Beetle Work Closes Wyoming Campgrounds

The U.S. Forest Service’s Laramie (Wyo.) Ranger District is closing several campgrounds and picnic areas in the southeast portion of the state while crews clear out trees killed by bark beetles. 
District Ranger Larry Sandoval Jr. says the beetle-killed trees pose a safety hazard to visitors because the trees could fall, according to the Associated Press. 

The district on Tuesday (July 28) announced the closure of the Pelton Creek, Aspen and Miller Lake campgrounds. The Fir Picnic Ground is also closed, and the district recommends avoiding the Barber Lake Picnic Ground. 

The district says the Douglas Creek and Platte Ridge trailheads are still be accessible at the Pelton Creek campground. 

Sandoval says the areas will reopen as soon as the work is done and it’s safe for people to visit.