LARAMIE, Wyo. – July 2, 2026 – The Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site will celebrate Wyoming's Statehood Day with a special event on July 10. Guests can enjoy free admission all day, with activities from 9 a.m. to noon, thanks to the sponsorship of the Wyoming Territorial Park Historic Association.

"We are thrilled to invite the community to join us in celebrating Wyoming's rich history on Statehood Day," said Jessica Lira, superintendent of the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. "As Wyoming celebrates its 136th birthday and joins the nationwide commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, this event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to explore our shared history, experience 19th-century life, and create lasting memories together. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site for this special celebration."

This family-friendly celebration will feature a variety of activities, including stick-horse rodeo games for children aged 5 and under, balloon twisting, and more. Laramie's Sagebrush Stringband will provide live music from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., and at 9:30 and 11:00, the Unexpected Company will perform an original vignette based on Laramie's historic first female jurors. Each visitor will receive a complimentary cupcake from Jubilee Days Royalty (while supplies last), and The Soda Pit will be on-site. 

For just $20, visitors can capture a piece of history with a professional tintype portrait by Dylan Burr Photography-Tintype Style Portraits taken using a camera and lens from the 1800s.

Built in 1872, the Wyoming Territorial Prison has a storied history, housing over 1,000 outlaws, including the infamous Butch Cassidy. After a new prison was constructed in Rawlins in 1903, the facility was repurposed by the University of Wyoming as an agricultural experiment station until 2004, when it became managed by Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources as a historic site.

The regular operating hours for the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site are from May through September, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and October through April, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday through Saturday.

Learn more about Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites at wyoparks.wyo.gov.

Figure 1: Attendees enjoying the activities at the 2025 Statehood Day Celebration at the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. 

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

KAYCEE, Wyo. – July 2, 2026 — In honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, the Hoofprints of the Past Museum will dedicate a newly installed historical marker overlooking the site of the KC Ranch Cabin on Saturday, July 11, where the famous 1892 battle between fifty Johnson County War invaders and Nathan D. Champion occurred. This pivotal event in Wyoming history and in the broader story of the Johnson County War had lasting consequences and deserves to be remembered and interpreted by future generations. It also reflects the same spirit of independence and determination that inspired the nation's founders to establish a new country 250 years ago.

The dedication ceremony will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. at Harold Jarrard Park in Kaycee, Wyoming. Following the welcoming remarks and introductions, attendees will take a short walk to the marker site, where local historians will share the site's history and significance. After the ceremony, guests are invited to visit the Hoofprints of the Past Museum to view related artifacts and enjoy refreshments.

This new interpretive sign replaces an outdated panel that was previously removed. The project was developed through a partnership between the Hoofprints of the Past Museum, the Wyoming 250 Commission Grant Program, and the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources' Monuments and Markers Program.

“The Monuments and Markers Program works collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to commemorate significant people, places, and events in Wyoming’s history,” said Chris Floyd, deputy director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. “Historic markers and interpretive signs not only help us understand and appreciate our past, but they also enhance tourism and recreation opportunities throughout the state.”

The Wyoming Monuments and Markers Program is a cooperative effort among the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, the Wyoming Department of Transportation, the Wyoming Office of Tourism, Wyoming Tribes, local governments, and private individuals and organizations. The program installs new historical markers and maintains existing monuments, markers, and interpretive signage throughout Wyoming.

For more information about the Wyoming Monuments and Markers Program, visit wyoparks.wyo.gov.

For more information about the dedication, please contact Savannah Daniels, planner at Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources, at (307) 777-6314 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or Laurel Foster at the Hoofprints of the Past Museum at (307) 738-2381, or visit www.hoofprintsofthepast.org. 

Contact: Savannah Daniels, (307) 777-6314; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – June 29, 2026 –  The Wyoming Arts Council and Wyoming State Parks invite the public to attend a series of Artist in Residence programs taking place throughout July at Wyoming State Parks.

The Wyoming Artist in Residence Program places artists in parks and historic sites 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:

• July 8–11 – Edness K. Wilkins State Park: Mattias Russell (Casper, music)

          Public Program: Saturday, July 11, from 6 - 7 p.m.
          Location: Centennial Shelter

• July 8–11 – Buffalo Bill State Park: Sarah Lass (Laramie, dance)

          Public Program: Saturday, July 11, from 6 - 8 p.m.
          Location: Shreve Lodge

• July 22–25 – Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site: Alexandra Hansen (Aladdin, visual art)

          Public Program: Saturday, July 25, from 10 - 11:30 a.m.
          Location: Petroglyph Cliff

• July 29–August 1 – Edness K. Wilkins State Park: Nicholas Resch (Cody, visual art)

          Public Program: Saturday, August 1, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
          Location: Platte River Shelter

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 wyomingartscouncil.org.

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

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. 

GUERNSEY, Wyo. – June 24, 2026 – The Wyoming Arts Council and Wyoming State Parks invite artists and community members to participate in and attend Plein Air in the Parks at Guernsey State Park, June 24–28, 2026. The public is encouraged to attend the event's concluding show and sale on Sunday, June 28.

Plein Air in the Parks brings together artists from Wyoming and the surrounding region to paint outdoors on location while celebrating the state's diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Since its launch in 2018, the program has grown into a popular annual event that encourages artistic exploration and connection with Wyoming's public lands.

Artists of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate and may attend for one day or all five days of the event. Registration remains open through Eventbrite, and artists can continue to sign up to participate through Saturday. Throughout the week, participants will create original works inspired by the scenery, history, and character of Guernsey State Park.

The event concludes with a public show and sale at the Guernsey State Park Museum on Sunday, June 28, from 3 to 5 p.m. The reception offers visitors an opportunity to meet participating artists, view artwork created during the event, and purchase original pieces. Juried awards and the People's Choice Award will be announced at 4 p.m. State park day use fees will still apply Wednesday-Saturday for non-event participants, but will be waived for the Show and Sale. 

Plein Air in the Parks rotates among Wyoming State Parks each year, offering artists and visitors new opportunities to experience Wyoming's landscapes through art.

Registration is available at https://plein-air-in-the-parks-guernsey.eventbrite.com.

For more information about Plein Air in the Parks, visit wyoarts.state.wy.us/plein-air-in-the-parks or contact Ismael Dominguez, programs specialist with the Wyoming Arts Council, at (307) 275-4476 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Figure 1: An artist paints on location during a previous Plein Air in the Parks event. The annual program brings artists together in Wyoming State Parks to create original works inspired by the state's landscapes and natural beauty.

Contact: Ismael Dominguez, (307) 275-4476; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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.