Recreational Water Use: Campgrounds and Other Water-Related Recreation

Recreational uses of water are varied, most are not easily quantified, and most are non-consumptive. The perceived aesthetic value of an area is often directly related to the presence of a stream or lake. Camping is prevalent throughout the Basin, with the most extensive camping opportunities located on national forest land in the Snowy Range, the east slope of the Sierra Madre Mountains, and the Laramie Range.

One notable water-based recreation area that is located in Upper Laramie subbasin is Lake Hattie. Lake Hattie is located 15 miles west of Laramie near the foothills of the Medicine Bow Mountains in Albany County. The dam was originally constructed in 1912 and modified in 1990. The reservoir has an adjudicated water right to store 65,260 acre-feet of water. Lake Hattie contains 2,239 acres of land. The Lake Hattie Irrigation District owns the lake, and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department manages the recreational facilities. Camping and picnic facilities are undeveloped, potable water is not available, and there are no fees to use the park. A boat launch is available.

To view a map of major recreation sites in the Upper Laramie subbasin click here. The following table provides a summary of camping and recreational facilities at larger reservoirs located within the Platte River Basin

Public recreational use facilities at major reservoirs and sites in the Platte River Basin