Most people have visited the world-famous national parks and forests in Wyoming, but there is unparalleled wilderness all across our great state. You may have visited Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, and maybe you’ve even explored one or more of our five national forests. If you’re ready for a new adventure, however, here are 12 fantastic state parks to visit in Wyoming, some of which you may never have heard of but all of which you’re sure to love.

  1. Seminoe State Park, Sinclair, Wyoming

Vicki Watkins/Flickr Our list of some of the most underrated state parks to visit in Wyoming begins with Seminoe State Park. Thirty-five miles north of Sinclair, you’ll find the Seminoe Mountains with this gem of a state park nestled up next to them. There are campgrounds for overnight excursions and facilities for day-use fun like picnics and hikes. Plus, enjoy whatever water activities you like on the reservoir. Learn more about why this state park is one of Wyoming’s greatest outdoor wonders. Seminoe State Park, Seminoe Dam, Rt Unit 30, Sinclair, WY 82334, USA

  1. Glendo State Park, Glendo, Wyoming

Olaf Wernicke / Google The area along the North Platte River is one of the most historic in the state. Over the years, dig sites have revealed evidence of the different Native American tribes that have lived in Eastern Wyoming through the centuries including Arapaho, Cheyenne, Oglala, and Brule Sioux. Take a hike almost anywhere in Glendo State Park and you might come across tipi rings or a number of other cultural artifacts. The Oregon - California - Utah trail also came through the area, and wheel ruts in the earth are still visible in some areas. Glendo State Park, 397 Glendo Park Rd, Glendo, WY 82213, USA

  1. Bear River State Park, Evanston, Wyoming

mini/TripAdvisor You can make use of this state park just outside of Evanston year round, though it is day-use only with no camping allowed. Still, with over 300 acres that includes more than 6 miles of trails and a footbridge that can take you across the Bear River, it’s a terrific place to spend an afternoon so pack a picnic. Small herds of bison and elk call this state park home, so you’re guaranteed to see some wildlife. Plus, during the winter, the foot trails can be used for cross-country skiing and there are additional places in the park for snowshoeing. Learn more about what makes Bear River State Park such a wonderful day trip destination in Wyoming. Bear River State Park Travel Center Access Road, Bear River State Park Travel Center Access Rd, Evanston, WY 82930, USA

  1. Boysen State Park, Shoshoni, Wyoming

Joycelyn Catterson/Flickr If you’re looking for a larger state park that’s open all year long, welcome to Boysen State Park. You’re welcome to stay overnight here at one of the six campgrounds. You’ll enjoy exploring the area around the lake, but you’ll appreciate the water-oriented activities as much. Fishermen particularly love the waters here; Stateparks.com says several state record fish have been caught at Boysen. For more information, visit the Boysen State Park official visitor’s guide. Boysen State Park, 120 Boysen Dr, Shoshoni, WY 82649, USA

  1. Curt Gowdy State Park, Cheyenne, Wyoming

Curt Gowdy State Park You’ll find Curt Gowdy State Park smack dab in the middle of Cheyenne and Laramie - 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie. Most of the park is for day-use, but the Hynds Lodge can be reserved for large and small groups for short-term stays. Spend your days hiking in the foothills of the Laramie Mountains, taking in the beautiful landscape, or enjoy boating and fishing on one of the three reservoirs in the park. When it comes to some of the best hiking in Wyoming, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Curt Gowdy State Park. Curt Gowdy State Park, 1264 Granite Springs Rd, Cheyenne, WY 82009, USA

  1. Edness K. Wilkins State Park, Evansville, Wyoming

Edniss Kimball Wilkins State Park/Facebook If you love wildlife and water fun, this day-use park just outside Evansville is for you. In addition to mink, turtles, porcupines, and deer, you could catch a glimpse of the nearly 40 different bird species that have been sighted at this park as you walk along almost 3 miles of foot paths. There is a playground for the children along with picnic grills, tables, and shelters. If you prefer boating to swimming, this park offers a launching ramp for rafts and canoes, plus it boasts a one-of-a-kind fishing pier. Visit and you’ll soon discover why Edness K. Wilkins State Park is one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets. Edness Kimball Wilkins Park, 8700 East US Hwy 20, 26, Evansville, WY 82636, USA

