Wyoming is the least populous U.S. state yet one of its most spectacular, encompassing Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and vast high-plains ranching country. Cowboy culture runs deep, rodeos are a living tradition, and the landscape swings from boiling geysers to glacier-carved peaks within a single afternoon's drive.
Top beaches
A ranked editor’s shortlist of the coastline worth planning a day around in Wyoming.
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- Sandy shoreline
- Boat ramp
- Picnic areas
- Primitive camping
Pathfinder Reservoir Beach
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- Sandy swimming beach
- Boat ramp
- Marina
- Campground
- Convenience store
Alcova Reservoir Beach
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- Swimming area
- Boat ramp
- Campground
- Picnic shelters
Boysen Reservoir — Wind River Canyon Area
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- Swimming beach
- Marina
- Boat ramp
- Campground
- Picnic areas
Glendo State Park Beach
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- Sandy coves
- Boat rental
- Marina
- Campground
- Kayak rental
Flaming Gorge Reservoir — Lucerne Valley Area
What to bring
A short packing list for a comfortable beach day — adjust for season and the specific spot.
- Sun protectionHigh-SPF sunscreen, hat, polarised sunglasses, light long-sleeve cover-up.
- HydrationReusable bottle, salty snacks for longer days, electrolyte sachets if it’s hot.
- FootwearWater shoes for pebble or rocky entry, flip-flops for sand, dry pair for the trip home.
- Swim & coverQuick-dry towel or sand-resistant mat, change of swimwear, light cover-up for restaurants.
- Cash & valuablesSmall notes for beach clubs and rentals; waterproof pouch for phone, keys, cards.
- ExtrasReef-safe sunscreen near protected coastline, a book, a small first-aid kit for jellyfish or scrapes.
Beach safety
Hard-earned guidance — read this before you swim, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the coast.
Critical
Swim where lifeguards are posted and follow flag warnings — green is safe, yellow is caution, red means no swimming. Rip currents are the leading beach hazard worldwide.
Caution
Watch for tide changes and marine life — jellyfish blooms, sea urchins on rocky entries, occasional shark or stingray advisories. Don’t swim alone, especially at dawn or dusk.
Tip
Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes and after every swim. Take shade between 11 am and 3 pm — the sun is harsher than people expect, even when the air is cool.
Practical
Keep valuables out of sight or back at the accommodation. Beach theft is a small-but-real risk at busy beaches; never leave bags unattended while you’re in the water.