Buffalo Bill Reservoir mirrors the region’s rich history, spanning 8,315 acres of tranquility just a few miles from Cody in Park County, Wyoming. Constructed with ingenuity between 1905 and 1910 on the majestic Shoshone River, the towering Shoshone Dam stood proudly as one of the pioneering high concrete dams in the United States. Reaching a record-breaking height of 325 feet upon completion, the dam was rechristened by Buffalo Bill in 1946, honoring the legendary Old West icon William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, who once roamed and roared in the land now peacefully submerged beneath the reservoir. Listed as a National Civil Engineering Landmark and proudly included on the National Register of Historic Places, this landmark is more than simply a reservoir—it’s a piece of living history. An emblem of endurance and progress, the Shoshone Power Plant, stationed near the sturdy backbone of the Buffalo Bill Reservoir Dam, commenced its remarkable journey in 1922 with the hum of two hydroelectric units. The harmony of power continued to resonate as a third unit joined the chorus in 1931. However, the melody was disrupted in 1980 when the plant whispered its final tune due to unit deterioration.
Yet, the spirit of innovation never falters, as a new 3,000-kilowatt unit took its place in 1991, steadfastly generating hydroelectric power from the crisp waters of Buffalo Bill Reservoir.
Further downstream, the Heart Mountain Power Plant, a testament to harnessing nature’s energy, draws its vitality from the fluid grace of the reservoir, crafting a symphony of sustainability for the land it touches. With unwavering dedication to preserving nature’s treasures, the original tale of Buffalo Bill State Park unfolded in 1957, bestowing serene recreational nooks along the reserved Buffalo Bill Reservoir shoreline. In a poetic crescendo of renewal, a monumental project reached its climax in 1993, elevating the dam’s stature by 25 feet and expanding the reservoir’s embrace. The revamped landscape now hosts a vibrant mosaic of outdoor activities, from tranquil hikes to refreshing dips, from birdwatching melodies to angler’s lullabies. As the wind dances through the canyon to create a symphony of waves, Buffalo Bill Reservoir emerges as the favored stage for windsurfing enthusiasts, painting picturesque moments that linger in memory. Swimming beneath the rippling waters of Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a diverse ensemble of fish species that enchant anglers year-round: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, and the storied cutthroat trout. For those seeking solace on the shimmering surface, several boat ramps offer the perfect gateway to aquatic adventures.
Meanwhile, the rugged arms of nature embrace the reservoir in a scenic embrace, with mountains such as Rattlesnake Mountain, Cedar Mountain, and Sheep Mountain adding their verses to the grand ode of the Absaroka Range. As dusk settles and stars twinkle above the shimmering Buffalo Bill Reservoir, those seeking restful repose can journey to the warm embrace of Cody. Nestled northeast of the reservoir, Cody is a haven of comfort, offering various lodging options, from cozy cabins to elegant bed and breakfasts. These charming retreats serve as a gentle melody to the symphony of outdoor pursuits awaiting just beyond, from the sprawling expanse of the Shoshone National Forest to the thrilling rapids of the Bighorn River. Amidst the chorus of whispers from the forest and the river, Cody stands as a gateway to adventures waiting at Yellowstone National Park. In this realm, nature’s grandeur paints an unforgettable masterpiece. In the vast tableau of northern Wyoming, where mountain peaks touch the sky and rivers whisper tales of old, Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a jewel in the crown of outdoor wonder. Alongside the dramatic allure of Grand Teton National Park and the majestic canvas of Bridger-Teton National Forest, the reservoir beckons adventurers to weave their tales of exploration amidst nature’s bounty. A monument to the unwavering spirit of the land and the enduring history of people who dare to dream, Buffalo Bill Reservoir is located here, deep in the wilderness, where whispers of the future blend with echoes of the past.