CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 26, 2026 – As summer begins across Wyoming, Wyoming State Parks is proud to continue its popular Library Program in partnership with libraries statewide. Now in its tenth year, the program offers free access to outdoor exploration for patrons across Wyoming, pairing day-use park passes with hands-on learning tools at local libraries. 

With all 23 counties participating, Wyoming library patrons can check out a free day-use pass and an outdoor recreation-themed backpack from their local library. Each child-sized backpack is filled with maps, field guides, activity supplies, and other tools to help users of all ages explore state parks and historic sites confidently and creatively.

“Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore, and this program helps remove barriers for individuals and families looking to experience Wyoming’s state parks and historic sites,” stated Chris Floyd, deputy director of Wyoming State Parks. 

Overseen by the Wyoming State Parks’ Interpretive Ranger Program, this initiative focuses on education, outreach, and connecting people to the outdoors through place-based experiences. 

Library cardholders can check out a pass and backpack for up to 14 days, providing free access to any Wyoming state park or historic site for everyone in a single vehicle. Patrons are encouraged to check with their local library for availability and current checkout details. 

“Our partnership with Wyoming’s libraries continues to be incredibly valuable,” said Angelina Stancampiano, interpretive ranger with Wyoming State Parks. “Through these partnerships, we’re able to expand learning beyond library walls, giving individuals and families the tools and resources to explore Wyoming’s natural, historical, and cultural resources in an engaging and accessible way.”

Each of Wyoming’s 23 counties participates through its main county library system, with many offering the program at multiple branch locations. Because availability may vary, patrons are encouraged to contact their local branch for details about current offerings. 

Wyoming State Parks and library partners invite residents to take advantage of this unique opportunity to get outside and explore or immerse themselves in local history. 

To learn more about Wyoming State Parks, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov. For information about participating libraries and backpack availability, contact your local library or visit their website.

Figure 1: 2026 Wyoming State Parks Library Program Flyer. 

Contact: Angelina Stancampiano, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 22, 2026 – In coordination with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s annual Free Fishing Day, Wyoming State Parks will waive day-use fees at select locations statewide on Saturday, June 6.

Day-use fees will be waived at all parks, historic sites, and recreational areas managed by Wyoming State Parks that offer fishing opportunities. The fee waiver is designed to encourage public participation in Free Fishing Day, which allows anglers to fish in Wyoming waters without a fishing license for one day only.

“Free Fishing Day is a great opportunity to connect people with Wyoming’s incredible natural resources,” said Chris Floyd, deputy director of Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources. “In conjunction with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, we’re proud to support opportunities like Free Fishing Day that encourage families, residents, and visitors to get outside, explore Wyoming’s public lands and waters, and create lasting memories together.” 

The following Wyoming State Parks locations will offer free admission on June 6:

• Boysen State Park
• Buffalo Bill State Park
• Curt Gowdy State Park
• Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park
• Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site
• Glendo State Park
• Guernsey State Park
• Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
• Keyhole State Park
• Seminoe State Park

Additional locations that offer fishing opportunities and have free admission year-round include:

• Bear River State Park
• Connor Battlefield State Historic Site
• Fort Fred Steele State Historic Site
• Hot Springs State Park
• Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site
• Sinks Canyon State Park

Free Fishing Day is observed annually on the first Saturday in June. While fishing licenses are not required on this day, all other fishing regulations established by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department remain in effect. These include creel limits, size restrictions, approved gear types, and designated area closures. Free Fishing Day does not apply within the Wind River Reservation or Yellowstone National Park. Learn more at wgfd.wyo.gov. 

This fee waiver applies only to day-use fees at participating locations and does not apply to reservations, camping fees, or other applicable fees. To learn more about available amenities, activities, and site-specific details, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov. 

 
Figure 1: In coordination with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s annual Free Fishing Day, Wyoming State Parks will waive day-use fees at select locations statewide on Saturday, June 6. Photo courtesy of Medicine Lodge State Archeaological Site. Figure 2: Wyoming State Parks 2026 Free Fishing Day graphic. 

Contact: Laurel Stephens, (307) 401-4203; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

GUERNSEY, Wyo. – May 22, 2026 – Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources is pleased to present Shawn Hess as part of the 2026 Tunes on the Trail concert series—an initiative that blends live acoustic music with outdoor recreation in Wyoming’s scenic state parks.

The event at Guernsey State Park will take place on Saturday, June 6. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a hike (optional) followed by a live, 90-minute performance surrounded by nature.

