Events & Recreation in Gillette, Wyoming

Gillette, Wyoming, often called the "energy capital of the world," is a city on the move - upwards that is. It is a place where the population is increasing at a most rapid pace. Some 20,000 already live and work in the city, more in Campbell County itself, with predictions that 40,000 people could soon inhabit this rather isolated place along I-90 just west of the South Dakota border. The reason for the startling influx of people to the third largest city in Wyoming is mineral related. Coal bed methane gas, an important form of energy mined through the porous coal seams that lie beneath Campbell County, has caused a boom to the already mineral - rich. Actually, it could be said that Gillette has the 3 " r "s - ranching, rail and really big coal mines!

With so many residents and an increasing number of visitors to the region, recreational activities are at a premium. Gillette and nearby areas have available quite a wide range of recreational opportunities for those looking for fun things to do. The Visitor's Center, off Exit 126, downtown is a great place to start with friendly, knowledgeable staff willing to point visitors in the right direction.

The Cam-Plex, a surprisingly modern, state of the art convention center is the cultural hub of the city and plays host to many conventions, concerts, trade shows and sporting events. From a tour of any one of fifteen coalmines, some of the world's largest, to a swim in the local indoor swimming pool or a splashing good time at the Thunder Run waterslide, visitors can find lots to do. The Rockpile Museum, aptly named, is an extensive collection of rifles, quilts, Native American artifacts and other western history exhibits. A Burlington Northern caboose car stands guard at the entrance of the museum that is open year round and free to all visitors.

Gillette and the surrounding area are home to thousands of pronghorn antelope, more than one for every resident of the county! Seeing one up close is a given. Fall means hunting in Wyoming and this area is excellent for a trophy antelope, as well as white tail and mule deer, wild turkeys, pheasant and the majestic elk. About an hours journey north is the Devils Tower monument, a most unique rock formation rising straight up out of the gently rolling surrounding hills. For $8.00 a car, visitors can drive to the base, visit the center and walk completely around the base of this awesome monolith.

Nearby Keyhole State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with boating, water skiing, swimming, camping, picnics and hiking all available in the long, hot dry summers. For those who want to get up close and personal with a buffalo, both the RBL Bison Ranch between Spotted Horse and Clearmont, and the Durham Buffalo Ranch offer tours to see these magnificent animals, a dinner of buffalo steaks and a gift shop with all manner of buffalo merchandise. Gillette is a city on the go with a high standard of living, friendly people and lots to do.