Glendo State Park
Location: One of Wyoming’s most accessible reservoirs is located at Glendo State Park.
Approximately mid-way between Cheyenne and Casper, its location right off I-25 makes it easy for anyone towing a boat to get in the water with very little effort, with only a few miles of secondary roads to navigate.
Hawk Springs State Park
Hawk Springs State Park is located in Goshen County, Wyoming, and lies approximately 25 miles southeast from Torrington. Hawk Springs is one of the state’s foremost areas for recreation and fishing. The whole area, including Hawk Springs Reservoir, is owned by the Horse Creek Conservation District. Visitation has increased dramatically throughout the years, so much so that the Wyoming Game & Fish Department stepped in to help enforce regulations to maintain the water ways, landscape, and fish.
In 1987, the area was named a recreation area by the state. It was maintained by the Wyoming Recreation Division and gradually expanded to accommodate for picnicking and camping. In 1989, a sprinkler drip system was installed to allow trees which were donated by the Hawk Springs boat club to grow. Hawk Springs Park is located in the small town of Hawk Springs which has a population of 69 and stands at an elevation of approximately 4,600 feet.
Yellowstone Lake State Park
Yellowstone Lake State Park is a 1000 acre park that has a 455 acre lake included that is located in Wisconsin. The park is connected to the 4,000 acre Yellowstone Wildlife Area that many people find fun to enjoy both at the same time. The park has ton of things for a family to do on vacation for a week or just for a casual weekend away. One of the most popular activities to take part in are water activities, simply because Yellowstone Lake is right there. Fishing is available from the shores, or people can choose to take their boats out on the water. For those that do not have a boat, there is a boat rental near the lake for those people to take advantage of. The types of fish that are available in the lake are crappies, walleye, bass, bluegill, channel catfish, muskies and northern pike. There are regulations that are in place for those that are fishing though. For example, the fish that can be kept with two fish per person on the boat or on the shore is walleye, sauger, as well as their hybrids that are between fifteen and eighteen inches long. Anything shorter than that, does have to be released back into the water. In addition, channel and flathead catfish that are between fifteen and twenty-four inches long can be kept, while large mouth and small mouth bass that are between twelve and fifteen inches long may be kept as well. Northern pike, muskellunge, gar and borwin, as well as any hybrid of these are catch and release only. These regulations are posted in the park and those who fish are to follow these rules no matter what, if not they do risk being fined and asked to no longer fish in the area.
Swimming is also a great activity to partake in and there is a beach and part of the lake that is dedicated to swimming. However, keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty for those swimmers. There is a concession stand that is available in the park and is located near the boat rentals.
Wildcat Mountain State Park
The Wildcat Mountain State Park is located in Vernon County, Wisconsin. This huge park is made up of over 3,500 acres of wilderness. Visitors will find steep mountain bluffs, the wide Kickapoo River, and a narrow river valley along the base of the park. Special wildlife viewing stations are set up along the many trails so that visitors can watch the local birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The Wildcat Mountain State Park was originally home to ancient native tribes who lived along the river basin. Evidence of these ancient people can still be seen in the state park today along the trails and bluffs.
A Variety of Trails
Hartman Creek State Park
Hartman Creek State Park lies near the center of Wisconsin near Waupaca and is home to a wide variety of outdoor activities. The 1417 acre tract of land has 2 distinct and equally diverse habitats located within its boundaries. There are the central sand hills opposing the forests area in separate locations in the natural area. Established in 1966, the state sponsored wildlife area is home to many diverse and interesting flora and fauna. There is always something to do at this facility including all forms of summer and winter sports that are enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the favorite things to do at Hartman Creek State Park is picnicking by the various lakes that dot the landscape. Allen Lake, Hartman Lake and Marl Lake all have areas reserved for visitors who came here for an outdoor lunch. Most of the lakes also have some kind of shelter nearby with toilets as well when nature calls. The four separate picnic areas all offer tables, grills, clear water for drinking and nearby parking. It makes a great way for families with young children to gather everybody together or a romantic getaway for a young couple.