Why Locals Love Glendo Lake in Wyoming for Summer Swimming

For me, summer means beach days and sandy shores. With that in mind, let’s face it, landlocked states like Wyoming aren’t prime destinations for coastal getaways. However, that doesn’t stop Wyomingites from making the best of a summer vacation by planning day trips to the lake beaches in the state. In fact, locals love to swim in the clear waters of Glendo Lake, Wyoming, and camp on the shores of Sandy Beach, one of the designated swimming areas. 

If you’re searching for a beach to create new summertime memories, this warm-water lake might be for you. What makes Glendo Lake’s waters so clear and inviting? Let’s find out. 

What Makes Glendo Lake’s Waters So Clear and Inviting?

It’s no secret that Wyoming has the prettiest alpine lakes. While these oases are truly stunning, the waters have a bite due to their high elevation and melting snow. On the bright side, Glendo Lake is a low-elevation, man-made reservoir with warmer waters. In fact, on warm summer days, the water temperature can get as high as 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making Sandy Beach, the designated swimming area, perfect for summer days. 

Since the lake was formed by the damming of the North Platte River, Sandy Beach doesn’t have that glass-like clarity of glacier-fed lakes. Even so, the deep blue waters make you want to dip your toes in or swim in it all day. Paddlers and boaters also love spending lazy days on the pretty blue waters at this underrated Wyoming beach. 

Plus, the beach boasts more than two miles of sandy shoreline, and that’s more than enough reason to visit. Beachgoers can soak up the sun on the sand or build sandcastles with the little ones. The best part? You can camp on the sandy beach right at the water’s edge. 

I can see why locals choose Sandy Beach at Glendo Reservoir as their summer water escape in Wyoming. If you can’t make it to the islands for a Caribbean-like escape, this underrated beach might just be exactly what you need.  

Best Times to Visit Glendo Lake for Summer Fun

Peak season lasts from June to September, and it’s by far the best time to visit. When the weather is warmest, in July and August, the beaches will be packed with locals. Not only will you find visitors grilling on the sandy beach, but the water will be lively with boats, jet-skis, paddlers, and people simply making a splash. Of course, you can skip the crowds by planning your trip on weekdays or after Labor Day when the kids are back in school.

Given that the beach is located inside Glendo State Park, there will be plenty to do here. In previous years, the park hosted sandcastle competitions as well as other events throughout the summer. Some include scavenger hunts, game nights, and s’mores and stories. 

You’ll need to camp here to participate in most of the events, which isn’t a bad idea, if you ask me. The Sandy Beach Dune Campground would be a nice place to sleep under the stars or soak up the warm hues as the sun sets in the evening sky.  

The park also boasts up to 45 miles of hiking trails, many of which offer water views and glimpses of Laramie Peak in the distance. Fishing is also popular here. Bring your line and spend a peaceful day by the water catching walleye, yellow perch, bass, catfish, and trout. For more fun on the water, drive to nearby Guernsey State Park, where the beaches can feel surprisingly peaceful and secluded.  

When you’re not spending time on the lake, visit the tiny town of Glendo. There are a handful of local joints worth checking out, including Frontier Flame, Old Western Saloon Steakhouse, and Bullfrogs Grill. Even better? If you have time, take the scenic drive in Wyoming from Laramie to the Wind River Range to glimpse views of the mountains and the beautiful waterways in the area. 

Is Sandy Beach at Glendo Lake Worth a Trip? 

Are you dreaming about sinking your feet in the sand? Do you want a Caribbean-like vacation but can’t make it to the islands? Well, Glendo Lake might not be the islands, but its sandy shores and calm blue waters make it a perfect destination to spend summer days in Wyoming. So, yes, if you ask me, Sandy Beach at Glendo Lake is worth the trip.  

Feeling inspired? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more things to do in Wyoming in the summer.