Kids (the human variety) abound in Buffalo, Wyoming. This family-oriented commun-ity has plenty to keep energetic youngsters occupied. The younger members who like to live in the water during the summer months will delight in the town's free swimming pool in Washington Park. The swimming pool and accompanying wading pool, swings, tennis courts, slide, footbridge and picnic tables are boasted to be one of the few free complexes in the country.

Children who are into trains will enjoy viewing an old locomotive in the park--a hands on piece of history from the days when Buffalo had a railroad. The railroad is also in the park and it's just a short distance to the playground area and the attraction the local youngsters call "The Curvy Slide."

For children who prefer an indoor pool, the Johnson County YMCA is not far from Washington Park. The "Y" also has a weight room, a gym, racquet ball courts and several other facilities.

Young anglers may be so fascinated by the clear water of Clear Creek running through the town. The fishing is good for "kids" of all ages. Even the downtown area is a darned good fishing spot and children have been known to cast off right from the downtown bridge. Anyone under the age of 14 may legally fish without a license in Wyoming.

If a child prefers walking to fishing, Buffalo has miles and miles of one of the nicest paved walking paths anywhere. The Clear Creek Trail will take you west to the site of the late 1800's Fort McKinney, now the site of the Wyoming Veterans Home. If a walker follows the path to the east side of town, the final destination will be the historic Carousel Park, located on the famous Bozeman Trail Crossing. The children can ride either Indian ponies or the horse patterned after Comanche, the only living creature left after the Custer disaster at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Then it's time to check out the Ferris Wheel, the ice cream parlor, a miniature golf course and a gift shop.

A history lover of any age won't want to miss a visit to the Jim Gatchell Museum where they can stare in amazement at a dime which once belonged to Calamity Jane, imposing hanging bear and wolf skins and a mesmerizing Native American Indian display.

If the kids need some hefty outdoor activity, it's only a hop, skip and a jump to Lake DeSmet. Tell your youngsters to keep their eyes peeled--they just might spot "Smetty," the lake's legendary, but gentle monster.

Information on horseback riding, bicycling or a variety of other activities at the local Chamber of Commerce. Other activities appealing to the youthful spirit are hiking into the Cloud Peak Wilderness (accompanied by an adult) or going boulder hopping in Crazy Woman Canyon.

A little slower-paced youngster may want to try looking for elusive arrowheads. They're still found in many locations near town. For those who love to read, the Johnson County Library is well-stocked.

Children everywhere--enjoy your stay in Buffalo and don't forget to come back!