Water Activities

Boat, Jet Ski, Fish, or Swim Wyoming's Waters

You might think Wyoming’s high plains are all about wide-open spaces and rugged peaks — but here in Casper, water is at the heart of the adventure.

From peaceful river floats and trophy fishing to boating, kayaking, and beach days under the sun, you’ll find endless ways to make a splash in central Wyoming.

At the center of it all is the North Platte River. Flowing right through downtown Casper, this legendary river is a lifeline for locals and visitors alike - a place to fish, paddle, or simply unwind along its scenic banks. Stretching 718 miles from its headwaters in Colorado to its confluence in Nebraska, the North Platte offers some of the best fishing and river recreation in Wyoming. Whether you’re fly fishing with a local guide, floating a calm stretch in a kayak, or just enjoying the sound of the water, the North Platte is pure Wyoming serenity. View the Natrona County river access map here.

But the adventure doesn’t stop at the river. Casper’s nearby reservoirs are just as inviting, offering wide-open waters, camping, and endless summer fun.

Pathfinder Reservoir

Built between 1905 and 1909, Pathfinder Dam is a Wyoming icon listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the surrounding Pathfinder Reservoir is a favorite spot for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With a marina, multiple campgrounds, hiking trails, and portions of the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge, it’s the perfect place to unplug and explore.

Alcova Reservoir

Just 30 minutes southwest of Casper, Alcova Reservoir is one of the region’s premier water destinations. Encompassing nearly 2,500 acres, it’s home to several campgrounds, sandy beaches, and a full-service marina and restaurant. Spend the day wakeboarding, swimming, kayaking, or casting a line for walleye and trout. When the sun sets, the red cliffs surrounding the lake light up in shades of gold and pink — a perfect Wyoming evening.

Whether you’re floating the river, reeling in the catch of a lifetime, or soaking up the sun at Alcova, Casper's waterways are where Wyoming adventure flows year-round.