  1. Guernsey State Park, Guernsey, Wyoming

Jimmy Emerson, DVM Being located along the Oregon Trail, Guernsey State Park has some of the best examples of the historic wheel ruts the wagons left as they headed west. With seven campgrounds - five situated near the lake - you can make a weekend or a whole week out of your trip to this state park. Visit the Guernsey Museum, have a picnic in the Guernsey Castle while enjoying the spectacular view, then set out for Register Cliff where Oregon Trail travelers chalked their names onto the landmark. Historians say the area today still looks pretty much the same as it did to the pioneers. Guernsey State Park, 2187 Lake Side Dr, Guernsey, WY 82214, USA

  1. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis, Wyoming

Don Barrett/Flickr Centuries of mineral water flowing along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis has worked to create the interesting and colorful terraces that this state park is known for. You’ll want to take a dunk at the free bathhouse that’s open 7 days a week (except for on holidays during the winter), but there are other things to do at Hot Springs State Park. Boat and fish on the Big Horn River. Picnic in the shelters. Hike the over 6 miles of ADA - accessible trails. Also, be sure to check out the bison herd which typically numbers over 20 animals at any given time. Hot Springs State Park, 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, USA

  1. Sinks Canyon State Park, Lander, Wyoming

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr This state park’s claim to fame is the vanishing river phenomenon. At one point, the Popo Agie River disappears into the Sinks Cavern and reappears in the Rise, a pool around half a mile down the canyon that’s filled with trout. The trout in this particular pool are protected, as no fishing is allowed in the Rise. There are plenty of other places to fish, however, at Sinks Canyon State Park. There are also opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife viewing. You could spot a black bear, red squirrels, porcupines, bighorn sheep, moose, mule deer, or golden eagles. There’s so much to love about Sinks Canyon State Park. Sinks Canyon State Park, 3079 Sinks Canyon Rd, Lander, WY 82520, USA

  1. Buffalo Bill State Park, Cody, Wyoming

Tim Lumley/Flickr Located 9 miles west of Cody you’ll find the Buffalo Bill State Park set beneath the stately peaks of the Absaroka mountains. A planned trail system along the north shoreline of the reservoir is being blazed in phases and hikers can already enjoy the Eagle Point Trail. There are two campgrounds as well as two day-use areas that offer shelters, tables, and grills, and the Sheep Mountain area includes a playground for the kids. It’s no mystery why Buffalo Bill State Park is one of the best state parks to visit in Wyoming.

  1. Keyhole State Park, Moorcroft, Wyoming

Sue C/TripAdvisor With 10 campgrounds, this state park on Marina Road in Moorcroft provides one of the best opportunities for tent and RV camping. It’s also a spot that attracts loads of wildlife including native and migrating birds, pronghorn antelope, and mule deer. The marina features a boat ramp so you can enjoy boating along with swimming and fishing when you visit Keyhole. Learn more about all there is to do when you visit Keyhole State Park.

  1. Hawk Springs State Park, Guernsey, Wyoming

Hawk Springs State Recreation Area/Facebook About 62 miles south of Guernsey is a picturesque reservoir and state park: Hawk Springs. It’s a big draw for birds and birdwatchers alike. Enthusiasts could see a number of feathered wildlife including blue herons, pintails, wood ducks, gadwalls, blue-winged and green-winged teal, and great horned owls. Fishermen come for the largemouth bass, channel catfish, and walleye, and die-hards even come in the winter to ice fish. With two dozen camping units and accommodations for trailers, Hawk Springs is a comfortable as well as beautiful place to spend a vacation. Despite being one of the smallest state parks in Wyoming, Hawk Springs is also one of the most beautiful. 82221, La Grange, WY 82221, USA

Have you ever visited any of these impressive state parks to visit in Wyoming? Which one is your favorite? Be sure to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

Vicki Watkins/Flickr

Our list of some of the most underrated state parks to visit in Wyoming begins with Seminoe State Park. Thirty-five miles north of Sinclair, you’ll find the Seminoe Mountains with this gem of a state park nestled up next to them. There are campgrounds for overnight excursions and facilities for day-use fun like picnics and hikes. Plus, enjoy whatever water activities you like on the reservoir. Learn more about why this state park is one of Wyoming’s greatest outdoor wonders.

