Cities and Towns in Sheridan County, Wyoming
Founded in 1888, Sheridan County is one of 23 counties in the state of Wyoming. Historically, Sheridan County was formed from part of Johnson County. The city of Sheridan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 33, Sheridan County has a population of 31,646 and area of 2,523 square miles (6,535 km²).
List of all cities in Sheridan County, WY alphabetically
- Arvada, WY
- Banner, WY
- Big Horn, WY
- Clearmont, WY
- Dayton, WY
- Leiter, WY
- Parkman, WY
- Ranchester, WY
- Sheridan, WY
- Story, WY
- Wolf, WY
- Wyarno, WY
Major Cities and Towns in Sheridan County, Wyoming
Sheridan
- Area: 12.5 square miles
- Population: 18,154 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 82801
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.7972° N, 106.9570° W
Location and History
Sheridan, the county seat and largest city in Sheridan County, is located in northern Wyoming at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains. The city was founded in 1882 by John D. Loucks, a Civil War veteran who named it after General Philip Sheridan, a Union cavalry leader. Sheridan quickly grew as a center for cattle ranching and later became a hub for the coal mining industry due to the nearby deposits. The arrival of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad in 1892 further spurred growth, making Sheridan a significant transportation and trade center for the region. The city’s historic downtown area, with its well-preserved buildings and Western charm, reflects its rich history and serves as a focal point for the community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sheridan is served by Sheridan County School District #2, with Sheridan High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Historic Sheridan Inn, where Buffalo Bill Cody once auditioned acts for his Wild West Show. Another key site is the Brinton Museum, located just outside of Sheridan, which features an extensive collection of Western and American Indian art. The nearby Bighorn Mountains offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making Sheridan a gateway to outdoor adventure. Sheridan’s annual events, such as the Sheridan WYO Rodeo and the Don King Days, celebrate the city’s Western heritage and draw visitors from across the region. Sheridan’s blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation make it a vibrant and welcoming community.
Ranchester
- Area: 0.95 square miles
- Population: 1,045 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 82839
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.9064° N, 107.1614° W
Location and History
Ranchester is a small town located in northern Sheridan County, near the border with Montana. The town was established in the early 20th century as a stop along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, which was crucial for transporting cattle and agricultural products from the surrounding ranches. Ranchester grew as a service center for the local farming and ranching community, and its name reflects its agricultural roots. The town has maintained its small-town charm while benefiting from its proximity to both Sheridan and the Bighorn Mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ranchester is served by Sheridan County School District #1, with Tongue River High School being the main educational institution. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong sense of community. A key landmark in Ranchester is Connor Battlefield State Historic Site, located just outside of town, which commemorates the 1865 battle between U.S. soldiers and Native American warriors during the Indian Wars. The nearby Tongue River provides opportunities for fishing, rafting, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Ranchester’s annual events, such as the Ranchester Days celebration, bring the community together with parades, games, and family-friendly activities. The town’s rural setting, historical significance, and close-knit community make Ranchester a welcoming place to live.
Dayton
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 757 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 82836
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.8758° N, 107.2586° W
Location and History
Dayton is a small town located in the northern part of Sheridan County, near the Bighorn Mountains. The town was founded in the late 19th century by ranchers and settlers who were drawn to the fertile land and abundant water from the Tongue River. Dayton quickly developed as a center for agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming. The town’s location at the base of the Bighorn Mountains also made it a gateway for travelers and adventurers heading into the wilderness. Today, Dayton is known for its scenic setting, historic charm, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dayton is part of Sheridan County School District #1, with students attending Tongue River High School in nearby Ranchester. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Tongue River Valley Community Center, which serves as a hub for local activities and events. The nearby Bighorn Mountains offer numerous opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, with Dayton serving as a convenient base for exploring the area. The annual Dayton Days celebration, held each summer, includes a rodeo, parade, and community picnic, highlighting the town’s strong sense of community and Western heritage. Dayton’s combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and small-town atmosphere make it a desirable place to live and visit.
Clearmont
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: 142 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 82835
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.6269° N, 106.3847° W
Location and History
Clearmont is a small town located in the southeastern part of Sheridan County, along the Clear Creek. The town was established in the early 20th century as a stop on the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, which provided a vital link for transporting agricultural products from the surrounding ranches and farms. Clearmont grew as a service center for the local ranching community, and its name reflects the clear waters of the nearby creek. The town has remained small and close-knit, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clearmont is served by Sheridan County School District #3, with Arvada-Clearmont High School being the primary educational institution. The town is known for its rural charm and connection to the surrounding landscape. A key landmark in Clearmont is the Clearmont Community Center, which hosts local events, meetings, and social gatherings. The nearby Clear Creek offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Clearmont’s annual events, such as the Clearmont Day celebration, bring residents together to celebrate the town’s history and community spirit. The town’s small size, agricultural roots, and peaceful setting make Clearmont a unique and welcoming place in Sheridan County.
Big Horn
- Area: 0.54 square miles
- Population: 447 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 82833
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.6758° N, 106.9761° W
Location and History
Big Horn is a small, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Sheridan County, at the base of the Bighorn Mountains. The town was established in the late 19th century by ranchers and settlers attracted to the fertile land and ample water supply from nearby creeks. Big Horn quickly developed into a center for cattle ranching, with large ranches established in the surrounding area. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of the cattle industry in Wyoming, and it has maintained its ranching heritage over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Big Horn is served by Sheridan County School District #1, with Big Horn High School being the primary educational institution. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Big Horn Polo Club, one of the oldest polo clubs in the United States, which hosts matches and tournaments during the summer months. Another key site is the Bradford Brinton Memorial and Museum, located just outside of town, which showcases Western and American Indian art, as well as the history of the region. The nearby Bighorn Mountains provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying the scenic landscape. Big Horn’s annual events, such as the Big Horn Equestrian Center’s Fourth of July celebration, reflect the town’s strong sense of community and Western traditions. The town’s rich history, rural charm, and connection to the land make Big Horn a unique and desirable place to live and visit in Sheridan County.
