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18 July 2025

“The First Home: Unpacking the Crow Tipi” Program Offered at Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sharie Shada, 307-275-6120; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

“The First Home: Unpacking the Crow Tipi” Program Offered at Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site

 

BANNER, Wyo. — July 18, 2025 — Wyoming State Parks invites the public to a special tipi-raising program at Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site on Tuesday, July 22, at 6:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the cultural and historical significance of the Apsáalooke (Crow) tipi through a live demonstration and interpretive talk.

 

Macariah Pine, a Native American Student Interpretive Ranger and member of the Crow Tribe, will lead the evening. As the tipi is raised in real time, Pine will share insights into the meaning and construction of the Crow tipi, including its symbolism, its use as a seasonal guide, and its continued significance in Apsáalooke culture.

 

“[I’ll be] talking about the meaning and history behind the tipi, such as why it is raised a certain way, the meaning behind each pole, and how the tipi was used to tell seasons and time,” Pine said. “This will be a live presentation where the tipi is set up while I talk.”

 

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and meet near the fort’s historic stockade wall for this engaging outdoor program.

 

This initiative is part of the American Indian Student Interpretive Ranger Program, now in its third year. A partnership between Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site, the Fort Phil Kearny/Bozeman Trail Association, and the U.S. Forest Service, the program provides interpretive training to Native American college students. This summer, three student rangers are alternating between Fort Phil Kearny and the Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark in the Bighorn Mountains, sharing Indigenous perspectives and stories with park visitors.

 

Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site is located at 528 Wagon Box Road, Banner, WY 82832, and is part of the Wyoming State Parks system.

 

For more information, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/fortphilkearny, follow along on Facebook at facebook.com/fortphilkearny, or call 307-684-7629.

 

Contact: Sharie Shada, 307-275-6120; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

18 July 2025

Hot Springs State Park Launches Projects to Improve Visitor Access and Experience

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Chris Delay, 307-864-2176;  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Hot Springs State Park Launches Projects to Improve Visitor Access and Experience

 

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. — July 18, 2025 — Wyoming State Parks is announcing two exciting infrastructure improvements at Hot Springs State Park—a new boat dock installation and rehabilitation of the historic Swinging Bridge—that will enhance visitor safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities. Construction begins next week and is scheduled to conclude before the end of August.

 

Work will begin the week of July 21 on a new boat dock at the park’s boat ramp, designed to improve water access for future recreation and small craft use. Construction will run through August 26. While the boat ramp will be temporarily closed during this period, the nearby parking area will remain open for general use. Please note that trailers will not be permitted due to limited turnaround space; however, the area will still be accessible for hand-launching small watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, or rafts.

 

The park’s beloved Swinging Bridge will also receive key upgrades beginning next week. Intermittent closures will begin the week of July 21, with more extended closures expected starting July 28. Construction is scheduled to be completed by August 22. Park staff aim to keep the bridge accessible as much as possible—it is expected to remain open most evenings unless a safety concern arises. These enhancements will help preserve the bridge’s historic charm while improving safety and structural integrity.

 

“We’re thrilled to make these long-term investments in the park’s infrastructure,” said Park Superintendent Chris Delay. “These projects are all about ensuring Hot Springs State Park remains a safe, beautiful, and accessible destination for years to come. We appreciate our visitors’ understanding and support during these beneficial improvements.”

 

Visitors can continue to enjoy the many open amenities throughout the park, including more than six miles of accessible trails, the mineral terrace boardwalk, scenic picnic areas, and the free State Bath House, which offers therapeutic soaking in natural mineral waters and is open daily with extended hours. Wildlife enthusiasts are also encouraged to visit the park’s central bison herd, a unique highlight of the Hot Springs experience.

 

For more information on available amenities and ongoing construction updates at Hot Springs State Park, please visit our official website at wyoparks.wyo.gov/hotsprings or follow us on Facebook at @hotspringsstatepark.  


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Figure 1: An image of Hot Springs State Park's colorful terraces and boat ramp area.


