CHEYENNE, Wyo. – June 11, 2026 – As summer approaches, Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources (SPCR) is partnering with the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) to remind outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead and stay alert to high wind conditions, especially when traveling with campers, trailers, or recreational vehicles.

Wyoming's expansive landscapes attract thousands of RVers, van travelers, boaters, and outdoor recreationists each year. Many of these travelers use trailers, gear haulers, or rooftop setups to navigate the state's open highways, which are often susceptible to strong winds. Gusts along key routes, including Interstate 25, Interstate 80, and U.S. 287, can create hazardous conditions for high-profile and tow-behind vehicles.

"Wyoming welcomes countless outdoor travelers every year, and we want their experiences to be safe and memorable," said Mark Caughlan, chief ranger of Wyoming State Parks. "Being wind-aware is a simple yet critical component of trip planning, especially for anyone driving or towing a recreational vehicle or carrying rooftop gear."

While commercial trucks are frequently affected by high-wind events, various recreational vehicles are also at risk of blowovers. These include Class A and Class C motorhomes, fifth-wheel and bumper-pull trailers, toy haulers, and rooftop tent vehicles. Furthermore, passenger vehicles towing campers, boats, utility trailers, and any setup with rooftop carriers or add-on gear face similar dangers.

To minimize the risk of accidents and damage, WYDOT actively monitors weather conditions and may impose travel restrictions or temporarily close roads to light and high-profile vehicles during wind events.

"Travel restrictions are in place to protect drivers and prevent crashes," said Lt. Colonel Karl Germain of the Wyoming Highway Patrol. "While this may seem like a restriction aimed at commercial drivers, data shows recreational vehicles are one of the most common types of vehicles involved in wind crashes. We urge everyone, from full-time RVers to weekend campers, to take wind restrictions seriously while still enjoying all Wyoming has to offer."

When planning your travels, it's essential to check conditions in advance. You can visit wyoroad.info or call 511 for updated information. Flexibility in your schedule is critical to accommodate any weather-related delays. Understanding your setup and how wind can impact your specific vehicle or tow is also vital. Securely fasten all external gear, including awnings, rooftop carriers, and bicycles. For added convenience, consider downloading the Wyoming 511 mobile app, which provides real-time road and weather alerts.

Many of Wyoming's popular state parks, such as Curt Gowdy, Glendo, Boysen, and Keyhole, are located along routes known for strong winds. By planning ahead and staying informed, recreationists can confidently enjoy Wyoming's public lands.

For real-time travel conditions and wind advisories, visit wyoroad.info or download the Wyoming 511 app. For information about state parks, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov. 

Pull Aside – Save Your Ride. Safe travel is the first step to a great adventure.

Figure 1: RV camping along the shores of Boysen Reservoir in Boysen State Park. 

Contacts: 

Mark Caughlan, Wyoming State Parks, (307) 214-9818; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jordan Young, Wyoming Department of Transportation, (307) 777-4013; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

MOORCROFT, Wyo. – June 2, 2026 – As of May 26, 2026, Crook County, Wyoming, entered into a Stage 2 Fire Ban. To ensure the safety of park visitors and neighbors of the park, Keyhole State Park will be implementing Stage 2 burn ban restrictions effective immediately. 

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit all campfires on park property, including campfires in state-issued fire rings. Devices using pressurized liquid or gas (stoves, grills, or lanterns) that include shut-off valves are permitted when used in an area at least three feet or more from flammable material such as grasses or pine needles. 

Keyhole State Park staff is working closely with the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department to continuously monitor fire conditions to help keep park visitors and neighbors in Keyhole safe during this fire season. Park staff will be working to clear campsites of flammable materials to help reduce fire risk and provide safe conditions for visitors to use pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills, or lanterns at the park. 

For more information, contact Keyhole State Park Superintendent Mary Negri at (307) 205-3149 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Additional information is available at https://wsfd.wyo.gov/fire-management/fire-restrictions and https://www.crookcounty.wy.gov/departments/volunteer_fire/county_fire_ban.php. 

Contact: Mary Negri, (307) 205-3149; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – June 9, 2026 – The Wyoming Arts Council and Wyoming State Parks invite the public to attend a series of Artist in Residence programs taking place throughout June at Wyoming State Parks.

The Wyoming Artist in Residence Program places artists in state parks across the state, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with artists, observe the creative process, and participate in public programs inspired by Wyoming's landscapes, history, and communities.

