Lakes and Reservoirs
Wyoming is home to over 4,000 lakes and reservoirs offering prime opportunities for fishing and water recreation. Whether you are looking to water ski at a state park, go for a leisurely paddle at a national park area or catch your fair share of trout in the best-known fishing spots, you’re sure to find Wyoming waters to suit your vacation. Here are just some of Wyoming’s most popular lakes and reservoirs along with a snapshot of what they offer.
Alcova Reservoir
This reservoir located southwest of Casper near the town of Alcova offers boating, paddling and fishing on its deep blue waters. Head to Alcova Resort and Marina to choose from a variety of watercraft to rent or grab a burger and a drink at their restaurant and bar. Go for a hike or set up camp on shore. While in the area, don’t miss Fremont Canyon, which can be accessed through Alcova Reservoir. This area offers rock climbing, mountain biking and stunning views of the towering canyon walls.
Bighorn Lake
Part of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area near Lovell, Bighorn Lake sits within the canyon and offers unforgettable views of the colorful walls rising from the water. 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.
Boysen Reservoir
This sparkling reservoir is part of Boysen State Park and offers plenty of fun both on and off shore. Go boating or glide across the reservoir on your stand-up paddleboard. Bring your fishing gear for the chance to catch walleye, trout and other local fish. Extend your trip by reserving a campsite, yurt or cabin stay within the park, or book a stay in nearby Shoshoni or Thermopolis.
Buffalo Bill Reservoir
Experience the beauty and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem without stepping foot in Yellowstone National Park. Located in Buffalo Bill State Park near Cody, this reservoir allows you to do just that, giving a glimpse of Yellowstone’s scenery without the crowds. Cast a line, water ski or paddle along the reservoir as you take time to recharge. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you could spy anything from antelope, elk and moose to bears and prairie dogs. Pitch your tent or park your RV at a campsite in the state park for a longer stay.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Explore 90 miles of deep, blue water spanning Wyoming and Utah at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Relax as you paddle along on your stand-up paddleboard or get a thrill by taking a jet ski for a spin. Rentals are available at Buckboard Marina in the nearby town of Green River. Be sure to bring your fishing gear no matter the season; fishing and ice fishing are both popular on the reservoir, with massive lake trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon and smallmouth bass all in the mix. Don’t forget to check out the surrounding Flaming Gorge National Recreation area for hiking, camping and mountain biking opportunities.
Fremont Lake
This pristine lake in the Bridger-Teton National Forest offers prime opportunities for wildlife viewing, stargazing, camping and more. Just a short drive from Pinedale, it’s easy to access Wyoming’s second largest lake and get your fill of water adventures. 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. And no trip to Fremont Lake would be complete without casting a line for the chance to catch rainbow, brown and lake trout, especially in the winter when the lake freezes over.
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Glendo Reservoir
Find yourself in a landscape as diverse as the wildlife on a trip to Glendo Reservoir. Located in Glendo State Park, here you can hike in rocky pine-lined forests in the morning and relax on a sandy beach in the afternoon. Fishing, boating and paddling are all fun activities you can enjoy on the water. On shore, try mountain biking, reserve a campsite or book a stay in one of the park’s yurts.
Green River Lakes
Situated deep in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Green River Lakes offer a more remote spot to enjoy time 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
Enjoy views of the massive Tetons and surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest from a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or water skis. 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 or enjoying beachfront swimming, or rent a watercraft from Signal Mountain Lodge for more excitement. 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.
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Pathfinder Reservoir
This sprawling reservoir situated between Casper and Rawlins offers plenty of opportunities for water recreation, but it is best known for its fishing. Cast a line for the chance to catch walleye, trout, perch and other fish. 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.
Photo Credit: https://t.co/wmEW3DfoFR
Seminoe Reservoir
Landscapes surrounding this reservoir in Seminoe State Park include everything from beautiful sand dunes to colorful rock formations. Take in these geological wonders while swimming, paddling or boating on this sprawling reservoir. Or enjoy them from the shore while hiking or relaxing at your campsite. One activity not to miss: fishing. Wyoming’s famous Miracle Mile is situated just north of the reservoir on the North Platte River and contains a variety of trout you can try your luck at catching.
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. Fish for cutthroat trout, kayak around the lake or 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 a number of tour operators. Keep your eyes open for local wildlife, and be sure to explore more of the surrounding Yellowstone National Park including Lewis Lake, Shoshone Lake and more pristine waters.