Edness K. Wilkins State Park

Edness K. Wilkins is a serene day-use park for families, nature lovers and those looking for solitude they can enjoy. The huge old cottonwoods, as they cast reflections on the historic North Platte River, lend shade to visitors. The North Platte River provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, and for fishing, canoeing and rafting.

Today, a visitor can utilize picnic tables, grills, group shelters, playgrounds and a launching ramp for canoes or rafts. A universally accessible fishing pier, the only one like it in the state, has become one of the finest amenities provided to visitors. An additional 2.8 miles of accessible hard-surfaced paths provide visitors with an opportunity to view some of the finest wildlife in the area. Anglers can try their fishing luck in the North Platte River. Swimmers can take a refreshing dip at the park swimming area. Bird watching enthusiasts can wile away the hours searching for yellow warblers, cedar waxwings, downy woodpeckers, and dozens of other species. One birder counted 40 different species of birds on a summer outing.

Activities & Amenities:

Beach

The beach covers about seven-eighths of a mile and is for the most part small pebbles and sand. There are at this time 3 picnic shelters that are set up next to the beach. Each one has a picnic table and is faced to block the afternoon sun for shade.

Biking

Edness Kimball Wilkins has 2.8 miles of winding scenic trails that meanders through old cottonwood landscapes next to the historical North Platte River. Also several miles of unfinished natural trail that test the adventurous.

Boating

All non-motorized boats are allowed on the swimming pond. Paddle boards, paddle boats, canoes, rowboats, all blowup rafts, etc.

Fishing

This section of the North Platte is considered by many as blue ribbon fishing. As the North Platte River winds its way down around the park, boiling waters of trout tease the angler into throwing their favorite fly.

Group Picnic Shelters

EKW has 4 group shelters that sufficiently host 70 people. Electricity is supplied when rented. All shelters are close to parking and restroom facilities. The 4 areas of the park are Mountain View, Platte River, Cottonwood and Centennial.

Hiking

We have several miles of hiking trails in the park. From concrete trails to nature trails that lead to wonderful views along the North Platte River. Many animals habitat the area and is always a photographer's paradise for those seldom caught photographs.

Horseback Riding

The Park has several miles of equestrian trails that are utilized often.
We have a horsetrailer parking area just after the fee booth and southeast of the Mountain View Shelter area.

Picnic Areas

The park is touted as “The Perfect Picnic Place” either for gathering or seclusion.   Your enjoyment is certain with the 50 plus locations to choose from.

Playgrounds

The park has one main playground that has a climbing rock, slides, play tower and swings. There are also two other areas that have climbing rocks.

Wildlife Viewing

Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park is 360 acres of mostly riparian habitat. The park has been named by Audubon Wyoming as an Important bird area.

Several different animals make the park home such as: deer, antelope and fox.
Raptors such as owls, bald and golden eagles, red tail, ruffed legged and ferruginous hawks are common sightings in the park.

Winter Sports

Hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are favorites in the park, as well as horseback riding. Ice skating and hockey are played if the ice cooperates.