Cities And Towns In Park County, Wyoming

Geography and Demographics

Park County Location and Boundaries

Park County is a county located in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Wyoming.

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was approximately 8,416 people.

The county seat and largest city is Cody, which has a population of around 9,572 residents.

Park County spans an area of 3,068 square miles (7,950 km2) in total.

The terrain is dominated by the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area to the north and the Shoshone National Forest to the south.

These areas are characterized by high mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers, which contribute significantly to the region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Park County is situated within the Rocky Mountains, specifically in the northern part of the range.

The county shares its boundaries with five other counties: Park’s eastern border is formed by Johnson County, while Carbon County lies to the south.

On the west, Park County borders Fremont County and Teton County on the northwest.

Sublette County forms the northern boundary of Park County.

The county seat, Cody, is a significant cultural and economic hub in the region, hosting various events throughout the year, including the popular Yellowstone Art Museum and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Cody was founded by William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1896, as an important stopping point for travelers and settlers heading to the nearby Yellowstone National Park.

The town is now a gateway to the national park and a popular tourist destination.

Park County is situated in the northwestern part of Wyoming, sharing its borders with Sweetwater County to the west, Converse County to the south, Albany County to the east, and Carbon County to the northwest.

The geography and demographics of Park County, Wyoming provide a unique insight into the characteristics of this northwestern part of the state.

Geographically, Park County is situated in a mountainous region, with elevations ranging from approximately 5,000 to over 13,000 feet above sea level. The county is characterized by vast wilderness areas, mountains, and rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

The demographics of Park County reveal a relatively small but growing population. According to the 2020 United States Census, the estimated population of Park County was approximately 28,416 people.

The median age in Park County is slightly higher than the national average, with a median household income of around $54,000 and a per capita income of about $25,000. The county has seen steady growth over the past few decades, driven in part by an increase in tourism and outdoor recreation activities.

Here are some key demographics for Park County:

• Total Population: approximately 28,416 people
• Median Age: higher than the national average (around 45-50 years old)
• Median Household Income: around $54,000 per year
• Per Capita Income: about $25,000 per person

The population growth in Park County can be attributed to various factors, including an increase in tourism, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a growing workforce. The county’s economy is primarily driven by service industries, such as healthcare, education, government services, and retail trade.

Population Trends and Urban Centers

Located in northwestern Wyoming, USA, Park County is one of the largest counties in terms of land area within the state. The county seat, Cody, serves as a significant urban center and tourism hub due to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park.

The population trends in Park County exhibit fluctuations primarily driven by seasonal tourism activities, which contribute significantly to local economies. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau (2020 estimates), the population of Park County is approximately 28,996 residents.

Demographically, the county’s population has shown a growth trend over the past few decades but remains relatively small compared to other parts of Wyoming and the United States. The most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that Park County has an average household size of 2.46 people and approximately 4,300 housing units.

The median age in Park County is around 45 years old, with a slightly higher proportion of females than males (52% female to 48% male). The educational attainment level is relatively high, with about 80% of the population having completed a high school diploma or equivalent, and about 25% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Geographically, Park County is part of the Yellowstone City Cluster which also includes other cities like Livingston and Billings. The county comprises several townships including Buffalo Valley Township, Carpenter Township, Clark Township, Honeymoon Lake Township, Meeteetse Township, and Powell Townships, among others.

From a geography perspective, Park County is primarily characterized by vast mountain ranges such as the Absaroka Mountains that offer scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The county’s terrain also includes prairie lands, high deserts, and rivers like the Shoshone River which flows through its area.

The urban centers in Park County have been experiencing growth mainly driven by tourism related to Yellowstone National Park. However, due to this, seasonal population fluctuations significantly affect local economies and planning efforts. The county’s overall economic resilience is heavily reliant on tourist industries such as lodging, restaurants, and outdoor recreational activities.

