Platte County, located in southeastern Wyoming, is known for its expansive landscapes, agricultural heritage, and small-town charm. The county was established in 1911 and named after the North Platte River, which flows through the region. Covering approximately 2,084 square miles, Platte County is bordered by Albany County to the west, Goshen County to the east, and Laramie County to the south. It has a population of around 8,600 residents, most of whom live in rural communities or small towns.
Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming, has been the backbone of the local economy for more than a century, although energy production and tourism also play important roles. Platte County is home to several cities and towns, including Wheatland, the county seat, as well as smaller communities like Guernsey, Chugwater, and Glendo. These towns serve as centers for commerce, government, and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors to explore the nearby reservoirs, parks, and historical sites.
Cities and Towns in Platte County
Wheatland
Overview of Geography and History
Wheatland is the county seat and largest town in Platte County. It is located in the fertile Laramie River Valley, surrounded by agricultural lands and scenic views of the nearby Laramie Mountains. Wheatland was founded in 1886 when irrigation was introduced to the region, turning the previously arid plains into productive farmland. The town’s name reflects the significance of wheat farming in the area, which continues to be a major industry today, along with livestock ranching.
Historically, Wheatland developed as a central hub for agriculture and commerce. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century boosted the town’s growth, making it a transportation and trade center for surrounding communities. Today, Wheatland maintains its rural charm while serving as the commercial and administrative heart of Platte County, offering a blend of historical sites, local businesses, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Platte County”
- Area: 4.10 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,600
- Elevation: 4,751 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82201
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Wheatland is conveniently located along Interstate 25, providing easy access to larger cities such as Cheyenne to the south (about 70 miles away) and Casper to the north. U.S. Highway 26 also passes through the area, connecting Wheatland to other towns in the region. For air travel, residents typically use Cheyenne Regional Airport, which offers commercial flights, or Denver International Airport, located about 150 miles south. While Wheatland itself does not have a major airport, the Wheatland Phifer Airfield serves private planes and general aviation needs. Rail service continues to be important for freight, supporting the local agricultural industry.
Famous People
- Jim Geringer: Former Governor of Wyoming (1995-2003), raised in Wheatland.
Guernsey
Overview of Geography and History
Guernsey is a small town located near the eastern edge of Platte County, along the North Platte River. The town was founded in 1880 as a hub for the railroad industry, and it was named after Charles A. Guernsey, a prominent local rancher. The town’s strategic location along the river made it an important point for the Union Pacific Railroad and later contributed to the construction of Guernsey Dam in 1927, which created Guernsey Reservoir, now a popular recreation area.
Guernsey has a rich military and historical legacy, being home to Camp Guernsey, a Wyoming National Guard training facility, and the nearby Oregon Trail Ruts, a preserved section of the historic trail used by pioneers. Today, the town thrives on tourism, ranching, and its role as a transportation hub. Guernsey’s proximity to Guernsey State Park and the historical landmarks of the Oregon Trail draw visitors from around the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Home of the Oregon Trail Ruts”
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Elevation: 4,413 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82214
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Guernsey is accessible via U.S. Highway 26, which runs through the town and connects it to nearby Wheatland and Torrington. The town also benefits from its historical association with the Union Pacific Railroad, which continues to operate freight lines in the area. While there are no commercial airports in Guernsey, the closest major airport is in Cheyenne, about 90 miles south. For local travel, residents often rely on personal vehicles, and Guernsey State Park provides well-maintained roads for visitors heading to the reservoir and campgrounds.
Famous People
- None notable at present
Chugwater
Overview of Geography and History
Chugwater is a small, historic town located along U.S. Highway 87 in southern Platte County. Its name comes from a Native American legend involving buffalo hunts along nearby Chugwater Creek. The town was established in the late 1800s as a cattle ranching community and was once home to the Swan Land and Cattle Company, one of the largest cattle ranches in the West. Chugwater is famous for its quiet, rural atmosphere and its connection to Wyoming’s ranching heritage.
Despite its small population, Chugwater has a rich history and a sense of pride in its traditions. Each year, the town hosts the annual Chugwater Chili Cookoff, which draws visitors from across the state to celebrate Wyoming’s culinary traditions. Today, Chugwater remains a small agricultural town, focused on cattle ranching and farming.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Home of the Chugwater Chili Cookoff”
- Area: 0.43 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Elevation: 5,250 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82210
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Chugwater is located along U.S. Highway 87, which runs parallel to Interstate 25 and connects the town to larger cities like Wheatland to the north and Cheyenne to the south. The town is easily accessible by car, though public transportation options are limited. The nearest commercial airport is Cheyenne Regional Airport, about 40 miles south. The quiet roads and rural highways make Chugwater a pleasant stop for travelers passing through southeastern Wyoming, and its proximity to the interstate ensures easy access to other parts of the state.
Famous People
- None notable at present
Glendo
Overview of Geography and History
Glendo is a small town located along the North Platte River, near Glendo State Park, one of Wyoming’s most popular recreational areas. Founded in 1883 as a railroad town, Glendo has always been closely tied to the surrounding landscape. The construction of Glendo Dam in the 1950s created Glendo Reservoir, which has since become a major draw for boaters, fishermen, and campers. The town’s economy has long been tied to agriculture, but tourism related to Glendo State Park has grown significantly in recent decades.
Glendo’s history is closely tied to both the railroad and the river, serving as a small but vital community in Platte County. Today, the town is best known for outdoor recreation, particularly fishing, boating, and camping at Glendo Reservoir, which attracts visitors year-round.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to Glendo Reservoir”
- Area: 0.47 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Elevation: 4,647 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82213
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Glendo is located just off Interstate 25, making it easily accessible to travelers heading north or south along Wyoming’s major highway corridor. U.S. Highway 26 also runs nearby, connecting Glendo to Guernsey and Wheatland. The town’s proximity to Glendo State Park means that many visitors pass through, especially during the summer months. For air travel, Cheyenne Regional Airport is about 60 miles to the south, offering flights to larger hubs. Although Glendo is a small town, its location near the interstate ensures steady traffic, particularly from tourists.
Famous People
- None notable at present
Hartville
Overview of Geography and History
Hartville is one of the oldest towns in Wyoming, located in the northeastern part of Platte County near the historic Sunrise mining district. Established in the late 1800s as a mining town, Hartville boomed during the early 20th century when copper and iron ore were discovered nearby. The town was home to miners, ranchers, and railroad workers, and its saloons and hotels were frequented by travelers passing through the region. Today, Hartville is a small community with a rich history, preserving its Old West charm.
Hartville’s proximity to the historic mining town of Sunrise and its scenic location make it a point of interest for visitors looking to explore Wyoming’s mining heritage. Although the mines closed long ago, Hartville has managed to retain its character and offers a glimpse into Wyoming’s past.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Wyoming’s Oldest Incorporated Town”
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 65
- Elevation: 4,660 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82215
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Hartville is located along Wyoming Highway 270, which connects the town to Guernsey and other nearby communities. The closest major highway is U.S. Highway 26, which provides access to Wheatland and Torrington. While Hartville does not have a major airport, the nearest commercial flights are available at Cheyenne Regional Airport, located about 80 miles away. The town’s small size means that most residents rely on personal vehicles, and the rural roads provide easy access to the surrounding historical and recreational sites.