It is located on Wyoming Highway 210 (Happy Jack Road), halfway between Cheyenne and Laramie, about 24 miles (40 km) from each.

The state park is known for its extensive trail system, fishing reservoirs, and Hynds Lodge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

[6] It was renamed in 1972 in honor of national sportscaster and outdoorsman Curt Gowdy (1919–2006), a Wyoming native, born in Green River and raised in Cheyenne where his broadcasting career began.

Curt Gowdy State Park served as the pilot project for the program, with 32 miles of additional trails.

[10] Park terrain consists of rolling hills and sharp granite outcroppings in the foothills of the Laramie Mountains.