Efforts to maintain sustainable development in the region involve balancing growth with environmental protection, which includes conservation initiatives and careful management of natural resources like water and land use. Furthermore, developing strategic community planning processes that incorporate stakeholder engagement is critical for addressing future demographic changes and ensuring that the county’s economic base remains stable.

As Park County navigates its population trends and urban development challenges, it will be crucial to implement sustainable policies that address long-term growth while preserving its unique natural environment and supporting local economies driven by tourism.

According to the 2020 United States Census, Park County has a population of approximately 8,148 residents. The county seat, Cody, serves as a major urban center with a population of around 9,562 people.

Park County, located in the state of Wyoming, has a rich geography and diverse demographics. According to the 2020 United States Census, the county has a population of approximately 8,148 residents.

The county seat, Cody, serves as a major urban center with a population of around 9,562 people, which is the largest town in the county. Cody is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, making it a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and rich history.

Geographically, Park County covers an area of approximately 4,024 square miles, with the Shoshone River flowing through it. The county’s terrain varies from flat plains to rugged mountainous regions, offering diverse habitats for various plant and animal species.

The population of Park County is predominantly white, with a significant number of residents identifying as American Indian or Alaska Native. According to the 2020 census, 95% of the population identifies as non-Hispanic White, while 3% identify as Hispanic or Latino.

Other demographics in the county include:

• Median age: 43.4 years

• Male to female ratio: 1.05 males per female

• Household size: 2.32 people per household

The county’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, with a strong focus on outdoor recreation and natural resource extraction. Cody has a distinct Western culture and hosts various events throughout the year, including the Cody Nite Rodeo and the Yellowstone Art Museum.

Historical Development and Landmarks

Cody’s Early History and Development

The city of Cody, Wyoming has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. Here’s an overview of its early development and notable landmarks:

Early History

• Founded in 1896 by William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the city was established as a tourist destination to attract visitors to Yellowstone National Park.
• Cody was named after its founder, who was also a famous showman and entrepreneur. He built the city’s first hotel, the Irma Hotel, in 1902.

Historical Development

• In its early days, Cody struggled to attract visitors due to competition from nearby West Yellowstone and the town’s remote location. However, with the construction of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in 1908, the city began to flourish.
• The railroad brought in tourists and helped establish Cody as a major tourist destination. The city also became known for its rodeos, which were held annually from 1899 onwards.

Landmarks

• The Irma Hotel: Built in 1902 by Buffalo Bill Cody, this hotel is still operational today and offers accommodations to visitors. It’s a popular spot for history buffs and those looking for a glimpse into the past.
• The Buffalo Bill Center of the West Museum: Located near downtown Cody, this museum features an impressive collection of art and artifacts related to the American West, including works by Charles Russell and Frederic Remington.
• The Old Trail Town: This historic district showcases what life was like in the early days of Cody. Visitors can explore buildings from the 19th century, including a saloon, a post office, and several homes.

Overall, Cody has a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it an attractive destination for tourists. Its early development and notable landmarks have contributed to its growth into a thriving city with a rich heritage.

The town of Cody was founded in 1896 by Buffalo Bill Cody, and it quickly grew into a thriving commercial center due to its proximity to the Shoshone National Forest. The area offers a mix of scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions.

The town of Cody, located in the heart of Park County, Wyoming, has a rich and storied history that spans over a century. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody in 1896, the town was established as a commercial center to cater to the growing demand for goods and services in the nearby Shoshone National Forest.

Buffalo Bill, whose real name was William Frederick Cody, was a legendary figure in American history. A renowned scout, soldier, and showman, he is best known for his role in popularizing the Wild West through his Wild West Show. He chose to establish his new town near the forest, which offered an abundance of natural resources, including timber, minerals, and wildlife.

The early years of Cody’s development were marked by rapid growth and expansion. The town quickly became a thriving commercial center, with businesses emerging to cater to the needs of travelers, trappers, and miners who passed through the area. The town’s proximity to the Shoshone National Forest made it an ideal location for ranchers, farmers, and loggers, who could access the forest’s resources while still being close to amenities.