Contact: Christopher Delay, 307-864-2176;  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
16 July 2025

Public Celebration Set for Sunnyside Trail at Sinks Canyon State Park on July 19, 2025

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jessica Moore, 307-332-6333; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Public Celebration Set for Sunnyside Trail at Sinks Canyon State Park on July 19, 2025

 

LANDER, Wyo. — July 16, 2025 — Wyoming State Parks invites the public to celebrate the opening of the new Sunnyside Trail at Sinks Canyon State Park on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the upper Sunnyside Trailhead near the southern boundary of the park.

 

This newly completed trail holds historic significance as the first bike trail developed within Sinks Canyon State Park. During the public celebration, Lander Cycling Club and park staff will host an informational table featuring swag from the Sunnyside Trail project, Wyoming State Parks, and Sinks Canyon State Park—available while supplies last.

 

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the completion of the Sunnyside Trail with our community,” said Sinks Canyon State Park Superintendent Jessica Moore. “This trail is a beautiful addition to our landscape and an excellent example of what partnerships and collaboration can accomplish. As the park’s first designated bike trail, it represents years of collaboration, vision, and hard work from local partners and trail advocates. We invite hikers, bikers, and nature lovers to experience what makes this place so special.”

 

The Sunnyside Trail project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Lander Cycling Club, Wind River Outdoor Recreation Collaborative, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, Wyoming State Parks, and Wyoming State Trails Program, as well as dedicated volunteers and trail advocates from the local community. 

 

The trail is approximately two miles one way and is open to hikers and non-motorized bicycles. It features interpretive signage, stunning canyon views, and exciting mountain biking elements.


For more information about Sinks Canyon State Park and upcoming events, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/sinkscanyon.
 
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Figure 1: Sunnyside Trail at Sinks Canyon State Park. 
 
Contact: Jessica Moore, 307-332-6333; Jessica.Moore@wyo.gov

 

15 July 2025

Curt Gowdy State Park Limits Shower Availability in the Visitor Center

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Christina Bird, 307-631-1110; Christina.BThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Curt Gowdy State Park Limits Shower Availability in the Visitor Center

 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – July 15, 2025 – Due to increasing demand and lower supply, Curt Gowdy State Park will limit the availability of shower facilities in the Visitor Center starting July 18, 2025. The Visitor Center shower facilities will be open on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Visitors are encouraged to use the open and convenient restroom facilities located around the park.  

 

"Our staff is working hard to monitor and find solutions for this situation. Please follow our social media pages for important updates. Thank you for your patience and understanding," said Adam McKay, Curt Gowdy State Park superintendent.  

 

The Visitor Center opened to the public in 2014, thanks to a generous gift from the Wyoming State Legislature and Bass Pro Shops founder John Morris. The building was the first LEED-certified structure within the Wyoming State Parks system. The park hosts over 500,000 visitors annually and offers 50 miles of mountain bike and hiking trails, fishing, paddleboarding, and camping.  

 

"We hope this is a temporary restriction for our shower facilities at the Visitor Center," said Christina Bird, district manager for Wyoming State Parks. "We appreciate the patience of our visitors and will continue to work on the issue and keep the public updated as we go."   

 

Wyoming State Parks will share press releases, website updates, and social media announcements. To stay informed about the latest updates, follow Curt Gowdy State Park on social media or visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/curtgowdy for more information. 


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Figure 1: Curt Gowdy State Park's Visitor Center.

 

Contact: Christina Bird, 307-631-1110; Christina.BThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

07 July 2025

Bonamo to Perform at Curt Gowdy State Park as Part of Tunes on the Trail Concert Series

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jamie Hansen, 307-399-0851; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Bonamo to Perform at Curt Gowdy State Park as Part of Tunes on the Trail Concert Series

 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – July 7, 2025 – Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources is pleased to present Bonamo as part of the 2025 Tunes on the Trail concert series—a new initiative that blends live acoustic music with outdoor recreation in Wyoming’s scenic state parks.

 

The Curt Gowdy State Park event will occur on Friday, July 18. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a guided hike (optional) followed by a live, 90-minute performance surrounded by nature.

  • Hike Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
  • Meeting Location for Hike: Brush Creek Trail beginning at the bottom parking lot of Hynds Lodge 
  • Hike Distance and Difficulty: Just under 1 mile long and intermediate in difficulty, with a few uphill sections
  • Performance Time: 7-8:30 p.m.
  • Performance Location: Amphitheater off of Hynds Lodge Road
 

This Tunes on the Trail event features Bonamo, a talented Wyoming-based band from Cheyenne, WY, known for American popular music that chronicles life in the modern west with an exhilarating blend of old and new. 

