My Favorite Park in Wyoming Is a Little-Known Oasis for Viewing Wildlife

As a child, I spent several years living in Evanston, Wyoming. There are many things I vividly remember about my time in this town like the howling wind, the gorgeous sunsets, and the historic buildings scattered throughout its downtown. I also remember spending summer nights outdoors at Bear River State Park. This little-known state park in Wyoming is easily one of my favorites, and not only because of the nostalgia it brings me, but also its long list of activities from hiking to wildlife viewing.

Located just outside of Evanston, you’ll find Bear River State Park. This state park was established in 1991 and named after the Bear River, one of the park's main features. Fun fact: Native American Tribes called the river “Quee-ya-paw,” after a certain tobacco root grew along its bank, and trappers called the river “Bear River” after spotting many bears along its banks.

This certainly isn’t the largest state park in Wyoming, as it’s approximately 325 acres, but there’s plenty of space to explore and enjoy a day outside. This is a day-use-only state park, as camping is not allowed. While you can easily spend one or two hours here, I recommend setting aside an entire day as there’s plenty to do.

When you first arrive, you can stop by the Bear River State Park Visitor Center to learn more about the area, its history, and the wildlife that calls the area home. In fact, one of the things I love most about this park is the incredible wildlife-viewing opportunities. Bear River State Park is home to small herds of both bison and elk. The captive herds are not large—typically 10 to 12 adult animals—due to limited space within the park, but they still provide a delightful sight.

I remember, as a young girl, watching the bison and elk graze during my visit to the park, usually while we’d be enjoying a picnic or walking along one of the trails around the park. Within this Wyoming state park, you’ll find 1.2 miles of paved trails that I loved riding bikes on and even rollerblading around as a young girl. Of course, you can also put on your hiking boots and tackle some of the dirt and gravel trails along the river as well, such as the Bear River State Park Loop.

These trails are an excellent way to enjoy the river and spend some time outdoors. However, as you hike, you’ll want to watch out for moose who may also be enjoying this area—make sure to give them their space. And I love that these trails are delightful no matter the time of the year. In the summer, you’ll spot wildflowers along your way and near the river. In the fall, the vibrant foliage transforms the area and makes you feel like you are walking through a sea of color. Even in the winter, certain trails in the park are excellent snowshoeing and cross-country skiing destinations.   

Bear River State Park in Evanston, Wyoming, holds countless memories for me. It was a place where I'd spend a day in the great outdoors without driving far outside of town. You can hike, have a picnic, or, my personal favorite, observe wildlife. Spend an afternoon or a full day here—it’s a little-known paradise for outdoor lovers.