Buffalo Bill State Park, Wyoming Travel Guide

Discover the wild beauty and historical charm of Buffalo Bill State Park, nestled between rugged mountains and expansive plains in the heart of Wyoming.

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Buffalo Bill State Park

Buffalo Bill State Park, nestled in the heart of Wyoming, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Named after the legendary showman, Buffalo Bill Cody, the park offers a blend of historical significance and natural splendor. The park is situated near the Shoshone River and is surrounded by rugged mountains and expansive plains, providing breathtaking views and a variety of activities for visitors. The park's scenic landscape is perfect for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Shoshone River is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, where you can catch trout amidst the serene backdrop of the mountains. There are several well-maintained trails that offer varying levels of difficulty, ensuring that both casual walkers and avid hikers find a suitable path. For those interested in history, the nearby Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. The dam, once the tallest in the world, was an engineering marvel of its time and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. The visitor center provides educational exhibits and stunning views of the surrounding area. Camping is another popular activity at Buffalo Bill State Park. The park offers several campgrounds with facilities that cater to both tent campers and RV travelers. Spending a night under the starry Wyoming sky, with the sounds of nature as your lullaby, is an experience not to be missed. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay, Buffalo Bill State Park promises an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Buffalo Bill State Park.

Visit the Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center for a mix of history and stunning views.
Fishing enthusiasts should bring their gear to enjoy trout fishing in the Shoshone River.
Pack layers, as Wyoming weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
Reserve your campground early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species.

Explore Buffalo Bill State Park: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Buffalo Bill State Park

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Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Explore the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a cultural treasure in Cody, Wyoming, featuring five museums dedicated to the history and art of the American West.

4.8

Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center

Explore the Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views, fascinating exhibits, and a glimpse into the rich heritage of the American West.

4.8

Old Trail Town

Experience the authentic Wild West at Old Trail Town, where history comes alive through restored buildings and fascinating artifacts in Cody, Wyoming.

4.6

Cody City Park

Experience the tranquility and charm of Cody City Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families in Wyoming.

4.5

Best landmarks in Buffalo Bill State Park

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Buffalo Bill State Park - Lake Shore Campground

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Buffalo Bill State Park - Lake Shore Campground in Wyoming's stunning natural setting.

4.5

Best restaurants in Buffalo Bill State Park

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McDonald's

Discover the comfort of familiar fast food at McDonald's in Buffalo, WY—your go-to spot for breakfast, burgers, and coffee.

3.2

Dairy Queen

Experience the classic taste of America at Dairy Queen Cody – where delicious fast food meets delightful ice cream treats.

4.2

Best bars in Buffalo Bill State Park

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Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel & Restaurant

Discover the historic charm of Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel & Restaurant in Cody, Wyoming, where Western hospitality meets modern comfort.

4.2

Proud Cut Saloon

Experience the best of Western cuisine at Proud Cut Saloon - a steak lover's paradise in Cody, Wyoming, blending rich flavors with a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Millstone Pizza Company & Brewery

Savor unique gourmet pizzas and craft beers at Millstone Pizza Company & Brewery, a culinary hotspot in Cody, Wyoming.

4.1

Silver Dollar Bar

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Silver Dollar Bar in Cody, Wyoming, where hearty meals and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Buffalo Bill State Park

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Elks Lodge

Visit the Elks Lodge in Cody, Wyoming, for a unique blend of local culture, community events, and warm hospitality.

4.6

Best shops in Buffalo Bill State Park

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Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Discover the vibrant history and culture of the American West at the Buffalo Bill Center, a premier museum complex in Cody, Wyoming.

4.8

Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center

Explore the historical marvel of Buffalo Bill Dam and Visitor Center, where captivating exhibits meet stunning natural beauty in Cody, Wyoming.

4.8

Sierra

Discover a diverse range of outdoor and everyday products at Sierra in Cody, Wyoming, the ultimate department store for all your travel needs.

4.3

Yellowstone Gift Shop

Explore the Yellowstone Gift Shop in Cody, WY - your destination for unique souvenirs, Native American goods, and local collectibles.

4.5

Explore Buffalo Bill State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Buffalo Bill State Park, mapped for you.

Buffalo Bill State Park Essentials

Buffalo Bill State Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, near the town of Cody. The nearest major airports are Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, which is about 20 miles from the park, and Billings Logan International Airport in Billings, Montana, approximately 110 miles away. From Cody, you can reach the park by car via U.S. Highway 14/16/20. There are also shuttle services and rental cars available from Cody for those who prefer not to drive.
While Buffalo Bill State Park is best explored by car, there are alternative transportation options. Bicycles are a great way to traverse the park, and bike rentals are available in Cody. Additionally, some local tour companies offer guided tours of the park. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is recommended for the most flexibility.
The official currency in the United States is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most businesses in and around Buffalo Bill State Park, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs can be found in Cody, so it's advisable to withdraw cash before heading into the park, as there are limited banking facilities within the park itself.
Buffalo Bill State Park is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Always lock your car and secure valuables out of sight. Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance from animals. While Cody is a relatively safe town, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always stay vigilant.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Cody at the Cody Regional Health Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Cody where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially when hiking. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. Don't wear flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect at any religious or historical sites you visit. Public Transport: Do plan ahead as public transportation options are limited. Renting a car is the best option. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and enjoy the regional cuisine. Don't leave food scraps unattended as it can attract wildlife.
To experience Buffalo Bill State Park like a local, visit the Buffalo Bill Dam and Visitor Center for a history lesson and stunning views. Fishing enthusiasts should try angling in the Shoshone River. For a unique experience, attend one of the local rodeos or cowboy events in Cody. Engage with the locals, who are often eager to share stories about the area’s rich history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Buffalo Bill State Park?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Buffalo Bill State Park

