Green River Lakes in western Wyoming offer a spectacular mountain setting for hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Located near the western edge of the Wind River Range in Bridger-Teton National Forest, this destination is known for its clear mountain water, rugged peaks, forested shoreline, and access to the Bridger Wilderness.
The area is especially appealing if you want to escape busy resort towns and spend time surrounded by nature. You can paddle across the lower lake, follow trails into the mountains, fish for trout, or camp beneath the impressive profile of Square Top Mountain.
However, Green River Lakes is a remote mountain destination rather than a fully developed vacation resort. Road conditions, seasonal access, limited facilities, and current campground advisories all matter when planning your trip. Here’s what to know before visiting.
Where Are Green River Lakes Located?
Green River Lakes are in Sublette County, Wyoming, within Bridger-Teton National Forest. They sit along the western side of the Wind River Range, a mountain range known for its rugged peaks, alpine terrain, and backcountry trails.
The lakes lie at approximately 8,000 feet above sea level. Square Top Mountain, which rises to 11,581 feet, provides a striking backdrop to the water and surrounding forest.
The nearest full-service community is Pinedale, roughly 50 miles south of the campground. Pinedale is a useful place to organize supplies and prepare for a trip into this remote area.
Upper and Lower Green River Lakes
The name Green River Lakes refers to a pair of mountain lakes near the headwaters of the Green River.
- Lower Green River Lake: This is the main destination for visitors arriving by road. The campground sits near its shoreline, and the lake provides access to small-watercraft recreation and nearby trails.
- Upper Green River Lake: This lake lies farther into the mountain wilderness and is associated with the hiking and backpacking routes extending beyond the developed recreation area.
The surrounding landscape connects the lakes with the upper Green River drainage, forested slopes, mountain meadows, and the Bridger Wilderness. The area offers a mix of accessible lakeside recreation and more demanding backcountry travel.
Best Things to Do at Green River Lakes
Green River Lakes appeals to visitors who enjoy outdoor activities more than commercial attractions. Most experiences revolve around the water, the mountains, and the trails surrounding the lakes.
Go Hiking Along the Lakeshore
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Green River Lakes. You can enjoy the scenery near the campground or choose longer routes that lead deeper into the Wind River Range.
The Lakeside Trail follows the timbered western edge of the lakes and connects with the Porcupine Creek Trail. The area also provides access to routes associated with the Highline Trail and Continental Divide Trail.
Before setting out, consider your fitness level, available daylight, and the distance you want to cover. Mountain trails can involve uneven ground, changing weather, and elevation gain.
For a more relaxed visit, spend time walking near the shoreline and enjoying the views. If you’re planning a longer hike, check current trail conditions and closures before leaving the developed area.
Try Kayaking and Canoeing
The lakes are suitable for small watercraft, making kayaking and canoeing popular ways to explore the water. A alternative carry-down boat launch provides access near the lower lake.
Paddling gives you a different perspective of the surrounding mountains. It can also be a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery without committing to a long hike.
Keep these practical points in mind:
- Bring your own watercraft and required safety equipment unless you’ve confirmed local rental availability.
- Wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.
- Check wind and weather conditions before launching.
- Be prepared for cold water, even during warmer weather.
- Confirm current launch access and any temporary restrictions.
The lake is not a place to assume that motorized boating is permitted. Check the current rules before bringing a powered vessel.
Fish for Trout
Fishing is another reason people visit Green River Lakes. The surrounding waters support several trout species, including brook, cutthroat, rainbow, and mackinaw trout.
You can plan a fishing trip around the shoreline or explore the water by an appropriate small craft. The mountain setting also makes fishing appealing to visitors who want a quieter outdoor experience.
Before fishing, review Wyoming’s current fishing regulations. Pay attention to licensing requirements, species-specific rules, seasonal restrictions, and any special regulations that apply to the water you’re visiting.
Don’t assume that the same rules apply to every stream or lake in the area.
Camp Near the Lake
Camping lets you spend more time enjoying the landscape rather than making the long drive in and out on the same day.
Green River Lakes Campground has individual campsites and group camping areas. The established facilities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but individual sites do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups.
The campground is relatively rustic. Lodgepole pines provide some shade, although the Forest Service notes that shade is limited in many areas.
Camping is a good option for hikers, anglers, paddlers, and photographers who want an early start or more time around the lake.
Important 2026 update: The campground’s current Recreation.gov notice reports that water service is unavailable following damage associated with the Dollar Lake Fire. It also warns of possible campground closures while officials evaluate conditions and road reconstruction that may cause delays. Bring your own potable water and confirm access before traveling.
