While Wyoming has definitely made a name for itself when it comes to larger-than-life natural wonders and pristine lakes, the Cowboy State definitely isn't known for its oceanfront views…but one visit to this beautiful man-made lake in Wyoming and you might just forget that our humble slice of the West is landlocked! Tucked away in Wyoming's northeast corner, Keyhole Reservoir boasts some of the most vibrant blue water in the state and a stunning, jagged shoreline that feels like a magnificent slice of the coast. And if the crystalline waters here don't win you over, then the phenomenally diverse surroundings will! This season, skip the tourist crowds and check out this fantastic overlooked reservoir instead:
Wyoming has a dozen state parks dotting its landscape, each boasting an abundance of photo-worthy scenery, historic remnants, and memorable recreation opportunities.
Keyhole State Park, tucked away in Devils Tower country in northeast Wyoming, is an especially fantastic hidden gem that's worth checking out no matter the season. And yes… it's open year-round!
You'll find this spectacular getaway between Moorcroft and Sundance.
This gorgeous park offers all of the traditional state park amenities: camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and more, but with the added perk of phenomenally diverse scenery and backdrop views of the Black Hills outskirts.
But the undeniable heart of the park is Keyhole Reservoir. This jewel-like body of water was created by the damming of the Belle Fourche River back in 1952 but is still relatively undiscovered by the majority of Wyomingites.
Approximately 14,000 acres of crystal-clear water beckons visitors to splash, play, dive, zip, and speed their way around every curve.
The richly-hued rocks that line the water are reminiscent of the outcrops and crags of the PNW coast.
Look off into the distance and the shoreline will feel like a distant memory.
Then, there are the sunsets!
Every color imaginable can be found lighting up the sky throughout the year, capturing the vibrant and fiery hues of a true ocean sky display but without the stormy seas and raging waters. Here, it's perfectly peaceful.
When you're not imagining yourself lounging on your own private island or escaping to the water, be sure to explore the park's many diverse landscapes. Around Keyhole Reservoir you'll find fantastic grasslands, dense wooded areas, bird-filled marshes, and all the hiking trails you could hope for.
With plenty of friends to keep you company!
There are 10 campgrounds around the park, each home to some positively gorgeous campsites for both tents and RVs. Reservations required! Cabins are available as well.
This season, toss down a beach towel and immerse yourself in Wyoming's own coastal paradise at Keyhole Reservoir!
Keyhole Reservoir is a particularly special slice of Cowboy country, and we love visiting this magnificent lake as often as possible - especially when temperatures start to heat up! Do you have any recommendations for other adventures in the area?
For more information on camping reservations, amenities, and directions, visit the Wyoming State Parks website.
Keyhole State Park may be home to a brilliant namesake reservoir, but Wyoming has plenty of other reservoirs and lakes too! Check out this lookalike reservoir in southern Wyoming, just to start. Or, take a peek at our official Wyoming adventure bucket list!
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