Blackwatercreekranch

Blackwater Creek Lodge & Guest Ranch sits at 6,200 feet elevation in Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming—the first national forest ever created in the U.S. (1891). Located at 1516 North Fork Highway just outside Cody, the ranch is 15 miles from Yellowstone National Park's East Entrance and sits along the Shoshone River and Blackwater Creek.

• •1899–1905: The Blackwater Ranger Cabin was built in what's now Shoshone National Forest. A U.S. Forest Service wagon bridge followed in 1900. Both burned in 1905.

• •1915: Bronson C. "Bob" Rumsey (Yale graduate, later Wyoming State Senator) and George T. Beck (Cody founder) received a permit to operate Blackwater Camp. Early guests got a horse for their entire stay and could fish for trout or book hunting and pack trips.

• •1927–1930: Bob Rumsey's ex-wife Anna and daughter Betty Perkins kept it running as a dude operation with room for 40 guests. Tex Wisdom took over in 1930.

• •1937: The Blackwater Fire—sparked by lightning—killed 15 firefighters and injured 38 others in Shoshone National Forest. A stone memorial still stands at the mouth of Blackwater Creek on the Cody-Yellowstone Highway. CCC-built memorials mark where firefighters died (accessible by horse or hiking).

• •1930s–1950s: Operated as Blackwater Lodge with guided hunting, fishing, pack trips, and lodging. Historic log cabins built between 1915 and the 1950s.

• •2024: Purchased by Ranch Preservation and now part of the True Ranch Collection.

Log cabins built from 1915 into the 1950s. Each has its own bathroom. Some have multiple bedrooms. Furnished with cozy bedding, Navajo rugs, and western appointments. Rooms include basic toiletries and hair dryer. No TVs. Wi-Fi available in all guest areas and rooms. No cell service at the ranch.

Check-in: 2 p.m. | Check-out: 11 a.m.

Horseback Riding - All experience levels welcomed (beginner to competitive owners) - Wranglers work with first-time riders - Weight limit: 250 lbs (limited draft crosses up to 280 lbs) - Long sleeve riding shirts recommended for sun protection - Riding helmets available (recommended, not required)

Fly Fishing - Fish the Shoshone River and Blackwater Creek on your own - Fly rods available to borrow - Wyoming State Fishing License required - Bring your own equipment if you're serious

Hiking & Trail Riding - Creek crossings, mountainous terrain, unbelievable vistas - Access to Shoshone National Forest trails from the ranch

Off-Ranch Excursions - Yellowstone tours (15 miles away) - Cody, Wyoming visits

White Water Rafting - Available during stays (bring quick-dry apparel)

Archery - On-ranch activity included

Elevation 6,200 feet means daily temperature swings. Summer highs 70s–80s; lows 40s–50s.

Essentials: - Long sleeve shirts for riding - Jeans and comfortable pants - Western or denim shirts - Rain jacket - Cowboy hat with stampede string (or ball cap) - Riding or cowboy boots (slight heel preferred) - Hiking boots - Gloves for riding - Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm - Reusable water bottle - Camera and binoculars - Flashlight or headlamp

• •Group Size: Maximum 25–35 guests at one time

• •Solo Travel: Dude ranches work great for solo travelers—safe atmosphere, group meals, activities foster friendships

• •Families: No separate childcare or children's program; family-inclusive experience

• •Dietary Accommodations: Kitchen handles special requests with advance notice

• •Alcohol: Full bar with wine, beer, and spirits available for purchase

• •Laundry: No guest laundry facilities; housekeeping can do a separate cycle for small gratuity

• •Pets: Not allowed

• •Tipping: Appreciated for exceptional service. Ranch pays staff above minimum wage (not tipped wages). Ranch Service Fee included in rates supports staff compensation.

• •Cody Airport (Yellowstone Regional): 45 minutes
• •Complimentary transportation for six-night stays
• •Available for additional charge on three-night stays

• •Billings-Logan International: 2.5 hours
• •Contact ranch for transportation recommendations

• •Bozeman Yellowstone International: 4 hours
• •Contact ranch for recommendations

• •Address: 1516 North Fork Highway, Cody, WY 82414

Shoshone Cowgirls Retreat September 13–19, 2026 - Single: $3,642/person - Double: $3,321/person - Additional persons: $2,982/person - Prices include tax, service charge, lodging, activities, excursions, meals, and riding - 30% deposit to confirm - Call 307-243-3056 to book

May 24 – September 26, 2026

• •Phone: 307-243-3056
• •Email: [email protected]
• •Address: 1516 North Fork Highway, Cody, WY 82414

"The most scenic 50 miles in the United States" — Teddy Roosevelt