Wyoming is renowned for its vast, striking landscapes and famous national parks like Yellowstone. But beyond the crowds drawn to these iconic spots, lies a hidden gem of serenity and solitude: Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park. This underrated state park is so little known that visitors often find they have the outdoors all to themselves.
Location and Overview of Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park
Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park is located just east of Casper, Wyoming, near the small town of Evansville. Nestled along the peaceful North Platte River, the park offers visitors a tranquil retreat surrounded by towering cottonwood trees and lush green spaces. Its proximity to Casper makes it easily accessible while still preserving a peaceful, secluded atmosphere that’s hard to find in more popular parks.
Natural Beauty and Quiet Solitude
The park is a haven for nature lovers who seek a calm environment far from the noise and hustle of crowded attractions. Long trails wind through groves of cottonwoods, along the riverbanks, and past scenic picnic areas. Birdwatchers delight in the diversity of species here, with opportunities to spot herons, ducks, and even bald eagles soaring overhead. The gentle sound of the flowing North Platte River enhances the sense of peace that permeates this little-known park.
Activities for Every Season
Visitors to Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park enjoy a variety of activities tailored to relaxation and low-impact outdoor fun. In spring and summer, hiking and biking trails provide easy access to the park’s natural beauty, while fishing spots along the river entice anglers year-round, with rainbow and brown trout plentiful in the waters. Fall transforms the park with brilliant golden foliage, perfect for reflective walks and photography. Even winter has its charm with crisp, snowy landscapes providing a peaceful retreat.
Camping and Picnic Areas
The park’s well-maintained campgrounds offer a peaceful option for overnight stays under star-studded Wyoming skies. Families and solo adventurers can set up tents or RVs in shaded areas that feel tucked away from the world. Numerous picnic spots equipped with tables and grills invite visitors to enjoy leisurely meals surrounded by nature. Unlike the bustling campgrounds of Yellowstone, this park provides a sense of privacy and calm.
History and Local Culture
Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park is named after a local Wyoming legislator known for her dedication to the environment and public service, adding a layer of cultural heritage to this natural escape. The nearby town of Casper provides a friendly gateway with local shops, museums, and dining that celebrate Wyoming’s Western spirit without overshadowing the park’s quiet charm.
Why Visit This Underrated Park?
For travelers looking to avoid crowds while immersing themselves in Wyoming’s stunning outdoors, Edness Kimball Wilkins offers an unrivaled experience. Its combination of scenic tranquility, diverse wildlife, and proximity to a welcoming town makes it an ideal destination for both short getaways and longer retreats. Visitors often emerge refreshed, their stress and worries melting away amid the park’s serene landscapes.
How to Get There
The park is easily reached via Highway 20 East from Casper. It sits just a few miles outside the city, making it convenient for day trips or overnight stays. The easy accessibility combined with its seclusion is part of what makes Edness Kimball Wilkins such a hidden treasure—offering big nature without big crowds.
Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park in Wyoming is a rare gem for nature enthusiasts who want to experience the state’s pristine beauty away from the usual tourist paths. Whether hiking peaceful trails, fishing quietly by the river, or camping beneath endless starry skies, visitors to this underrated park enjoy a deeply restorative experience—a perfect place where the outdoors feels like a private haven.
Sources
(https://www.thetravel.com/underrated-wyoming-state-parks-to-visit-instead-of-yellowstone/)
(https://familydestinationsguide.com/underrated-state-park-wyoming/)
(https://www.thetravel.com/obscure-wyoming-state-parks-to-visit-instead-of-yellowstone/)
(https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/most-underrated-parks-us/)
(https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nature/wyoming/wyoming-state-parks-wy)
