The Most Charming River Towns In Wyoming

Wyoming’s river towns offer a refreshing combination of natural beauty, Western heritage, and outdoor adventure—all without the crowds. From the powerful waters of the Green and Shoshone Rivers to the quiet bends of the Popo Agie and Wind Rivers, these communities invite travelers to slow down and explore. Whether it is soaking in Saratoga’s hot springs, discovering frontier history in Cody, or witnessing wild horses in Lander, these riverside towns provide a welcoming escape with memorable landscapes and rich local character. Discover the seven most charming river towns to explore in Wyoming.

Green River

Green River, nestled along the scenic Green River in southwestern Wyoming, is a vibrant destination for travelers drawn to nature, culture, and outdoor recreation. The town’s lifeblood flows through its namesake river, where kayaking, rafting, and fishing are everyday pastimes. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Expedition Island Park—this riverside retreat includes picnic areas, a playground, open green spaces, and access to the Greenbelt Pathway and an interpretive nature trail, perfect for unwinding by the water.

Beyond the riverbanks, adventure continues along the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop. This 24-mile gravel route gives visitors the chance to see wild horses roaming freely against sweeping high desert landscapes. In town, the Sweetwater County Historical Museum, located in a former post office, traces the region’s past with engaging exhibits on Native cultures, early pioneers, and outlaws. In addition, each June, the community comes together for Flaming Gorge Days—a lively celebration with music, sports, and family-friendly activities that reflect the spirited personality of this riverfront town.

Cody

Cody, perched beside the fast-moving Shoshone River, pulses with the bold energy of the American West. This northwestern Wyoming town mixes natural beauty with frontier heritage, making it a dynamic destination for history buffs and adventure seekers. Anchoring the experience is the renowned Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a five-museum complex featuring everything from Western art and Native culture to natural history and an extensive firearms collection—all housed under one roof. Just west of town, Old Trail Town brings the 1800s to life with authentic frontier buildings, wagons, and artifacts gathered from across the region. It is a walk through history surrounded by big skies and mountain views.

At the Cody Theatre, the Wild West Spectacular musical adds theatrical flair to the town’s legacy with a lively, family-friendly retelling of Buffalo Bill’s showbiz era. And no trip to Cody would be complete without a night at the Cody Night Rodeo, where real cowboys and cowgirls ride, rope, and race under the lights every summer evening.

Lander

Lander sits along the winding Popo Agie River at the base of the rugged Wind River Mountains, delivering a mix of outdoor discovery and deep-rooted culture. The river defines much of the landscape here, especially at Sinks Canyon State Park, where it disappears underground through limestone rock, only to reemerge downstream in a quiet trout-filled pool. This rare geologic feature draws hikers, climbers, and nature lovers to its scenic trails and canyon views year-round.

Just outside town, the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary invites visitors to experience one of Wyoming’s wild horse herds in their natural habitat. A side-by-side tour through open land reveals the spirit of these free-roaming animals, while the Visitors Center shares meaningful insight into Native American traditions and history. In town, the Fremont County Pioneer Museum highlights Lander’s earliest days through artifacts that trace local life from prehistory through the 1920s. For a deeper dive into Western heritage, the Museum of the American West provides vivid storytelling and authentic exhibits that celebrate frontier resilience.

Saratoga

Saratoga rests along the banks of the North Platte River, a legendary destination for blue-ribbon trout fishing and peaceful riverfront escapes. Anglers, rafters, and nature lovers are drawn to its clear waters, while the surrounding landscape invites exploration in every season. A must-visit stop is the Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs, a naturally heated pool that remains open year-round, free to the public. Used for centuries by Native Americans who believed in its healing qualities, the hot pool now has a relaxing setting for residents and travelers with temperatures ranging from a soothing 106°F to a steamy 119°F.

Nearby, Saratoga Lake delivers scenic beauty and great fishing in all seasons, along with boat access and a well-equipped campground. For outdoor thrills, Wyoming Outdoor Adventures provides access to snowmobiles and UTVs, guided floats, hikes, and more—opening up over 200 miles of mountain trails and river views. To get a feel for Saratoga’s past, the Saratoga Museum showcases thousands of artifacts and the state’s most diverse collection of minerals, with specimens from around the globe.

Pinedale

Pinedale, located in western Wyoming, is surrounded by a network of rivers, most notably the Green River and its many tributaries. A visit to the Museum of the Mountain Man unveils a compelling chapter of the Rocky Mountain fur trade era. Here, rare artifacts like Jim Bridger’s rifle and an original sheephorn bow bring frontier history to life. Just outside of town, the Sommers Ranch Homestead immerses guests in the early 1900s ranching lifestyle. The site features restored log buildings, including a barn, bunkhouse, and the original two-story homestead house—each telling stories of resilience on the range.

For those drawn to the outdoors, Fremont Lake lies just north of town. At 12 miles long and over 600 feet deep, this stunning body of water has ample space for boating, swimming, and annual events like the Big Fish Ice Derby. Adventure continues at White Pine Resort, where the Wind River Mountains provide a dramatic setting for skiing in the winter and mountain biking or hiking in the warmer months.

Dubois

Dubois, nestled along the banks of the Wind River in northwestern Wyoming, sits in a picturesque valley between the Wind River and Absaroka mountain ranges. In town, a deeper connection to both nature and national history awaits. The National Bighorn Sheep Center highlights the area's wildlife legacy, focusing on one of the largest wintering herds of Rocky Mountain bighorns. Interactive displays and insightful tours reveal the sheep’s mountain environment and fascinating behaviors.

Nearby, the National Museum of Military Vehicles features one of the nation’s most extensive collections of restored tanks, weaponry, and artifacts. It has powerful stories from World War I through modern conflicts and exhibits for all ages.

Outdoors, Whiskey Mountain Conservation Camp is a memorable overnight adventure led by Wyoming Game and Fish staff. Families build outdoor skills and discover the natural beauty of the Wind River Valley through group activities and exploration. Closer to town, Dubois Town Park has a skatepark, paved walking trail, and shaded picnic spots beside the water—a pleasant setting for a relaxed afternoon.

Riverton

Cradled at the meeting point of the Wind River and Little Wind River, Riverton is a vibrant river town where natural beauty and rich history flow together. A standout attraction is the Wind River Hotel & Casino, Wyoming’s top gaming venue, with more than 800 slot machines, table games, and a full sportsbook—making it a lively entertainment hub just a short drive from Yellowstone.

For those drawn to nature and wildlife, the Wind River Heritage Center presents an impressive collection of full-body mounts, showcasing everything from moose to small game and regional birds. The museum also honors the area's rich tribal traditions, connecting guests with the stories of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho peoples.

Nearby, the Riverton Museum chronicles the region’s evolution through exhibits featuring pioneer life, early industry, and Indigenous heritage. Just outside of town, history comes alive at the 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous Grounds, the only original rendezvous site still accessible in the US. Today, it hosts annual reenactments that transport visitors to the days when trappers and traders met along the riverbanks.

Wyoming’s small towns along its rivers offer a striking mix of scenic landscapes, outdoor adventure, and heritage that runs deep. Whether you are exploring the Wind River Valley in Dubois, fishing the North Platte in Saratoga, or walking along the Greenbelt in Green River, each town reflects the state’s untamed spirit and deep connection to its waterways. Museums, scenic drives, historic landmarks, and welcoming communities await at every stop. If you are seeking a meaningful and scenic escape, these are the river towns to keep on your list.