Seminoe State Park, Seminoe Dam, Rt Unit 30, Sinclair, WY 82334, USA

Olaf Wernicke / Google

The area along the North Platte River is one of the most historic in the state. Over the years, dig sites have revealed evidence of the different Native American tribes that have lived in Eastern Wyoming through the centuries including Arapaho, Cheyenne, Oglala, and Brule Sioux. Take a hike almost anywhere in Glendo State Park and you might come across tipi rings or a number of other cultural artifacts. The Oregon - California - Utah trail also came through the area, and wheel ruts in the earth are still visible in some areas.

Glendo State Park, 397 Glendo Park Rd, Glendo, WY 82213, USA

mini/TripAdvisor

You can make use of this state park just outside of Evanston year round, though it is day-use only with no camping allowed. Still, with over 300 acres that includes more than 6 miles of trails and a footbridge that can take you across the Bear River, it’s a terrific place to spend an afternoon so pack a picnic. Small herds of bison and elk call this state park home, so you’re guaranteed to see some wildlife. Plus, during the winter, the foot trails can be used for cross-country skiing and there are additional places in the park for snowshoeing. Learn more about what makes Bear River State Park such a wonderful day trip destination in Wyoming.

Bear River State Park Travel Center Access Road, Bear River State Park Travel Center Access Rd, Evanston, WY 82930, USA

Joycelyn Catterson/Flickr

If you’re looking for a larger state park that’s open all year long, welcome to Boysen State Park. You’re welcome to stay overnight here at one of the six campgrounds. You’ll enjoy exploring the area around the lake, but you’ll appreciate the water-oriented activities as much. Fishermen particularly love the waters here; Stateparks.com says several state record fish have been caught at Boysen. For more information, visit the Boysen State Park official visitor’s guide.

Boysen State Park, 120 Boysen Dr, Shoshoni, WY 82649, USA

Curt Gowdy State Park

You’ll find Curt Gowdy State Park smack dab in the middle of Cheyenne and Laramie - 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie. Most of the park is for day-use, but the Hynds Lodge can be reserved for large and small groups for short-term stays. Spend your days hiking in the foothills of the Laramie Mountains, taking in the beautiful landscape, or enjoy boating and fishing on one of the three reservoirs in the park. When it comes to some of the best hiking in Wyoming, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Curt Gowdy State Park.

Curt Gowdy State Park, 1264 Granite Springs Rd, Cheyenne, WY 82009, USA

Edniss Kimball Wilkins State Park/Facebook

If you love wildlife and water fun, this day-use park just outside Evansville is for you. In addition to mink, turtles, porcupines, and deer, you could catch a glimpse of the nearly 40 different bird species that have been sighted at this park as you walk along almost 3 miles of foot paths. There is a playground for the children along with picnic grills, tables, and shelters. If you prefer boating to swimming, this park offers a launching ramp for rafts and canoes, plus it boasts a one-of-a-kind fishing pier. Visit and you’ll soon discover why Edness K. Wilkins State Park is one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets.

Edness Kimball Wilkins Park, 8700 East US Hwy 20, 26, Evansville, WY 82636, USA

Jimmy Emerson, DVM

Being located along the Oregon Trail, Guernsey State Park has some of the best examples of the historic wheel ruts the wagons left as they headed west. With seven campgrounds - five situated near the lake - you can make a weekend or a whole week out of your trip to this state park. Visit the Guernsey Museum, have a picnic in the Guernsey Castle while enjoying the spectacular view, then set out for Register Cliff where Oregon Trail travelers chalked their names onto the landmark. Historians say the area today still looks pretty much the same as it did to the pioneers.

