Sometimes, it seems like Wyoming’s parks stretch on forever. While parks like Yellowstone, the Flaming Gorge, and our National Forests do stretch for hundreds of thousands of acres, if you’re looking for a smaller park to explore, there are a few hidden gems worth checking out. Hawk Springs State Recreation Area, in Le Grange, offers visitors a beautiful day on the water with hardly any crowds.

Hawk Springs Reservoir is the centerpiece of the park, which is located about an hour northeast of Cheyenne, near the Nebraska border.
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
Visitors often head out with their boats for a day on the water.
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
Cast a reel and catch some fish - as per the usual Wyoming Game & Fish regulations. Be sure to fish from the water - it's not permitted within 20 yards of the dock or any specific designated beach area.
If you're not one for fishing, the recreation area still offers a lot! Get out of the city and enjoy a picnic near the water, taking in the fresh air coming in off the plains.
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
There are even a few campsites here, if you want to spend a night under the stars. Each of the sites here is first-come, first-serve.
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area

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Each of the 24 primitive campsites are walk-in only, and the perfect place to pitch a tent. Kids will have fun on the playground, and there's even a vault toilet and potable water (seasonally), so you'll be all set for a quiet camping trip.
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
When the water in the reservoir is low, exposed stretches of sand appear, jokingly mocked as "Cheyenne's best beaches."
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
In the winter, the Hawk Springs Reservoir is a popular spot for ice fishing. Be sure to check the conditions before heading out on the ice!
Facebook / Hawk Springs State Recreation Area
The Hawk Springs Facebook page frequently provides updates on ice thickness.
With its prime location on the edge of the Great Plains, Hawk Springs Recreation Area is a great spot for catching a sunrise and a sunset. Spend your days by the water and enjoy some peace and quiet!
Wikimedia Commons / xnatedawgx

For more information on Hawk Springs Recreation Area, visit the Wyoming State Parks site here.

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Hawk Springs State Recreation, La Grange, WY 82221, USA