Johnson County, Wyoming Travel Guide

Discover the rugged charm and historical treasures of Johnson County, Wyoming, where outdoor adventures and rich heritage await in the heart of the American West.

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Johnson County

Johnson County in Wyoming offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, this destination is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. With its wide-open spaces, lush forests, and clear rivers, Johnson County is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The county is steeped in Western history, with many historic sites and museums that tell the story of the American West. The town of Buffalo, the county seat, is home to the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, which showcases artifacts from the region's pioneer days and Native American history. Walking through the streets of Buffalo, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, with its preserved historic buildings and charming local shops. For those who love outdoor activities, Johnson County offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The Bighorn National Forest provides miles of trails and scenic vistas, making it a perfect spot for exploring. In the winter, the area transforms into a wonderland for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Don't forget to visit the breathtaking Crazy Woman Canyon, a hidden gem with stunning rock formations and a beautiful creek. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to unwind in nature, Johnson County has something to offer everyone. Its friendly communities and picturesque landscapes will leave you with unforgettable memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Johnson County.

Visit in the summer for the best hiking and fishing conditions, and in the winter for excellent snowmobiling and skiing.
Check out the local rodeos and cowboy culture events for an authentic Western experience.
Stop by the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum to learn about the region's history and see unique artifacts.
Bring a good pair of hiking boots for exploring the Bighorn National Forest and Crazy Woman Canyon.
Stay in one of the historic inns or lodges in Buffalo for a charming and comfortable experience.

Top City Travel Guides in Johnson County

The cities of Johnson County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Gillette

Sheridan

Destinations in Johnson County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Bighorn National Forest

Explore Johnson County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Johnson County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and Gondola Rides

Discover breathtaking views and adventure at Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, your gateway to the stunning Teton Range in Wyoming.

4.7

Best landmarks in Johnson County

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Best Landmarks

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Grand Teton National Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures that await in Grand Teton National Park, a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and explorers.

4.9

Curt Gowdy State Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Curt Gowdy State Park in Wyoming, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.7

Hot Springs State Park

Experience the healing waters and stunning landscapes of Hot Springs State Park, a natural oasis in Thermopolis, Wyoming.

4.7

Cheyenne Botanic Gardens

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, a serene escape filled with vibrant flowers, lush landscapes, and educational experiences for all ages.

4.8

Best restaurants in Johnson County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Born In A Barn

Experience rustic charm at Born In A Barn – Laramie's premier grill serving hearty American cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

The Bozeman Trail Steakhouse

Experience authentic Western dining at The Bozeman Trail Steakhouse in Buffalo, Wyoming - where quality meets comfort.

4.1

Roadhouse Pub & Eatery

Discover local flavors at Roadhouse Pub & Eatery in Jackson - a cozy spot for delicious meals and craft brews amidst stunning Wyoming scenery.

4.1

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

Best bars in Johnson County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Discover the heart of Wyoming's nightlife at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, where western charm meets lively entertainment in Jackson.

4.1

The Bozeman Trail Steakhouse

Experience the essence of the American West with mouthwatering steaks and a cozy atmosphere at The Bozeman Trail Steakhouse in Buffalo, Wyoming.

4.1

The Pony Grill & Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Pony Grill & Bar in Sheridan, Wyoming, where every meal is a celebration of good taste.

4.4

Albertano's Authentic Méxican Food

Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Albertano's in Buffalo, Wyoming, offering a diverse menu and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Johnson County

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Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Discover the lively ambiance and cowboy spirit at the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson, Wyoming.

4.1

Beacon Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beacon Club in Mills, Wyoming, where lively events and great drinks meet in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.1

Cadillac Ranch Bar

Discover Cadillac Ranch Bar in Cheyenne, Wyoming - a lively bar with great drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

3.8

Super 8 by Wyndham Buffalo

Discover the welcoming comfort and convenience of Super 8 by Wyndham Buffalo, your ideal base for exploring the heart of Wyoming.

3.4

Best shops in Johnson County

Top-rated picks

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The Fix

Discover The Fix, a cozy coffee shop in Buffalo, WY, offering delicious brews and a warm atmosphere for travelers and locals alike.

4.6

The Sports Lure

Discover adventure gear and expert guidance at The Sports Lure, your ultimate destination in Buffalo, Wyoming for outdoor exploration.

4.7

Mountain Meadow Wool Mill

Discover the art of wool production at Mountain Meadow Wool Mill in Buffalo, Wyoming, where craftsmanship meets natural beauty.

4.8

The Clothesline Boutique

Explore The Clothesline Boutique, a charming gift shop in Gillette, Wyoming, offering stylish women's clothing and unique local gifts.

