Living in Natrona County

Wyoming’s plains are the historical home to many nomadic tribes including the Cheyenne, Arapaho, Shoshone and Sioux. Today, about 6,000 Shoshone and Arapaho continue to reside on the 2.3 million acre Wind River Reservation, northwest of Natrona County.

In 1812, John Jacob Astor established Astoria at the mouth of the Columbia and sent Robert Stuart east to start what was hoped to become a network of trading posts. Stuart found South Pass by following a Crow Indian trail and entered our region. Near Bessemer Bend, Stuart and his small band erected the first white man’s hut in 1812. Although Astor’s plans failed when the British captured Astoria in 1812, trappers and scouts continued to explore our high plains and develop transit routes. On July 4, 1824, some of these trappers named Independence Rock.

In 1840, Father Jean Pierre DeSmet began spreading the gospel among area Indians. Father DeSmet was the first to carve his name on Independence Rock and give it the name, “The Register of the Desert.” In 1843, John C. Fremont (known as “The Pathfinder”) chiseled his name on Independence Rock and later with Kit Carson as his guide, went on to explore the country along the Platte and Sweetwater Rivers.

May 06

[ARCHIVED] Come Play In Our Backyard! Its pretty amazing!

The original item was published from May 6, 2020 11:15 AM to June 22, 2020 2:39 PM

Outdoor Recreation opportunities  for May 6, 2020

We want to encourage everyone be covid aware.

From: Tim Petrea - Director

Subject: Campgrounds Reopening Procedures

Natrona County Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Services will open the Campgrounds to the public on Friday May 8, 2020.

Discover all of our camping areas.

• 10 people or less at campsites

• All Camping areas and visitors should be expected to insure proper Social Distancing.

• With the exception of the Full Hookup RV site at Alcova, all other camping areas are first come-first serve.

• All campers should understand and be prepared to bathe in self-contained units.

• The bathhouse at the Alcova trailer area will remain closed until a time TBA/

• All other restroom areas will be open

For more information please contact us at - Parks@natronacounty-wy.gov

The Following is a statement from the National Parks and Recreation Association;

Concerns about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak continue to grip our nation. As organizations that support the power of parks and open spaces as essential resources for health and wellness, we understand that people may have

questions and concerns about visiting their local parks, trails or open spaces at this time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has flagged mental health as a top concern associated with the COVID-19 outbreak. We recognize that physical distancing may take a toll on our mental health, especially during high-stress and anxiety-producing global public health emergencies. We also know that parks provide a connection to the outdoors and green space as well as opportunities for physical activity which studies demonstrate reduces stress and improves mental health.

We believe that many parks, trails and open spaces can continue to be used in a safe manner that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. In all instances, we recommend people follow local, state and national ordinances and guidelines regarding the use of these spaces and recognize that these vary from community to community.

In places where there are no restrictions on the use of local parks, trails and open spaces, we encourage all users to follow these recommendations:

Refrain from using parks or trails if they are exhibiting symptoms.

Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.

Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.

While on trails, warn other users of their presence and as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.

Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.

Observe CDC’s minimum recommended physical distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.

  •      The Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Services office is closed to public today and during these times of social distancing. Please feel free to email any concerns. 
  • We have many areas through out the county for people to get out and enjoy during these difficult times. Please contact our offices if you have any questions. 
  • Get out and play in our backyard today!
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