CHEYENNE — Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites welcomed 4,843,471 visitors in 2024, reaffirming the state’s reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, heritage tourism and year-round exploration, according to a department press release. The total represents a 5% increase over 2023 and places 2024’s visitation 5% above the five-year average, signaling steady and sustained public interest in Wyoming’s public lands.

As part of the agency’s routine data reconciliation process, updated site-level tracking has revised visitation figures for 2022 and 2023. While previously reported numbers were higher, the updated data offers a more accurate and consistent picture of long-term trends, still reflecting overall growth across the system. The revised total for 2023 now stands at 4,618,267, up from 4,546,419 in 2022.

“Wyoming remains committed to providing exceptional experiences across our state parks and historic sites,” said Dave Glenn, director of Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources. “These places connect people to our landscapes, our heritage, and to one another. As visitation grows, so does our responsibility to protect these spaces and keep them accessible, safe, and meaningful for all.”

Several locations, including Edness K. Wilkins, Fort Fred Steele, Quebec 01, Register Cliff, and Sinks Canyon, reported increased visitation from 18% to 50%. Hot Springs State Park, one of the system’s most visited sites, showed a 12% increase compared to revised previous counts. Past estimates had overcalculated visitation due to mechanical counter discrepancies — an issue now resolved to improve long-term tracking and site management.

During the 2024 season, the overall visitation to Wyoming’s state parks and historic sites demonstrated a steadfast commitment to preserving the state’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Factors contributing to this engagement include ongoing infrastructure improvements, enhanced educational programs, and the introduction of new recreational opportunities. 

New park and historic site infrastructure, such as the new Cultural Center at Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site (MLSAS), provides unique visitor experiences integrating technology, culture, and the outdoors. MLSAS received hundreds of visitors to the Cultural Center during the summer, immersing visitors in thousands of years of Indigenous history through seasons, sights, and sounds.

This year, Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites expanded its interpretive program, increasing participation statewide and hosting 577 programs with nearly 24.5 thousand program attendees. Approximately 4% of Wyoming residents attended these programs, accounting for participation from every county. Additionally, 27% of schoolchildren had the opportunity to participate in a field trip at a Wyoming State Park or Historic Site, showcasing strong engagement from families and educational institutions.

Through various projects and initiatives in 2024, visitors can also enjoy expanded hiking and biking trails, as well as enhanced fishing and boating facilities at key locations in parks and historic sites throughout the state. 

“We are dedicated to continuously improving and expanding hiking, biking, and other trail opportunities across the state. Each new project and addition reflects our commitment to providing outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality trails that enhance their experience in Wyoming’s outdoors,” said Caleb Owen, nonmotorized trails coordinator for Wyoming State Parks. 

Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites officials are optimistic about the future and encourage visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the diverse range of recreational, educational, and cultural offerings at parks and historic sites across the state. 

For more information about Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites, please visit wyoparks.wyo.gov and follow us on Facebook at @WyomingStateParks.