mineral deposits at a state park near casper wyomingWyoming has 12 state parks that cover more than 100,000 acres of the state’s vast landscape. Moreover, Wyoming’s state parks provide a variety of stunning scenery to appreciate.

Spend your day’s hiking, rock climbing, or mountain biking your way through, from granite outcroppings to pristine lakes to mineral hot springs in a sky filled with stars without disruption from city lights.

Whether you want to go hiking or snowshoeing miles of trails, fishing some of the best lakes in the region, or discover unusual campsites, Wyoming has you covered. Both camping and day-use fees are small, or you can save a ton of money if you plan to visit often and buy an annual pass with options for annual permits for camping too.

Now on to look at the best State Parks spreading out from Casper, Wyoming.

Map of State Parks Near Casper W

Here is a map of the Wyoming state parks covered in this post:

List of State Parks Near Casper

Here are each of those state parks with distance from Casper and what is special about each.

1. Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park

Location: 8700 East US Hwy 20, 26, Evansville, WY 82636

While the other state parks spread like birds across the state, Edness Kimball Wilkins Park is only six miles from Casper, Wyoming.

It is well-known for being a great place to picnic, with over forty picnic spots, many of which are within a short distance from the park’s swimming pond. Add in some shade from the local cottonwood trees for a peaceful place to get away from life.

The park offers other activities available to picnickers, including horseshoe pits and volleyball nets. A 2.8-mile walk along the historic North Platte River is a fantastic way to appreciate the scenery.

The park is also a popular birdwatching spot and a lovely place to photograph flowery landscapes. Playgrounds will keep kids entertained along with barbecues, shelters, and wildlife for the entire family.

While overnight camping is not permitted at the park, it is a wonderful place to spend the day or an afternoon. If you prefer boating over swimming, this park features a launching pad for rafts and canoes and a one-of-a-kind fishing pier.

In addition, Edness Park is well-known for offering excellent opportunities for observing wildlife such as deer, antelope, and other small animals. It’s the perfect distance to enjoy nature without a long commute.

2. Glendo State Park

Location: 397 Glendo Park Rd, Glendo, WY 82213

The Glendo State Park, which spans around 22,000 acres on Wyoming’s eastern plains, is commonly referred to as a “heaven for outdoor enjoyment.”

At a little over 70 miles away, it makes a perfect getaway with some distance from home without major driving time. Additionally, any outdoor activity you can imagine, all with incredible views of the reservoir weaving through the park.

The park is well-known for its outstanding boating opportunities and ample space for fishing and water skiing. While water sports are the most popular activities at Glendo Park, there are plenty of things to do without a boat.

The park has something for everyone, from a sandy beach backdrop to a mountain vibe to starry night skies. Do not forget to take your bike as the campground offers miles and miles of trails around rivers, mountains, and wetlands.

Pack up your gear before heading out, as there are 550 campsites spread throughout nineteen campgrounds providing space for many campers indeed! Add in yurts and plenty of space for RVs and over forty bathroom facilities in the park for a comfortable stay.

Definitely try a yurt if you want to experience “glamping” with all the amenities you could possibly need, including heat and AC units to moderate the temperature to increase fun for the whole family.

3. Seminoe State Park

Location: Seminoe Dam, Rt Unit 30, Sinclair, WY 82334

Seminoe State Park, which is encircled by the Seminoe Mountains, was once a gold prospecting destination in the late 1800s. Seminoe is one of Wyoming’s largest man-made reservoirs and the state’s largest park system, with 180 miles of shoreline.

Expect to see tons of wildlife like bighorn sheep, antelope, elk, deer, birds, and smaller critters too. You can see why this park is a hidden gem in Wyoming and well worth the 72-mile drive.

A huge beach is accessible from the Sand Mountain area making this a great way to enjoy the summer with a plethora of water sports. Hikers, campers, picnickers, boaters, and fishers will enjoy the facilities at this state park.

Check out the on-site to learn about all of the activities available and the amenities on-site. Make sure to enjoy the solitude, ride your horse, or rock climb while at Seminoe Park.

The massive park surrounds the north end of the Seminoe Reservoir, has four campgrounds with 61 campsites, a boat ramp, and various sandy beaches.

You will also find boat launches, play areas, a dump station, drinking water, and more amenities inside. RVs are welcome at all spaces, but you must reserve a place as the park does not offer walk-ins.

4. Boysen State Park

Location: 120 Boysen Dr, Shoshoni, WY 82649

Enjoy the Wind River Indian Reservation, which surrounds Boysen State Park, a little over 110 miles away from Casper. The park gives visitors many reasons to visit, including fishing, ice fishing, and camping opportunities.

Go to Boysen park for a lovely place to unwind for a few hours or days while soaking in the spectacular mountain views.

Add in some fascinating geological formations, and you have an incredible outdoor paradise ready to explore. Boaters, swimmers, hikers, hunters, anglers, picnickers, and campers are just a few activities available.

With fascinating desert views and acres of deep blue water, Boysen is the finest place to cool yourself in the summer and see a variety of wild animals too.

A dozen campgrounds within the park provide evening shelter, some with water views and other interesting geological features. A sandy beach, picnic areas, and a place to tie up a boat can all be found in the shelter bay.

The Tough Creek campground is located on a peninsula with lake access, making this the optimal choice for those going to enjoy the water. In addition, the park offers cabins, tent sites, and RV sites with all the necessary amenities.

5. Hot Springs State Park

Location: 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443

Although Hot Springs State Park is a bit of a trip at just over 130 miles from Casper, it has a lot to offer those searching for a relaxing trip. A mineral hot springs offer thousands of gallons of therapeutic water.

Enjoy the park’s hiking trails, fishing, boating, and bison viewing for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but you cannot camp at the park, so you will need to find lodging options nearby.

Did we mention the hot springs maintain a constant temperature of 104 degrees with beneficial elements ready to wash away pain and worry?

Keep in mind that the park has limited hours, closing at 5:30 p.m. every day of the week and being closed for several holidays and the winter.

You also need to check out the suspension footbridge that spans the Bighorn River, known as “The Swinging Bridge.” The bridge provides a unique vantage point for viewing the Bighorn River and mineral terrace.

Hot Springs State Park always provides beautiful flower beds throughout the summer to increase the beauty and provide photographers with gorgeous shots behind their lenses.

Finally, The bison herd in Hot Springs State Park is another sight not to miss in the park. Every day the bison receive nourishment from the park staff to ensure their health during the late fall and winter months.

Feedings generally occur at 8:30 a.m., providing a rare opportunity for off-season visitors to see the “Monarch of the Plains” up close. Please keep in mind that bison should only be seen from the safety of your car.