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Cities in Park County, Wyoming

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Park County, Wyoming, is located in the northwestern corner of the state and is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreation, and historical significance. Established in 1909, Park County is home to part of Yellowstone National Park, making it one of Wyoming’s major tourist destinations. The county boasts rugged mountains, scenic valleys, and thriving wildlife. Agriculture, tourism, and outdoor sports form the economic backbone of the area. Cody, the county seat, is renowned for its Wild West heritage and serves as a cultural and economic center for the region. The county offers a blend of small-town charm and access to world-class outdoor experiences.

Park County Facts:

  • Population: Approximately 29,000
  • County Seat: Cody
  • Number of cities and towns: 3

List of Cities and Towns in Park County, Wyoming

Cody

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1896
  • Population: ~10,000
  • Population Density: 1,100 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 4,997 feet

City Overview: Cody, named after the famous frontiersman Buffalo Bill Cody, serves as the county seat of Park County and is known for its Wild West roots and close proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Located on U.S. Highway 14, Cody is a gateway city for those heading to Yellowstone, with transportation connections that make it accessible and a well-developed infrastructure for tourists. Cody is surrounded by scenic mountain ranges, and the Shoshone River runs nearby, offering residents and visitors a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The town experiences a semi-arid climate with mild summers and cold winters, supporting year-round activities and a tourism-driven economy.

Things to Do: Cody offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a multi-museum complex, provides insights into the history, art, and culture of the American West. For those interested in rodeo, the Cody Nite Rodeo offers daily shows in the summer, keeping the town’s cowboy traditions alive. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Shoshone National Forest for hiking, fishing, and camping, or take a scenic drive on the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Cody’s vibrant downtown features historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience Western culture. Annual events like Cody Stampede celebrate the town’s heritage, drawing locals and tourists for parades, rodeos, and festive activities.

Powell

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: 1909
  • Population: ~6,500
  • Population Density: 1,050 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 4,393 feet

City Overview: Powell is a friendly town located in the agricultural heart of the Big Horn Basin, east of Cody. Known for its strong community values and educational institutions, Powell is home to Northwest College, which contributes to the town’s vibrant culture. The town is accessible via U.S. Highway 14A and is surrounded by vast farmlands, supporting a strong agricultural economy focused on crops like sugar beets, beans, and barley. With a mild climate, Powell provides ideal conditions for farming and ranching. Powell’s small-town atmosphere and amenities make it a desirable place for families and visitors interested in local culture and rural charm.

Things to Do: Powell offers several attractions and activities, including the Homesteader Museum, where visitors can learn about the early settlers of the Big Horn Basin through exhibits and artifacts. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Heart Mountain, a prominent landmark with trails and scenic views, or visit the nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area for boating, fishing, and hiking. Powell’s downtown area has local shops, eateries, and events, providing a relaxed setting to experience Wyoming’s rural lifestyle. The town also hosts annual events, such as the Park County Fair, featuring rodeos, concerts, and agricultural exhibits that celebrate Powell’s farming heritage and bring the community together.

Meeteetse

City Facts:

  • Year Founded: Late 1800s
  • Population: ~330
  • Population Density: 225 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 5,754 feet

City Overview: Meeteetse is a small town located south of Cody, known for its rich history, ranching roots, and access to beautiful wilderness areas. Set along the banks of the Greybull River, Meeteetse is surrounded by open rangelands and rugged mountains. The town has preserved much of its historic character, with original buildings dating back to the late 19th century. Meeteetse is accessible via Wyoming Highway 120, connecting it to Cody and Thermopolis. The town’s quiet charm and proximity to natural attractions make it a peaceful retreat for those interested in outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.

Things to Do: In Meeteetse, visitors can explore the town’s unique history at the Meeteetse Museums, which include the Charles Belden Museum showcasing historic photography of the region. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing and exploring the Greybull River or venture to the nearby Absaroka Mountains for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. The town is also known for its annual Labor Day Rodeo and the Meeteetse Ice Cream Social, events that bring the community together and celebrate local traditions. Meeteetse is close to the Wood River Valley, where visitors can experience Wyoming’s pristine wilderness and spot wildlife such as grizzly bears and moose.

List of Communities in Park County, Wyoming

Clark

Community Facts:

  • Year Founded: Early 1900s
  • Population: ~300
  • Population Density: 5 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 4,625 feet

Clark is a rural community located north of Cody along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. Known for its scenic views and open spaces, Clark is ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle surrounded by nature. It offers easy access to outdoor activities, especially fishing, hiking, and camping in nearby wilderness areas.

Wapiti

Community Facts:

  • Year Founded: Early 1900s
  • Population: ~280
  • Population Density: 7 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 5,700 feet

Wapiti is a small community located between Cody and the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning landscapes and proximity to Yellowstone, Wapiti serves as a popular base for visitors exploring the park. The Shoshone River runs nearby, offering fishing and scenic drives through the Wapiti Valley.

Garland

Community Facts:

  • Year Founded: Early 1900s
  • Population: ~115
  • Population Density: 10 per square mile
  • Area Code: 307
  • Elevation: 4,380 feet

Garland is a small agricultural community located near Powell, known for its productive farmlands. Primarily a residential area for farming families, Garland offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to amenities in Powell. The community’s agricultural focus contributes to the region’s economy, with crops like beans and barley.

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