Curt Gowdy State Park

Curt Gowdy State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located in Albany and Laramie counties in Wyoming, United States. The park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. With three reservoirs and 35 miles of trails, Curt Gowdy State Park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The park is situated on Wyoming Highway 210, also known as Happy Jack Road, halfway between Cheyenne and Laramie. The park’s extensive trail system, fishing reservoirs, and Hynds Lodge are some of the major attractions that draw visitors from all over the state. Whether you want to spend a day hiking through the Laramie Mountains or fishing for rainbow trout in Granite reservoir, Curt Gowdy State Park has something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Curt Gowdy State Park is a popular outdoor destination in Wyoming that offers a wide range of activities for visitors.
• The park features three reservoirs and 35 miles of trails, making it a great spot for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
• Located on Wyoming Highway 210 between Cheyenne and Laramie, Curt Gowdy State Park is easily accessible and a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Park Overview

Curt Gowdy State Park is a beautiful and diverse park located in the foothills of the Laramie Mountains, Wyoming. The park covers an area of 3,395 acres and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and camping.

Location & Accessibility

Curt Gowdy State Park is located 24 miles west of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and 24 miles east of Laramie, Wyoming, making it easily accessible from both cities. Visitors can take State Route 210 (Happy Jack Road) to County Road 106 to reach the park.

Camping & Accommodations

The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV camping. There are three campgrounds in the park, Granite, Aspen Grove, and Cheyenne Bay. All of the campgrounds have picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water.

Amenities & Facilities

Curt Gowdy State Park has a variety of amenities and facilities to make visitors’ stay comfortable and enjoyable. The park has restrooms, showers, and a dump station for RVs. There is also a visitor center that provides information about the park and its activities.

Activities & Recreation

Curt Gowdy State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. The park has over 35 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There are also three reservoirs in the park, Granite, Crystal, and North Crow, which offer fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.

Nature & Wildlife

Curt Gowdy State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, mountain lions, and black bears. The park also has a diverse range of flora, including sagebrush, aspen, and pine trees. Visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty and wildlife while participating in various activities.

Boating & Fishing

Curt Gowdy State Park offers both boating and fishing opportunities. The park, located between Cheyenne and Laramie in Wyoming, features several reservoirs, including Granite, Crystal, and North Crow Reservoir. These bodies of water provide excellent conditions for various water activities.

Boating: The park allows boating on its reservoirs, and there are boat ramps available for launching. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating. However, it’s important to check the current regulations and any advisories before heading out, as conditions and rules can change based on water levels and other factors.

Fishing: Anglers can fish in the reservoirs and streams within Curt Gowdy State Park. The waters are known for a variety of fish species, including trout, perch, and others. Fishing licenses are required for those looking to fish, and you should familiarize yourself with the state’s fishing regulations regarding limits, size, and seasons.

Before planning your trip for boating or fishing at Curt Gowdy State Park, it’s a good idea to check the latest information on conditions, permits, and any potential advisories or restrictions. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the park.

Natural Features and Recreation

Geography and Landscapes

Curt Gowdy State Park is located in the foothills of the Laramie Mountains, and it has seven sections of richly varied landscape. The park’s rolling hills and crystal-clear reservoirs provide a picturesque backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and boating, as well as fishing and water sports.

Flora and Fauna

The park’s diverse landscape is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors to Curt Gowdy State Park can expect to see a variety of non-native birds, as well as mule deer. The park’s three reservoirs – Granite, Crystal, and North Crow – are home to kokanee salmon, brown trout, and rainbow trout.

The Aspen Grove Campground is located within the park and provides a great opportunity to explore the park’s flora and fauna. The campground is surrounded by a beautiful aspen grove, and visitors can expect to see a variety of wildflowers and other plants.

Overall, Curt Gowdy State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, fish, or simply enjoy the park’s stunning landscape, there’s something for everyone at Curt Gowdy State Park.

Local Attractions & Services

Nearby Destinations

Curt Gowdy State Park is located near the crossroads of two major interstates, I-80 and I-25. The park is just 24 miles west of Cheyenne and 24 miles east of Laramie. Visitors can explore the beautiful attractions within the park, which are near the foothills of the Laramie Mountains. For those who want to explore the area further, there are many nearby destinations worth visiting.

One of the most popular nearby destinations is Vedauwoo Recreation Area, which is located just a few miles south of Curt Gowdy State Park. Vedauwoo is a popular destination for rock climbers due to its unique rock formations. The area also offers hiking and camping opportunities.

Another popular destination is Medicine Bow National Forest, which is located to the west of Curt Gowdy State Park. The forest offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting.

Essential Services

Visitors to Curt Gowdy State Park will find all the essential services they need. The park has a visitor center that is open year-round. The visitor center offers information about the park, as well as maps and brochures. The park also has restrooms, picnic areas, and campsites.

For those who need to stock up on supplies, there are several nearby towns that offer grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential services. Cheyenne and Laramie are both within a short drive of the park and offer a wide range of services.

Geography and Landscapes

Curt Gowdy State Park has seven sections of richly varied landscape. The park contains three reservoirs: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow. Granite offers excellent rainbow trout and kokanee salmon fishing, as well as space for water sports. Crystal, the smallest of the three reservoirs, offers excellent fishing for brown trout. North Crow is the largest of the three reservoirs and offers excellent boating and fishing opportunities.

The park also offers a variety of landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and rocky outcroppings. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails to see the different landscapes up close.

Flora and Fauna

Curt Gowdy State Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can see a wide range of wildlife, including mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and coyotes. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great horned owls.

The park’s plant life is just as diverse as its wildlife. Visitors can see a variety of trees, including ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and aspen. The park is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including lupine, Indian paintbrush, and yarrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the camping facilities available at Curt Gowdy State Park?

Curt Gowdy State Park offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV camping. There are three campgrounds within the park: Granite, Aspen Grove, and Cheyenne Bay. All three campgrounds offer water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Additionally, the park has a group campsite available for large groups.

Where can I find a map of the trails for mountain biking in Curt Gowdy State Park?

Maps of the mountain biking trails in Curt Gowdy State Park can be found at the park’s visitor center. They are also available for download on the park’s website. The park offers over 35 miles of trails for mountain biking, ranging from beginner to advanced.

What is the typical weather at Curt Gowdy State Park throughout the year?

Curt Gowdy State Park experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and bring appropriate clothing for the season.

Are there cabins available for rent at Curt Gowdy State Park, and how can I book one?

Curt Gowdy State Park does not have cabins available for rent. However, there are several options for lodging in nearby Cheyenne and Laramie.

What are the best hiking trails in Curt Gowdy State Park?

Curt Gowdy State Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some of the most popular trails include the Crow Creek Trail, the Hidden Falls Trail, and the Pole Mountain Trail. Visitors should be prepared for steep inclines and rocky terrain.

What wildlife can be seen while visiting Curt Gowdy State Park?

Curt Gowdy State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and coyotes. Visitors may also spot smaller animals such as rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks. It is important to remember that these are wild animals and should be observed from a safe distance.