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 early June through late September each year and is accessible by car. 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, candles or other flame producing items are not permitted in the cabin.
Recreation
Hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding and hunting can be found within the vicinity. Off-road vehicle riders can access trails in the area as well.The trailhead for the Twin Peaks trail is three miles north of La Prele Guard Station and provides great access for elk and deer hunters. The trail meanders through both private and 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 at La Prele Creek within walking distance from the cabin.
Facilities
Hiking, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding and hunting can be found within the vicinity. Off-road vehicle riders can access trails in the area as well.The trailhead for the Twin Peaks trail is three miles north of La Prele Guard Station and provides great access for elk and deer hunters. The trail meanders through both private and 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 at La Prele Creek within walking distance from the cabin.
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 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
Activities
- Wildlife Viewing
- Hunting
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Camping
- Biking
Media
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![La Prele Guard Station](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2021/06/11/23/38/233942_a8074bbe-0741-41b9-9004-fb0ace3b1c22_1440.jpg)
![La Prele Guard Station](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2021/06/11/23/36/233942_1c73a941-cf75-4935-a427-e0da76d2e784_700.jpg)