How do I access Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?

Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is a public boat ramp in Wyoming. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?

Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?

The best time to paddle at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?

Water conditions at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park good for beginners?

Yes, Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park

Buffalo, WY · Boat Ramp · Public

Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is a public boat ramp on Lake De Smet near Buffalo, Wyoming. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Lake De Smet in Wyoming. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Buffalo.

Paddlers visiting Lake De Smet in Wyoming can launch from Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 10 min from Buffalo, Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Buffalo area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?: Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is a public boat ramp in Wyoming. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?: Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?: The best time to paddle at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park?: Water conditions at Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park good for beginners?: Yes, Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.4549, -106.7479