Everyone makes a big deal about Wyoming’s stunning natural wonders, like glacial lakes and thermal features. Those who have spent enough time exploring know that some of our man-made wonders are just as impressive – and they can be a lot easier to access, too!
The Pathfinder Reservoir is a spot in Wyoming that’s home to a true man-made wonder.
Visit Casper
The dam that created the reservoir is an engineering marvel. It was built between 1905 and 1909, and it was one of the first projects that the new Bureau of Reclamation decided to take on.
Flickr / Eric
The engineers and construction workers who poured their hearts into this remarkable dam certainly did an amazing job, as it stands strong and is still in use more than a century later.
Flickr / Eric
There are multiple campsites around the Pathfinder Reservoir, and most of them are open-year round. There is a mix of sheltered and exposed sites, and they’re all first come, first serve.
Google Local / Visit Casper
While camping through the Wyoming winter may not seem all too appealing, when you consider that the reservoir is a top-notch ice fishing destination, it’s easy to see why the campgrounds stay open!
Google Local / Wyoming Rayne
The most pleasant time to visit is in the early summer or early fall. Crowds are minimal, bugs are minimal, and the weather is picture-perfect.
Google Local / RobertN
Of course, you do have to keep an eye on the weather, as pesky afternoon thunderstorms can be a nuisance to anyone out on the water.
Flickr / Michael Janke
All four of the campgrounds that surround the Pathfinder Dam and Reservoir are first come, first served. You can find out more about the facilities and amenities of each campground, as well as directions and area maps, on the Natrona County Parks website. In the summer, Pathfinder is a popular spot for boating and fishing, but it’s such a large area that crowds are almost never a problem.
Visit Casper
Flickr / Eric
Google Local / Visit Casper
Google Local / Wyoming Rayne
Google Local / RobertN
Flickr / Michael Janke
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Address: Pathfinder Reservoir, Wyoming, USA
