Johnson County, located in north-central Wyoming, is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and vast stretches of ranchland. Established in 1875 and named after E. P. Johnson, a prominent lawyer and early settler, the county is home to significant historical events, including the infamous Johnson County War, a violent conflict between cattle ranchers and homesteaders in the late 1800s.
Johnson County covers an area of approximately 4,175 square miles and has a population of around 8,500 people. The county includes two incorporated towns, Buffalo and Kaycee, as well as several unincorporated communities. Its economy is largely based on agriculture, ranching, tourism, and energy production, with residents enjoying access to the Bighorn Mountains and nearby outdoor recreation opportunities. Johnson County’s blend of Old West history and natural beauty attracts visitors from across the nation.
Buffalo
Geography and History
Buffalo, the county seat of Johnson County, is located at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains along Clear Creek. Founded in 1879, Buffalo grew quickly as a center for ranching, commerce, and military defense. The city played a key role during the Johnson County War in the 1890s, when tensions between large cattle ranchers and small settlers led to a violent conflict. Today, Buffalo retains much of its Old West charm with historical buildings, western-themed shops, and local museums that reflect its storied past.
In addition to its rich history, Buffalo serves as the gateway to the Bighorn Mountains and Bighorn National Forest, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s downtown area is filled with restaurants, galleries, and historic landmarks, offering both residents and visitors a taste of Wyoming’s western heritage.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Bighorns”
- Area: 4.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,600
- Elevation: 4,645 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 82834
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Buffalo is located at the intersection of Interstate 25 and U.S. Highway 16, making it easily accessible from other parts of Wyoming and nearby states. U.S. Highway 87 also passes through Buffalo, offering scenic routes into Montana. The nearest airport with commercial flights is Sheridan County Airport, located about 30 miles to the north, although Buffalo has a small municipal airport for general aviation. Public transportation is limited, but the city’s roadways make it easy to navigate by car.
Famous Landmarks
- Occidental Hotel: A historic hotel that has hosted notable figures such as Teddy Roosevelt and Butch Cassidy
- Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of Johnson County and the American West
- Fort Phil Kearny: A nearby historic military fort from the 1860s, part of the Indian Wars
Kaycee
Geography and History
Kaycee is a small town located about 45 miles south of Buffalo along the Powder River. Named after the KC Ranch, a large cattle operation in the area, Kaycee was officially established in the early 20th century. The town’s history is deeply connected to Wyoming’s ranching and cowboy culture, and it is known for its strong ties to western traditions. The region around Kaycee played a role in the Johnson County War, and the town itself has maintained its rural character, serving as a hub for ranchers and local farmers.
In recent years, Kaycee has gained recognition as the hometown of the late country music legend Chris LeDoux, who celebrated the cowboy lifestyle in his songs. The town also draws visitors with its proximity to outdoor recreation areas like the Powder River and the Red Wall, a notable geological formation that served as a hideout for outlaws.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Where the Legend Lives”
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 260
- Elevation: 4,660 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82639
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Kaycee is located along Interstate 25, providing easy access to Buffalo to the north and Casper to the south. Wyoming Highway 191 connects the town to nearby ranchlands and scenic areas. Although Kaycee is a small, rural town, its location on I-25 ensures convenient access to regional transportation networks. The nearest major airport is in Casper, about 70 miles south, which provides commercial flights. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, as public transit options are limited.
Famous Landmarks
- Chris LeDoux Memorial Park: A park dedicated to the legendary country singer and rodeo champion
- Hole in the Wall: A historic outlaw hideout located in nearby red rock country
- The Invasion Monument: Commemorating the Johnson County War near Kaycee
Linch (Unincorporated)
Geography and History
Linch is an unincorporated community located in southern Johnson County, near the border with Natrona County. Linch is primarily known for its role in Wyoming’s energy sector, particularly oil and natural gas production. The town itself is small, consisting mainly of residential and industrial buildings that serve as support for the nearby oil fields. Although Linch lacks the historical significance of Buffalo or Kaycee, it remains an important part of Johnson County’s economic landscape.
Linch’s location in the heart of Wyoming’s oil country makes it a focal point for those working in the energy industry. The community is surrounded by vast stretches of open land, typical of central Wyoming, and is known for its remote, rural environment.
City Facts
- Nickname: N/A
- Area: Unincorporated
- Population: Fewer than 100 residents
- Elevation: 4,100 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82640
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Linch is accessible via Wyoming Highway 192, which connects the community to larger towns and highways in the region. The nearest interstate, I-25, can be reached by traveling west toward Kaycee or south toward Casper. The closest major airport is in Casper, about 70 miles away. Due to its small size and rural location, most residents and workers in Linch rely on personal vehicles for transportation.
Famous Landmarks
- Powder River Basin Oil Fields: One of the most productive oil and gas fields in the United States
- Basin Wall Geological Formation: Nearby natural landmark known for its unique rock formations
Saddlestring (Unincorporated)
Geography and History
Saddlestring is a small, unincorporated community located in the scenic foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, north of Buffalo. The community was established in the early 1900s as a ranching area and is perhaps best known today for the historic HF Bar Ranch, one of the oldest dude ranches in the United States. Saddlestring has long been associated with Wyoming’s ranching heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the state’s rural, western traditions.
Although Saddlestring is unincorporated, it attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts due to its proximity to the Bighorn National Forest, where visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. The community’s rustic charm and scenic surroundings have helped it maintain a strong sense of place in the rugged Wyoming landscape.
City Facts
- Nickname: N/A
- Area: Unincorporated
- Population: Fewer than 100 residents
- Elevation: 4,500 feet
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
- ZIP Code: 82840
- Area Code: 307
Transportation
Saddlestring is located along Wyoming Highway 16, which provides direct access to Buffalo and the Bighorn National Forest. The community’s remote location means that most residents and visitors rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest commercial airport is located in Sheridan, about 60 miles north, though general aviation services are available closer by. Public transportation is extremely limited in this rural area.
Famous Landmarks
- HF Bar Ranch: Historic dude ranch dating back to the early 20th century
- Bighorn National Forest: A vast area offering hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Clear Creek Valley: Scenic area popular for fishing and camping