Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

The vast, wild landscape offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the natural world and experience the wonders of this extraordinary place. With over 120 thousand acres, you can find astounding diversity in ecosystems, wildlife, and more than 10 thousand years of human history to explore.

20 US Hwy 14a E
Lovell, WY 82431
United States

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307-548-5406

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Discover Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

The wild beauty of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is defined by towering red cliffs that rise above the winding waters of the Bighorn River. Spanning Montana and Wyoming, this hidden gem offers breathtaking scenery, rich wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure. Explore dramatic overlooks, hike through diverse landscapes, or boat through the striking canyon walls. Wild horses roam the Pryor Mountains, while bighorn sheep navigate the rugged cliffs. Come seeking solitude, history, outdoor thrills, or all three, because you’ll find them all at Bighorn Canyon.

Bookstore with travel guides and souvenirs displayed on shelves.

Visit the WNP park store

Stop by the Cal S. Taggart Visitor Center, which manages the South District of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and shop at the park store. Find books, apparel, collectibles, toys, and more.

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Explore Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is a stunning natural wonder located in two separate districts, one in southeastern Montana and one in north-central Wyoming. Covering more than 120,000 acres of land, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area has two visitor centers: Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center near Lovell, Wyoming, and Yellowtail Dam Visitor Center near Fort Smith, Montana. Bighorn Lake, the area’s centerpiece, was created by construction of the Yellowtail Dam and hydroelectric power station in 1967 as part of the Missouri River Basin Project. A year later, on October 15, 1966, Congress established Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area for public outdoor recreation and for the preservation of the scenic, scientific, and historic features of one of the nation’s most beautiful places.

Canyon landscape under cloudy sky with a badge for AllTrails.

Exploring Yellowstone, Little Bighorn Battlefield, & Bighorn Canyon

Journey through Yellowstone National Park, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area with this seven-day itinerary packed with experiences.

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Take a scenic drive

The park offers stunning viewpoints like Devil Canyon Overlook, where you can take in the sheer scale of the canyon.

Look for wildlife

Keep an eye out for wild horses, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species, especially in the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range.

Explore by boat

Kayaking, canoeing, or boating on Bighorn Lake provides a unique perspective of the towering cliffs and hidden coves.

Visit both districts

The North District (Montana) and South District (Wyoming) offer distinct experiences, from historic ranches to deep canyon vistas.

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Upcoming events

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How to Take Better Wildflower Photos With Your Phone

Jul 11 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Join Artist in Residence Kathryn to learn how to take quality wildflower photos with your phone. The program begins at 10:00 am at the Lockhart Ranch. Wisconsin-based photographer Kathryn Des Forge, who brings 18 years of landscape and wildlife...

Wild Horse Photography

Jul 18 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Join AIR Kathryn to learn different techniques to photograph horses. The program begins at 5:00pm at the Two Eagles Interpretive Trail. Wisconsin-based photographer Kathryn Des Forge brings 18 years of landscape and wildlife photography experience.

Children's Nature Walk

Jul 22 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Join Ranger Jenna and the Park County Library for a children's nature walk around the Park County Library - Cody Branch ponds! Learn how to discover and experience nature right in your own backyard. The program will begin at 2:00pm in the children's...

Fishing Friday

Jul 24 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Join Ranger Jenna at the Visitor Center Fishing Pond from 9 to noon. This is a great time for people new to fishing to gain some skills with the help of park staff and volunteers. Don't have any equipment? No worries. There will be a limited supply...