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Although the oilfields are no longer active, Teapot Rock still stands as a reminder of this fascinating chapter in American history.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*