• Hike Start Time: 4:30 p.m.
• Meeting Location for Hike: Red Cliff Trail - Main Boat Dock Parking Area 
• Hike Distance and Difficulty: 1.25-mile hike featuring moderate terrain along the historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Red Cliff Trail along the high rock bluffs along the north bank of the river adjacent to the Dam.  
• Performance Time: 5:30-7 p.m.
• Performance Location: Guernsey State Park Museum

This Tunes on the Trail event features Shawn Hess, a staple of western and folk music in Wyoming. Shawn was born and raised in Cheyenne and has lived in Laramie for the last 15 years, touring often and releasing records. He commands a blend of skillful songwriting and vintage country western style. At times heart-wrenching, tender, or darkly witty, but always deeply personal, he delivers a truly unique brand of Wyoming storytelling.

Cassie Wells, superintendent of Guernsey  State Park, stated, “We are excited to host this event, which serves to both showcase a talented Wyoming artist and offer visitors a chance to experience the best of Guernsey State Park, including outdoor recreation, history, amazing views, and unique experiences.”

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 you might need. In case of inclement weather, updates will be posted on the park's social media channels at @GuernseyStatePark.

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/TunesAtGuernsey. 

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 Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Shawn Hess, image courtesy of the artist. 

Contact: Jamie Hansen, (307) 460-8794; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 21, 2026 – In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in Wyoming, Wyoming State Parks’ Virtual Oregon Trail Challenge invites participants to discover what it was like to walk the Oregon Trail from anywhere in the world. This Wyoming State Parks initiative, supported in part by a grant from the Governor’s Semiquincentennial Task Force, encourages participants to stay active while virtually exploring one of Wyoming’s most iconic historic routes. 

Through September 30, 2026, 1,000 individuals or groups will have the opportunity to virtually hike a portion of the Oregon Trail in Wyoming using the Pacer app and receive a prize after completing the hike. Virtually hike from Fort Laramie to Independence Rock for 154 miles or from South Pass to Fort Bridger for 196 miles.

The Pacer app allows you to record how far you have walked by connecting to Apple Health, Apple Watch, Google Fit, Samsung Health, Fitbit, or Garmin, or by manually entering steps. There is also a conversion chart so that individuals who wish to bike or engage in other activities can determine the number of steps taken during those activities.

You will see your progress in real time using Google Maps in the app. Unlock information about an important destination along the trail. For example, when you have walked as far as pioneers would have walked to get from Fort Laramie to the Oregon Trail Ruts, you will unlock pictures and information about the Ruts. Historic photos are courtesy of the Wyoming State Archives, helping bring the journey to life. 

Download the Pacer app today, use Org Code DJ110052, and select the East Wyoming or West Wyoming side challenge. For detailed information on how to register, please visit Bit.ly/OregonTrailWY

Figure 1: Virtual Oregon Trail Challenge graphic. 

Contact: Linley Palazzolo, (307) 577-5150; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 18, 2026 – Wyoming State Parks and the Wyoming Arts Council are announcing the Wyoming artists and park and site locations selected for the 2026 Artist in Residence Program. This annual program will run throughout the summer and fall with an expanded statewide presence in recognition of America’s Semiquincentennial, supported in part by a grant from the Governor’s Semiquincentennial Task Force. 

The Artist in Residence Program places artists in state parks and historic sites to engage visitors, offer fresh perspectives, and create meaningful connections to place. It also provides a paid, professional opportunity for artists to develop and share original work inspired by Wyoming’s landscapes, history, and communities.

In conjunction with the 250th commemoration, the program has expanded to include 19 artists across nine parks and historic sites. This year’s cohort represents a diverse range of disciplines, including performance art, music, dance, visual art, and creative writing.

Each residency will run from Wednesday through Friday, culminating in a public program on Saturday. These public components may include performances, readings, demonstrations, or workshops, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage directly with the artists and their work.

Through their time in residence, artists are asked to reflect on Wyoming’s history, culture, and future through original work inspired by the state’s official Semiquincentennial theme:

• Honoring our past: Commemorate Wyoming’s history, places, and people.
• Examining our present: Review Wyoming’s role in America today.
• Imagining our future: Plan for Wyoming’s leadership in America’s future.