During each residency, artists spend three days immersed in their surroundings before presenting a public program on Saturday. Programs may include demonstrations, workshops, performances, readings, or discussions.

Upcoming residencies include:

• June 10–13 – Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site: Aubrey Edwards (Laramie, visual art)

           Public Program: Saturday, June 13 at 10 -11:30 a.m.
           Location: Petroglyph Cliff

• June 17–20 – Hot Springs State Park: Breanna Whitlock (Buffalo, visual art)

           Public Program: Saturday, June 20 at 2 - 3 p.m.
           Location: Pavilion

• June 24–27 – Sinks Canyon State Park: Marge McCrea (Rawlins, visual art)

           Public Program: Friday, June 26 at 2-4 p.m. and Saturday, June 27 at 10 a.m. - noon and 2 - 4 p.m.
           Location: Visitor Center

The 2026 Artist in Residence Program has expanded as part of Wyoming's commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, featuring artists in visual art, music, dance, performance art, and creative writing.

Visitors are encouraged to follow individual park social media pages for additional program details and updates.

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 about the Artist in Residence Program, visit the Wyoming Arts Council at http://wyomingartscouncil.org.

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks at http://wyoparks.wyo.gov or follow @WyomingStateParks on Facebook for updates on upcoming events and programs statewide.

Figure 1: High Iron by Aubrey Edwards of Laramie, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 2: Still Here by Breanna Whitlock of Buffalo, image courtesy of the artist. Figure 3: Geode Basket by Marge McCrae of Rawlins, image courtesy of the artist.

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. 

EVANSTON, Wyo. – May 29, 2026 – Bear River State Park will host the Wyoming Bumble Bee Atlas Initiative on June 13, inviting community members of all ages to participate in an exciting hands-on community science project focused on bumble bee conservation and research.

“Programs like the Wyoming Bumble Bee Atlas Initiative provide a great opportunity for our community to connect with the outdoors while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts,” said Tyfani Sager, superintendent of Bear River State Park. “We are excited to welcome volunteers of all ages to the park to learn more about Wyoming’s native pollinators and help support important scientific research happening right here in our state.” 

The Wyoming Bumble Bee Atlas Initiative trains volunteers to identify and document bumble bees throughout the region, helping researchers better understand bumble bee populations and their habitat needs across Wyoming. Participants will learn how to safely observe and record bumblebee activity while contributing valuable scientific data used in ongoing conservation efforts.

This free public event offers a unique opportunity for residents, families, students, and outdoor enthusiasts to engage directly with pollinator research and environmental stewardship.

Attendees are encouraged to register in advance at www.bumblebeeatlas.org/pages/mtnstates-bba-bear-river. 

Event Details

What: Wyoming Bumble Bee Atlas Initiative
When: June 13, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Where: Bear River State Park, 601 Bear River Dr., Evanston, WY 82930 
Cost: Free and open to the public
Registration: Advance registration encouraged

Together, community volunteers and researchers can help protect Wyoming’s important pollinator species for future generations. 

The Bumble Bee Atlas is a community science project aimed at gathering the data needed to track and conserve bumble bees. The Atlas is administered by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation on behalf of the Bumble Bee Atlas. The Xerces Society is a donor-supported nonprofit organization that protects our world by conserving invertebrates and their habitats.

For more information, contact Bear River State Park Superintendent Tyfani Sager, or learn more about Bear River State Park at wyoparks.wyo.gov/bearriver. 

Attachment: Wyoming Bumble Bee Atlas Field Training graphic with registration QR code. 

Contact: Tyfani Sager, (307) 789-6547; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 28, 2026 –  Wyoming State Parks is advising visitors to prepare for lower-than-normal water levels this summer at several Wyoming reservoir parks, including Seminoe, Glendo, and Guernsey State Parks, due to ongoing drought conditions and below-average snowpack across the North Platte River Basin.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s May runoff forecast, spring runoff in the Upper North Platte Basin above Glendo Reservoir is expected to be significantly below average this year. The Upper North Platte Basin is currently experiencing extreme drought conditions, with April through July runoff projected to reach only about 17% of the 30-year average.

As a result, reservoir levels throughout the North Platte system are expected to remain below historical levels throughout the summer recreation season. Glendo and Guernsey reservoirs are not anticipated to fill as early or as high as normal, and water levels are expected to decline sooner in late summer. Seminoe Reservoir is also expected to remain below historical levels.

