With 12 glorious state parks and one recreation area, Wyoming delivers big on outdoor fun. Here are the best places to pursue endless panoramas, hook a glimmering fish and spot all manner of furry and feathered critters in the last bastion of the west.
CHASE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS IN STATE PARKS
Curt Gowdy State Park’s miles of mountain-bike trails are also groomed in winter for fat biking. At Guernsey State Park, you’ll spot striking Civilian Conservation Corps-built structures as you hike. See otherworldly rock formations and teaming thermal features at Hot Springs State Park , which offers a free public bath house. Glendo State Park promises
unique landscapes, too, from white, sandy beaches to towering alpine forests. Over at Sinks Canyon State Park, there are rock climbing routes on limestone, sandstone and granite for nearly every skill level.
CAST A LINE IN STATE PARKS
At Hawk Springs State Recreation Area, your chances of catching walleye and crappie are almost guaranteed. The same goes for walleye, trout and catfish at Boysen State Park. Meanwhile, Seminoe State Park delivers prime access along Wyoming’s Miracle Mile, one of the state’s most popular fly-fishing destinations.
GO WILDLIFE SPOTTING IN STATE PARKS
Keep an eye out for burly bison and leggy elk at Bear River State Park while hiking, snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. Or bring your binoculars to Edness K. Wilkins State Park to spy more than 100 species of birds, including golden eagles and red-tailed hawks, along with pronghorn and foxes.
CAMP IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN STATE PARKS
Campsites are offered at nearly all Wyoming State Parks, while some feature unique lodging options like yurts or the treehouse at Keyhole State Park . If you park your RV at Buffalo Bill State Park in Cody, it’s a perfect home base to nearby Yellowstone National Park.
