Jeffrey City Historic Area | Lander

The Jeffrey City Historic Area is a former uranium mining town located in Fremont County, Wyoming, USA.

This site preserves remnants of a mid-20th-century industrial community.

Visual Characteristics

The area consists of concrete foundations, collapsed structures, and scattered debris. Remaining buildings, such as the former general store and post office, are constructed from concrete block and corrugated metal. Vegetation is sparse, with sagebrush and grasses dominating the landscape. The site exhibits signs of decay and abandonment.

Location & Access Logistics

Jeffrey City is situated approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) west of Rawlins, Wyoming, along Interstate 80. Access is via a paved county road that branches north from I-80 at Exit 260. The road leads directly into the historic area. Parking is available on unpaved areas adjacent to the main structures. No public transportation serves this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded in 1955 by the Uranium Resources Corporation, Jeffrey City was established to support uranium mining operations in the Shirley Basin. The town was designed as a self-sufficient community for miners and their families. Mining activities ceased in the early 1980s, leading to the town's abandonment.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the remaining structures is permitted. Visitors can observe the layout of the former town and the remnants of its industrial past. Photography of the abandoned buildings and the surrounding high desert environment is a primary activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No public restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors are available within the Jeffrey City Historic Area. Cell phone signal is unreliable and generally absent. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies, including water and food.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates longer shadows and highlights the textures of the decaying structures. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer the most moderate temperatures. Summer months can experience extreme heat.

Facts & Legends

A notable aspect of Jeffrey City's history is its rapid growth and subsequent decline, mirroring the boom-and-bust cycle of the uranium industry. The town was once home to over 2,000 residents.

Nearby Landmarks

• Shirley Basin Uranium Mines (5km Northeast)
• Seminoe State Park (35km Southwest)
• Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (Access points vary, approximately 20km West)