News Release

Bighorn Canyon NRA Preparing for Winter but Enjoying Fall

Enjoying a fall day along 3-Mile Access Trail.

Zachary Hubbard

News Release Date: October 10, 2024

Contact: Christy Fleming, 307-548-5406

Summer has ended. Lake facilities are winterized, but the park is far from closed. Bighorn Canyon offers wonderful year-round boating, fishing, hiking, and educational opportunities.

The courtesy docks at Barry’s Landing, Horseshoe Bend, and Ok-A-Beh will remain in the water into November or December or until the lake starts to freeze. Boat ramps remain open all winter, however access and use depend upon snow, ice, and road conditions. All lake facilities have been removed.

The water and electric at the Horseshoe Bend and Afterbay Campground was shut off October 1, 2024. The restroom next to the marina at Horseshoe Bend will be winterized this year with porta potties located near the building. Front country campgrounds remain open year-round. The dump and fill stations at Horseshoe Bend and near the Afterbay Campground have been winterized. Starting October 1st, there will be no fees for camping until next season. The campground at Black Canyon remains day use only due to continued bear activity. Dayboard 9 and Medicine Creek remain open.

Road work in both districts is complete. Thank you for your patience during construction.

Interpretive staff continues to plan educational and fun programming opportunities. Please join the interpretive staff in October for the following programs:

Fossil Day: Though October 16th is the official National Fossil Day, Bighorn Canyon is going to be observing this celebration on Saturday, October 19th. All day we will have a variety of exciting and educational programs relating to fossils, paleontology, and archeology.

Pumpkin Painting: On October 26th, to celebrate National Pumpkin Day and prepare for Halloween, join us during normal visitor center hours to paint some pumpkins! Supplies and a selection of pumpkins will be provided.

For current lake conditions or help planning a visit, visitors may call the Cal S. Taggart Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center at 307-548-5406.