Guernsey State Park, 2187 Lake Side Dr, Guernsey, WY 82214, USA

Don Barrett/Flickr

Centuries of mineral water flowing along the Big Horn River at Thermopolis has worked to create the interesting and colorful terraces that this state park is known for. You’ll want to take a dunk at the free bathhouse that’s open 7 days a week (except for on holidays during the winter), but there are other things to do at Hot Springs State Park. Boat and fish on the Big Horn River. Picnic in the shelters. Hike the over 6 miles of ADA - accessible trails. Also, be sure to check out the bison herd which typically numbers over 20 animals at any given time.

Hot Springs State Park, 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, USA

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

This state park’s claim to fame is the vanishing river phenomenon. At one point, the Popo Agie River disappears into the Sinks Cavern and reappears in the Rise, a pool around half a mile down the canyon that’s filled with trout. The trout in this particular pool are protected, as no fishing is allowed in the Rise. There are plenty of other places to fish, however, at Sinks Canyon State Park. There are also opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife viewing. You could spot a black bear, red squirrels, porcupines, bighorn sheep, moose, mule deer, or golden eagles. There’s so much to love about Sinks Canyon State Park.

Sinks Canyon State Park, 3079 Sinks Canyon Rd, Lander, WY 82520, USA

Tim Lumley/Flickr

Located 9 miles west of Cody you’ll find the Buffalo Bill State Park set beneath the stately peaks of the Absaroka mountains. A planned trail system along the north shoreline of the reservoir is being blazed in phases and hikers can already enjoy the Eagle Point Trail. There are two campgrounds as well as two day-use areas that offer shelters, tables, and grills, and the Sheep Mountain area includes a playground for the kids. It’s no mystery why Buffalo Bill State Park is one of the best state parks to visit in Wyoming.

Sue C/TripAdvisor

With 10 campgrounds, this state park on Marina Road in Moorcroft provides one of the best opportunities for tent and RV camping. It’s also a spot that attracts loads of wildlife including native and migrating birds, pronghorn antelope, and mule deer. The marina features a boat ramp so you can enjoy boating along with swimming and fishing when you visit Keyhole. Learn more about all there is to do when you visit Keyhole State Park.

Hawk Springs State Recreation Area/Facebook

About 62 miles south of Guernsey is a picturesque reservoir and state park: Hawk Springs. It’s a big draw for birds and birdwatchers alike. Enthusiasts could see a number of feathered wildlife including blue herons, pintails, wood ducks, gadwalls, blue-winged and green-winged teal, and great horned owls. Fishermen come for the largemouth bass, channel catfish, and walleye, and die-hards even come in the winter to ice fish. With two dozen camping units and accommodations for trailers, Hawk Springs is a comfortable as well as beautiful place to spend a vacation. Despite being one of the smallest state parks in Wyoming, Hawk Springs is also one of the most beautiful.

82221, La Grange, WY 82221, USA

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The OIYS Visitor Center

state parks to visit in Wyoming February 17, 2022 Beth C. What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Wyoming? One of the best parts about exploring Wyoming is the abundance of gorgeous hiking trails that you can enjoy year-round. While spring and summer prove to be the most popular times for hiking in Wyoming, you can’t go wrong with an outdoor adventure in any season. Wondering about the most beautiful hiking trails in Wyoming? We’ve got you covered! One of our all-time favorites is the Upper Geyser Basin Trail in Yellowstone National Park. One of the most popular hiking trails in the state, this route will take you to the largest concentration of geysers in the world. How impressive is that? Next up on the list is the Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park. Hikers can take this 7.5-mile trail around the entire lake, enjoying panoramic mountain views at every turn. Some other hikes worth exploring include Medicine Bow Peak, Popo Agie Falls Trail, South Piney Creek Trail, Uncle Tom’s Trail, Beauty Lake Trail, Bunsen Peak Trail, Avalance Peak, Turtle Rock Trail, Bradley and Taggert Lakes Trail, Cascade Canyon Trail, Cirque of the Towers Trail, and Lake Solitude Trail. Curious to learn more? Check out our previous article outlining some of the most beautiful trails in Wyoming. Does Wyoming have any natural wonders? Yes! Wyoming has so many natural wonders, in fact, that we’ve crafted a road trip that will lead you to these stunning landmarks. Some of the stops along the way include Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn Canyon, Devils Tower National Monument, Hells Half Acre, the Red Desert, Intermittent Springs, Grand Teton National Park, Sinks Canyon, and Hot Springs State Park. Curious to learn more about this adventure? Check out the full itinerary to explore Wyoming’s natural wonders.