Photograph Square Top Mountain
Square Top Mountain is one of the defining features of the Green River Lakes landscape. Its distinctive summit rises above the lake and creates a memorable backdrop for outdoor photography.
You don’t need to undertake a demanding hike to appreciate the scenery. Shoreline viewpoints and areas around the campground provide opportunities to photograph the water, mountains, forests, and changing light.
For better results, consider visiting early or late in the day when the light may emphasize the mountain’s shape and reflections on the water. Conditions vary, so reflections aren’t guaranteed.
Stay on permitted routes and avoid entering closed areas to reach a particular viewpoint.
Watch Wildlife and Enjoy the Mountain Scenery
The Green River corridor provides habitat for wildlife, and the surrounding area supports a range of mountain and forest species. Summer wildflowers add color to the landscape during the growing season.
Bring binoculars if you enjoy observing wildlife from a distance. Move quietly, give animals plenty of space, and never approach wildlife for photographs.
Green River Lakes is also a good destination for simply slowing down. You can spend time by the water, enjoy the mountain views, or sit outside your campsite and listen to the sounds of the forest.
Green River Lakes Campground: Facilities and Camping Information
The campground is a useful base for exploring the lakes, but its facilities are more limited than those at a developed resort.
| Feature | What to know |
| Setting | Near Lower Green River Lake in Bridger-Teton National Forest |
| Elevation | Approximately 8,000 feet |
| Individual camping | Available; sites are listed as first-come, first-served in the campground information |
| Group camping | Three designated group sites |
| Restrooms | Vault toilets |
| Water | Current 2026 notice reports water-system damage; bring potable water |
| Electrical hookups | Not available at individual campsites |
| Water and sewer hookups | Not available at individual campsites |
| Boat access | Primitive launch for small watercraft |
| Nearby community | Pinedale, about 50 miles south |
| Pets | Must be leashed within developed sites |
Source: Recreation.gov’s Green River Lakes Campground information. Conditions and operating arrangements can change, especially following wildfire impacts and road work.
Is Green River Lakes Campground suitable for RVs?
Some vehicles can reach the campground using the approach road, but travelers should not confuse road access with full RV facilities.
The campground has dirt roads and parking areas. Individual sites lack utility hookups, and the Forest Service information cautions that group-site parking isn’t designed for large RVs or trailers. Check the current road conditions and the dimensions of your vehicle before setting out.
Can you reserve a campsite?
The campground information identifies individual sites as first-come, first-served, with no reservations, while three group sites are listed separately. Because the 2026 notices warn of potential closures, verify the current arrangement before planning an overnight stay.
How to Get to Green River Lakes
The usual road approach begins in Pinedale, Wyoming.
According to the campground’s published directions, the route follows these roads:
- Travel west from Pinedale on U.S. Highway 191 for approximately 7 miles.
- Turn north onto Wyoming Highway 352.
- Continue about 25 miles to the national forest boundary, where the pavement ends.
- Continue along the dirt road for approximately 18 miles toward the campground.
These are published route distances, not a guarantee of current driving time or road conditions.
What Is the Road Like?
The final portion of the drive follows an unpaved road. Weather can make it difficult or impassable, even when the route is normally suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles.
Road reconstruction is another important consideration in 2026. Allow extra time, check official road notices, and contact the Pinedale Ranger District if you need clarification about vehicle access.
The drive is part of the experience, but it requires more preparation than a trip to a lake beside a major highway.
Best Time to Visit Green River Lakes
The best time to visit depends on your plans and the current access conditions.
Summer
Summer is generally the main season to consider for hiking, camping, paddling, and fishing. Snowmelt, weather, and trail conditions can still affect access at this elevation.
Summer also brings wildflowers and opportunities to spend longer days outdoors. However, don’t assume that every facility will be operating or that every trail will be open.
Early Fall
Early fall can appeal to visitors looking for cooler temperatures and seasonal changes in the landscape. It’s also a time to prepare carefully for shorter days, colder nights, and unpredictable mountain weather.
Check for seasonal closures and road conditions before making the trip.
Winter
Winter travel requires a different approach. Snow and difficult road conditions can limit ordinary vehicle access. The nearby Green River Lake Lodge information specifies winter access by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes during its stated winter period. That information should not be treated as confirmation that the campground or all surrounding trails are accessible.
If you want a winter visit, confirm current access, restrictions, and weather conditions with the relevant forest office before traveling.
Essential Safety Tips for Visiting Green River Lakes
The area’s remote location and high elevation make preparation important, even if you’re only planning a short visit.
- Bring sufficient drinking water. The campground’s 2026 notice reports that its water system is unavailable.
- Check road and fire updates. Wildfire impacts and road reconstruction may affect access or campground operations.
