Platte County, Wyoming

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Platte County is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Wyoming. As of the 2020 census, the population was 8,605. The county seat is Wheatland. The county was created in 1911 and organized in 1913.

History

Platte County was established in 1911 from portions of Laramie County and Converse County. It was named after the North Platte River, which flows through the county. The county has a rich history of agriculture, particularly in cattle ranching and farming.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,111 square miles (5,470 km²), of which 2,084 square miles (5,400 km²) is land and 27 square miles (70 km²) (1.3%) is water. The county is characterized by its rolling plains and the presence of the Laramie Mountains in the western part.

Adjacent counties

• Converse County (north)
• Goshen County (east)
• Laramie County (south)
• Albany County (west)

Major highways

• Interstate 25
• U.S. Route 26
• U.S. Route 87
• Wyoming Highway 34
• Wyoming Highway 319

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 8,605 people, 3,800 households, and 2,400 families residing in the county. The population density was 4.1 people per square mile (1.6/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of other races including Native American, African American, and Asian.

Communities

Towns

• Chugwater
• Glendo
• Guernsey
• Hartville
• Wheatland (county seat)

Census-designated places

• Lakeview North
• Slater

Unincorporated communities

• Dwyer
• Orin Junction

Economy

The economy of Platte County is largely based on agriculture, with cattle ranching and farming being the primary industries. Additionally, tourism plays a role due to the county's natural attractions and historical sites.

Education

Platte County is served by Platte County School District Number 1 and Platte County School District Number 2. These districts provide education from elementary through high school.

Attractions

• Guernsey State Park
• Register Cliff
• Oregon Trail Ruts

See also

• List of counties in Wyoming
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Platte County, Wyoming

External links

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