Dotting far-reaching prairies and tucked into towering mountain ranges, Wyoming’s 4,000 lakes and reservoirs offer ample opportunities to paddle, swim, fish and boat. Whether you’re keen on backcountry kayaking or looking for an experienced guide to take you on a whitewater rafting adventure, Wyoming’s waterways and lakes offer more than sightseeing and days of leisure under the sun. They’re an invitation to play, explore and embrace the joy of the great outdoors.
The Alcova Reservoir, framed by the red cliffs of Fremont Canyon, is located southwest of Casper, near the town of Alcova. This reservoir offers boating and paddling, and the fishing is some of the best in central Wyoming. Alcova Reservoir is known for having a “black beach” on its east shore, thanks to its dark sand and striking rock formations. A trip to the Alcova Resort and Marina offers you the chance to rent a variety of watercrafts, along with a restaurant and bar so you can grab a burger and drink. Open and accessible year-round, people love to camp and hike in the area when not on the water.
Bighorn Lake
Part of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, near Lovell, Bighorn Lake sits within the canyon and offers unforgettable views of the colorful limestone walls rimming the perimeter. Fishing, boating and paddling are popular activities in the summer, while ice fishing is a fun winter pastime. Looking to take in more of the scenery? Book a boat tour through Hidden Treasures Charters or rent a watercraft from Horseshoe Bend Marina and explore on your own. Don’t leave without seeing more of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. This geologic wonder extends from Wyoming into Montana, offering scenic overlooks, hiking opportunities and more.
Buffalo Bill Reservoir
Located in Buffalo Bill State Park near Cody, the Buffalo Bill Reservoir gives you a glimpse of Yellowstone National Park’s scenery and ecology without the crowds of the actual park. Wildlife spotting is exceptional here with antelope, elk, moose, bears and prairie dogs frequently spotted on the shores. Known as a premier windsurfing destination, you’ll never be bored at Buffalo Bill Reservoir. Cast a line, water ski or paddle along the reservoir by day, and head back to your tent or RV at night at a nearby campsite. Accessible year-round, visitors will get to experience the best recreational opportunities from July to October.
Boysen Reservoir
The sparkling Boysen Reservoir is part of Boysen State Park and offers plenty of fun both on and offshore. Perfect for paddleboarding and boating, be sure you bring your fishing gear for the chance to catch sauger, perch, ling and walleye. Prefer the cold? Boysen Reservoir is great for ice fishing, too. At the north point of the reservoir is the Boysen Dam, and no fewer than 10 campgrounds are found along the shore. Within the park, you can camp in a yurt or cabin, or book a stay in nearby Shoshoni or Thermopolis.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Flaming Gorge Reservoir is the largest reservoir in Wyoming. Stretching 90 miles long, it crosses state lines into Utah. Suitable for all types of water adventures, thrill seekers can get their adrenaline rushes with a jet ski rental from Buckboard Marina in the nearby town of Green River. Surrounding the gorge is the stunning Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, with hiking and horseback riding trails that traverse deserts and forests. A true four-seasons destination, summer, especially the summer weekends, is known to be busy, so come in the fall, winter, or spring if you enjoy a quieter pace.
Fremont Lake
At 610 feet deep, Fremont Lake is one of the deepest lakes in the country. Just a short drive from Pinedale, it’s easy to reach, so you can get your fill of water adventures surrounded by undisturbed nature. Head to Lakeside Lodge and Marina to rent anything from a 12-person pontoon boat to a kayak for one. Windsurfers and sailors frequent Fremont Lake as well; stop by in August to watch the annual Sailing Regatta.
Glendo Reservoir
Glendo Reservoir, northeast of Laramie Peak and located in Glendo State Park, is as diverse in landscape as it is in wildlife. Here, you can hike in rocky pine-lined forests in the morning and relax on a sandy beach in the afternoon. A bird watcher's paradise, a diverse mix of raptors, waterfowl, and migratory birds call this place home. Watersports lovers should time their visits with the water levels, which peak in the early summer and start to drop in September. The park is open all year, with many chances to hike, camp and fish.
Green River Lakes Reservoir
Situated deep in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Green River Lakes offer a more remote spot to enjoy relaxing on the water. With the nearest town, Pinedale, a 52-mile drive from this alpine lake, camping is a great option if you want to spend more time exploring this beautiful area. Human-powered watercraft like kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offer the perfect means to explore these waters, which don’t allow motorized boats. You can also try your luck at fishing or explore miles of surrounding trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, which is accessible from this area. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture stunning views of nearby Squaretop Mountain, a granite monolith that looms over these pristine lakes.
Jackson Lake
As the largest lake in Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Lake is frequented by park-goers looking to enjoy a dip in alpine waters—and maybe sneak a peek at some wildlife. Relax by fishing, enjoying beachfront swimming or renting a watercraft from Signal Mountain Lodge. Don’t miss your chance to sightsee while learning more about the region through a scenic cruise or kayak tour. While in the area, check out nearby Jenny Lake, String Lake, or one of the many other pristine bodies of water in the park. The best time to visit Jackson Lake is from July to September; perfect for anglers, hikers, and boaters.
Photo Credit: https://t.co/wmEW3DfoFR
Pathfinder Reservoir
Located southwest of Casper, Pathfinder Reservoir offers plenty of opportunities for water recreation but is best known for its fishing. Cast a line for the chance to catch trophy-sized trout, walleye, and kokanee salmon. This is an especially popular spot in the winter when ice fishing is the main draw. Find a spot to camp and spend a few days enjoying the area, including the nearby Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you could spot up to 40 different types of birds along with other local wildlife.
Seminoe Reservoir
Landscapes surrounding Seminoe Reservoir in Seminoe State Park include everything from beautiful dunes to colorful rock formations. Take in these geological wonders while swimming, paddling or boating on the sprawling reservoir. Or enjoy the views from the shore while hiking or relaxing at your campsite. One activity not to miss: fishing. Wyoming’s famous Miracle Mile, famous for producing massive trout, is situated just north of the reservoir on the North Platte River. While lovely in the summer, a visit in the winter allows you to check out the HAWG Ice Fishing Derby if you time your trip right.
Yellowstone Lake
Paddle along the largest high-elevation lake in North America as you explore Yellowstone Lake, situated at 7,733 feet above sea level. Cruise these alpine waters on a motorized boat; rentals are available at the nearby Bridge Bay Marina. You can learn more about the local wildlife and geology through a guided boat trip, which are offered through several tour operators. Keep your eyes open for local wildlife, like grizzly bears, black bears, bison and river otters, and be sure to explore more of the surrounding Yellowstone National Park, including Lewis Lake and Shoshone Lake.
Yes. A Wyoming fishing license is required for any fishing in Wyoming. You can purchase the appropriate fishing licenses through the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. Kids under 14 fish for free in Wyoming, while non-residents must be with a licensed adult. If you plan to fish on the Wind River Indian Reservation, you will need to purchase a Wind River Tribal Fishing/Trespass Permit.
Are reservations required at campgrounds?
Reservations are available at many campgrounds and cabins but are not accepted everywhere. Popular sites like Jenny Lake or yurts at Sinks Canyon fill early, so book as far ahead as possible. Learn more about camping in Wyoming.
When is the best time to visit for a lake or reservoir vacation?
Year-round! Many of our lakes and reservoirs are open no matter the season, so it depends on what you want to do. For wildlife viewing near the water, come in the spring or fall, summer is great for water sports, and winter is prime for ice fishing.
