Crook County is located in the northeastern corner of Wyoming, bordering South Dakota and Montana. Named after Brigadier General George Crook, a prominent figure in the Indian Wars, the county was established in 1875. Crook County is part of the Black Hills region, with its diverse geography ranging from rolling prairies to forested hills and rugged mountains. The county is famous for being home to Devils Tower National Monument, America’s first national monument, designated in 1906.
The population of Crook County is around 7,200, with agriculture, ranching, and tourism being the key industries. The county seat is Sundance, and other small towns include Moorcroft, Hulett, and Pine Haven. These communities serve as gateways to the region’s natural attractions and provide a glimpse into Wyoming’s rural lifestyle. Crook County offers a peaceful, scenic environment with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
Cities and Towns in Crook County
Sundance
Overview of Geography and History
Sundance is the county seat of Crook County and is located in the northern Black Hills. Named after the “Sun Dance,” a ceremony practiced by Native American tribes in the area, Sundance was founded in 1875. The town is steeped in history, known for being the place where the notorious outlaw Harry Longabaugh, better known as the Sundance Kid, earned his infamous moniker after being jailed there in 1887.
The town of Sundance developed as a center for ranching and agriculture, and today it continues to serve as the administrative and cultural hub of Crook County. Sundance is known for its small-town charm, surrounded by natural beauty, including the nearby Bear Lodge Mountains, part of the Black Hills National Forest.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to Devils Tower”
- Area: 3.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100
- Elevation: 4,750 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82729
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Sundance is accessible via Interstate 90, which runs through the town, connecting it to nearby cities like Gillette, Wyoming, and Rapid City, South Dakota. U.S. Highway 14 also passes through, providing access to Devils Tower and other regional destinations. Sundance is served by the Sundance Airport, which accommodates general aviation. The nearest commercial airport is Rapid City Regional Airport, located about 75 miles east. Most residents and visitors rely on personal vehicles, with good road access making Sundance easily reachable.
Famous Landmarks
- Crook County Museum: A museum showcasing the history of the area, including the story of the Sundance Kid.
- Bear Lodge Mountains: A scenic area with hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Moorcroft
Overview of Geography and History
Moorcroft is a small town located about 25 miles west of Sundance, at the junction of Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 16. The town was founded in the late 1800s as a railroad stop and shipping point for cattle ranchers in the region. Its location made it a hub for cattle and sheep ranching, with the nearby Belle Fourche River providing a valuable water source. Moorcroft grew as an agricultural center and has retained its rural character over the years.
Today, Moorcroft remains a tight-knit community with a strong agricultural heritage. The town serves as a gateway to Keyhole State Park and the surrounding natural attractions, offering a quiet lifestyle for residents and visitors alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of Crook County”
- Area: 1.94 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Elevation: 4,204 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82721
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Moorcroft is situated at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 16, providing easy access to major cities like Gillette to the west and Sundance to the east. The town is also near Keyhole State Park, which attracts visitors for its boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. The closest airport for general aviation is the Keyhole State Park Airport, while the nearest commercial flights are available at the Gillette-Campbell County Airport, about 45 miles to the west.
Famous Landmarks
- Keyhole State Park: A popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping.
- Moorcroft Historical Society Museum: A small museum dedicated to the history of Moorcroft and its ranching heritage.
Hulett
Overview of Geography and History
Hulett is a small town located in the northeastern part of Crook County, nestled near the Belle Fourche River and close to Devils Tower National Monument. Founded in the late 1800s, Hulett developed as a ranching and logging town, with its fertile valley supporting agriculture and its proximity to the Black Hills providing timber resources. Over time, Hulett has evolved into a key tourist town due to its proximity to Devils Tower, drawing visitors from around the world.
Despite its small size, Hulett offers a vibrant community, with local events and festivals celebrating its Western heritage. The town’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and ranching, with many visitors using Hulett as a base for exploring Devils Tower and the surrounding Black Hills.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Devils Tower’s Gateway”
- Area: 0.33 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Elevation: 3,701 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82720
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Hulett is located along Wyoming Highway 24, which connects the town to Devils Tower National Monument and Interstate 90. The town’s location makes it a convenient stop for travelers heading to or from Devils Tower. Hulett is served by the Hulett Municipal Airport, which accommodates private planes and general aviation. For commercial flights, the closest airport is the Gillette-Campbell County Airport, located about 60 miles southwest. Most travel within Hulett is done by car, with Wyoming Highway 24 providing the main route for visitors and residents.
Famous Landmarks
- Devils Tower National Monument: America’s first national monument, known for its striking geological formation.
- Hulett Museum & Art Gallery: A local museum featuring regional history and local art.
Pine Haven
Overview of Geography and History
Pine Haven is a small town located on the shores of Keyhole Reservoir in western Crook County. Founded in the 1960s as a recreational community, Pine Haven has grown into a peaceful residential town, with many homes built to take advantage of the nearby lake and the surrounding natural beauty. The town’s location within Keyhole State Park makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for boating, fishing, and camping.
Pine Haven is known for its laid-back lifestyle and scenic environment, offering residents and visitors access to the outdoor amenities of Keyhole Reservoir. While small, the town provides a quiet retreat for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of northeastern Wyoming.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Keyhole’s Hidden Gem”
- Area: 2.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500
- Elevation: 4,130 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82721
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Pine Haven is located near U.S. Highway 14, which provides access to nearby towns such as Moorcroft and Sundance. The town’s close proximity to Keyhole State Park makes it an attractive destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The nearest airport is the Keyhole State Park Airport, which serves private planes. For commercial flights, residents and visitors typically use the Gillette-Campbell County Airport, located about 50 miles to the southwest. The town is primarily car-dependent, with good road access to regional highways.
Famous Landmarks
- Keyhole Reservoir: A popular lake for boating, fishing, and water recreation, located within Keyhole State Park.
Aladdin (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Aladdin is a tiny, unincorporated community located in the northeastern corner of Crook County, just a few miles from the South Dakota border. Aladdin was founded in the late 19th century as a coal mining town, and while the mines have long since closed, the town has retained its historic character. Today, Aladdin is best known for its general store, which has been operating since 1896 and serves as a nostalgic reminder of the town’s early days.
Aladdin is a picturesque spot on the road to Devils Tower and the Black Hills, offering a glimpse into Wyoming’s past. The town’s small population and remote location make it a quiet, peaceful place, frequented by tourists passing through the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: “A Step Back in Time”
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Fewer than 20
- Elevation: 3,688 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82710
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Aladdin is located along Wyoming Highway 24, providing access to nearby towns like Hulett and the South Dakota border. The community is very small, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest commercial airport is located in Rapid City, South Dakota, about 80 miles to the east. Despite its size, Aladdin’s location along a major highway ensures that it remains accessible to travelers exploring the region.
Famous Landmarks
- Aladdin General Store: A historic store that has been in continuous operation since the late 19th century.
- Aladdin Coal Tipple: A remnant of the town’s coal mining past, preserved as a local landmark.