Discover Wyoming’s Hidden State Parks with iBestTravel
Home to the world’s first national park, Wyoming is a land of abundant peaks, rich wildlife, and wide-open prairies. While major parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton attract millions of visitors each year, the state also boasts a selection of less-crowded parks with spectacular scenery. These parks offer incredible opportunities for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and more.
Explore Wyoming’s under-the-radar gems by immersing yourself in its finest state parks. It’s essential to check operating hours and seasons, as many parks and campgrounds in Wyoming operate seasonally.
Buffalo Bill State Park: Watersports and an Introduction to Yellowstone
Situated 40 miles east of Yellowstone National Park, Buffalo Bill State Park serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. Yellowstone’s impressive 2.2 million acres can be daunting for many visitors; thus, this state park offers a fantastic way to appreciate Wyoming’s breathtaking landscape and become acquainted with your national park neighbor while focusing on relaxation.
The park features numerous amenities, including two campgrounds (one with a playground), a visitor center with exhibits, a boat ramp, and fishing opportunities. Rent a boat, bring a hearty picnic, and spend a day amidst stunning views. As you drift along the crystal-clear water, keep an eye out for wildlife such as antelope, birds, deer, elk, and occasionally bears.
The park’s centerpiece is the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, formed during the construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam from 1905 to 1910. Upon completion, it became the world’s highest dam at 325 feet tall, although its height has since been increased. The park honors “Buffalo Bill” Cody, who was also the founder of nearby Cody, Wyoming.
Curt Gowdy State Park: A Must for Fishing Enthusiasts
Only a 30-minute drive from two of Wyoming’s major cities, Laramie and Cheyenne, Curt Gowdy State Park is easily accessible and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
The park features three reservoirs—Crystal, Granite, and North Crow—providing ample opportunities for water sports and fishing for rainbow and brown trout, as well as kokanee salmon. On land, visitors can enjoy 35 miles of extensive hiking and biking trails and an archery range.
The park’s mountain biking trails are highly regarded, having earned the coveted “Epic” designation from the International Mountain Biking Association in 2009. Tent and RV camping options are available, alongside cabins and the historic Hynds Lodge, which hosts concerts, performances, and cultural events. Feel free to bring your favorite four-legged companion, as a horse corral is available near Aspen Grove. During spring, the park attracts migratory birds, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching—don’t forget your binoculars!
Guernsey State Park: Hiking and Historical Connections
Explore history at Guernsey State Park, which was largely constructed by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. The CCC built the iconic “Castle,” a picnic shelter made from local limestone and hand-hewn logs, along with a cliff-top museum and Brimmer Point Overlook.
Today, the park features numerous campgrounds, yurts, and hiking and biking trails. Horses are allowed on some trails and roads, and visitors can enjoy geocaching throughout the park. Several beach areas and boat access (water level permitting) enable visitors to fully embrace the lake’s offerings.
History buffs will appreciate the nearby Oregon Trail wagon ruts visible just south of Guernsey, which provide a glimpse into the travels of pioneers in the 1800s. The Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site showcases where travelers passed, while the Register Cliff Historic Site bears names carved by emigrants, some dating back to the 1840s.
Hot Springs State Park: A Sanctuary for Relaxation
If you’re seeking tranquility, Hot Springs State Park is the perfect destination to unwind from urban stresses. The free bathhouse offers access to mineral hot springs, maintained at a soothing 104 degrees, allowing visitors to soak in serenity while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Once rejuvenated, explore the park’s six miles of trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk across the “Swinging Bridge” for panoramic views of water flowing into the river from the Mineral Terrace. Look out for bison and vibrant summer flowers along the trails, and utilize the boat ramp for lake adventures. Although the park is day-use only, camping and lodging options are available in nearby Thermopolis.
Sinks Canyon State Park: A Rock Climber’s Paradise
Known for its unique geological features, Sinks Canyon State Park, located near Lander, is famous for the Popo Agie River’s unusual disappearing act within the park’s limits. The river sinks into an underground cavern and reemerges a quarter-mile later.
This park is celebrated for its exceptional rock climbing opportunities, as well as an array of solid hiking and mountain biking trails. Make your visit memorable by staying overnight—rent a campsite or one of the four yurts offered. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer, golden eagles, and marmots, adding to the allure of Sinks Canyon State Park.
