Buffalo Bill Reservoir | Cody

Information

Landmark: Buffalo Bill Reservoir
City: Cody
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

Buffalo Bill Reservoir, Cody, USA Wyoming, North America

Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a man-made lake located in Park County, Wyoming, approximately 8 miles west of Cody.

Visual Characteristics

The reservoir is characterized by its expansive, deep blue water, bordered by arid, rocky hills and mesas. The terrain surrounding the reservoir is primarily composed of sedimentary rock formations, exhibiting shades of tan, brown, and red. Vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of sagebrush and drought-resistant grasses.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Buffalo Bill Reservoir is via U.S. Route 14/16/20, also known as Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway, which runs directly alongside the northern shore. The reservoir is approximately 8 miles west of Cody. Ample parking is available at designated pull-offs and boat launch areas. No public transport services operate directly to the reservoir.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Buffalo Bill Reservoir was created by the construction of the Buffalo Bill Dam, completed in 1910. The dam was built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir itself is an artificial impoundment of the Shoshone River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include boating, fishing for trout and salmon, and kayaking. The Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center offers exhibits on the dam's construction and the area's natural history. Hiking trails are present in the surrounding public lands, providing access to elevated viewpoints.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Buffalo Bill Dam Visitor Center and at some boat launch areas. Shade is limited, primarily found at the visitor center and picnic areas. Cell phone signal is intermittent, with 4G coverage generally available near the visitor center but less reliable along the reservoir's perimeter. Food vendors are not present at the reservoir; visitors should bring supplies from Cody.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates shadows on the rock formations. The months of June through September offer the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C). Water levels fluctuate based on seasonal snowmelt and irrigation demands.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the Buffalo Bill Dam is its status as one of the earliest large-scale concrete dams constructed in the United States. The reservoir's depth can exceed 300 feet (91 meters) in certain areas.