What is EcoTourism in Wind River Range: WY Responsibly

It takes all of us to WY responsibly! Help keep Wyoming wild and free. We encourage mindful travel that supports our land, wildlife, businesses and residents. Let’s all do our part to experience Wyoming’s majesty responsibly.

Here’s how:

WY Responsibly-learn about EcoTourism in Wyoming

Adventure & Camping

Plan ahead.

Outdoor recreation is more popular than ever, causing overcrowding in some of Wyoming’s most beautiful areas. Make camping reservations early for reservable sites, and be flexible with plans. If a parking lot is full, be ready to seek different trails and lesser-known experiences.

Keep it clean.

Be prepared to not have access to trash cans or restrooms, especially when recreating in national forests. Bring your own garbage bags, and take all trash with you when you leave, including pet waste. If you need to poop in the woods, do so at least 100 feet from water sources, and dig a hole several inches deep.

Be fire aware.

Respect fire bans in place, choose a campsite with pre-existing fire rings whenever possible, and never leave your fire unattended. Make sure you have plenty of water available to put out your fire; you’ll need to completely extinguish it at night and before you leave camp.

Enjoy natural spaces responsibly.

WY Responsibly-learn about EcoTourism in Wyoming

Wildlife Safety

Keep your distance.

For the safety of wildlife and visitors, please keep your distance from all animals, not just those that seem scary to you. It’s recommended to stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards away from all other wildlife.

Respect their home.

Respect wildlife habitats by not altering campsites, trails or developed recreation sites. Follow leash regulations, and pick up after your pets. If you plan to enjoy Wyoming’s beautiful water, get your boat inspected first to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Keep them wild.

Prevent animals from becoming reliant on humans by never feeding wildlife. Store food properly by keeping it in a locked vehicle with the windows rolled up, a hard-sided camper, a bear canister or a bear box. Dispose of all food in a trash bag, and take your garbage with you when you leave.

Co-exist responsibly.

WY Responsibly-learn about EcoTourism in Wyoming

Community Responsibility

Be healthy.

Please respect posted signs and announcements for health and safety guidelines and requirements so we can continue to enjoy our community spaces. Masks are required on all federal lands.

Be flexible & informed.

Do your research and have a plan B. Be prepared for spotty cell service and Wi-Fi by having maps and backup plans ready. Understand what type of land you plan to recreate on. Amenities and regulations vary from national parks to national forests and other types of public lands.

Be an early bird.

Reserve camping and lodging well before you arrive. Spots can fill months, or up to a year, in advance for popular areas like national parks. Visit the parks during non-peak hours (before 9 a.m. and after 3 p.m.) and seasons (April to May and September to October) for a more intimate experience.

Be part of a responsible community.

As the least populated state with the most room for adventure, we recognize the responsibility to be mindful stewards for our lands, animals, culture and communities. We invite you to WY responsibly as you witness the majesty of Wyoming.

Interested in visiting Wind River Country? Plan your trip HERE!

Follow the Moments That Make Wind River Country


See Wind River Country as it happens, on the trail, in town and out on the land. Follow along for real moments from real people, and share your own journey by tagging @windrivercountry.

Saddle up and experience Wyoming the way it was meant to be experienced. 🐴 Guest ranches and outfitters throughout Wind River Country offer guided pack trips that take you deep into some of Wyoming's most breathtaking backcountry. Start planning your stay in our bio. Photo: Bill Sincavage #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
We love a good waterfall moment. Photo: Tori Jones #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
If you're ready to find room to breathe, take a deep dive into the heart of Wind River Country by learning more from our friends at Cowboys & Indians. Read the full story at the link in our bio. Photo: Wind River Country #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Cheers to a new week! Tell us, where is your favorite place to grab a cold beverage? Photo: @bradytildeath @rusticpinetavern #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Welcome to Shoshoni, the crossroads of Wyoming. https://windriver.org/destinations/shoshoni/
For the inside scoop on all things Wind River Country, be sure to sign up for our newsletter. Link in the bio. #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Need a great place to grab a coffee or treat? Check out Lander Bake Shop! ❤ Photo: Wyoming Office of Tourism @landerbakeshop #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Saturday nights. ❤ Photo: Bethany Baldes #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Ready to venture to Wind River Country this fall? Check out our ranches, cabins, lodges and more at the link in our bio. Photo: Natalie Kovarik #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Consider this a postcard from our backyard. ❤️ #wyoming #windrivercountry Wyoming Dubois
If you're ready to experience touchable history, venture to South Pass City and try your hand at gold panning. Photo: Wyoming Office of Tourism #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY