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 60 miles.

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, Wyoming
⌖ 27.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kemmerer, Wyoming

Kemmerer offers a unique adventure for fossil enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With opportunities for fossil hunting, wildlife watching, and exploring remote trails, this Wyoming town is a hidden gem for outdoor aficionados.

Big Piney, Wyoming
⌖ 40.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Piney, Wyoming

Big Piney, Wyoming, is a quiet western town that offers easy access to hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and snowmobiling. Surrounded by Bridger-Teton National Forest and the Green River, it’s perfect for travelers seeking rugged outdoor adventures with fewer crowds.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Marbleton, Wyoming
⌖ 41.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marbleton, Wyoming

Marbleton is a small Wyoming town ideal for outdoors lovers seeking hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling amid dramatic mountain scenery and pristine rivers. It serves as a quiet basecamp to explore the Wyoming Range and Green River.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Rock Springs, Wyoming
⌖ 50.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wyoming

Rock Springs in Wyoming draws outdoor adventurers with its vast open spaces, diverse terrain, and unique wildlife. Enjoy hiking, biking, camping, or fishing in this wild and scenic region.

Spring and Fall
Explore 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.

Four Seats, One Teryx: Group UTV Rentals out of Rock Springs
ADVEXPEDITION
Rock Springs, Wyoming
ATV/UTVADV Bookable

Four Seats, One Teryx: Group UTV Rentals out of Rock Springs

Rent a 2022 Kawasaki Teryx4S 800cc four‑seater from Rockin Rollin Rentals for an 8‑hour sortie that lets groups explore the region’s outdoors—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

ATV/UTVPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip