Buffalo Bill State Park

William “Buffalo Bill” Cody is one of the most famous—and colorful—figures in Wild West lore, and as a man who knew Wyoming like the back of his hand, it makes sense that he chose to settle on the prime real estate that is now Buffalo Bill State Park. Situated on the banks of the Shoshone river with sweeping views of the magnificent Absaroka range, most of the action happens on the water of the reservoir at its center. Boating and swimming are encouraged, but as far as water-centric activity, fishing is really where its at—three types of wild trout are native to the area. Yellowstone in all its glory lies only 40 miles away, making Buffalo Bill State Park an excellent appetizer on the way to the grandaddy of all national parks—or a damn good dessert on your way out.