Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

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

Boat Ramp accessing Lake De Smet near Buffalo, Wyoming. calm and sheltered conditions.

Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park provides shoreline access to Lake De Smet in Wyoming, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Buffalo takes about 10 min, putting Mikesell-Potts Recreation Area County Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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:

Paddling Tips

  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • 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.

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: 44.4510, -106.7406

Quick Facts

State
Wyoming
Region
Rocky Mountains
Getting There
~10 min from Buffalo
Get Directions

44.4510, -106.7406

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More Paddling on Lake De Smet

1 other launch on this water body