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Cities and Towns in Campbell County, Wyoming

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Founded in 1911, Campbell County is one of 23 counties in the state of Wyoming. Historically, Campbell County was formed from parts of Weston County and Crook County. The city of Gillette is the county seat. With FIPS code of 5, Campbell County has a population of 46,401 and area of 4,797 square miles (12,424 km²).

 

List of all cities in Campbell County, WY alphabetically

  • Gillette, WY
  • Recluse, WY
  • Rozet, WY
  • Weston, WY
  • Wright, WY

Major Cities and Towns in Campbell County, Wyoming

Gillette

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 21.4 square miles
  • Population: 32,030 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82716, 82718
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.2911° N
    • Longitude: 105.5022° W

Location and History

Gillette is the county seat and largest city in Campbell County, located in northeastern Wyoming. The city was founded in 1891 as a small railroad town along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. It was named after Edward Gillette, a surveyor for the railroad. Gillette’s growth was initially slow, but the discovery of vast coal deposits in the surrounding Powder River Basin in the 1970s transformed the city into a major energy hub. Known as the “Energy Capital of the Nation,” Gillette produces a significant portion of the coal used in the United States for electricity generation. The city’s economy has diversified over the years, including sectors such as natural gas, oil, and ranching. Despite its rapid growth, Gillette has retained a strong sense of community and continues to develop its infrastructure to support its expanding population.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gillette is served by Campbell County School District #1, which includes several high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools, such as Campbell County High School and Thunder Basin High School. Key landmarks in the city include the CAM-PLEX Multi-Event Facilities, a major venue for concerts, rodeos, and fairs, and the Rockpile Museum, which offers insights into the history of Gillette and Campbell County. The city is also home to the Gillette College, a community college that provides higher education opportunities for residents of the region. The nearby Thunder Basin National Grassland offers outdoor recreation, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting.

Wright

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 2.6 square miles
  • Population: 1,807 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 82732
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 43.7480° N
    • Longitude: 105.4950° W

Location and History

Wright is a small town in Campbell County, Wyoming, located in the southern part of the county. The town was established in the 1970s as a planned community to support the nearby Black Thunder and North Antelope Rochelle coal mines, two of the largest coal mines in the world. Named after Carlile Wright, a rancher who originally owned the land, the town was designed to accommodate the influx of workers needed for the booming coal industry. Wright’s growth was closely tied to the fortunes of the coal industry, and it remains heavily reliant on energy production. The town has developed into a close-knit community, with a strong focus on supporting families and providing amenities for its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wright is served by the Campbell County School District #1, with Wright Junior/Senior High School and Cottonwood Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s landmarks include the Southern Campbell County Agricultural Complex, which hosts rodeos, fairs, and community events. Keyhole State Park, located a short drive away, offers recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Wright is also home to the Panther Pond, a local fishing spot and picnic area that serves as a community gathering place.

Recluse

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: Not specifically measured (unincorporated community)
  • Population: Approximately 30 (unincorporated community)
  • ZIP Codes: 82725
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 44.7603° N
    • Longitude: 105.8705° W

Location and History

Recluse is a small, unincorporated community in Campbell County, Wyoming, located in the northeastern part of the county. The community’s name reflects its isolated and rural nature, with vast open spaces surrounding the area. Established in the early 20th century, Recluse began as a ranching community, with agriculture being the mainstay of its economy. Over the years, Recluse has remained a small and close-knit community, with ranching continuing to be the primary occupation of its residents. Due to its remote location, Recluse has maintained a quiet, rural lifestyle, attracting those who seek solitude and a connection to the land.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Recluse is part of Campbell County School District #1, with students typically attending schools in nearby communities such as Gillette. The community itself is very small, with few formal landmarks, but the surrounding area is known for its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking. The nearby Powder River Basin is also significant for its rich deposits of coal and natural resources, although Recluse itself remains focused on traditional ranching activities.

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