La Prele Guard Station

About this site

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. The site now has 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 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. 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 Additional Info: Site offers cabin lodging with nonelectric amenities including flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Open late May/early June through late October, weather permitting. Managed by USDA Forest Service Douglas Ranger District.

Amenities & access

Maximum vehicle length

20 feet

Contact

• 307-358-4690
• https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/mbrtb/recreation/la-prele-guard-station

Location

42.452778, -105.833889