Parks & Recreation are Critical Economic Drivers in Northeastern Wyoming

Northeastern Wyoming is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Devils Tower National Monument, Keyhole State Park, the Black Hills and the Big Horn Mountains present seemingly endless outdoor recreation opportunities. 

But within the communities of Northeastern Wyoming, the parks, trails, event facilities and other recreation opportunities managed by the counties, cities, towns and other entities are equally essential for economic impact and quality of life in their respective areas. 

This July is Park and Recreation Month, the perfect time to recognize the importance these facilities and green spaces have in building the quality of place our families, visitors and outdoor adventures seek.

Why we celebrate Parks and Recreation Month

Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to recognize the power parks and recreation opportunities have in Northeastern Wyoming. This year, the NRPA’s theme is “Where Community Grows,” directing attention to bringing people together to foster goodwill and growth in communities nationwide. Use the NRPA 2023 Park and Recreation Month Toolkit to promote activities in Northeastern Wyoming.

The Powder River Electric Corporation understands the vital role parks and recreation play in our community. They are essential for residents’ high quality of life and enjoyment and for new families looking for a place to live. Parks and recreation can also serve as an economic driver. When people visit our community to play at a park, participate in a tournament or use our recreation facilities, they often spend money locally as they shop, eat at restaurants and fill up their vehicles with gas, creating jobs and other local benefits.

Community growth and development begins at the state level with the Wyoming Recreation and Parks Association, which provides professional support toward quality parks and recreation services. It is the recognized voice of advocacy for parks and recreation and leisure services in Wyoming. Its annual conference is in October in Pinedale, featuring educational sessions, a trade show and numerous networking opportunities. 

Parks and recreation in Northeastern Wyoming

The opportunities for family fun in Northeastern Wyoming are as numerous as the communities within. Read on for a few parks and recreation spots to enjoy in as little as a quick morning visit or an extended weekend.

The Campbell County Cam-Plex Park is the premier multi-use facility in Wyoming. The facility is an elite economic driver with over 1,000 acres of land, a 21-acre park, fine arts theatre, convention/exhibit hall, racetrack, rodeo grounds, and 1,730-site RV park. July’s events include the National High School Finals Rodeo and the Campbell County Fair.

Campbell County Parks & Recreation manages several parks, ice arenas, facilities and more. The City of Wright operates 14 miles of paths within the community for runners, bikers and walkers. Its Panther Pond is a popular fishing spot stocked with various species, including Rainbow Trout and Snake River Cutthroat. Its Tatanka Park has a three-story play structure for the children and a sand volleyball pit for all.

Sheridan has a complex pathway trail system through the city. Sagebrush Community Gardens provides plots for residents to grow fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. The Sheridan Recreation District manages several facilities, including Thorne-Rider Park. Its amenities include an indoor hitting shed, sledding hill, skate park and indoor and outdoor tennis courts, amongst other typical park amenities.

From an aquatic center and nine city parks, Newcastle is a community that values its recreation. Hiking and cross-country skiing are available at the Serenity, Flying V and Beaver Creek trails in and around the city.

Your next adventure awaits in Northeastern Wyoming

We all know the Sturgis Motorcycle rally is the primary attraction in the area in August. Before that, we encourage you to get outside, explore and do something new in the local communities of Northeastern Wyoming. It has much to offer and our parks and recreation opportunities allow for enjoyment by all community members. Still, only some take advantage of these opportunities. There are many ways you can help spread the word. Share posts about our parks and recreation on social media. Invite friends to visit, leave positive reviews on Facebook and Google and become an ambassador for our community. Connect with the Powder River Electric Corporation or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter to learn more about the opportunities awaiting you in Northeastern Wyoming!