 

Adam McKay, superintendent of Curt Gowdy State Park, stated, “Curt Gowdy State Park is thrilled with the collaboration between State Parks, the Office of Outdoor Recreation, and the Arts Council. State Parks and Cultural Resources share the same department, and when we come together, great ideas like Tunes on the Trail are born. This program will blend recreation and the arts with a concert from local musicians immediately following a hike.  I can not wait to see how this year's event turns out.  Undoubtedly, it will be a great experience for all who come.”

 

Standard day-use fees apply —$7 for Wyoming residents and $12 for non-residents per vehicle. However, all Tunes on the Trail events are free, and no additional event fees are charged.

 

Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, explore the park, and take in the full experience. If you plan to hike, be sure to bring water, sunscreen, bug spray, appropriate footwear, and anything else you might need. In case of inclement weather, updates will be posted on the park's social media channels at @CurtGowdyStatePark. 

 

While registration is not mandatory, it is encouraged to help staff plan effectively. Please RSVP on the event's Eventbrite page, located on the official Facebook page at bit.ly/TunesAtGowdy.

 

Attending? Tag your photos with #TunesOnTheTrail, #WyoParks, and #WyoRec. 


Tunes on the Trail is a summer concert series presented by Wyoming State Parks, the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, and the Wyoming Arts Council, all under the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources (SPCR). The program celebrates Wyoming’s natural and cultural assets while supporting local musicians through the Wyoming Independent Music Initiative (WIMI).

 

To stay updated on upcoming events, follow us on our Facebook pages: @WyomingArtsCouncil, @WyoRec, and @WyomingStateParks. You can also learn more about the diverse programs offered by SPCR at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

 

Contact: Jamie Hansen, 307-399-0851; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


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Figure 1: Bonamo, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 2: Tunes on the Trail graphic for Curt Gowdy State Park event. 

 

 
 
 

 

01 July 2025

Connor Battlefield Campground Open

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Contact: Sharie Shada, 307-275-6120; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 

Connor Battlefield Campground Open for Camping

 

RANCHESTER, Wyo. – July 1, 2025 – Wyoming State Parks is pleased to announce that Connor Battlefield Campground in Ranchester is open and available for camping after a temporary closure earlier this summer. This includes access to the playground, restrooms, and camping and day use areas.

 

Camping at Connor Battlefield is open on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are available for both travel trailers and tent camping. Camping fees are posted at the entrance and can be paid by cash or check onsite. 

 

There are no electric or water hookups, but there are water spigots located throughout the park, as well as vault toilets. Camping fees are posted at the entrance and can be paid by cash or check there.

 

The park offers daily free use, so please come for a walk, picnic, or play on the playground!  

 

Weather permitting, the campground is open now through October 31 and is jointly managed by Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site and the town of Ranchester. 


For more information on the campground, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov.

 

Contact: Sharie Shada, 307-275-6120; sharie.shada@wyo.gov

 
 
 

 

 

 
 
27 June 2025

Low Water Notice at Guernsey State Park 2025

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cassie Wells, 307-836-2334; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Low Water Notice at Guernsey State Park

 

GUERNSEY, Wyo. – June 27, 2025 – The Bureau of Reclamation has announced its annual silt run at Guernsey State Park. As a result, the reservoir will experience a rapid decline in water levels starting July 6. The boat ramps will be unusable from approximately July 9 through July 26. Water levels at Guernsey Reservoir are expected to be suitable for boating again by the morning of July 27. The reservoir will continue to rise by about 3 feet per day and is anticipated to reach the normal operational level by July 29.

 

"We appreciate the understanding and patience of our visitors during this period. While water levels may be low, Guernsey State Park still offers a wide range of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery," stated Cassie Wells, superintendent of Guernsey State Park. "We encourage everyone to come out and experience everything our park offers."

 

Despite the low water levels, many recreational activities will still be available, including camping, hiking, and mountain biking. The playground and museum will remain open. The park also features some of the best examples of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) work in the Rocky Mountain region.

