Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is full of hidden gems. The beautiful reservoir is surrounded by stunning red cliffs and Ashley National Forest. These combined create the perfect location to explore the great outdoors.
Fishing along beautiful shorelines
It’s true that Wyoming is an angler’s paradise, and Flaming Gorge’s 300 miles of shoreline live up perfectly to that accolade. Trout weighing in at over 20 pounds are not uncommon, and are often caught here at the Gorge. Anglers will also find a wide variety of fish species ranging from burbot, kokanee salman, trout and more in these waters.
There are several access points to launch a boat on the lake — one of the most popular being Buckboard Marina — located just 25 miles south of the nearby town of Green River. In 1988, a record lake trout (51 lb 8 oz) was caught at Flaming Gorge, and there may be bigger fish to yet be caught.
In addition to fishing on the reservoir, the Green River is famous for its abundantly clear water and endless trout supply. On any given day you will see a fleet of drift boats and rubber rafts floating down the Green River. To purchase a fishing license, stop at Ace Hardware in Rock Springs just before heading south to get to the national recreation area.
During the winter join in on the fun by competing in the Burbot Bash. This ice-fishing competition helps to keep the non-native fish from overpopulating the area. If competition is not your style enjoy ice fishing at your own pace during the colder months.
Boating & jet skiing across expansive waters
The entire reservoir is 91 miles long, affording you, your companion, or the whole fam plenty of room to explore the seemingly endless shorelines and coves. You’ll cruise along amazing vistas basking in what is sure to be a clear sky with glittering sunshine adorning the expansive waters. Bring your own boat or rent from Lucerne Valley Marina or Buckboard Marina, which opens the door to endless water sport opportunities including tubing, water skiing and swimming. Or you can opt for another form of transportation on the water and jet ski or raft the river or lake.
Hiking & mountain biking to incredible vistas
The epic scenery and landscape of Flaming Gorge make it the perfect place to take a hike. Trails consist of both deserts to forests and range from short jaunts to longer excursions. Find hiking and biking trails through our interactive map.
Horseback riding through breathtaking scenery
Horseback riding is quite possibly one of the most authentic ways to experience Wyoming’s western land. Flaming Gorge covers hundreds of miles, so what better way to see it all than on the back of a horse? Take in the scenery while also unleashing the inner cowboy or cowgirl in you.
Camping under a clear night sky
Camping in Flaming Gorge is most definitely a treat. The piece of mind from the serene landscapes and wide open skies paints the perfect backdrop for a much needed getaway. Bring an RV if you’re wanting a little more shelter, though a tent will afford you the perfect accommodations for a no-frills night under the stars.
There are several different campsites available offering scenic views of the lake, river and beautiful canyon walls. It’s a good idea to book a campground at least a month in advance of your trip, especially during holidays and the busy summer season. Reserve your campsite at recreation.gov.
Buckboard Marina, located on the northwest shore of Flaming Gorge Reservoir, is one such site offering 66 single-family campsites. Several of the sites provide electrical hookups and most all offer a picnic table, campfire ring and grill. Each site has access to flushable toilets, drinking water and showers.
If you’d rather not camp, you can find other accommodations nearby. Just a short drive north of Flaming Gorge is the great Wyoming towns of Green River and Rock Springs, both of which offer excellent and diverse lodging options.
Taking an educational tour
There are two ways to take a tour of the Flaming Gorge. Visitors can do a self-guided tour Flaming Gorge Dam tour or book a guided tour through Sweetwater County Travel and Tourism. A tour of the dam is a simple stop at their visitor center. They will give you the guide and help you map out your route. If you book a tour through Sweetwater County you will arrive early at their visitor center to load up on a bus and enjoy a day out exploring the stunning red canyon walls, unique landscapes, wildlife and much more.
How to Get to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
From I-80 in southern Wyoming, take exit 99 in Rock Springs and head south on highway 191. Or you can travel south of Green River on Hwy 530.
While you’re here, be sure to set up your favorite lawn chair or lay out a blanket to drink in one of Flaming Gorge’s sunrises or sunsets. There needn’t be an agenda or activity associated with taking in the warmth of the sun, the rolling peaks of the surrounding landscapes of the Gorge’s shoreline, or the thought of knowing that all the stress of work, bills or whatever is plaguing your mind can be released in these quieted areas in and around Flaming Gorge.
