Big Horn County is located in north-central Wyoming, bordered by Montana to the north and characterized by its diverse geography of mountain ranges, valleys, and fertile farmlands. Established in 1896, the county was named after the Bighorn River and the nearby Bighorn Mountains, which dominate the landscape. Big Horn County covers approximately 3,158 square miles and is known for its agricultural industry, particularly sugar beet and barley farming, as well as its outdoor recreational opportunities.
With a population of around 11,000 people, Big Horn County is a rural and peaceful area that thrives on agriculture and tourism. The county seat is Basin, while other notable towns include Lovell, Greybull, and Byron. These communities offer a glimpse into Wyoming’s small-town life while serving as hubs for the surrounding rural areas. In addition to its agricultural roots, the county is home to several historical and natural landmarks, drawing visitors for their historical and scenic value.
Cities and Towns in Big Horn County
Basin
Overview of Geography and History
Basin, the county seat of Big Horn County, is located along the Bighorn River and nestled in the Bighorn Basin, a wide valley between the Bighorn and Absaroka mountain ranges. Established in 1896, Basin became the county seat when Big Horn County was created. Originally a small agricultural town, Basin developed around farming and livestock, with the fertile valley supporting crops like sugar beets and barley. Its location along the river helped Basin grow as an agricultural and commercial hub for the region.
Today, Basin remains a small but important town for the surrounding rural communities. Its historic downtown reflects its early 20th-century roots, with buildings that date back to the town’s founding. While still closely tied to agriculture, Basin also serves as the administrative center for the county, hosting government offices and services.
City Facts
- Nickname: “The Lilac City”
- Area: 2.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Elevation: 3,879 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82410
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Basin is located along U.S. Highway 16, which connects it to nearby towns like Greybull to the north and Worland to the south. The highway provides easy access to larger road networks, making travel within the county and beyond convenient. Basin is also served by the nearby South Big Horn County Airport, which handles general aviation needs. For commercial air travel, residents typically use airports in Cody or Billings, Montana. Basin’s central location within the Bighorn Basin makes it a key hub for regional travel, particularly for agricultural transport.
Famous Landmarks
- Big Horn County Courthouse: A historic building that has been the seat of local government since the early 20th century.
- Basin City Park: A local park known for its beautiful lilac bushes, for which the town is nicknamed.
Lovell
Overview of Geography and History
Lovell is the largest town in Big Horn County and is located near the northern edge of the Bighorn Basin, along the Shoshone River. The town was established in 1900 and named after Henry Lovell, a local cattle rancher. Lovell’s early development was tied to agriculture, particularly sugar beet farming, which remains a key industry today. The town’s location near the Bighorn Mountains and the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area has also made it a gateway for outdoor recreation and tourism.
Lovell has retained its agricultural roots while becoming a hub for visitors exploring nearby attractions such as the Bighorn Canyon and Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range. The town is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere and active community life, with events like Mustang Days celebrating Lovell’s Western heritage.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Rose City of Wyoming”
- Area: 1.21 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300
- Elevation: 3,842 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82431
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Lovell is located along U.S. Highway 310, which connects the town to Cody to the west and Billings, Montana, to the north. U.S. Highway 14A also passes through the town, offering access to the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and the Bighorn Mountains. The town is served by the nearby Cowley Airport, which handles general aviation, while commercial flights are available in Cody, about 45 miles away. Lovell’s location near major highways makes it an important transportation hub for both agricultural goods and tourists heading to the nearby national recreation area.
Famous Landmarks
- Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: A scenic area offering boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
- Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range: Home to herds of wild mustangs, a unique attraction for visitors.
Greybull
Overview of Geography and History
Greybull is located along the confluence of the Bighorn and Greybull Rivers in the heart of Big Horn County. Founded in 1906, the town was named after a legendary white bison, or “grey bull,” that roamed the area. Initially a railroad town, Greybull developed as an agricultural and transportation hub, with rail lines connecting the town to regional markets. The nearby sugar beet industry also contributed to the town’s growth, with Greybull becoming a center for processing and shipping agricultural products.
Today, Greybull is a small but active community, known for its aviation history and outdoor recreation. The town’s location near the Bighorn National Forest and the Bighorn Basin makes it a popular stop for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Greybull’s historical charm and connection to Wyoming’s agricultural and transportation industries remain central to its identity.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Big Horns”
- Area: 1.71 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800
- Elevation: 3,789 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82426
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Greybull is located along U.S. Highway 14, which runs through the town and provides access to nearby communities such as Basin and Cody. U.S. Highway 20 also passes through Greybull, connecting the town to central Wyoming. The South Big Horn County Airport is located just outside Greybull, providing general aviation services. For commercial flights, residents and visitors typically use the Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody or drive to Billings, Montana. The town is also served by rail lines, supporting its agricultural and industrial sectors.
Famous Landmarks
- Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting: A museum dedicated to aerial firefighting and the history of aviation in the region.
- Big Horn River: Offers fishing and recreational opportunities, with scenic views of the surrounding area.
Byron
Overview of Geography and History
Byron is a small town located near the northern edge of Big Horn County. The town was founded in 1900 by Mormon settlers and named after Byron Sessions, a leader in the early irrigation projects that helped transform the area’s arid land into productive farmland. The construction of irrigation canals allowed for successful farming, with sugar beets becoming a major crop in the region.
Byron’s history is deeply connected to agriculture, and the town has remained a small, close-knit farming community. Though modest in size, Byron plays an important role in the region’s agricultural economy and serves as a quiet residential area for families and farmers alike. The town has a rich cultural heritage rooted in the traditions of its early settlers.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.54 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600
- Elevation: 4,045 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82412
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Byron is located along U.S. Highway 14A, which connects it to nearby towns such as Lovell and Powell. The highway offers access to the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and the Bighorn Mountains, making Byron a convenient stop for travelers heading to these scenic destinations. The nearest airport is Cowley Airport, which serves general aviation needs, while commercial flights are available in Cody, about 40 miles west. Byron’s location on the highway ensures easy access to regional transportation networks.
Famous Landmarks
- Byron Museum: A local museum highlighting the town’s history and its role in regional agriculture.
- Shoshone River: A scenic river offering outdoor recreational opportunities near Byron.
Cowley
Overview of Geography and History
Cowley is a small town located just north of Byron in Big Horn County. Founded in 1900 by Mormon pioneers, Cowley was named after Matthias F. Cowley, a prominent leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Like other towns in the region, Cowley’s growth was driven by irrigation projects that turned the surrounding land into fertile farmland. Agriculture remains a key part of the town’s economy, with sugar beets and barley as major crops.
Despite its small size, Cowley has maintained a strong sense of community and heritage. The town’s history is celebrated through local events and its connection to the early settlers who transformed the area. Today, Cowley offers a quiet, rural lifestyle while still being close to outdoor recreation and regional attractions.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.49 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650
- Elevation: 4,058 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82420
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Cowley is located along U.S. Highway 310, which provides access to nearby towns like Lovell and Powell. The Cowley Airport, located just outside of town, serves general aviation needs, making it a key transportation hub for local farmers and residents. For commercial air travel, residents typically use the Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody. The town’s proximity to the highway ensures that residents can easily travel to nearby communities and larger regional centers.
Famous Landmarks
- Cowley Pioneer Museum: A museum dedicated to the town’s founding and pioneer heritage.
- Shoshone National Forest: Located nearby, offering outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.