Map of Buffalo Bill Reservoir, Wyoming
bordeveloped sitewyoming

Buffalo Bill Reservoir

Bureau of Reclamation · Wyoming

data verified May 2026 (1 day ago)

Overview

Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a developed campground managed by the Bureau of Reclamation near Cody, Wyoming. The BOR typically charges fees at developed sites and manages camping through reservation systems or day-of availability. Verify current reservation policies and any fees with the BOR office before arriving.

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The reservoir sits on the Shoshone River and covers about 8,000 acres. Buffalo Bill Dam was built between 1905 and 1910 and is one of the first high concrete dams constructed in the United States. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Historic displays in the parking lot west of the dam show equipment once used during dam operations. A visitor center provides information about the site.

Camping here includes both developed RV sites and primitive campsites. Some developed sites have dump stations and drinking water available. The site has tables, restrooms, and wind screens. Primitive camping options are also available if you prefer a simpler setup.

Fishing is open year-round and requires a Wyoming State fishing license. The reservoir holds rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, and cutthroat trout. The Shoshone River above and below the reservoir also offers fishing opportunities. Three boat ramps provide water access across the shoreline.

Beyond fishing, you can hunt big game and waterfowl in season with a Wyoming State license. Hiking and horseback riding are popular here. The reservoir is a good windsurfing spot. Wildlife viewing is another option during your stay.

Verify current rules, site availability, and fees with the BOR office before arrival. Conditions and access change. Data verified May 2026.

Plan your visit

  • Shelter type
    Developed site
  • Stay limit
    Verify with agency
  • Fee
    Free
  • Best for
    RV and tent camping

Access

drive-in
regular vehicle access
walk-in
short walk from parking
hike-in
backcountry, multi-hour trek

Features

for campers
  • toiletsyes
  • potable wateryes
  • fire ringsunknown
  • picnic tablesunknown
  • trash serviceunknown
for vehicles
  • dump stationunknown
  • hookupsunknown
  • pull-through sitesunknown
  • rv length infounknown
  • paved accessunknown
Bureau of Reclamation camping rules
reservoir-area camping rules, usually fee-based.

Conditions and access

coordinates
44.45964, -109.18748
AgencyBureau of Reclamationreported May 2026TypeDeveloped sitereported May 2026StateWyomingreported May 2026

Nearby sites

drive time from nearby cities

drive times from WY cities populate once the mapbox directions ingest runs in phase d. expect 5 nearest cities within 250 miles.

Questions about Buffalo Bill Reservoir

Is camping at Buffalo Bill Reservoir free?
No. Buffalo Bill Reservoir is a developed BOR site that charges fees. The BOR manages camping through reservations or day-of availability. Verify current fees and reservation policies with the BOR office before arriving.
How long can you camp at Buffalo Bill Reservoir?
Stay limits at BOR sites vary by location and season. Check with the BOR office for the specific limit at Buffalo Bill Reservoir.
Does Buffalo Bill Reservoir have water and dump stations?
Yes. Developed RV sites here have drinking water available. Dump stations are also provided. Primitive campsites may not have these services, so verify which sites offer them when you reserve.
Can you have a campfire at Buffalo Bill Reservoir?
The site description does not mention fire rings or campfire rules. Verify fire regulations with the BOR office, as fire restrictions may apply seasonally or site-wide.
What kind of camping is available at Buffalo Bill Reservoir?
Buffalo Bill Reservoir has both developed RV sites with amenities and primitive campsites. Developed sites include tables, restrooms, wind screens, drinking water, and dump stations. Primitive sites are simpler but still allow camping on the grounds.
Is fishing open year-round at Buffalo Bill Reservoir?
Yes. Fishing is open year-round at Buffalo Bill Reservoir. You must have a Wyoming State fishing license. The reservoir holds rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, and cutthroat trout. The Shoshone River above and below the dam also offers fishing.

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