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Buffalo Bill State Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [HOU-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [SEE yuh LAY-ter]
- YesYup
  [YUHP]
- NoNah
  [NAH]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [PLEEZ/no PROB-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [THANKS]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [PAR-dun mee/mai BAD]
- How are you?Howdy partner?
  [HOU-dee PAR-tner?]
- Fine. And you?Just dandy. You?
  [JUHST DAN-dee. YU?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [YAWL speak ING-glish?]
- I don't understandI'm plum confused
  [AHM PLUM kun-FYOOST]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the grub options?
  [kan eye TAYK uh GAN-dur at thuh GRUB op-shuns?]
- I don't eat meatI'm a veggie
  [AHM uh VEH-jee]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [BOT-ums UP]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon it's time to settle up
  [eye REK-un its TIME to SET-ul UP]
- Help!S.O.S!
  [ESS-OH-ESS]
- Go away!Skedaddle!
  [skuh-DAD-ul]
- Call the Police!Get the sheriff!
  [GET thuh SHER-iff]
- Call a doctor!Fetch a sawbones!
  [FETCH uh SAW-boanz]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [AHM awl TURND uh-ROUND]
- I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [AHM FEE-lin UN-dur thuh WETH-ur]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [eye'm FIX-in tuh PUR-chuss]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [JUHST BROW-zin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [WUTS thuh DAM-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's a might pricey
  [THATS uh MYT PRY-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya shave a bit off?
  [kan yuh SHAYV uh bit off]
- What time is it?What's the hour?
  [WUTS thuh OUR]
- It's one o'clockIt's high noon
  [its HIGH noon]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [TEN-THUR-tee]
- MorningSunup
  [SUN-up]
- AfternoonHigh noon
  [HIGH noon]
- EveningSunset
  [SUN-set]
- YesterdayYesteryear
  [YES-tur-yeer]
- TodayThis here day
  [THIS hir DAY]
- TomorrowMorrow
  [MOR-oh]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [TOO]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [FOUR]
- 5Five
  [FIVE]
- 6Six
  [SIX]
- 7Seven
  [SEV-en]
- 8Eight
  [AIT]
- 9Nine
  [NINE]
- 10Ten
  [TEN]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [WHURS thuh]
- What's the address?What's the location?
  [WUTS thuh loh-KAY-shun]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out?
  [kan yuh POINT it OUT]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next stage?
  [WENZ thuh NEKST stayj]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ...)
  [uh PASS (to ...)]

History of Buffalo Bill State Park

Buffalo Bill State Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, was established in 1957. It was named after the legendary showman William Frederick 'Buffalo Bill' Cody, who played a significant role in the area's development. The park encompasses the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, which was created by the construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam on the Shoshone River.
Completed in 1910, the Buffalo Bill Dam was a marvel of engineering at the time of its construction. Originally known as the Shoshone Dam, it was the tallest dam in the world when completed, standing at 325 feet. The dam was later renamed in honor of Buffalo Bill Cody, who was instrumental in promoting the development of the region. The dam's construction was part of the Shoshone Project, one of the first federal irrigation projects in the United States, aimed at transforming the arid landscape into fertile farmland.
William F. Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, was a prominent figure in the American West. He founded the town of Cody, Wyoming, located just a few miles from the state park, in 1896. Cody envisioned the town as a tourist destination and gateway to Yellowstone National Park. His Wild West shows brought international attention to the area, and his efforts in developing irrigation and promoting agriculture were instrumental in the establishment of Buffalo Bill State Park.
Buffalo Bill State Park is not only a tribute to the legacy of Buffalo Bill Cody but also a testament to the rich cultural history of the region. The park and surrounding areas were historically inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Crow, and Blackfeet. The Shoshone River, which feeds into the reservoir, is named after the Shoshone tribe. The park offers insights into the diverse cultural heritage of the region through its interpretive programs and exhibits.
Since its establishment, Buffalo Bill State Park has grown into a popular recreational destination. The park offers a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. The Buffalo Bill Reservoir is stocked with several species of fish, making it a prime location for anglers. The park's development over the years has included the construction of campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails, providing visitors with numerous opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species. The surrounding Absaroka Mountains and Shoshone National Forest add to the area's natural splendor. Efforts to preserve the natural environment and wildlife habitats within the park are ongoing, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the park's pristine beauty.