After leaving Colorado Springs, we spent two nights at Guernsey State Park, one of Wyoming’s hidden gems. The campground has a wonderfully rustic feel, tucked among the hills surrounding Guernsey Reservoir. Several campgrounds are scattered throughout the park, although only two offer water and electric hookups for RVs.
Our timing turned out to be fortunate. Each year, shortly after the Fourth of July, the reservoir undergoes its annual “Silt Run,” when water levels are lowered to allow sediment to move through the dam. Because of the low water, the boat ramps were closed and many campers stayed away. The result was an unusually quiet, peaceful campground—perfect for relaxing. If boating is part of your plans, be sure to check the Silt Run schedule before visiting.
One of Guernsey State Park’s greatest treasures is its remarkable collection of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) buildings and picnic shelters. Built during the 1930s, the stonework is exceptional and gives the park a character unlike many other state parks we’ve visited. The small museum is also worth a stop to learn about both the CCC and the area’s history.
The town of Guernsey itself is quite small, with only limited services and amenities, so it’s best to arrive with supplies if you’re staying for more than a night or two.
Just a short drive away is Fort Laramie, one of the most significant historic sites in the American West.
Originally established in the 1830s as a fur trading post, the fort later became an essential military outpost and a vital stop for emigrants traveling the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. It also played important roles during the era of the Pony Express and the settlement of the western frontier. The fort was eventually abandoned in 1890 after the railroad bypassed it.
The visitor center staff were exceptionally friendly and welcoming. The air-conditioned visitor center provided a welcome break from the summer heat and includes a well-stocked gift shop. Dogs are welcome throughout the outdoor grounds but are not permitted inside the historic buildings or visitor center. Nala received an official Bark Ranger dog collar tag from the nice lady at the visitors’ center!
Unfortunately, temperatures climbed into the 90s during our visit. Even with plenty of water, the heat made it impossible for us to explore the entire complex on foot. Fort Laramie deserves far more than a rushed visit, so we’ll definitely return another time.
South of Guernsey lies one of the best-preserved sections of the Oregon Trail Ruts. A short uphill walk from the parking area leads to deep wagon ruts that remain clearly visible nearly 180 years later.
Excellent interpretive signs explain why thousands of emigrants were funneled into this narrow passage. Marshy ground closer to the North Platte River forced wagon trains onto higher terrain, and the repeated passage of thousands of heavily loaded wagons carved these remarkable grooves into the sandstone.
Nearby stands the grave of a pioneer who died while making the difficult journey west—a quiet reminder that not everyone completed the trip.
A few miles away is Register Hill, where emigrants once carved their names into the soft sandstone cliffs as they traveled west. Sadly, time, weather, and modern graffiti have erased many of the original inscriptions, making the site less impressive than I had expected.
Even so, standing in the same place where thousands of hopeful travelers paused nearly two centuries ago still carries a certain emotional weight. A nearby Pony Express marker helps place the site within the broader story of westward expansion.
Register Hill is located on private property, so visitors should treat the site with care and respect.
Although Guernsey is often overlooked by travelers heading toward the Black Hills or Yellowstone, we found it to be a worthwhile stop. Between the peaceful state park, beautifully preserved CCC architecture, and some of the best remaining evidence of the Oregon Trail, the area offers a fascinating glimpse into several chapters of American history. We left wishing we’d had another day to explore—and hoping to return when cooler weather makes Fort Laramie easier to enjoy.