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Pathfinder Reservoir

Alcova, Wyoming · Natrona County

The North Platte Project extends 111 miles along the river valley from near Guernsey, Wyoming to below Bridgeport, Nebraska. Pathfinder Dam and Reservoir are part of this project. Pathfinder Dam is one of the first constructed by the Reclamation Service (now the Bureau of Reclamation). Listed in the National Register o…

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42.47121, -106.85123
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About Pathfinder Reservoir

The North Platte Project extends 111 miles along the river valley from near Guernsey, Wyoming to below Bridgeport, Nebraska. Pathfinder Dam and Reservoir are part of this project. Pathfinder Dam is one of the first constructed by the Reclamation Service (now the Bureau of Reclamation). Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Pathfinder Dam is the primary historic attraction at the reservoir. Construction of the masonry dam between 1905 and 1909 was a major engineering feat. A small interpretive center is located in the historic dam tender's house. The dam is in a granite canyon on the North Platte River about 3 miles below its junction with the Sweetwater River. Parts of the reservoir are included in the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. There are 3 campgrounds and 3 boat ramps. Pathfinder facilities. Available fish species include brown trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, ohrid trout, and walleye. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are stocked annually in the reservoir. The Pathfinder Interpretive Center and 1.7-mile interpretive trail are located near the dam. The interpretive trail may be accessed across the historic suspension bridge or from the dam. Current Reservoir Levels

How to Get There

Site is on the North Platte River 47 miles southwest of Casper, WY, in Carbon and Natrona counties. Access is from U.S. 220 via County roads 408 or 410.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Pathfinder Reservoir

Heading to Pathfinder Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Pathfinder Reservoir?

No central reservation system listed for Pathfinder Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1246) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Pathfinder Reservoir?

Site is on the North Platte River 47 miles southwest of Casper, WY, in Carbon and Natrona counties. Access is from U.S. 220 via County roads 408 or 410.

How do I contact Pathfinder Reservoir?

You can reach the park at phone: 307-235-9325 or email: GPWebmaster@gp.usbr.gov.