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Cities and Towns in Big Horn County, Wyoming

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Founded in 1896, Big Horn County is one of 23 counties in the state of Wyoming. Historically, Big Horn County was formed from parts of Sheridan County, Johnson County, and Fremont County. The city of Basin is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Big Horn County has a population of 11,632 and area of 3,137 square miles (8,125 km²).

 

List of all cities in Big Horn County, WY alphabetically

  • Basin, WY
  • Burlington, WY
  • Byron, WY
  • Cowley, WY
  • Deaver, WY
  • Emblem, WY
  • Greybull, WY
  • Hyattville, WY
  • Lovell, WY
  • Manderson, WY
  • Otto, WY
  • Shell, WY

Major Cities and Towns in Big Horn County, Wyoming

Basin

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 2.57 square miles
  • Population: 1,285 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82410
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.3791° N
    • Longitude: 108.0465° W

Location and History

Basin is the county seat of Big Horn County, located in north-central Wyoming along the Bighorn River. The town was founded in 1896 and was named for the Bighorn Basin, the expansive geographic area in which it resides. Basin developed as an agricultural hub, with its economy largely based on farming, particularly sugar beets, and ranching. The arrival of the railroad further boosted the town’s growth, making it a key distribution point for agricultural products. Basin’s location near the Bighorn Mountains also contributed to its development, offering scenic beauty and access to outdoor recreational activities. The town’s historical significance is highlighted by its well-preserved courthouse, which remains a central feature of the community. Today, Basin continues to thrive as a small but important center for government, agriculture, and outdoor tourism in Big Horn County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Basin is served by Big Horn County School District #4, which includes Riverside High School, Basin Middle School, and Laura Irwin Elementary School. Notable landmarks in the town include the historic Big Horn County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and reflects the architectural style of the early 20th century. The Bighorn River, which flows near the town, provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The nearby Bighorn Mountains offer hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, making Basin a gateway to outdoor adventure.

Greybull

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.74 square miles
  • Population: 1,847 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82426
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.4897° N
    • Longitude: 108.0554° W

Location and History

Greybull is a town located in Big Horn County, situated at the confluence of the Bighorn River and Greybull River. The town was founded in the early 20th century and was named after the nearby Greybull River, which in turn was named after a legendary white buffalo that roamed the area. Greybull’s early development was closely linked to the railroad, which brought settlers and commerce to the region. The town quickly became a center for agriculture, mining, and oil production, industries that have continued to shape its economy. Greybull’s location at the intersection of several highways makes it a key transportation hub in the region. Today, the town is known for its historical charm, scenic surroundings, and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Greybull is served by Big Horn County School District #3, which includes Greybull High School, Greybull Middle School, and Greybull Elementary School. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting, which showcases the history of aerial firefighting and aviation in the region. The Greybull River and Bighorn River provide ample opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation. The nearby Big Horn Basin Dinosaur Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past of the region, with exhibits on dinosaur fossils and paleontology.

Lovell

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.10 square miles
  • Population: 2,360 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82431
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.8370° N
    • Longitude: 108.3913° W

Location and History

Lovell is a town in Big Horn County, located in the northern part of the Bighorn Basin near the Bighorn Mountains. The town was established in 1900 and was named after Henry Lovell, a local cattle rancher who played a significant role in the area’s early development. Lovell quickly grew as an agricultural center, particularly known for its sugar beet industry, which continues to be a major economic driver in the region. The construction of the Great Western Sugar Company factory in the early 20th century spurred the town’s growth, attracting workers and fostering a strong community spirit. Lovell’s proximity to the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and other natural attractions has also made it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lovell is served by Big Horn County School District #2, which includes Lovell High School, Lovell Middle School, and Lovell Elementary School. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Hyart Theatre, a historic movie theater that has been a local cultural icon since the 1950s. The nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers stunning landscapes, boating, and hiking opportunities, making it a major draw for visitors. The Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Center, located just outside of Lovell, provides a unique opportunity to learn about and observe wild horses in their natural habitat.

Cowley

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.64 square miles
  • Population: 655 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82420
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.8822° N
    • Longitude: 108.4695° W

Location and History

Cowley is a small town in Big Horn County, Wyoming, located near the Bighorn River. The town was established in 1900 by Mormon settlers who were part of the Big Horn Basin colonization project. Named after Matthias F. Cowley, a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the town was one of several Mormon settlements in the area. Cowley’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly farming and cattle ranching, supported by the fertile lands of the Bighorn Basin. Over the years, Cowley has maintained its small-town atmosphere, with a close-knit community that values its pioneer heritage. The town’s location near major transportation routes has allowed it to remain connected to larger markets while preserving its rural character.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cowley is served by Big Horn County School District #1, which includes Rocky Mountain High School, located in nearby Byron. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Cowley Pioneer Museum, which preserves the history of the town’s founding families and their contributions to the development of the region. The Bighorn River, located near the town, provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities. The town is also known for its annual Pioneer Day celebration, which honors the town’s heritage and brings the community together for parades, games, and other festivities.

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