One of the most significant landmarks in Cody is the Irma Hotel, which was built by Buffalo Bill himself in 1902. This historic hotel has been fully restored and now serves as a testament to the town’s rich history. Other notable landmarks include the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the Cody Nite Rodeo, and the Shoshone National Forest.

Today, the town of Cody continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination. Visitors are drawn by its unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Cody Stampede, which features rodeos, parades, and other events.

The surrounding Shoshone National Forest offers endless opportunities for exploration, whether you’re a hiker, camper, fisherman, or wildlife enthusiast. From scenic drives to backpacking adventures, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful and unspoiled wilderness area.

Overall, Cody is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, the Wild West, or the great outdoors. Its rich cultural heritage, combined with its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Other Notable Communities

The **historical development** of Park County, Wyoming, dates back to the 19th century when it was inhabited by the Shoshone and Crow Native American tribes.

However, it wasn’t until the discovery of gold in 1868 that the area started gaining attention from prospectors and settlers. The establishment of Fort Bridger in 1850 and Fort Laramie in 1834 played a significant role in the development of the region.

Following the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, the county’s population began to grow rapidly, with towns like **Cody** emerging as major centers of commerce and industry.

Cody, founded by William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1896, is perhaps the most famous town in Park County. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum complex, which includes five world-class museums, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the region’s rich history and culture.

Another notable community in the area is **Meeteetse**, a quaint town with a strong ranching heritage. Meeteetse has been designated as an Enterprise Zone, offering incentives to businesses that locate there.

Cody Nite Rodeo is a popular summer attraction in Cody, featuring rodeo competitions and entertainment under the stars every Friday night from June to August. The event is hosted at the **Cody Stampede Grounds**.

The Buffalo Bill Dam, which impounds the North Fork of the Shoshone River, is another significant landmark in the area. Constructed between 1906 and 1910, it’s one of the largest dams west of the Mississippi River.

Cody Trolley is a fun way to see the sights of Cody, offering guided tours of the town and its surroundings on a historic trolley car.

The Pahaska Teepee Museum is a unique museum located near Cody that showcases the history and traditions of the Native American tribes of the region. The museum features an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and cultural exhibits.

Cody Golf Course, situated on the scenic shores of Yellowstone River, offers 18 holes of challenging golf amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

In addition to Cody, other notable communities in Park County include Meeteetse and Wapiti.

Park County, located in north-central Wyoming, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shoshone and Crow nations, who valued the region’s abundant wildlife and natural resources.

As European explorers began to arrive in the late 18th century, fur traders and trappers established camps along the Shoshone River, which flows through the county. These early settlers brought with them new technologies, such as the trapline system, and introduced European diseases that had a devastating impact on the Native American population.

In the mid-19th century, the U.S. government began to establish reservations for the Native American tribes, including the Crow Nation’s reservation in Park County. The reservation would become a central part of the county’s identity and continue to shape its history and culture.

The establishment of Cody, the county seat, marked a significant turning point in the area’s development. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody in 1896, the town was designed as a tourist destination, featuring a range of amenities and attractions that would cater to visitors from across the country.

Today, visitors can still experience the charm of Cody, which boasts a rich cultural scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a range of historical landmarks. Some notable communities in Park County include Meeteetse and Wapiti, each with their own unique history and character.

Meeteetse, located along the Greybull River, is known for its picturesque surroundings, historic buildings, and small-town charm. The town’s early settlers were primarily ranchers and farmers, who took advantage of the area’s fertile soil and abundant water resources.

The Wapiti region, situated near Yellowstone National Park, has a long history dating back to the late 19th century when it served as a key stopping point for travelers on their way to or from the park. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in the area’s stunning natural surroundings.

Throughout its development, Park County has been shaped by the interaction between European settlers, Native American tribes, and the region’s unique geography and natural resources. The county’s rich history is reflected in its many landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions, which continue to draw visitors from across the world.