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Keyhole State Park wilderness guide
State Park · WY

Keyhole State Park

Keyhole State Park is a tranquil escape in northeastern Wyoming, offering a scenic reservoir and numerous recreational opportunities set against a natural backdrop.

State Park14,7202+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

14,720

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Keyhole State Park

Keyhole State Park is a tranquil escape in northeastern Wyoming, offering a scenic reservoir and numerous recreational opportunities set against a natural backdrop.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Keyhole State Park, located in the scenic setting of northeastern Wyoming, features the expansive Keyhole Reservoir, which serves as the park's centerpiece. This state park spans a diverse landscape of forested areas, rolling hills, and open spaces, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, pronghorns, and numerous bird species. The park's history dates back to the construction of the Keyhole Dam in 1952, which created the reservoir as part of the Bureau of Reclamation's efforts in the region. Visitors to the park can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, from boating and fishing on the serene waters of the reservoir to hiking and mountain biking along its trails. The park is also a favored spot for camping, with well-maintained campgrounds offering both primitive and developed options. Notable features include the impressive vistas from different points around the reservoir and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keyhole State Park stands out for its combination of water-based recreation and land exploration, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Keyhole State Park

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

Discover the Wonders of Devils Tower★ 9.2⌖ 16 miHiking
Red Beds Trailhead

Discover the Wonders of Devils Tower

Explore the 2.8-mile Red Beds Trail at Devils Tower National Monument near Hulett, WY. This moderate hike offers views of the iconic rock columns and local wildlife. Popular for both hiking and rock climbing, with stunning photography opportunities in spring and fall.

Devils Tower National Monument★ 9.3⌖ 16 miClimbing
Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower National Monument

Explore Devils Tower National Monument near Sundance, Wyoming. This striking rock formation offers climbing adventures and scenic hikes with panoramic views. Iconic and historically significant, the monument is a popular destination for adventure seekers.

Whispers of the Black Hills★ 8.5⌖ 19 miHiking
Black Hills National Forest

Whispers of the Black Hills

Explore Black Hills National Forest near Sundance, WY. This scenic area is perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. Enjoy the dramatic rock formations and dense forest. Ideal in spring or fall, the site offers a unique experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Summit Adventure at Crow Peak Trailhead★ 8.1⌖ 39 miHiking
Crow Peak Trailhead

Summit Adventure at Crow Peak Trailhead

Explore the 6.8-mile Crow Peak Trail near Spearfish, SD. Known for its challenging hike, this trail offers stunning views and unique rock formations, making it popular among experienced hikers and nature photographers. Best visited in spring or fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Keyhole Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for fishing and boating.✦ The park hosts a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.✦ Sandy Beach offers a relaxing spot for picnics and family outings.✦ Hiking trails provide scenic views and wildlife observation opportunities.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Keyhole State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Keyhole State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Keyhole 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 Keyhole State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day use fee required; annual passes are available.

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 Keyhole State Park

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

Tatanka Campground

Located near the reservoir, this campground offers facilities and easy access to water activities.

Pronghorn Campground

A quieter spot with fewer amenities, ideal for a more rustic camping experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Keyhole State Park

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

Sundance
⌖ 17.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sundance, Wyoming

A quaint Western town that serves as a gateway to rugged outdoor escapades in the Black Hills region.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Hulett
⌖ 23.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hulett, Wyoming

A quaint western town offering unique outdoor adventures amid the rugged terrains and iconic landmarks of northeastern Wyoming.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Red Lodge
⌖ 38.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Wyoming

A quaint mountain town offering the perfect mix of outdoor thrills and western charm, nestled among towering peaks.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Gillette
⌖ 38.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gillette, Wyoming

A gateway to rugged Northeastern Wyoming offering easy access to wide-open landscapes, diverse outdoor activities, and seasonal adventures in the Powder River Basin region.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Newcastle
⌖ 43.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newcastle, Wyoming

A historic western town offering expansive open landscapes, rugged trails, and access to both plains and nearby forested mountains.

Late spring to early fall for hiking and biking; winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
Spearfish
⌖ 43.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Spearfish, South Dakota

A scenic gateway to outdoor activities in the Black Hills, filled with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring nature's beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Keyhole State Park

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

12 bookable experiences

Deadwood's Trial of Jack McCall: Live Wild West Reenactment Near Wild Bill Hickok's Shooting SiteDeadwood, South Dakota · 49.26 mi away
All Adventures· Deadwood Alive

Deadwood's Trial of Jack McCall: Live Wild West Reenactment Near Wild Bill Hickok's Shooting Site

Step into Deadwood's lawless past with a one-hour interactive reenactment of Jack McCall's trial — a long-running show where audience members may be invited to join the drama. Historic detail, period costumes, and optional participation make this a memorable, family-friendly stop on Main Street.

1 hour

Explore this trip

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