The full schedule, locations, and artists are below. Those interested in visiting the parks to interact with artists, watch their creative process, or attend their public event on Saturday are encouraged to follow individual parks on Facebook for full event details: 

• June 3–6, 2026, Glendo State Park: Shawn Bush (Casper, visual art)
• June 3–6, 2026, Curt Gowdy State Park: John Wilhelm (Laramie, music)
• June 10–13, 2026, Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site: Aubrey Edwards (Laramie, visual art)
• June 17–20, 2026, Hot Springs State Park: Breanna Whitlock (Buffalo, visual art)
• June 24–27, 2026, Sinks Canyon State Park: Marge McCrea (Rawlins, visual art)
• July 8–11, 2026, Edness K. Wilkins State Park: Mattias Russell (Casper, music)
• July 8–11, 2026, Buffalo Bill State Park: Sarah Lass (Laramie, dance)
• July 22–25, 2026, Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site: Alexandra Hansen (Aladdin, visual art)
• July 29–August 1, 2026, Edness K Wilkins State Park: Nicholas Resch  (Cody, visual art)
• August 5–8, 2026, Guernsey State Park: Holly Balgalvis (Cheyenne, creative writing)
• August 12–15, 2026, Curt Gowdy State Park: Madeline Logan Davis (Cheyenne, visual art)
• August 19–22, 2026, Buffalo Bill State Park: Christopher Archuleta (Jackson, music)
• August 26–29, 2026, Glendo State Park: Phil Black (Casper, music)
• September 2–5, 2026, Keyhole State Park: Oakley Boycott (Lander, performance art)
• September 2–5, 2026, Guernsey State Park: Donna Buckley (Casper, visual art)
• September 2–5, 2026, Sinks Canyon State Park: Tara Pappas (Laramie, visual art)
• September 9–12, 2026, Hot Springs State Park: Sidney Woods (Afton, creative writing)
• September 16–19, 2026, Sinks Canyon State Park: Natalie Callum (Lander, creative writing)
• September 23–26, 2026, Keyhole State Park: Maddison Hodson (Cody, creative writing)

Wyoming State Parks and the Wyoming Arts Council are programs within the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, which provides recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities to improve communities and enrich lives. 

For more information, visit wyomingartscouncil.org or contact Rachel Clifton, executive director of the Wyoming Arts Council, at (307) 256-0500 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks at wyoparks.wyo.gov or follow us on Facebook to learn more about upcoming events at Wyoming’s state parks and historic sites at @WyomingStateParks. 

Figure 1: Artist Georgia Rowswell works on a sketch on the side of a trail at Curt Gowdy State Park.

Contacts:

Rachel Clifton, (307) 256-0500; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Christina Bird, (307-631-1110); This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — May 15, 2026 — The Wyoming Veterans in Focus project, a collaboration between the Wyoming State Archives, the Wyoming Arts Council, and Wyoming State Historic Sites, will culminate in a public exhibition at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site from May 22, 2026, through May 1, 2027.

A free public reception will be held on May 29, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m., inviting community members to experience the exhibit and connect with the stories behind the project. Remarks will be given at 5:30 p.m. for agency officials. Refreshments will be served.

In recognition of their service, all veterans will receive free admission May 22–25, during the exhibit’s opening weekend. Following that period, veterans will receive $1 off regular admission for the duration of the exhibit at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site.

The exhibition is the result of a statewide effort to document and preserve the stories of Wyoming’s military veterans. In 2025, through recorded oral history interviews and professional portrait sessions conducted in Buffalo, Casper, Cheyenne, Cody, Evanston, Gillette, Rawlins, Sheridan, Thermopolis, and on the Wind River Indian Reservation, veterans were invited to share their experiences in their own words. Select portraits and stories are now featured in Wyoming Veterans in Focus, while all interviews and images will be preserved in the Wyoming State Archives’ collection as part of the state’s permanent historical record.

“Thank you to the veterans who trusted us with their stories, the Wyoming State Archives and Eastern Shoshone Tribe Archives interview teams, our photographers and community partners, and everyone who supported this project,” stated Sara Davis, state archivist with the Wyoming State Archives. “As we commemorate America's 250th anniversary, these oral histories create a permanent record for future generations and mark the beginning of our commitment to preserve Wyoming's history through the voices of Wyoming's people.”

To find a photographer whose vision could match the candid and impactful stories captured in the oral histories, a statewide call for artists was issued. Big Horn Basin photographer and Marine Corps veteran Barrie Lynn Bryant was selected for the project. Bryant’s photography reflects a strong sense of community, and he is well known for conducting workshops and classes across Wyoming. His approach to portrait photography invites participants to be themselves in front of the camera, incorporating documentary elements that provide context and depth. The resulting portraits serve as a visual complement to the oral histories. 

