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A Surprise Visit to the Buffalo Bill Dam in Cody, Wyoming

On our way to Yellowstone National Park, we stumbled upon many roadside attractions, random wildlife, and a few unexpected surprises that ended up being highlights of our road trip. One of the more pleasant surprises was a stop at the Buffalo Bill Dam in Cody, Wyoming. 

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

While the dam was not part of our original plan, we will stop every time from now on when driving out West because it was a beautiful and free attraction.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

If you find yourself passing through, I would suggest spending a little time checking out what the dam has to offer.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Just think of the many ways you can say dam when telling stories about your travels, as you will find out from this dam post.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

What to Expect from a Dam Visit

You are sure to learn some interesting facts about the dam as well as take in a few picture-worthy views while visiting. The rich history and convenient location make this a great stop on your family road trip.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Located about 50 miles outside of Yellowstone National Park when heading in from the East, it would be a dam shame not to stop in.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

The Buffalo Bill Dam was one of the first concrete dams erected in the U.S. in 1910 and at the time of its completion, it measured an impressive 325 feet high. The soaring heights of this dam have helped to earn its place as the highest dam in the world, at the time.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Watch a Dam Film

Watch a short film detailing the building process of Buffalo Bill’s Dam. This film also covers how the Buffalo Bill Dam is vital to the area in other ways than just a great tourist attraction. It turns out that the Buffalo Bill Dam irrigates more than 93,000 acres where principal crops are oats, sugar beets, barley, beans, and alfalfa, this is known as the Shoshone Project.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Take in the Dam Views

Walk across the top of the dam and get a birds-eye view from 325 feet high, of the Shoshone River and of the Buffalo Bill Reservoir. 

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Right before we arrived at the dam we spotted some wildlife. A group of deer trying to cross the road, luckily it wasn’t in a high-speed area and we were able to take a few moments to appreciate their beauty.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Even after leaving the dam we spotted a few interesting things along the road like this home back behind one of the only gas stations around.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Buy a Dam Momento & Use the Dam Bathroom

Pick up a souvenir in the dam gift shop and take this opportunity to use the bathroom, that is if you are braver than I am. I really felt like I had to go but once I opened the lid to the toilet, I suddenly felt the urge to evacuate the room rather than my bladder.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

If you have ever used a compost toilet you must know what I am talking about, that dark void that seems as if it never ends was enough to keep me from sitting down. I am not sure what I can do to get over this dam fear but am open to suggestions. Feel free to leave me a comment berating me for my irrational fears, this isn’t Twitter, I promise I won’t ban you for speaking your mind.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming

Learn Some Dam Facts

Check out some prehistoric artifacts, view the working models, and native animal taxidermy while learning facts about the Big Horn Basin area.

Buffalo Bill Dam Cody, Wyoming
So be sure to stop by when you are in the dam area at 4808 North Fork Hwy, Cody, Wyoming and be sure to leave a dam comment below as well as check out the website of the Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center in Cody, Wyoming.

About Thirty Something Super Mom

Melissa Dixon Thirty Something Super Mom
Thirty Something Super Mom | Website

My journey started after a Crohn's disease diagnosis, inspiring a commitment to well-being. This site shares my distinctive approach to healthy living with my collection of nutritious recipes that boast authentic flavors, mimicking the indulgence of traditional dishes. I love sharing guilt free recipes for low carb, keto, gluten-free, paleo, and the specific carbohydrate diet. I also share tips on natural living, including homemade cleaners and cleaning hacks. I also share my experience as a veterinary technician and pet groomer, to integrate pet health tips, homemade dog food recipes, and grooming insights to ensure your pets thrive.