Lake Life: 7 Wyoming Mountain Lakes for Boating Fun
Wyoming, known for its breathtaking landscapes and wide-open spaces, is home to some of the best boating lakes in the country. Whether you’re searching for serene waters for a relaxing day or adventurous waves for watersports, the Cowboy State has something for every boating enthusiast. Here are some of the best lakes to use your fishing gear, wakeboards, waterskis and other watersports equipment.
1. Yellowstone Lake
Located in Yellowstone National Park, the 136-square-mile Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Boaters can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, abundant wildlife and unique geothermal features along the shoreline. Boaters can explore its many bays, inlets and access points like Bridge Bay Marina, where rentals and guided tours are available. Wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys and elk can often be spotted along the shoreline.
Be mindful of boating regulations within the national park. Due to underwater geothermal activity, certain areas are restricted for safety. Motorized and non-motorized boats require permits.
2. Jackson Lake
The 25,540-acre Jackson Lake, situated in Grand Teton National Park, is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the U.S. With stunning views of the Teton Range, the lake is popular for fishing, sailing, waterskiing, kayaking and motorboating. Wildlife sightings of bald eagles, moose and bears add to the adventure. There are several marinas available, including Colter Bay Marina, which offers boat rentals and other amenities.
3. Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Stretching from Wyoming into Utah, Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a premier boating destination to visit from private boat docks for rent. With its deep blue waters and red rock cliffs, this reservoir is perfect for houseboating, kayaking, water skiing and fishing. The area also features multiple marinas, like Buckboard Marina, and boat ramps for easy access to fishing and boating activities.
The reservoir is famous for its world-class fishing, particularly for lake trout, kokanee salmon and smallmouth bass. Boaters can explore scenic canyons, hidden coves and sandy beaches while watching for bighorn sheep and bald eagles.
4. Boysen Reservoir
Located in Boysen State Park, Boysen Reservoir is an excellent spot for boating, jet skiing and fishing. The 19,500-acre reservoir, backed by Wind River Canyon, is known for its rolling hills, warm summer waters and diverse fish species, which makes it an excellent choice for anglers to check out from private boat lifts for rent. Keep an eye out for deer, eagles and osprey. There are also campgrounds, marinas, picnic areas and boat ramps.
5. Glendo Reservoir
Glendo Reservoir and its landscape of rugged bluffs and sandy beaches is a top choice for boating enthusiasts who enjoy water sports. With 12,000 acres of large open waters and several boat ramps, it’s a popular destination for wakeboarding, tubing, water skiing and sailing. The reservoir is well-known for its excellent walleye, catfish and bass fishing. Boaters can explore secluded coves or anchor for a relaxing day on the water. The surrounding Glendo State Park offers excellent camping and picnicking opportunities.
6. Keyhole Reservoir
Keyhole Reservoir in northeastern Wyoming’s Crook County is a fantastic destination for boating, paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking and fishing. The 13,000-acre reservoir, within Keyhole State Park, features sandy beaches, pine forests, sandstone cliffs and calm waters, making it ideal for both relaxation and recreation from marinas and private boat slip rentals. The marina provides boat rentals and supplies for visitors, and there are several boat ramps for access, fuel and supplies.
7. Buffalo Bill Reservoir
The 8,000-acre Buffalo Bill Reservoir is just outside of Cody and offers the spectacular scenery of the Absaroka Mountains as well as excellent conditions for fishing, kayaking, sailing, water skiing and more. The reservoir is part of Buffalo Bill State Park and is well-known for trout fishing and wildlife viewing. Wind conditions here are favorable for sailing enthusiasts and windsurfers. The two main boat ramps at North Fork and Bartlett Lane make access easy, while the park’s marina offers rentals and supplies.
