Wyoming State Parks

A dazzling night sky filled with bright stars has long been a source of wonder and inspiration – and Sinks Canyon State Park wants to do its part to keep Wyoming’s dark skies dark. After a three-year application process, the park outside of Lander became the state’s first International Dark Sky Park through DarkSky International, an organization that raises awareness about light pollution. The designation recognizes the work the park has done to protect this often overlooked resource.

The program was launched in 2021 when two of ranger positions were created, a first for the state. Visitation at Wyoming state parks and historic sites has been on the rise in recent years. This can partly be attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic and the desire to go outdoors. Offerings for LGBTQ and Latino youth, in addition to female-oriented camping trips are also part of their offerings. Other ranger programs aimed specifically at young people are also set to debut this year.

In the late 1960s an archeological site near Hyattville revealed around 10,000 years of tribal history. That site became an official state archaeological site in 1973. The Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023.

The awareness efforts are aimed at veterans in rural areas and those who are traveling with telehealth, mental health, and other resources to access VA care. Informational flyers are being posted at rest areas and eateries throughout the state to help with these efforts.

Visitation figures have declined since 2020, but there is a long-term trend of growth. This had led state officials to invest in building additional infrastructure, such as campgrounds, to accommodate more people. In 2021, 5.4 million people visited Wyoming's state parks, historic sites, and trail systems.

The Governor's Challenge on Suicide Prevention is partnered with Wyoming State Parks and Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. The 'You Matter' campaign features pictures of state parks and has the number to the statewide hotline printed on it.

After a lengthy discussion, the Wyoming House of Representatives gave initial approval to a bill that increases the amount of maintenance money state…

In an attempt to offset state budget cuts, Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites has instituted a fee increase in all areas. Most have increased by a few…

More than a million more people visited Wyoming state parks so far this year compared to last. The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural…

Wyoming state park campgrounds open to residents only on May 15. Antler hunting will begin on May 1 as usual. Fishing nonresident daily and five-day…