside the cabin, including candles. A campfire ring and picnic table are just outside. Guests need to provide their own food, sleeping bags, pillows, towels, dish and bath soap, matches, and first aid kit. It is recommended that you bring drinking water. Battery operated lanterns are provided. 

 

We will now be offering trash collection at this site. Please limit food waste, and take all large items with you at check out. For larger parties, Campbell Creek Campground, about 1/2 mile east of the La Prele Guard Station, has six campsites that can accommodate tents, campers and trailers up to 22 feet. Campsite #1 can accommodate a longer trailer of 30 feet.  

No Vehicle or ORV operation is allowed outside of the gravel parking area.  

 

RV's, campers, or tents are NOT allowed on the property. Guests travelling through in an RV or camper, need to get prior approval from the Douglas Ranger District Recreational Specialist before arrival. 

ORV reminder: Forest Service Trails require Wyoming ORV sticker and be less that 50" in width.

Forest Service Roads require either Wyoming ORV sticker or state license plate.

County & State Roads require state license plate - including ORV's.

Natural Features

The guard station sits in a grassy clearing surrounded by a mixed conifer forest at an elevation of 7,800 feet. Mountains define the landscape and La Prele Creek flows nearby.



Wildlife viewing is abundant near the cabin, including elk and deer. Migratory birds, squirrels and an occasional black bear or moose find habitat in the forest as well.

Nearby Attractions

Twin Peaks Trail

Little Medicine Falls

Upper Deer Creek Trail

Fishing and Hunting

Rock Climbing on State Trust Land

From Douglas (37 miles)

From I25 Exit 140, turn right onto S Riverbend Dr. Turn right onto WY-94 (Esterbrook Road) and right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). In 3 miles, turn left on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). Continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles.

From I25 Exit 146, East on WY-96. In 3.1 miles, turn right on WY-91 (Cold Springs Road). Continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 33.8 miles.

From Laramie (105 miles)

Follow HWY 30 (N) from Laramie to Medicine Bow. Take HWY 487 North and turn right on CR 62 (32 Mile RD/Little Medicine Road) for 29.8 miles and continue on CR 24 (Cold Springs Road) for 4.4 miles.