The OIYS Visitor Center

state parks to visit in Wyoming

February 17, 2022

Beth C.

What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Wyoming? One of the best parts about exploring Wyoming is the abundance of gorgeous hiking trails that you can enjoy year-round. While spring and summer prove to be the most popular times for hiking in Wyoming, you can’t go wrong with an outdoor adventure in any season. Wondering about the most beautiful hiking trails in Wyoming? We’ve got you covered! One of our all-time favorites is the Upper Geyser Basin Trail in Yellowstone National Park. One of the most popular hiking trails in the state, this route will take you to the largest concentration of geysers in the world. How impressive is that? Next up on the list is the Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park. Hikers can take this 7.5-mile trail around the entire lake, enjoying panoramic mountain views at every turn. Some other hikes worth exploring include Medicine Bow Peak, Popo Agie Falls Trail, South Piney Creek Trail, Uncle Tom’s Trail, Beauty Lake Trail, Bunsen Peak Trail, Avalance Peak, Turtle Rock Trail, Bradley and Taggert Lakes Trail, Cascade Canyon Trail, Cirque of the Towers Trail, and Lake Solitude Trail. Curious to learn more? Check out our previous article outlining some of the most beautiful trails in Wyoming. Does Wyoming have any natural wonders? Yes! Wyoming has so many natural wonders, in fact, that we’ve crafted a road trip that will lead you to these stunning landmarks. Some of the stops along the way include Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn Canyon, Devils Tower National Monument, Hells Half Acre, the Red Desert, Intermittent Springs, Grand Teton National Park, Sinks Canyon, and Hot Springs State Park. Curious to learn more about this adventure? Check out the full itinerary to explore Wyoming’s natural wonders.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

One of the best parts about exploring Wyoming is the abundance of gorgeous hiking trails that you can enjoy year-round. While spring and summer prove to be the most popular times for hiking in Wyoming, you can’t go wrong with an outdoor adventure in any season. Wondering about the most beautiful hiking trails in Wyoming? We’ve got you covered! One of our all-time favorites is the Upper Geyser Basin Trail in Yellowstone National Park. One of the most popular hiking trails in the state, this route will take you to the largest concentration of geysers in the world. How impressive is that? Next up on the list is the Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park. Hikers can take this 7.5-mile trail around the entire lake, enjoying panoramic mountain views at every turn. Some other hikes worth exploring include Medicine Bow Peak, Popo Agie Falls Trail, South Piney Creek Trail, Uncle Tom’s Trail, Beauty Lake Trail, Bunsen Peak Trail, Avalance Peak, Turtle Rock Trail, Bradley and Taggert Lakes Trail, Cascade Canyon Trail, Cirque of the Towers Trail, and Lake Solitude Trail. Curious to learn more? Check out our previous article outlining some of the most beautiful trails in Wyoming.

Does Wyoming have any natural wonders?

Yes! Wyoming has so many natural wonders, in fact, that we’ve crafted a road trip that will lead you to these stunning landmarks. Some of the stops along the way include Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn Canyon, Devils Tower National Monument, Hells Half Acre, the Red Desert, Intermittent Springs, Grand Teton National Park, Sinks Canyon, and Hot Springs State Park. Curious to learn more about this adventure? Check out the full itinerary to explore Wyoming’s natural wonders.