Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District

Hello, fellow Wyomingites! Are you planning your next unforgettable adventure into the vast and breathtaking wilderness of our incredible state? When it comes to exploring the great outdoors, having reliable information and local insights is paramount. That's where the Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office comes in. While not a campground itself, this vital hub, located right here in Cody, is your essential starting point for discovering the incredible camping opportunities, trails, and natural wonders within the Shoshone National Forest. Our aim here is to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of this indispensable resource, helping you unlock the full potential of your Wyoming outdoor experiences.

The Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office serves as the administrative and informational center for a significant portion of the Shoshone National Forest, America's first national forest. It’s a place where you can gather maps, learn about current conditions, and get expert advice from friendly and knowledgeable staff who share your passion for the outdoors. Whether you're looking for developed campgrounds with amenities, planning a dispersed camping trip off a scenic byway, or seeking trail information for your next hike, this office is designed to equip you with everything you need. We understand that for Wyoming locals, access to accurate, on-the-ground information is crucial for safe and enjoyable wilderness adventures, and this Ranger District is a testament to that commitment.

Location and Accessibility

The Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office is conveniently located at 203 Yellowstone Ave A, Cody, WY 82414, USA. This prime location in Cody, often referred to as the "Rodeo Capital of the World" and the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, makes it incredibly accessible for locals and visitors alike. Cody itself is a well-known hub in northwestern Wyoming, easy to reach via major state highways such as US-14, US-16, and US-20.

Being situated on Yellowstone Avenue, one of Cody's main thoroughfares, ensures that finding the office is straightforward, even for those unfamiliar with the town. Its accessibility means you can easily stop by on your way to or from adventures in the Shoshone National Forest, whether you're heading towards the Sunlight Basin, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (Wyoming Highway 296), or deeper into the vast expanse of the forest. The office provides ample parking, making it convenient for a quick stop to gather maps, obtain permits, or simply chat with a ranger. For Wyoming residents venturing into this incredible corner of our state, the ease of access to this critical information point is a significant advantage in planning safe and enjoyable outdoor excursions.

Services Offered

The Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office provides a wide array of invaluable services to help locals and visitors make the most of their time in the Shoshone National Forest. These services are geared towards ensuring public safety, promoting responsible recreation, and providing essential information.

• Information and Maps: This is a primary function. The office offers a wealth of information on campgrounds (both developed and dispersed), hiking trails, fishing spots, wildlife viewing areas, and recreational opportunities within the district. Detailed topographic maps, forest recreation maps, and specialized trail maps are available for purchase or reference, helping you navigate the vast wilderness with confidence.
• Permits and Passes: Visitors can obtain various permits, such as wilderness permits for overnight backcountry trips, fuelwood permits, Christmas tree permits (seasonally), and information on interagency passes like the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
• Expert Advice from Rangers: The staff, including U.S. Forest Service Rangers, are highly knowledgeable about local conditions, weather forecasts, fire restrictions, trail closures, and wildlife activity. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your interests and skill level, which is invaluable for staying safe and making the most of your trip.
• Current Conditions Updates: The office is the best source for up-to-date information on road closures (especially important for forest service roads that can be affected by snow or washouts), trail conditions, fire danger levels, and any special alerts or warnings.
• Educational Resources: They often have brochures and displays on local ecology, geology, wildlife, and Leave No Trace principles, promoting responsible recreation and environmental stewardship.
• Backcountry Safety Information: For those venturing into the backcountry, rangers can provide critical information on bear safety, proper food storage, water sources, and emergency procedures.
• Recreation.gov Assistance: While many campgrounds are reservable online, the office can provide guidance on using the Recreation.gov system and answer questions about specific campground features or availability.

Features / Highlights

• Knowledgeable and Enthusiastic Staff: A standout feature, consistently praised by visitors, is the incredibly helpful and friendly nature of the staff. Reviewers often highlight their enthusiasm for the area and willingness to provide detailed, personalized assistance, making trip planning a more enjoyable and effective experience.
• Comprehensive Local Information: Unlike generic online searches, the Ranger District provides highly specific, up-to-the-minute information tailored to the Shoshone National Forest. This includes detailed maps with service roads and specific directions for dispersed camping, which is invaluable for exploring off the beaten path.
• Access to Shoshone National Forest: The office is the gateway to exploring vast sections of the Shoshone National Forest, offering a diverse range of landscapes from high alpine peaks to river valleys. This includes popular areas accessible via the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, Sunlight Basin, and other remote regions.
• Support for Responsible Recreation: The information and guidance provided by the office promote Leave No Trace principles, helping visitors minimize their impact and preserve Wyoming's pristine wilderness for future generations.
• Direct Customer Service: In an increasingly digital world, the ability to speak directly with an expert, ask specific questions, and receive tangible resources like maps is a significant advantage, particularly for planning complex outdoor trips.
• Community Hub: For many locals, the Ranger District office is more than just an information point; it's a community hub where outdoor enthusiasts can connect with knowledgeable individuals who share their passion for Wyoming's natural heritage.
• Freebies (Sometimes!): As noted by a reviewer, sometimes you might even get free stickers, adding a fun, personal touch to the excellent service!

Contact Information

The Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office is ready to assist you with your Shoshone National Forest adventures.

Address: 203 Yellowstone Ave A, Cody, WY 82414, USA

Phone: (307) 527-6921

Mobile Phone: +1 307-527-6921

It is highly recommended to call or visit the office during their operating hours, especially before embarking on a trip into the wilderness. They can provide the most current and localized information on conditions, closures, and any requirements for your planned activities. This direct contact is invaluable for ensuring a safe and well-prepared outdoor experience in Wyoming.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Wyoming locals, the Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office is not just a building; it’s an indispensable cornerstone of our outdoor lifestyle. Its suitability stems from several key factors that resonate deeply with the spirit of our state's residents. Firstly, the unparalleled access to accurate, up-to-the-minute information directly from knowledgeable rangers is a game-changer. We, as Wyomingites, understand that conditions in our mountains and forests can change rapidly, and having a reliable source for current road closures, fire restrictions, and trail conditions is not just convenient—it's essential for safety and successful trip planning.

Secondly, the personalized assistance offered by the enthusiastic staff truly caters to the independent and adventurous nature of Wyoming locals. Whether you’re a seasoned big-game hunter, a weekend camper, or a family looking for a new fishing spot, the ability to discuss your plans and get tailored advice, including detailed maps of service roads for dispersed camping (a beloved Wyoming tradition), is invaluable. This direct, friendly interaction fosters a sense of community and shared stewardship of our public lands.

Furthermore, the office's location in Cody makes it a natural stop for anyone venturing into the Shoshone National Forest, whether coming from the Bighorn Basin or heading towards Yellowstone. It serves as a crucial staging point for exploring the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and the vast wilderness beyond. In a state where outdoor recreation is a way of life, the Wapiti / Clarks Fork Ranger District office empowers locals to explore our incredible backyard safely, responsibly, and with all the information needed for a truly unforgettable Wyoming adventure. It’s a resource that every outdoor-loving Wyomingite should utilize.