The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a government agency responsible for administering public land throughout the United States. These public sites are unique and diverse, featuring campgrounds, wilderness areas, day-use areas, natural landmarks, nature trails, and more. BLM camping is a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the country who stay at well-maintained Bureau of Land Management campgrounds or stake out dispersed campsites. To find the nearest BLM sites in your area, search online for "BLM camping near me."
The Lodgepole Campground is a BLM site located in central Wyoming near the city of Casper. The campground, which sits beneath the pine trees of Muddy Mountain, provides a remote, tranquil setting for adventurous campers. In addition to being a lovely camping destination, the BLM site is located conveniently close to several scenic hiking trails.
This loop trail surrounds Lodgepole Campground and offers a tranquil environment and terrain that's mostly flat. The route should be accessible for hikers of all skill and fitness levels. The route offers scenic views of Muddy Mountain and the surrounding area, and it's a great trail for mountain biking as well as hiking. Dogs are allowed on the route, and during your visit, you'll have a good chance of finding solitude.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
This loop trail is located near Casper and is a very popular spot for hiking and trail running. The trail takes hikers through the peaceful Rotary Park and provides breathtaking views of the Casper area. The route includes a fair bit of elevation gain, and you're welcome to bring your dogs as long as they remain leashed.
Length: 3.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This scenic point-to-point trail is another excellent hiking destination in the Casper area. The paved trail, which runs along the beautiful Platte River, is also a popular destination for road biking and trail running. The path is kid-friendly, stroller-friendly, and wheelchair-friendly, and parking is available at the trailhead. The ideal times to visit this trail are between March and October.
Length: 9.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
If you head north of Lodgepole Campground, you can visit the North Platte River. The stream, which flows right through the Casper area, has large populations of brown and rainbow trout. In addition to being a superb angling destination, the North Platte River offers great opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you visit the BLM site during the winter, you can go ice fishing for trout, perch, and walleye at the nearby Pathfinder Reservoir.
There aren't too many rock climbing destinations near Lodgepole Campground. However, Fremont Canyon is located about 30 minutes from the BLM site, and it's known as a hidden gem for climbing enthusiasts. The canyon, which provides stunning views for climbers, has steep walls and climbs ranging from 40 to over 400 feet. The difficulties of the climbing routes are between 5.6 and 5.13.
If you're looking to observe local wildlife, you should travel southwest of the BLM campground to the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge provides a habitat for a variety of species, including mule deer, pronghorn antelope, white-tailed deer, rabbits, sage grouse, mourning doves, and many other bird species. While exploring the area around Lodgepole Campground, other creatures you might spot include grizzly bears, black bears, bobcats, moose, and wolverines.
At Lodgepole Campground, every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. Plus, the BLM site offers bathrooms and potable water. These features make the campground a very popular picnicking spot; all you'll need to bring is the food!
You're welcome to partake in BLM RV camping at Lodgepole Campground. The campground boasts 15 campsites available for $7 per night, and three of the campsites are pull-through sites capable of accommodating large RVs. The campsites are relatively primitive, and the campground only offers basic amenities. If you're looking for a more modern campground with RV hookups, your best option is to travel north to the Casper area. There, you'll find reputable RV parks such as the Casper East RV Park & Campground and the Lariat Mobile Home and R.V. Park.
If your preference is Bureau of Land Management free camping, you can set up a dispersed campsite outside the boundaries of the BLM campground. If you decide to go this route, you'll need to contend with the rugged terrain of the area. However, there should be many tranquil, unoccupied areas to choose from near the site.
When planning your trip to Lodgepole Campground, remember that the BLM site's location is relatively remote. Although the town of Casper isn't too far, the campground is surrounded by mountainous terrain and isn't likely to provide consistent cellphone service. Although there is potable water at the site, you should bring plenty of food that's simple to prepare for your trip. If you end up needing to purchase food or supplies, traveling north to the Casper area will be your most convenient option.
Bears have been occasionally spotted in the area surrounding Lodgepole Campground. During your stay, keep all food items tightly sealed to avoid attracting these animals. Additionally, consider bringing along bear spray. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The "Leave No Trace" principles are guidelines for minimizing your impact on natural areas. During your visit, please follow these guidelines. There will likely be other campers at the site; be sure to treat them with courtesy and respect at all times.
To reach Lodgepole Campground from Casper, travel south on WY Highway 251 until you reach the top of Casper Mountain. At that point, continue on County Road 505 for about 3 miles and then 2 more miles after the pavement ends. When you reach the intersection at Circle Drive, continue straight and follow the BLM gravel road for roughly 4.5 miles. After you enter the Muddy Mountain EEA, take a right, and the campground will be on your left after 0.2 miles.
Ready to visit Lodgepole Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
