We are currently staying at Cody / