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Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Wyoming

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Founded in 1911, Lincoln County is one of 23 counties in the state of Wyoming. Historically, Lincoln County was formed from part of Uinta County. The city of Kemmerer is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Lincoln County has a population of 20,153 and area of 4,069 square miles (10,539 km²).

Map_of_Lincoln_County_Wyoming

List of all cities in Lincoln County, WY alphabetically

  • Afton, WY
  • Alpine, WY
  • Auburn, WY
  • Bedford, WY
  • Cokeville, WY
  • Diamondville, WY
  • Etna, WY
  • Fairview, WY
  • Freedom, WY
  • Frontier, WY
  • Grover, WY
  • Kemmerer, WY
  • La Barge, WY
  • Opal, WY
  • Smoot, WY
  • Thayne, WY

Major Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Wyoming

Kemmerer

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 7.81 square miles
  • Population: 2,656 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 83101
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 41.7939° N
    • Longitude: 110.5374° W

Location and History

Kemmerer, the county seat of Lincoln County, is located in southwestern Wyoming. The town was founded in 1897 by Patrick J. Quealy, a coal mining entrepreneur, and was named after Mahlon S. Kemmerer, a financier who helped fund the development of the area’s coal resources. Kemmerer grew rapidly due to its location near rich coal deposits, and it became a central hub for the Union Pacific Coal Company. The town is historically significant as the birthplace of the J.C. Penney retail chain, with the original J.C. Penney store still standing as a museum and a landmark. Kemmerer’s economy has traditionally been based on coal mining, but it has diversified over the years to include natural gas production and tourism. The town’s location near Fossil Butte National Monument, a site famous for its well-preserved fossils, has also made it a popular destination for paleontology enthusiasts.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kemmerer is served by Lincoln County School District #1, which includes Kemmerer Junior/Senior High School and Canyon Elementary School. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Fossil Butte National Monument, which offers visitors a chance to explore one of the richest fossil deposits in the world. The J.C. Penney Home and Museum is another key attraction, showcasing the life and legacy of the famous retailer’s founder. Additionally, the Kemmerer City Hall and the historic coal mine site provide insights into the town’s industrial past. The nearby Bridger-Teton National Forest offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping.

Afton

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 4.18 square miles
  • Population: 1,911 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 83110
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 42.7266° N
    • Longitude: 110.9335° W

Location and History

Afton is a town in Lincoln County, Wyoming, located in the scenic Star Valley along U.S. Highway 89. The town was settled in the late 19th century by Mormon pioneers, who were drawn to the fertile valley by its potential for agriculture and livestock grazing. Afton quickly became the cultural and economic center of Star Valley, with its growth fueled by farming, ranching, and timber industries. The town is known for its unique landmarks, including the world’s largest elk horn arch, which spans the main street and is made from more than 3,000 elk antlers. Afton’s history is deeply intertwined with the LDS Church, and the town continues to be a stronghold of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Today, Afton is a thriving community with a mix of traditional industries and growing tourism, thanks to its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Afton is part of Lincoln County School District #2, which includes Star Valley High School, Star Valley Middle School, and Afton Elementary School. The town’s most iconic landmark is the elk horn arch, a symbol of the town’s connection to the surrounding wilderness. The Star Valley Wyoming Temple, built by the LDS Church, is another significant site, reflecting the town’s religious heritage. Nearby, the Bridger-Teton National Forest offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. The annual Star Valley Half Marathon and other community events draw visitors to Afton, making it a vibrant part of Lincoln County.

Alpine

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.75 square miles
  • Population: 828 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 83128
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 43.1644° N
    • Longitude: 111.0188° W

Location and History

Alpine is a small town in Lincoln County, Wyoming, located at the confluence of the Snake, Salt, and Greys rivers, near the border with Idaho. The town was established in the early 20th century as a gateway to the scenic Star Valley and the surrounding national forests. Alpine’s location along U.S. Highway 26/89 makes it a popular stop for travelers heading to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The town’s name reflects its alpine-like setting, surrounded by mountains and forests. Alpine has developed into a hub for outdoor recreation, with activities such as fishing, boating, and snowmobiling playing a central role in the local economy. The Palisades Reservoir, located just north of Alpine, is a major attraction for water sports enthusiasts.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alpine is served by Lincoln County School District #2, with students attending schools in nearby Etna and Afton, including Etna Elementary School and Star Valley High School. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Palisades Reservoir, which offers boating, fishing, and scenic views. The Greys River, known for its excellent fly fishing, is another key attraction. Alpine is also a gateway to the Bridger-Teton National Forest, providing access to hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The town hosts several annual events, including the Alpine Mountain Days festival, which celebrates the community’s outdoor lifestyle and draws visitors from across the region.

Cokeville

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.34 square miles
  • Population: 535 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 83114
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 42.0794° N
    • Longitude: 110.9553° W

Location and History

Cokeville is a small town in Lincoln County, Wyoming, located near the Idaho border along U.S. Highway 30. The town was established in the late 19th century as a coal mining and railroad hub. Named after the coke (a type of fuel derived from coal) produced in the area, Cokeville played a significant role in the development of Wyoming’s coal industry. The town’s economy was historically based on coal mining, ranching, and agriculture, with the railroad providing a vital link to markets in other states. Cokeville gained national attention in 1986 when a hostage crisis at Cokeville Elementary School ended miraculously without loss of life, an event that has since become part of the town’s history. Today, Cokeville remains a small, close-knit community with a strong agricultural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cokeville is part of Lincoln County School District #2, with students attending Cokeville High School and Cokeville Elementary School. The town’s most significant landmark is the Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. The nearby mountains and open spaces offer additional outdoor recreational activities, including hunting, snowmobiling, and camping. Cokeville’s history is also commemorated by the Cokeville Miracle, an event that is remembered annually by the community and has inspired books and films.