Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park is located in North Platte, Nebraska and is dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous American Old West figure, Buffalo Bill Cody.
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Summary
The park covers over 25 acres and includes a historic mansion, barns, and outbuildings. Visitors can see original furnishings, artwork, and artifacts from Buffalo Bill's life and times.
There are many good reasons to visit Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park. The park offers an opportunity to step back in time and experience the life of one of the most famous American legends. Visitors can learn about the history of the American West, as well as the life and times of Buffalo Bill Cody.
Some of the specific points of interest to see at the park include the Buffalo Bill Ranch House, which has been restored to its original appearance, and the Cody Barn, which features exhibits on Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. The park also has a picnic area, walking trails, and a visitor center with exhibits and information on the history of the area.
Interesting facts about the area include that Buffalo Bill Cody purchased the ranch in 1886 and lived there for over a decade. The ranch was a working cattle ranch and Cody used it as a base for his Wild West show. The park also includes a historic horse barn, which was used to house the horses and performers for the show.
The best time of year to visit Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the park is open for tours and events. The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, concerts, and festivals. Visitors can check the park's website for a calendar of events and other information on visiting.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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North Platte River (North River WMA)
West Hershey WMA