Trailer Life Cream of the Crop Campsites: Ponderosa Campground – Cody, Wyoming
Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself, the town of Cody, Wyoming lives the spirit of the Wild West every day. Located just 53 miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, it’s also a great stop on your trip up to the Pacific Northwest, Canada or Alaska, or your journey down into the Southwest.
Ponderosa Campground is a family-owned park with plenty of western hospitality. It’s centrally-located near many Cody attractions, yet retains a quiet, secluded atmosphere for your comfort and relaxation.
The park features free private showers, clean and modern laundry facilities, sparkling restrooms, a dump station and a public phone. Canine guests are welcome to stretch their legs at the Dog Walk area as long as they are on a leash.
Ponderosa also offers a well-stocked convenience store and is near many shops, restaurants and attractions. If sightseeing wears you out, take a break at the park’s Cowboy Cappuccino Bar and let the youngsters play at the arcade or run around on the playground.
All 137 sites have full hookups (30/50 amp) with free WIFI and cable TV. Back-in sites measure 21’x 35’ and pull-thru sites measure 18’x 65’ (plenty of room for even the biggest of the big rigs). Some sites are paved and others are well-maintained gravel, just like the interior roads.
Nightly rates are $30 to $39 for two people, with each additional person (age 7+) an extra $2. Payments can be made via personal check, travelers check or cash. The park is open from April 15 to October 15. Reservations can be made year-round by calling (307) 587-9203 and are recommended.
Area Attractions: You may be surprised at the variety of activities available in the greater Cody area. From golf and fishing to river rafting and wildlife viewing, there are outdoor adventures to suit every taste. The friendly folks at Ponderosa Campground are happy to help you plan your family’s activities during your stay. See their list of Cody, Wyoming Attractions for inspiration.
Get acquainted with the area and its history by taking an hour-long Cody Trolley Tour, or stop in at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, just three blocks down the road from the campground.
Of course, no stay in Cody would be complete without a night at the rodeo! The famous Cody rodeo takes place in Stampede Park every night during the summer season.
Climate: Cody is above 5000’ in elevation, so keep this in mind when planning your daily activities. Don’t over-exert yourself until you get accustomed to the change in elevation, especially if you have cardiovascular conditions. Severe temperature fluctuations and sudden rainstorms are common, even in summer. Bring extra clothing and an umbrella in case you get caught in a downpour. Dress in layers for maximum comfort and flexibility.
Please chime in with a comment if you have any tips or stories about visiting Cody and northwestern Wyoming! Your insights could be the key ingredients to someone’s fabulous trip!