About Hidden Valley Group Site
Overview Hidden Valley Group Site offers a large open space surrounded by scenic forest. Ideal for groups of up to 200 people to gather amidst a beautiful outdoor setting. This is a great facility for family reunions, weddings, birthday parties, youth group outings, graduation celebrations, or large outdoor events and can be used as an overnight campground as well.Recreation Both camping and picnicing are possible at this group site. Nearby at the Tie City and Summit Trailheads exists an extensive bike trail system. Facilities The picnic site can accommodate up to 200 guests and 50 vehicles at a time. Vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills are provided.Handpump water may be available in this campground from May to September. These dates may vary due to weather, well and/or pump maintenance, and water testing requirements. As such, we encourage you to bring your own water or call ahead.Natural Features This group site lies just east of Laramie, Wyoming, at an elevation of 8,600 feet.The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland encompass nearly 3 million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado.Lodgepole pine, aspen, fir, spruce, and shrubs dominate the landscape of the national forests. The Grassland boasts numerous species of grasses and wildflowers that add color to the landscape during warmer months.Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer, and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands. Nearby Attractions Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback and off-road vehicle riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing, and winter sports.
How to Get There
From Laramie, Wyoming, take I-80 east to exit 323 at Happy Jack Road. Turn left onto Happy Jack Road and follow it past the Summit Visitor Center. Take Forest Road 705 for a mile southeast to picnic area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Hidden Valley Group Site
Heading to Hidden Valley Group Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Hidden Valley Group Site?
No central reservation system listed for Hidden Valley Group Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231845) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Hidden Valley Group Site?
From Laramie, Wyoming, take I-80 east to exit 323 at Happy Jack Road. Turn left onto Happy Jack Road and follow it past the Summit Visitor Center. Take Forest Road 705 for a mile southeast to picnic area.
How do I contact Hidden Valley Group Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 307-745-2300.
References & Official Resources
