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Fontenelle Reservoir wilderness guide
Reservoir · WY

Fontenelle Reservoir

Fontenelle Reservoir is a popular site for outdoor recreation located in southwestern Wyoming, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching along the Green River.

Reservoir8,000

Designation

Reservoir

Total Wilderness Area

8,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Fontenelle Reservoir

Fontenelle Reservoir is a popular site for outdoor recreation located in southwestern Wyoming, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching along the Green River.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Fontenelle Reservoir, situated in Lincoln and Sweetwater counties of Wyoming, is part of the expansive Colorado River Storage Project and impounds water from the Green River. Created for water storage, flood control, and irrigation, this man-made reservoir is vital to the region's ecology and economy. The area around Fontenelle Reservoir is characterized by rolling hills and sparse vegetation, typical of the high desert environment. It is an important habitat for numerous wildlife species, including pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and a variety of waterfowl, making it a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, the reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities, such as boating, fishing for trout and kokanee salmon, camping, and bird watching. The serene landscape and open waters attract visitors looking for a tranquil outdoor experience. While not as visited as other nearby reservoirs, Fontenelle's remote location provides peace and an escape from more crowded sites. Throughout the year, the area experiences a semi-arid climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making it an excellent destination for summer recreation.

Field Guide · Reservoir
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Fontenelle Reservoir

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Fossil Butte National Monument★ 7.8⌖ 37 miFossil Viewing
Fossil Butte National Monument

Discover Fossil Butte National Monument

Explore Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer, WY. Enjoy fossil viewing and hiking among well-preserved formations. Best visited in spring and fall for ideal weather and minimal crowds.

Fossil ViewingView Details→
Majestic Castle Rock in Wyoming★ 7.5⌖ 42 miViewing
Castle Rock

Majestic Castle Rock in Wyoming

Castle Rock in Green River, WY offers a serene spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. Known for its layered sandstone, this landmark provides sweeping views and quiet exploration opportunities, best in spring and fall.

Majestic Boars Tusk Awaits★ 7.5⌖ 44 miNature Photography
Boars Tusk

Majestic Boars Tusk Awaits

Boars Tusk in Wyoming offers easy access for hiking and wildlife watching. Enjoy panoramic views of the Red Desert while possibly spotting pronghorns and raptors. Ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and stunning natural photography opportunities.

Nature PhotographyView Details→
The Majestic Killpecker Sand Dunes★ 7.8⌖ 50 miOff-Roading
Killpecker Sand Dunes

The Majestic Killpecker Sand Dunes

Explore the Killpecker Sand Dunes near Rock Springs, Wyoming. This unique desert landscape offers off-roading and sandboarding opportunities. Spring and Fall are ideal for visiting. Keep an eye out for pronghorns and enjoy the serenity away from the crowds.

Off-RoadingView Details→
Bear Lake: The Caribbean of the Rockies★ 8.4⌖ 66 miPaddleboarding
Bear Lake

Bear Lake: The Caribbean of the Rockies

Bear Lake is a large freshwater lake on the Utah-Idaho border known for its turquoise waters and recreational options. Popular in summer for paddleboarding, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. Access is easy by car, with family-friendly beaches and trails.

PaddleboardingView Details→
Flaming Gorge's Majestic Wonder★ 8.7⌖ 66 miBoating
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Flaming Gorge's Majestic Wonder

Explore Flaming Gorge's breathtaking landscapes, ideal for fishing, boating, and hiking. Enjoy panoramic views from Red Canyon Rim Trail and thrilling rafting on the Green River. This area in Manila, UT is a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Fontenelle Dam, offering stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape✦ Unique habitat for waterfowl and wildlife viewing✦ Fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon✦ Remote camping spots with minimal light pollution, perfect for stargazing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Fontenelle Reservoir

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Fontenelle Reservoir
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Fontenelle Reservoir
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Fontenelle Reservoir
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Fontenelle Reservoir
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Fontenelle Reservoir
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Fontenelle Reservoir.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees or permits required for general access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Fontenelle Reservoir

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Fontenelle Reservoir Campground

Situated along the reservoir's shore, offering basic amenities and great views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Fontenelle Reservoir

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Kemmerer
⌖ 27.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kemmerer, Wyoming

A serene high-desert escape offering paleontological treasures and tranquil outdoor exploration opportunities in southwest Wyoming.

Big Piney
⌖ 40.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Piney, Wyoming

A rugged western town offering gateway access to diverse outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing in nearby public lands and mountain ranges.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Marbleton
⌖ 41.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marbleton, Wyoming

A gateway town offering rugged outdoor experiences amid the dramatic landscapes of the Wyoming Range and Green River Valley.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Rock Springs
⌖ 50.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wyoming

A rugged high-desert town with wide open landscapes perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Randolph
⌖ 61.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Randolph, Utah

A quiet, high-elevation gateway to rugged backcountry with access to alpine hiking, pristine lakes, and winter snow sports in Utah’s Bear River Mountains.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Daniel
⌖ 62.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Daniel, Wyoming

A quiet gateway town offering close access to rugged mountain landscapes, pristine rivers, and wilderness adventures in western Wyoming.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Fontenelle Reservoir

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.