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Boysen State Park wilderness guide
State Park · WY

Boysen State Park

Boysen State Park is a scenic retreat in central Wyoming, surrounding the expansive Boysen Reservoir, offering a rich diversity of outdoor activities from fishing to hiking.

State Park35,8964+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

35,896

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Boysen State Park

Boysen State Park is a scenic retreat in central Wyoming, surrounding the expansive Boysen Reservoir, offering a rich diversity of outdoor activities from fishing to hiking.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Boysen State Park, located near the Wind River Indian Reservation in central Wyoming, spans over 35,000 acres along the shores of Boysen Reservoir. The park is characterized by its diverse geography, including rugged mountains, rolling hills, and expansive water body that provides a haven for anglers, boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts. The park's ecosystem is home to a variety of flora and fauna, with sagebrush, wildflowers, deer, and numerous bird species. Historically, the area was instrumental in the development of irrigation and flood control systems, with the Boysen Dam constructed in 1951. Visitors to the park can enjoy numerous recreational activities such as fishing for trout and walleye, hiking along trails with panoramic views, and exploring the rich geological formations. Notable landmarks include the picturesque Wind River Canyon, which lies just south of the park. Boysen State Park's blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Boysen State Park

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

Discover the Charm of Wind River Canyon★ 8.2⌖ 8 miWhitewater Rafting
Wind River Canyon, WY

Discover the Charm of Wind River Canyon

Explore the breathtaking Wind River Canyon near Thermopolis, WY. Known for its whitewater rafting, hiking trails, and excellent fishing spots. Perfect for adventure seekers with its serene yet rugged beauty. Best visited in spring and fall with fewer crowds offering an immersive experience.

Whitewater RaftingView Details→
Thermopolis: Nature's Marvel in Wyoming★ 8.8⌖ 17 miHot Spring Bathing
Thermopolis

Thermopolis: Nature's Marvel in Wyoming

Explore Thermopolis for its renowned geothermal features. Visit Hot Springs State Park for hiking and soaking in the mineral hot springs. Don't miss kayaking in the Bighorn River. Perfect for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Hot Spring BathingView Details→
Welcome to Hot Springs State Park!★ 8.3⌖ 18 miSoaking
Hot Springs State Park

Welcome to Hot Springs State Park!

Explore Hot Springs State Park located in Thermopolis, Wyoming. Known for its world-class mineral hot springs, this family-friendly landmark offers easy access for soaking and wildlife viewing. Best visited during spring and fall to enjoy its stunning scenic vistas.

Mysterious Rock Art of Legend Rock★ 6.5⌖ 35 miPetroglyph Viewing
Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site

Mysterious Rock Art of Legend Rock

Visit Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site near Thermopolis, Wyoming, to explore ancient petroglyphs. The easy trails offer petroglyph viewing, wildlife watching, and photography opportunities. Best visited in spring or fall, it's a serene spot appreciated by photographers and history enthusiasts.

Petroglyph ViewingView Details→
Ancient Echoes at Castle Gardens★ 7.8⌖ 43 miPetroglyph Viewing
Castle Gardens Petroglyphs

Ancient Echoes at Castle Gardens

Explore the ancient petroglyphs at Castle Gardens Petroglyphs in Riverton, WY. Highlights include historic carvings and moderate hiking trails. Best visited in spring or fall, this remote site offers a glimpse into a rich cultural past with stunning photographic opportunities.

Petroglyph ViewingView Details→
Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel★ 8.2⌖ 45 miGeological Exploration
Gooseberry Badlands

Gooseberry Badlands: A Geological Marvel

Visit Gooseberry Badlands near Worland, WY for stunning geological formations and fossil exploration. Ideal in spring and fall, enjoy the vibrant colors and solitude. Best for photographers and geology enthusiasts.

Geological ExplorationView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The stunning vistas of Wind River Canyon✦ Diverse wildlife and bird watching opportunities✦ Fishing in the expansive Boysen Reservoir✦ Hiking trails with panoramic views of the Wyoming landscape
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Boysen State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Boysen State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Boysen State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Boysen State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Boysen State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Boysen State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Boysen State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Boysen State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

A Wyoming State Parks daily use fee is required.

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 Boysen State Park

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

Tough Creek Campground

Located on the east side of the reservoir, offering easy access to fishing and trails.

Lower Wind River Campground

Offers secluded sites with minimal amenities but proximity to the canyon.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Boysen State Park

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

Riverton
⌖ 27.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverton, Wyoming

A hidden gem in the Wind River Basin offering a blend of adventurous paths and Cowboy State charm, ideal for explorer spirits.

Summer to Early FallExplore Town
Worland
⌖ 44.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Worland, Wyoming

A quiet town offering access to diverse natural landscapes perfect for a variety of outdoor adventures.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Meeteetse
⌖ 62.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Meeteetse, Wyoming

A gateway town offering rugged Western charm and access to abundant wildlife, scenic river adventures, and vast forested landscapes ideal for outdoor exploration.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Greybull
⌖ 75.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greybull, Wyoming

A quiet prairie town that serves as a gateway to the Big Horn Mountains and offers an unspoiled outdoor experience.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Cody
⌖ 89.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cody, Wyoming

A gateway to the Wild West where rugged landscapes and adventure sports converge amid rich Western history.

Pinedale
⌖ 92.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pinedale, Wyoming

A welcoming gateway to the Wind River Range, offering pure adventure and breathtaking wilderness with a small-town feel.

Summer and Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Boysen State Park

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.