How to Experience Flaming Gorge Country
#ThatsWY #HeresHow
Just south of Rock Springs and Green River exists a stunning natural landscape. Drawing adventurers, families, locals and those just seeking a beautiful view, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area offers things to do and see year-round. Here are a few ways to experience one of Sweetwater County's hidden gems.
Bus Tour
Take a full-day tour of the national recreation area and stop at scenic overlooks, learn more about the area and indulge in a delicious lunch. Enjoy the breathtaking sights and leave the planning to us.;
Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway
If you're short on time and want a quick glimpse of the area's towering canyons, expansive lake and even some wildlife, drive the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway. Begin the route from Rock Springs and travel south on US-191 along the east side of Lake Flaming Gorge. Loop around onto HWY-44 and travel north along the west side of the lake until you reach Green River. There are various stopping points along this scenic drive to take photographs, eat a picnic lunch or enjoy the water. Pull over by a scenic overlook such as the Firehole Canyon Overlook or Clay Basin Overlook. The drive is approximately 150 miles and takes 90 minutes to drive one side.
Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway Guide
Campgrounds
Extend your visit in Flaming Gorge Country by camping overnight at one the various campgrounds and RV Parks in the area. There are campgrounds at each of the marinas – providing easy access to supplies, food and recreation. However, there are plenty of other sites to choose from including boat-in campsites such as the Hideout Boat-in Campground and Jarvies Boat-in Campground. Or stay right on the shores of Lake Flaming Gorge at the Antelope Flat Campground. The lakeside campground features 45 gravel sites and five tent sites for tent and RV camping along with an onsite boat ramp for easy water access.
Stay closer to Rock Springs and Green River by camping at the Firehole Canyon Campground which features 40 paved, non-electric sites for tent and RV camping. This high-desert campground features a boat ramp and easy access to fishing, hiking and water recreation.
Full-Service Marinas
There are three full-service marinas in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area to pick up supplies and food; rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards; or dock your boat. The Buckboard Marina on the west side is the closest to Green River and Rock Springs, providing easy access for boating and fishing. The Cedar Springs Marina and Lucerne Valley Marina are both on the Utah side and feature seasonal restaurants along with the full spectrum of services.
For a unique experience on Lake Flaming Gorge, head to the Lucerne Valley Marina where you can rent houseboats for overnight camping on the lake! This is also a great way to see the stars.
Outdoor Recreation
When it comes to water recreation, there are endless opportunities to swim, boat, fish and more on the 91-mile-long Lake Flaming Gorge. Bring your own watercrafts or rent fishing boats, pontoons, houseboats, kayaks and paddleboards from a marina.
It’s impossible not to enjoy the area’s majestic waters when visiting Flaming Gorge Country no matter what age you are. But did you know there are many other ways to experience the rugged landscapes? Across 42,000 acres, visitors can explore trails for hiking, mountain biking and ATVing. And after a day full of adventure, you can toast marshmallows and relax along the shores of Lake Flaming Gorge.
Need trip inspiration for your next visit to this hidden oasis in the American West? Follow our three-day itinerary to get started.