5.0

Explore Johnson County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Johnson County, mapped for you.

Johnson County Essentials

Johnson County is accessible via several major routes. The nearest major airport is Sheridan County Airport, around 35 miles north, offering regional flights. For international flights, Billings Logan International Airport in Montana is about a 2.5-hour drive away. Interstate 90 runs through the northern part of the county, making it accessible by car. Greyhound buses also service nearby cities, and from there, local transport or rental cars can be used to reach Johnson County.
Within Johnson County, rental cars are the most convenient option for getting around, especially if you plan to explore rural areas or the Bighorn Mountains. Local taxi services are available in towns like Buffalo and Kaycee. For a more scenic experience, consider cycling or hiking on the numerous trails. There is limited public transportation, so a personal vehicle is recommended.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are available in Buffalo and other larger towns.
Johnson County is generally safe for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it’s always best to stay vigilant.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Buffalo has a hospital and several medical clinics. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in larger towns. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Layers are recommended due to variable weather. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and other passengers. Don't expect frequent public transport services. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be polite at dining establishments. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered rude.
To experience Johnson County like a local, visit the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum in Buffalo to learn about the area's heritage. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share their knowledge of the best fishing spots or hiking trails. Don't miss the annual Johnson County Fair and Rodeo, a highlight of the local calendar. For a unique experience, explore the Bighorn National Forest for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

When is the best time to visit Johnson County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Johnson County

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 Johnson County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hau-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
- YesYep
  [yehp]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lum]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [thangs a lawt]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyoos mee/saw-ree]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [hau ya doo-in]
- Fine. And you?I'm good. You?
  [aim good. yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [doo ya speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't followin'
  [ai aynt fol-lo-in]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [kan ai see thuh men-yoo, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ai dont do meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [kan ai pay, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [get outta heer]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kol thuh cops]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kol a dok]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [aim lost]
- I'm illI'm feelin' rough
  [aim feel-in ruff]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ai wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [just look-in]
- How much is it?How much's this?
  [hau muhs this?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit pricey
  [thats a bit pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [kan ya low-er thuh pryce?]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
  [wut time ya got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wun]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haf past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mor-nin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [eev-nin]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fiv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [where's thuh...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wut's thuh ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [kan ya show mee on thuh map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's thuh nekst bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a tik-it to...]

History of Johnson County

One of the most infamous events in Johnson County's history is the Johnson County War, which took place in the late 1880s and early 1890s. This conflict was primarily between large cattle ranchers and smaller settlers in the Powder River Country, culminating in a violent confrontation in 1892. The large ranchers, feeling threatened by the influx of smaller settlers and accusations of cattle rustling, hired gunmen to eliminate the perceived threat. The war ended with the intervention of the U.S. Cavalry, but it left a lasting impact on the region's history and development.
Fort McKinney was established in 1878 near present-day Buffalo, Wyoming, and played a significant role in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century. It served as a military post to protect settlers and travelers from Native American tribes resisting encroachment on their lands. The fort was a hub of military activity and saw several skirmishes and battles during its operational years. It was decommissioned in 1894, but its legacy remains a key part of Johnson County's history.
The Bozeman Trail was a key route for pioneers traveling to the gold fields of Montana during the mid-19th century. Running through Johnson County, the trail was frequently used by settlers, which led to increased tensions with Native American tribes. The trail's establishment and the subsequent military forts built to protect it were significant factors in the Red Cloud's War, a series of conflicts between the U.S. Army and the Lakota Sioux. Although the trail was eventually abandoned, it remains an important historical landmark in the region.
Johnson County's rugged terrain and remote location made it an ideal hideout for outlaws in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The most famous group to take refuge in the area was the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, which included notorious figures like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The gang used the remote Hole-in-the-Wall Pass as a base for their operations, taking advantage of the natural fortifications provided by the landscape. Today, the site is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers.
The Occidental Hotel in Buffalo, Wyoming, is a living testament to the history of Johnson County. Established in the late 19th century, the hotel has hosted a variety of notable guests, including President Theodore Roosevelt and author Owen Wister. The hotel has been meticulously restored to its former glory, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its period furnishings and historical artifacts. It stands as a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage and its role in the development of the American West.
The Dull Knife Battle, also known as the Battle of Bates Creek, took place on November 25, 1876. During the Great Sioux War, a U.S. Army detachment led by Colonel Ranald S. Mackenzie attacked the Northern Cheyenne village of Chief Dull Knife. The battle was part of the larger campaign to suppress Native American resistance following the defeat of General Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The engagement resulted in significant losses for the Cheyenne and contributed to their eventual forced relocation to reservations.