Despite lower water levels, Seminoe, Glendo, and Guernsey State Parks will remain open for visitation and recreation throughout the summer season. Visitors can continue to enjoy camping, fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor recreation opportunities, though some facilities, boat ramps, or shoreline conditions may be impacted as water levels change throughout the season. 

Visitors planning water-based recreation activities are encouraged to use caution, be aware of changing conditions, and check current reservoir and boat ramp conditions before traveling.

“While water levels may look different this year, these parks continue to offer excellent recreational opportunities for visitors across the state,” said Mark Caughlan, chief ranger of Wyoming State Parks. “We encourage visitors to plan ahead, recreate safely, and enjoy everything Wyoming State Parks have to offer this summer.”

For current and timely information on reservoir storage, inflow, outflow, percentage full, cubic feet per second (CFS), and more, visit the Bureau of Reclamation Wyoming Lakes and Reservoirs page at Bit.ly/WyoReservoirData. 

The Bureau of Reclamation operates seven reservoirs on the North Platte River system, which provide irrigation water, hydroelectric power generation, flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits across the region. 

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks and recreation opportunities at wyoparks.wyo.gov and follow official Wyoming State Parks social media channels for updates. 

Contacts:

Mark Caughlan, (307) 214-9818; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Steve Horn, (307) 370-0573; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Greg Deveraux, (307) 670-3513; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – May 27, 2026 – Wyoming State Parks is developing a Curt Gowdy State Park Master Plan to guide recreation, management, and investment decisions for the next 10 to 15 years. As one of the system’s most visited recreation destinations, the Curt Gowdy State Park Master Plan will respond to new challenges and opportunities. 

Wyoming State Parks is inviting the public to help shape the future of Curt Gowdy State Park. This initial effort provides visitors and community members with an opportunity to directly influence how Curt Gowdy State Park evolves. Wyoming State Parks is seeking input on what people value most about the park, what improvements they would like to see, and how to continue providing high-quality outdoor experiences. 

Feedback gathered during this phase will help:

• Identify gaps, safety concerns, and connectivity needs
• Understand how visitors use the park and what they value most
• Establish community priorities to guide future planning and investment
• Build a shared vision for Curt Gowdy State Park

Ways to participate: 

Take the Questionnaire and Tag the Map by July 12 at: Engage Now! | Curt Gowdy Master Plan 2025 (Bit.ly/CurtGowdyMP)

Provide feedback on park experiences, needs, and ideas for improvement. Participants can identify areas of concern, highlight favorite locations, and suggest opportunities for new trails, amenities, or connections on an interactive map.

Find us at a Community Pop-Up Event 

Provide input, speak with project team members, and contribute ideas through interactive activities at one of these events:

• June 12 (5–8 p.m.) — Cheyenne Art Walk (Deselms Fine Art)
• June 18 (5–8 p.m.) — Thursday Night Live (Downtown Fort Collins)
• June 20 (9 a.m.–1 p.m.) — Curt Gowdy State Park (Aspen Grove)
• June 26 (3:30–7:30 p.m.) — Laramie Farmers Market (Downtown Laramie)

The Master Plan will serve as a long-term roadmap to guide management, improvements, and decision-making for the park. Sign up to stay up to date and receive future notifications for input opportunities at Sign Up | Curt Gowdy Master Plan 2025.

About Curt Gowdy State Park

Established in 1971 and located between Cheyenne and Laramie along Happy Jack Road, Curt Gowdy State Park is one of Wyoming’s most visited recreation destinations, welcoming more than half a million visitors annually. The 3,552-acre park encompasses three historic reservoirs (Granite Springs, Crystal, and North Crow) that supply drinking water to Cheyenne and provide a scenic backdrop for year-round outdoor activities. With a reputation as a premier mountain biking and outdoor recreation area, Curt Gowdy’s visitation has surged by 27% since 2019, creating new challenges and opportunities for sustainable park management.

For additional information, please contact Carly-Ann Carruthers, planning manager at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Adam McKay, park superintendent at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Figure 1: Image of the entry arch at Curt Gowdy State Park. 

Contacts: 

Carly-Ann Carruthers, (307) 777-6968; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Adam McKay, (307) 632-7946; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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.