North Platte River
Overview
The North Platte River is a popular fishery that traverses various terrains. The upper 20 miles run through rugged forest. The next 40 miles alternates between agricultural meadows and rugged sagebrush and juniper communities. The rest of the river to Seminoe Reservoir is primarily rolling sagebrush hills and juniper breaks. The North Platte River is a blue-ribbon "wild" trout fishery from the border all the way to the Pick Bridge access north of Saratoga, about 65 river miles. Seminoe Reservoir, 57 river miles north of Pick Bridge, is popular for its trout and walleye fishing, as well as boating opportunities. All of this section of the North Platte River is floatable, but there are several rapids in the 13-miles just north of the border. The first five miles can be floated by raft or kayak only. he North Platte River is a magnet to numerous species of wildlife. Bighorn sheep are found as far downstream as Bennett Peak. North Gate Canyon provides crucial winter range for elk. Bobcat, black bear, and mountain lion inhabit this area. Mule deer are often seen along the banks, and pronghorn antelope enjoy the open valleys and foothills visible from the river. Small mammals in the riparian area include muskrat, coyote, raccoon, and beaver. Birds to be viewed range from blue and sage grouse to Canada geese, mallard, common merganser, goldeneye, great blue heron, kingfisher, pelican and dipper. Raptor species along the river include golden and bald eagle; Swainson's, red-tailed, and ferruginous hawk; prairie falcon; and American kestrels. Enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating.
Activities
Boating
There are numerous public access points along the river. Bureau of Land Management put-ins include the Bennett Peak and Dugway Recreation Sites. Wyoming Game and Fish put-ins include Treasure Island, Foote, Pick Bridge, Eagle's Nest, and I-80. Camping is permitted at many of these put-ins. Regardless of what craft you use to float the river, be prepared for windy and inclement weather. Use "Leave No Trace" ethics and camp in developed sites when they are available. And please remember to wear your life jacket.
Camping
Bennett Peak and Corral Creek are campgrounds located along the river.
Fishing
From the Colorado border down to Sage Creek, the North Platte River is classified as a blue-ribbontrout fishery. This section of river is managed for "wild" trout. Rainbow and brown trout are the predominant game fish, with smaller populations of brook and cutthroat trout and walleye. A Wyoming fishing license is required to fish in Wyoming. Regulations are available from licensing agents.
Hiking
Hiking is found along the river.
Hunting
Follow Wyoming hunting guidelines.
Picnicking
Picnic areas are located along the river.
Seasonality/Weather
Open year-round. Check weather for possible extremities before setting out.
Directions
Driving
To access the Upper North Platte River, take State Highway 130 south from I-80 toward Saratoga and Encampment. Watch for brown river access signs. To access the river north of I-80, take County Road 351 north out of Sinclair.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(307) 328-4200Links
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