This project honors the voices, service, and experiences of Wyoming’s military community, past and present, while creating a lasting resource that reflects the state’s rich and diverse history.

The Wyoming State Archives, the Wyoming Arts Council, and Wyoming State Parks are part of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, which provides memorable recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities and experiences to improve communities and enrich lives. This project was funded through a Wyoming 250th Task Force Grant.

For additional information, please contact State Archivist Sara Davis of the Wyoming State Archives. Learn more about Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources at wyospcr.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Wyoming State Archives staff conduct oral history interviews with veterans in Thermopolis, Wyoming, as part of the Veterans in Focus project.

Contact: Jessica Lira, (307) 745-6161; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 14, 2026 – Curt Gowdy State Park and the Gowdy Family Foundation are thrilled to announce the season opening of Little House on the Park. Join us on May 29, 2026, for a special weekend as the family and the park dedicate the house to the family legacy and to Curt and Jerre Gowdy. Come celebrate kindness, family, and children with us. 

Little House on the Park, whose mission is to reflect the golden past of western homesteads and celebrate the future of fairytales, teaches, embraces, and inspires kindness in children ages 3 to 12. Through innovative artistic programming, interactive behavioral activities, and specialized arts and crafts, our mission is to help each child experience a magical moment when kindness and love touch their heart, spirit, and soul. 

We are celebrating the opening of the fourth season of Little House on the Park with Cheryl Gowdy, daughter of the famous native and sportscaster Curt Gowdy. Little House will be open at 10 a.m. beginning May 30, 2026, and the special celebration begins at 11:00 a.m. with a plaque dedication to Curt and Jerre Gowdy. The schedule of events from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. includes special kindness programming, sweet treats, an opportunity to purchase a brick for the Kindness Walkway, and a very special Kindness Hour with Ms. Cheryl Gowdy at 1:00 p.m.  Special activities continue through Sunday, June 1, 2026.

“This will be a very special opening that remembers the love, kindness, and contributions of Curt and Jerre Gowdy with a special plaque dedication by their children,” says Cheryl Gowdy. “I am so excited about kindness programming for this year and am looking forward to finishing the Kindness Walkway this season, where people will be able to purchase bricks to remember loved ones, celebrate our children, and promote kindness in the world.”

Little House on the Park at Curt Gowdy State Park is open May 29 to September 6, 2026, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  To stay informed about updates, events, and park conditions, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov/curtgowdy or follow Curt Gowdy State Park on social media.

Figure 1: Little House on the Park at Curt Gowdy State Park. 

Contacts: 

Park Headquarters, (307) 632-7946

Carlo Migliaccio, (307) 745-6161; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

THERMOPOLIS, Wyo. – May 7, 2026 – Construction on the boardwalk at Hot Springs State Park is scheduled to begin the week of May 11, with work expected to continue through late August.

The project will involve a full replacement of the existing boardwalk, which is approximately 25 years old. Over time, the structure has begun to deteriorate, reducing water flow across the park’s iconic mineral terraces.

For the safety of visitors and to allow for efficient construction, the boardwalk will be closed to the public for the duration of the project. Visitors are encouraged to follow all posted signage and respect closure areas while work is underway.

“This project is an important investment in preserving both visitor access and the natural features that make Hot Springs State Park unique,” said Chris Delay, superintendent of Hot Springs State Park. “We appreciate the public’s patience as we complete these necessary improvements.”

Hot Springs State Park remains open during construction, and visitors are encouraged to continue enjoying the park’s many amenities. Nestled along the Big Horn River, the park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including viewing the resident bison herd, relaxing in the State Bath House’s mineral waters, picnicking in designated areas, and accessing the river for fishing and other water activities.

The park features more than 6 miles of trails, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding landscape. Seasonal programs and interpretive offerings are also available throughout the year.

The park’s mineral hot springs produce more than 3 million gallons of water daily, maintaining a constant temperature of 128 degrees Fahrenheit. The free State Bath House offers therapeutic soaking at a comfortable 104 degrees and is open year-round. Starting May 15, the Bath House hours will be Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sundays from noon - 7 p.m. 

Hot Springs State Park remains a vibrant destination for both relaxation and outdoor recreation, and Wyoming State Parks encourages visitors to explore all areas that remain accessible during construction.

For more information, please visit the Wyoming State Parks website at wyoparks.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Views of the Big Horn River and Mineral Terraces at Hot Springs State Park. 

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