- Prepare for changing weather. Mountain conditions can shift quickly, and temperatures may fall sharply after sunset.
- Carry appropriate clothing. Pack layers and rain protection, even during summer.
- Practice bear safety. Follow local food-storage requirements and keep food and scented items secured.
- Use watercraft responsibly. Wear flotation devices and avoid paddling in conditions beyond your ability.
- Check fishing rules. Obtain the required license and review current regulations.
- Respect closures. Fire-related restrictions may apply to particular roads, trails, or areas.
- Plan for limited services. Do not count on nearby shops, fuel, cellular coverage, or emergency assistance being immediately available.
The official campground notice lists the Pinedale Ranger District at 307-367-4326 for questions about current conditions and access.
What to Pack for a Green River Lakes Trip
A little preparation can make a remote mountain outing much more comfortable.
Consider packing:
- Drinking water for everyone in your group
- Food and snacks for the entire trip
- A paper map or offline navigation
- Weather-appropriate layers and rain gear
- Sturdy hiking footwear
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect protection
- First-aid supplies
- A headlamp or flashlight
- Bear-safe food storage equipment appropriate to local requirements
- Fishing gear and a valid license, if needed
- A personal flotation device for each person using a watercraft
- Camping equipment suitable for cool mountain nights
If you’re planning to camp, confirm which facilities are operating and bring anything you cannot reasonably obtain near the lakes.
Is Green River Lakes Worth Visiting?
Green River Lakes is a strong choice for travelers who value mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and a relatively remote setting. The combination of lakeside camping, trout fishing, small-watercraft access, hiking routes, and views of Square Top Mountain makes the area appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
It’s less suitable for travelers who want a developed waterfront with restaurants, extensive services, and easy paved-road access. The drive and limited facilities are part of the planning considerations.
For the best experience, match your plans to the conditions. A short scenic visit may suit one traveler, while another may prefer a camping trip or a longer backcountry adventure. In either case, verify access before leaving Pinedale.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green River Lakes
Where are Green River Lakes in Wyoming?
Green River Lakes are in Sublette County, within Bridger-Teton National Forest on the western side of the Wind River Range. Pinedale is the nearest full-service community, approximately 50 miles south of the campground.
Are there two Green River Lakes?
Yes. The area is commonly described in terms of Upper Green River Lake and Lower Green River Lake. The lower lake is the main road-accessible recreation destination, with a campground nearby.
Can you swim in Green River Lakes?
Swimming is listed among the recreational activities associated with the campground. However, the lakes are at high elevation, and the water can be very cold. Check current access conditions and use appropriate water safety precautions before swimming.
Can you kayak on Green River Lakes?
Yes. The campground information identifies canoeing and kayaking as suitable activities and describes access for small watercraft. Confirm current launch access and restrictions before bringing your equipment.
Is fishing allowed at Green River Lakes?
Fishing is a recognized activity in the area, and the waters support brook, cutthroat, rainbow, and mackinaw trout. Check Wyoming’s current fishing regulations for licensing, limits, and any applicable restrictions.
Is Green River Lakes Campground open in 2026?
The published campground information includes 2026 notices about road reconstruction, water-system damage, and a possible closure while officials assess conditions after the Dollar Lake Fire. Do not assume the campground is open on your travel date. Confirm its current status before leaving.
How far are Green River Lakes from Pinedale?
The campground is approximately 50 miles north of Pinedale. The final part of the drive follows an unpaved road, and actual travel time depends on road conditions and construction delays.
Can you camp for free at Green River Lakes?
Don’t assume camping is free. Fees and site availability can depend on the camping area and current management arrangements. Check the latest campground information before your trip.
Are dogs allowed at Green River Lakes?
The campground information states that pets must be leashed within developed sites. Additional rules may apply on wilderness trails or in other parts of the forest, so check the regulations for your intended route.
Conclusion
Green River Lakes combines mountain scenery, quiet lakeshores, fishing, paddling, camping, and access to the Wind River Range. It’s an appealing Wyoming destination for visitors who prefer outdoor adventures to developed tourist attractions.
The most important step is to plan around the area’s remote setting. Check the latest road, fire, trail, and campground notices, bring your own drinking water, and prepare for changing mountain weather. With those details covered, you can make better decisions about how to explore the lakes and surrounding wilderness.
I’m Charlotte Pembroke, and my passion for lakes began through travelling across the United Kingdom’s national parks. I enjoy learning about freshwater ecosystems, famous lakes, conservation, and the unique stories behind these incredible places.
I write to make geography and nature enjoyable for everyone, combining reliable research with clear explanations that readers of all ages can understand.
Books I’ve Written:
- Lakes of Britain: A Natural Journey
- Waters That Shaped History
Oliver Whitmore