Cities and Towns in Washakie County, Wyoming

Founded in 1911, Washakie County is one of 23 counties in the state of Wyoming. Historically, Washakie County was formed from part of Big Horn County. The city of Worland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 43, Washakie County has a population of 7,705 and area of 2,240 square miles (5,802 km²).

 

List of all cities in Washakie County, WY alphabetically

• Ten Sleep, WY
• Worland, WY

Major Cities and Towns in Washakie County, Wyoming

Worland

• Area: 4.7 square miles
• Population: 5,085 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 82401
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.0163° N, 107.9551° W

Location and History

Worland, the county seat of Washakie County, is located in north-central Wyoming, along the Big Horn River. The city was established in the early 1900s, named after Charles H. Worland, one of the early settlers who played a key role in developing the area. Worland grew rapidly as an agricultural hub due to the rich soil and irrigation possibilities provided by the Big Horn River. Sugar beet farming, in particular, became a major industry, leading to the establishment of a sugar beet processing plant that remains a significant part of the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century further solidified Worland’s role as a regional agricultural and commercial center. Today, Worland is known for its strong agricultural roots, historic downtown, and access to outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Worland is served by Washakie County School District #1, with Worland High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Washakie Museum & Cultural Center, which offers exhibits on the region’s history, paleontology, and local culture. Another key site is the Worland Community Center Complex, which hosts a variety of events and activities, including sports, community gatherings, and cultural events. The nearby Big Horn Mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. Worland’s annual events, such as the Washakie County Fair and the annual Parade of Lights, reflect the community’s strong sense of tradition and close-knit atmosphere. The city’s blend of agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, and outdoor opportunities make it a vibrant and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

Ten Sleep

• Area: 0.23 square miles
• Population: 260 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 82442
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.0350° N, 107.4498° W

Location and History

Ten Sleep is a small town located in the western part of Washakie County, at the mouth of Ten Sleep Canyon in the Big Horn Mountains. The town’s name is derived from a Native American term that indicated the town’s distance as “ten sleeps” (or ten days of travel) from major Native American camps in the region. Founded in the late 19th century, Ten Sleep served as a rest stop for travelers, ranchers, and cattle drivers moving through the area. The town’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture and ranching, with its scenic location near the Big Horn Mountains also attracting outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ten Sleep is served by Washakie County School District #2, with Ten Sleep School providing education for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is known for its picturesque setting and proximity to outdoor recreational areas, particularly Ten Sleep Canyon, which is famous for its world-class rock climbing routes and stunning natural beauty. The Ten Sleep Rodeo Grounds host the annual Ten Sleep Fourth of July Rodeo, a major event that draws visitors from across the region to celebrate the town’s Western heritage with rodeo events, parades, and fireworks. The nearby Big Horn National Forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation, making Ten Sleep an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of northwestern Wyoming. The town’s rich history, outdoor attractions, and close-knit community make Ten Sleep a unique and inviting place to live and visit.

Manderson

• Area: 0.21 square miles
• Population: 114 (as of the 2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 82432
• Latitude and Longitude: 44.2614° N, 107.9611° W

Location and History

Manderson is a small town located in the northeastern part of Washakie County, near the confluence of the Nowood and Big Horn Rivers. The town was originally established in the early 20th century and was named after Charles F. Manderson, a U.S. Senator from Nebraska. Manderson began as a railroad town, serving as a hub for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly for the sugar beet and cattle industries. The town’s location near the rivers made it an important spot for irrigation and agriculture, contributing to its early growth. Over time, Manderson has remained a small, rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Manderson is part of the Big Horn County School District #4, with students typically attending schools in nearby Basin or Worland. The town is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and close-knit community. Key landmarks include the Manderson Community Hall, which serves as a gathering place for local events, meetings, and social activities. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and birdwatching, particularly along the Big Horn River and in the nearby Nowood Valley. Manderson’s small size and rural setting make it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle in a close-knit community with easy access to the natural beauty of Wyoming. The town’s history as an agricultural hub and its connection to the surrounding landscape are central to its identity.