05/11/2026
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Bighorn Canyon welcomes visitors for Memorial Day
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is preparing for a busy Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer boating season. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early, stay aware of changing conditions, and use caution around busy marina and launch areas as they enjoy the water this summer.
Boating and Marina Operations
Both Horseshoe Bend and Ok-A-Beh Marinas will be open for the Memorial Day weekend. Ok-A-Beh Marina has a variety of services including pontoon rentals, a small store, and fuel. The Horseshoe Bend Marina offers food, non-motorized rentals, boat rentals, and scenic boat tours.
As of May 8, 2026, the lake level is 3614.9 ft. The minimum launch level for small boats at Horseshoe Bend is 3620. Docks will be installed as soon as water levels rise sufficiently. The comfort station and docks at Black Canyon and Dayboard 9 are not yet available and will be installed when the lake level reaches 3625 ft. Courtesy docks are in place at Barry’s Landing and Ok-A-Beh, and the concession dock is installed at Ok-A-Beh.
At Ok-A-Beh, please use the rigging area in the upper parking lot for boat prep and rigging before proceeding to the ramp to prevent backups on the road and delays on the ramp.
Driftwood levels are currently low, but additional debris is expected as lake levels rise. Even small pieces of driftwood and debris can pose significant hazards. Boaters should maintain a proper lookout at all times.
Facilities and Campgrounds
The Cal S. Taggart Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center in Lovell, WY, will transition to summer hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily) beginning May 23.
Black Canyon and Dayboard 9 campgrounds are open but docks have not been installed. Afterbay and Grapevine Creek campgrounds are open, but water and power are not available currently. The Horseshoe Bend and Trail Creek Campgrounds are open. Water at Horseshoe Bend campground will be turned on by May 23.
The park monitors bear activity throughout the park. Please keep a clean camp and remember that feeding bears is illegal.
For current lake conditions or help planning a visit, call the Cal S. Taggart Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center at 307-548-5406.
Photo: Courtesy of Zachary Hubbard, April 6, 2026.