 

Customers with affected reservations can modify their bookings online at reserve.wyoming.gov or by calling 877-996-7275.

 

Nearby boating opportunities are available at Glendo State Park, Hawk Springs State Recreation Area, Gray Rocks Reservoir, and other locations.

 

Boaters and recreationists are advised to take proper precautions in response to the changing river flows below Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs and the rapid lowering and refilling of Guernsey Reservoir during this period.

 

For more information about Guernsey State Park, please call 307-836-2334 or visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/guernsey.

 

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Figure 1: Image of Guernsey Reservoir during the annual silt run. 
 

Contact: Cassie Wells, 307-836-2334; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 
 
 

 

 

 
 
23 June 2025

Plein Air in the Parks: This Week at Hot Springs State Park and Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site 2025

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ismael Dominguez, 307-275-4476; Ismael.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 
Plein Air in the Parks: This Week at Hot Springs State Park and Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site 
 

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. – June 23, 2025 – Plein Air in the Parks will be taking place at Springs State Park and Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site on June 27-29, 2025. Online registration is available at 2025-Plein-Air-at-Hot-Springs-State-Park.eventbrite.com, or artists may register in person at the Wyoming Arts Council tent at the Kiwanis Shelter of Hot Springs State Park during the event. 

 

Now in its eighth year, Plein Air in the Parks is a collaborative program by the Wyoming Arts Council and Wyoming State Parks, both under the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. The tradition of plein air artmaking includes on-site painting and drawing, but the Plein Air in the Parks Program is open to most types of media. Plein Air in the Parks pairs talented artists with beautiful locations while offering cash prizes to top participants and opportunities for the community to participate. 

 

Several opportunities and events are open to the public and free of charge, with no park fee required; the full list of public events is below.

 

See the Artists at Work

Mingle with artists as they sketch and paint the landscape right before your eyes as you explore Hot Springs State Park and Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site.

 

  • Friday, June 27 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, June 28 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

 

Chalk Drawing Contest

Get in the plein air spirit by participating in the chalk drawing contest! Participants will be able to register on site for this free event to be tasked with creating the best chalk drawing! Materials provided, no experience necessary, and open to all ages.

 

  • Saturday, June 28 | 10 a.m. -12:30 p.m. at Pavilion of Hot Springs State Park

 

Show and Sale

Enjoy refreshments while browsing the artwork created throughout the event, cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award, and support the artists and organizations by purchasing artwork from the sale.

 

  • Sunday, June 29 | 3-5 p.m. at Hot Springs County Armory

 

For more information on these events, please visit wyoarts.state.wy.us/wac-program/plein-air-in-the-parks or contact Ismael Dominguez at 307-275-4476 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

 

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources and its many programs at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

 

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Figure 1: An artist creates a textile-based rendition of the Hot Springs State Park landscape.
 
Contact: Ismael Dominguez, 307-275-4476; Ismael.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

 
 
 

 

 

 
 
04 June 2025

Rise Observation Deck to Undergo Maintenance Construction

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Contact: Jessica Moore, 307-332-6333; Jessica.MThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Rise Observation Deck to Undergo Maintenance Construction

 

LANDER, Wyo. – June 4, 2025 – Wyoming State Parks announces maintenance construction will begin on the Rise observation deck at Sinks Canyon State Park starting June 9, 2025. The project is expected to be completed by July 4, 2025.

 

During this time, visitors may experience intermittent full and partial closures that will limit or prevent access to the Rise deck. The work will focus on replacing supports and railings to enhance safety for all park visitors.  

 

"We recognize the importance of the Rise observation deck to our guests, and we appreciate their patience as we carry out these essential maintenance upgrades," states Jessica Moore, superintendent of Sinks Canyon State Park.  

 

Follow Sinks Canyon State Park on Facebook for updates on the construction progress and any changes to the closure schedule at @SinksCanyonStatePark. 

 

For more information about Sinks Canyon State Park, amenities, and upcoming events, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov.

 

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Figures 1-2: Images of the Rise observation deck at Sinks Canyon State Park. 
Contact: Jessica Moore, 307-332-6333; Jessica.MThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 
 
 

 

 

 
 

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