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BLM Camping

Lake Hattie


The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Bureau of Land Management free camping takes place on public lands that are typically not developed. This may take place in state parks or around national landmarks. Camping here is either free or very cheap compared to, for instance, parks designated for recreational vehicle camping use only. Many BLM lands have multiple purposes; some are wildlife preserves, and others may be utilized for ranching. Tent camping or dispersed camping is popular on BLM lands, but campers may also utilize RV camping sites as well. Search "BLM camping near me" to find a location. Lake Hattie, just outside Laramie, offers fishing, boating, and windsurfing opportunities for campers. Dispersed camping is allowed here, and so is RV camping. The best time to visit Lake Hattie would be during the summer months when the daytime temps are in the 70s. At night, temps dip into the 50s. During the winter, weather can be too inclement for dispersed camping; however, RV camping is suitable year-round. Plus, Lake Hattie offers great ice fishing! Lake Hattie is also a few hours’ drive from the Grand Teton National Park.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Headquarters Trail

At the head of the trail is a beautiful panoramic view of the Snowy Mountains, Medicine Bow, and Never Summer. Length: 1.5 miles Intensity: Medium

Hidden Falls

Hidden Falls encompasses multiple trails making up more than 40 miles of hiking area. You can hike through forested areas, or you may find yourself staring at a massive granite outcroppings. Length: Varies Intensity: Fair

Turtle Rock Trail

If you enjoy and want to fully appreciate rock formations in the West, then the Turtle Rock Trail will not disappoint. Multiple examples of wildlife can be seen here while hiking. Length: 2.9 miles Intensity: Fair

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

Fishing and boating are the most popular of activities at Lake Hattie. The reservoir making up Lake Hattie offers plenty of boat ramps. In fact, fishing is available year-round to those wishing to visit the peaceful area. The following fish are plentiful at Lake Hattie: brown, cutthroat, rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, and yellow perch. Contact the Wyoming Fish and Wildlife Department for licensing questions. Dispersed camping is also a primary activity at Lake Hattie. Campers may also take part in windsurfing at Lake Hattie as well.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

Multiple species of birds, including Canadian geese, mallards, larks, and bluebirds are native to the area around Lake Hattie. Deer, elk, and other large wildlife also live nearby. If you happen to encounter a snake while out hiking, they are likely to be harmless, nonvenomous snakes. However, be aware that the prairie rattlesnake is native to the area.

Picnicking

Picnicking in the park is encouraged as long as you follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. There are picnic tables and fire rings available. There are also some grills at certain campsites.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

BLM RV camping at Lake Hattie is possible. There are multiple sites with water and electrical hookups, and there are both pull-through sites and drive-in sites. Showers, drinking water, firewood, Wi-Fi are available, and pets are allowed. Some of the most popular campgrounds around Lake Hattie include Lake Hattie Public Access area and Twin Buttes Public Access Area, and campers may stay for up to five days. There is no fee to camp at these locations.

Free Camping Campground Icon

There are no fees charged at the Lake Hattie BLM camping sites. Most are drive-in slots, but pull-through sites and RV camping are also options.

RV Rentals Near Lake Hattie Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Lake Hattie BLM trip

This area is operated by the state and has a five-day stay limit. The site can accommodate all sizes of RVs, but the best waterfront sites are only accessible by smaller rigs. Tents, vans, and RVs can all camp here. This primitive site offers few amenities. There is a vault toilet, a boat ramp, and fire rings. Beware, there are no garbage cans on site; however, you can dispose of light trash, dump tanks, and fill up with potable water at the Territorial Prison Museum. The town nearest Lake Hattie is Laramie, Wyoming. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

In general, the idea of "Leave No Trace" is to sustain the environment for generations to come. You can do this by being aware of how you’re interacting with the environment and by making conscious decisions that serve to lessen your impact on nature. Follow the phrase "pack it in, pack it out," which generally means if you bring it into the camping area, be sure to properly dispose of it. This even applies to food. It's important for the health of wildlife -- and fellow campers -- to remove any food when leaving the campsite. Campers should also leave what they find at the campsite when it comes to flowers, insects, and wildlife.

Leave No Trace
Location

Lake Hattie Location

From Laramie, get on Snowy Range Rd. for 2.4 miles. Stay straight onto W Jackson St/WY-230. Continue for 7.9 miles. Turn right onto Pahlow Ln/County Rd 422. After 6.9 miles, turn right onto Rodeo Rd/County Rd 424. Go another 1.9 miles, and then a right onto Lake Hattie Rd/County Rd 45. Continue straight until you reach a parking area. Ready to visit Lake Hattie? 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.