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 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

The stunning vistas of Wind River CanyonDiverse wildlife and bird watching opportunitiesFishing in the expansive Boysen ReservoirHiking 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, Wyoming
27.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverton, Wyoming

Riverton, WY, offers outdoorsy souls a chance to hike, fish, and ride through the scenic Wind River Basin. Experience the authentic American West amidst stunning landscapes, wildlife, and exciting paths.

Summer to Early Fall
Explore Town
Worland, Wyoming
44.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Worland, Wyoming

Worland in Wyoming is a tranquil gateway to outdoor exploration in Bighorn National Forest. Known for hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports, it's a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Summer
Explore 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.

Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon
ADVEXPEDITION
Thermopolis, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Teepee Yoga on a Gentle Float Through Wind River Canyon

A two‑hour guided float from Wind River Canyon Whitewater & Fly Fishing that pairs a scenic river trip with a yoga stop in a teepee — ideal for beginners and families (Ages 6+; 8am departure).

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Nightfall in Riverton: Alma Law’s Haunted Downtown Walk
ADVEXPEDITION
Riverton, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Nightfall in Riverton: Alma Law’s Haunted Downtown Walk

A two-hour, after-dark guided walk of downtown Riverton led by local storyteller Alma Law that pairs building histories with eerie local tales—this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip