Casper's Old Armory

 

Casper’s Lost Landmark: The Wyoming National Guard Armory

In the heart of Casper once stood a truly unique structure—the old Wyoming National Guard Armory. Built in 1927, the round brick building was first designed to house cavalry horses before being adapted for more modern military purposes. For decades, it served not only as a National Guard facility but also as a community gathering space, hosting public events that became part of Casper’s social fabric.

By the early 1930s, the facility was in poor shape. Thanks to New Deal programs like the Civil Works Administration (CWA) and the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA), significant improvements were made in 1934. Workers constructed a cobblestone retaining wall to protect against flooding, graveled and oiled the parking lot, and fenced the grounds, which had previously been unusable. The Casper Star-Tribune noted that the project cost $12,308 and transformed the Armory into a more functional home for Wyoming’s National Guard.

Despite the upgrades, time eventually caught up with the building. By the early 1960s, the Guard had outgrown the space and shifted operations to a new facility in Paradise Valley, which opened in the 1970s and still serves the community today. The old Armory, deeded to Casper College, was relegated to storage and occasional office use as the campus expanded around it.

By the 1980s, the Armory was deteriorating, and plans for a road project put its future in jeopardy. Preservationists rallied, proposing creative ideas such as converting the building into an events space, military museum, or rehearsal hall for the Casper Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps. However, experts concluded that the Armory lacked the architectural or historic significance necessary to protect it.

The fight came to a head in May 1987, when Mayor Jack Kelly abruptly ordered the demolition ahead of schedule after tensions rose at City Council meetings. His decision sparked public outrage, but the reality was that demolition had already begun. For many Casper residents, the sudden loss left wounds that took time to heal.

Today, a grass park and a bronze model of the Armory stand at the site, offering a quiet tribute to a building that once played a vital role in Casper’s military and civic life. Though the Armory is gone, its story remains an important reminder of how places can hold meaning beyond bricks and mortar—and how deeply a community can feel the loss of a landmark.

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Travel Tips

• Location: The bronze model of the old Armory is located near 15th Street between South Wolcott and South Durbin, close to Casper College.

• Parking: Visitors can find parking on nearby streets or at Casper College.

• Nearby Attractions: While you’re in the area, check out the Tate Geological Museum at Casper College, or head up Casper Mountain Road for scenic views and outdoor recreation. Downtown Casper, with its restaurants and shops, is just a short drive away.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall is ideal, when the park is green and the weather is pleasant for walking.

Looking to explore more of Casper’s history and hidden gems across Wyoming? Wild West Curations designs custom travel experiences that bring the past to life. Contact us today to start planning your journey through Wyoming’s rich history.

*Pictures taken and owned by Becky Taylor*

Teapot Dome Wyoming

 

Teapot Dome & The Teapot Dome Scandal: Wyoming’s Historic Landmark

Nestled in the rolling hills north of Casper, Wyoming, sits Teapot Rock—a unique sandstone formation shaped like, you guessed it, a teapot. This quirky natural landmark gave its name to one of the biggest political scandals in American history: the Teapot Dome Scandal of the 1920s. While today it’s a quiet spot along U.S. Highway 259, its story once shook the foundations of Washington, D.C.

The Teapot Dome Scandal erupted when it was revealed that the U.S. government had secretly leased the oil reserves beneath Teapot Dome (and other sites) to private companies without competitive bidding. Secretary of the Interior Albert B. Fall accepted bribes from oil tycoons in exchange for favorable contracts. When exposed, the scandal became a symbol of corruption in government and led to Fall becoming the first U.S. Cabinet member imprisoned for crimes committed while in office.

Although the oilfields are no longer active, Teapot Rock still stands as a reminder of this fascinating chapter in American history. The site itself is small, but its significance is enormous—offering travelers a chance to connect with both natural beauty and political history in one stop.

Travel Tips for Visiting Teapot Dome

• Location: Teapot Rock is located about 20 miles north of Casper on Highway 259, near the town of Midwest. It’s an easy drive from Casper, making it a perfect half-day trip.

• Viewing the Rock: The formation sits on private land, but it’s visible from the highway. Pullouts along the road allow you to stop safely and take photos.

• Nearby Attractions: While in the area, visit the Salt Creek Museum in Midwest, which highlights the region’s oil boom history. Casper itself offers great stops like the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center and Fort Caspar Museum.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall provide the most comfortable weather for exploring. Spring can be windy, while winter driving may be tricky.

• Travel Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a good camera. Cell service can be spotty in rural areas, so plan ahead.

Visiting Teapot Dome isn’t just about seeing a rock—it’s about stepping into the pages of American history. From scandal to scenery, it’s a reminder of how even a quiet Wyoming formation once made headlines around the world.

At Wild West Curations, we specialize in connecting travelers to Wyoming’s hidden gems like Teapot Dome. Let us help you craft a journey full of history, beauty, and true Wyoming adventure.

*First photo courtesy of google.com*

*Other photos taken and owned by Becky Taylor*

Independence Rock

 

Independence Rock, Wyoming: A Landmark of Pioneer Spirit.

Independence Rock in Wyoming is a must‑visit for lovers of history, geology, and the great outdoors. This imposing granite monolith—about 130 ft tall, 1,900 ft long, and 850 ft wide—served as a vital waypoint on the Oregon, California, Mormon, and Pony Express trails during the westward migration.

Why Visit Independence Rock

• Historic Significance: Emigrants aimed to reach Independence Rock by July 4—Independence Day—to stay on schedule and avoid winter mountain snows.
• Register of the Desert: Thousands of pioneers etched their names, dates, and messages into the surface, earning the nickname “Register of the Desert.”
• Geological Feature: A weather‑sculpted dome of exfoliation granite, standing boldly against the Wyoming prairie.

Travel Tips & Visitor Guide

Located about 50–60 miles southwest of Casper, along Wyoming Highway 220, Independence Rock is easily accessible via a rest area with parking, restrooms, and interpretive signs. There's also a footpath encircling the base, and adventurous visitors can scramble up the rock’s gentler northeast slope to the summit.

Best Times to Visit:

• Early mornings or late afternoons for cooler temperatures and ideal lighting.
• Weekdays for a quieter, less crowded experience.

What to Bring:

• Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for summit climbs.
• Water, sunscreen, and bug spray.
• Camera or binoculars for inscriptions and panoramic views.
• Respect the site: no carving or graffiti, stay on paths, and keep pets leashed.

Highlights of Your Visit:

• View historic pioneer inscriptions.
• Walk the 1.3-mile loop trail around the rock.
• Cross a footbridge over preserved wagon trail ruts.
• Climb to the summit for stunning views of the Sweetwater River and Wyoming plains.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting Independence Rock, consider exploring Devil’s Gate, a striking river gorge just five miles away, or Martin’s Cove, a key Mormon Trail site. For more in-depth history, the Fort Caspar Museum and National Historic Trails Interpretive Center. in Casper offers fascinating exhibits about the emigrant trails.

 

Plan Your Wyoming Adventure with Wild West Curations

At Wild West Curations, we specialize in crafting personalized Wyoming travel experiences that immerse you in the rich history and natural beauty of the American West. Whether you're planning a road trip along historic trails, seeking hidden gems off the beaten path, or need help arranging guided tours, we handle the details so you can focus on the adventure. Let us curate your next Wyoming journey—Creating True Wyoming Adventures, One Journey at a Time!

 *Pictures taken and owned by Becky Taylor*

Pathfinder Reservoir

 

                                    

Pathfinder Reservoir, nestled in the rugged landscapes of southern Natrona and Carbon counties in Wyoming, is a striking blend of history, engineering, and outdoor recreation. Created by the monumental masonry Pathfinder Dam, this reservoir sits about 47 miles southwest of Casper on the North Platte River, boasting 117 miles of shoreline and over 1,016,000 acre‑feet of storage capacity.

A Legacy of Engineering

Constructed between 1905 and 1909, Pathfinder Dam is built from granite quarried from local canyon walls, featuring solid-faced blocks over 24–36 inches thick atop a core of massive, irregular stones. At completion, the total cost exceeded $2.5 million, a notable accomplishment given its rugged remote location Named in honor of explorer John C. Fremont—“the Pathfinder of the West”—the dam is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, the Pathfinder Interpretive Center, housed in the original dam tender’s residence, preserves this remarkable history. Nearby, a 1.7‑mile interpretive trail—accessible via historic suspension bridge or from the dam itself—provides sweeping views and educational signage.

Recreation & Fishing

Pathfinder Reservoir is revered for its blue‑ribbon fishing, drawing anglers’ year‑round. Stocked annually with rainbow and cutthroat trout, the reservoir also offers brown trout, people’s favorite Ohrid trout, perch, and trophy-caliber walleye. Locals and visitors especially converge each January for the HAWG Ice‑Fishing Derby, a highlight of winter recreation.

Recreation is supported by three campgrounds and three boat ramps, with facilities managed through the Bureau of Reclamation in partnership with Natrona County and the BLM Visitors can launch boats, bank fish, or enjoy tranquil canoe paddles across this scenic water body.

Wildlife & Natural Beauty

Much of the reservoir is encompassed by the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge, covering over 16,800 acres and managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The refuge borders portions of the reservoir and provides habitat for migratory birds, pronghorn, and other wildlife across wetlands and grasslands.

Visiting Tips

• Access: Via U.S. Highway 220 to County Roads 408 or 410, about a 10‑minute drive from Alcova Reservoir.
• Amenities: Campgrounds—including the reservation-based Diabase Campground—boat ramps, marina facilities, restrooms, and interpretive trail access.
• Climate: Arranged in a cold semi‑arid climate with wide seasonal swings ranging from over 100 °F in summer to potentially −39 °F in winter.
• Regulations: Wyoming fishing license required. Daily limits typically include up to six trout (combined species), with only one permitted over 16 inches.

Conclusion

Whether you are a history buff drawn to the dramatic masonry of Pathfinder Dam, an angler chasing trophy trout and walleye, or a nature lover seeking expansive birdlife and scenic solitude, Pathfinder Reservoir offers an unforgettable Wyoming experience. From educational trails and historic sites to wide-open waters and wildlife-rich landscapes, this reservoir continues to stand as a testament to early western ingenuity—and modern outdoor enjoyment.

Let Wild West Curations help you plan the perfect camping trip, fishing adventure, or visit to nearby attractions!

*Pictured owned and taken by Becky Taylor*

Camp Douglas and Ft. Fetterman

 

Wyoming’s Converse County hides two compelling travel destinations steeped in history: Camp Douglas and Fort Fetterman—each offering a unique glimpse into the Old West and the upheavals of World War II.

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Camp Douglas (Douglas, WY)

From 1943 to 1946, Camp Douglas was Wyoming’s main World War II POW site—sprawling over a square mile with 180 structures, housing up to 2,000 Italian and 3,000 German prisoners alongside 500 U.S. personnel. Today, only the Officers’ Club remains, now a state historic site open seasonally (June–early September).

Highlights:

• Striking Italian murals: POWs painted Western scenes—cowboys, wagon trains, geysers—based on pop culture, now preserved on Celotex walls.
• Living history: Exhibits recount prisoner labor in local agriculture and camp life under enhanced security after a Nazi officer’s attic escape.
• On-site amenities: Picnic area, restrooms, interpretive displays, and a small museum.

Travel Tips:

• Visit on Friday or Saturday between Memorial Day and Labor Day for guided tours.
• Call ahead (307‑358‑9288) or check the Wyoming Parks site for schedule updates.
• Don’t miss the downtown Wyoming Pioneer Museum, which fits perfectly into a history-themed day.

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Fort Fetterman (11 miles NW of Douglas)

Originally built in 1867 atop a bluff above the North Platte River, Fort Fetterman served as a military supply base and launching point for key campaigns during the Indian Wars. It was abandoned in 1882 after the Army relocated; today, it’s a State Historic Site open Memorial Day–Labor Day.

Highlights:

• Restored buildings: Explore the officer’s quarters and ordnance warehouse, now housing artifacts and dioramas.
• Foundations trail: Walk among marked ruins and follow an interpretive trail to a viewing gazebo overlooking the North Platte.
• Picnic & events: On‑site picnic areas, geocaching, a gift shop, and special events like "Ft. Fetterman Days" on July 4—complete with pony‑express reenactments, ice cream, wagon rides, and a flag‑raising ceremony.

Travel Tips:

• Go scenic: Take WY‑95N from Glenrock to avoid I‑25 and enjoy river valley views.
• Plan your visit early or late in the day—it gets hot, and water is wise to carry.
• Call ahead for guided tours and cemetery walks.

• Both sites open seasonally—plan between late May and early September.
• Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and layers (wind can be intense).
• Check site phone (307‑358‑9288) or Wyoming State Parks for updates.
• Combine with Douglas’s historic downtown and rail‑era hotels to round out your visit.

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Double dip into the past—from WWII POW artistry to frontier military outposts—and enjoy a day rich in Wyoming’s layered legacy. Let Wild West Curations help you design a journey that brings you face-to-face with history—crafted with care and respect.

*Pictures taken and owned by Becky Taylor*

Martin's Cove Area

 

Nestled along the banks of the Sweetwater River in central Wyoming, the Martin’s Cove area—including Sun Ranch, Devil’s Gate and the Mormon Handcart Visitor Center—is a tapestry of American pioneering history and poignant human endurance.

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Martin’s Cove: Sanctuary Amidst the Storm

In early November 1856, close to 600 emigrants of the Martin Handcart Company—many women, children, and elderly—were trapped by brutal snow and bitter winds in a rocky hollow now known as Martin’s Cove. They endured five harrowing days while a rescue party from Salt Lake City forded the river with supplies and wagons, providing shelter and food.

Today, this sacred site covers 933 acres and welcomes around 100,000 visitors annually. A dramatic loop trail (about 5 miles round‑trip) allows guests to walk in the pioneers’ footsteps, complete with interpretive signs, monuments, and a solemn monument dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley in 1992. At the loop’s culmination lies the Visitors’ Center—housed in the old Tom Sun ranch house—offering exhibits, artwork, artifacts, and an introductory video. Service-minded missionaries and accessible handcarts bring history to life.

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Sun Ranch & Devil’s Gate: Echoes of the Trail

Adjacent to the cove, the Sun Ranch, established by Tom Sun in 1872, is now a National Historic Landmark. Its preserved bunkhouse, blacksmith shop, washhouse, and the "Peoples of the Sweetwater Museum" offer tangible links to ranching life and earlier pioneer passage.

A short trail further leads to Devil’s Gate, a striking natural gorge where the Sweetwater River cleaves through granite—a landmark of significance for Oregon, California, and Mormon Trail travelers. This geological marvel enhances both the narrative and the scenic beauty of the journey.

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Mormon Handcart Visitor Center: Bridging Past and Present

Also referred to as Devil’s Gate Visitor Center, this is the heart of the historic site . Open daily (summer 9 AM–7 PM, Sundays 2 PM–7 PM), it offers free parking, restrooms, drinking water, a picnic area, and trails leading out into history .

Visitors can borrow replica period handcarts from the center and pull them along the initial 1.25-mile trail into the Coves—before leaving them behind to continue on foot. Inside, you'll find exhibits focused on the stories of the Martin, Willie, Hunt, and Hodgett companies, as well as trading posts and even a reconstruction of Fort Seminoe where wagon goods were stored.

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Why This Matters

Beyond its scenic allure, this trio of sites frames the powerful, personal narratives of perseverance, sacrifice, and neighborly compassion. It invites us not only to witness but also participate—be that via reenacted handcart treks hosted by the LDS Church or simply traversing the paths where pioneers once walked.

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Travel Tips

• Timing: A full experience takes 2–3 hours, with at least 2 hours for trail walking .
• Trail Tips: Use sturdy shoes and bring water; handcarts and docents assist on portion of trails
• Amenities: Parking is RV-friendly; restrooms and picnic spots are available.
• Accessibility: The Visitors’ Center is wheelchair‑accessible; some trails (like Devil’s Gate) are more rugged

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Visiting Martin’s Cove, Sun Ranch, and the Mormon Handcart Visitor Center is much more than a stop along the highway—it’s a deeply immersive lesson in faith, resilience, and compassion. Whether you come to reflect or to learn, these hallowed grounds stand ready to share their stories.

Contact Wild West Curations if you would like a guide on how to get there from Casper or ideas for nearby historic sites and lodging!

*1st photo courtesy of google.com*

**All other photos taken and owned by Becky Taylor**

Alcova Lake & Marina

Summer Bliss at Alcova Lake & Marina: Your Ultimate Adventure Escape 

Tucked just 30 minutes southwest of Casper, Alcova Lake (a.k.a. Alcova Reservoir) spans around 2,470 acres of pristine Wyoming water—perfect for summer adventures and soul‑soothing escapes. From boating and camping to exploring canyon walls, this scenic gem offers something for everyone.

1. Aquatic Playground
Alcova Lake is a hub for boaters and fishers alike. Powered watercraft—like pontoons, deck boats, jet-skis—and non-motorized options such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are available to rent at the on-site Alcova Resort Marina . Anglers can reel in rainbow, brown, cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon, and walleye, thanks to annual stocking and naturally healthy fish populations. 

2. Calm Canyon Escapades
The southwest inlet to Fremont Canyon reveals towering cliffs, calm waters, and abundant wildlife—a kayak route rarely matched in the region. Launching via pontoon shuttle, paddlers drift through 200-foot-deep canyon walls, spotting merganser ducks, turtles, even jumping fish—a peaceful wilderness retreat .

3. Camping & Nature Trails
The reservoir supports six campgrounds—half reservable, half first-come—catering to RVers, groups, and primitive campers with full hookups, dump stations, potable water, playgrounds, and sandy beach volleyball zones. The Cottonwood Creek Dinosaur Interpretive Trail weaves geological history into your hike.

4. Marina Perks & Local Updates
Alcova Resort Marina is your logistical basecamp. Between its 8 boat ramps and 10 reservable docks, convenience is key. The marina ramps up May 15–September 15 (8 AM–8 PM daily, with weekend/holiday extensions). Inside, you'll find a full-service restaurant/bar, ice-cream parlor, convenience store stocked with essentials, fueling station, and marine supply shop—ideal for any boating or camping crew.

5. Resilience & Growth
Following a July 4, 2023 fire that destroyed the marina building, reconstruction efforts ensured the resort was fully operational by May 2025. This renewal signals a renewed commitment: upgraded bathhouses, road improvements, and a better overall lake experience .

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Why Visit Alcova This Summer?

Whether you're slipping a kayak into glassy canyon waters at sunrise, watching children dig toes into sandy beaches, or winding down with a burger and ice cream post-adventure, Alcova balances rugged beauty with modern comfort. Your group can “just show up, eat, drink, boat and be merry” thanks to marina logistics—including group lake‑day packages tailored for retreats and reunions.

Add some nearby diversions—Fremont Canyon rock formations, Cottonwood Trail fossils, and even Pathfinder & Seminoe Reservoirs—and you’ve got a full Alaska‑meets‑Wyoming wilderness escape, without the airfare.

So pitch a tent at Black Beach, snag a pontoon at the Marina, chart a course for Fremont Canyon, and let Alcova Lake recharge your soul.

Travel/Planning Tips

1. Access	30 min from Casper via US‑220 → CR‑406/407
2. Boating Season	Mid-May to mid-Sep; marina open daily, extended on holidays
3. Boat Launches	8 ramps plus marina dock; primitive ramp into Fremont Canyon
4. Camping Fees	~$10/night; some campgrounds are reservable
5. Fishing License	Required; available onsite at marina or local general store

Planning a trip? Make Alcova part of your Wyoming adventure with a personalized itinerary from Wild West Curations. Let’s craft your journey through this extraordinary land—because every great story deserves an unforgettable beginning.

*Pictures owned and taken by Becky Taylor*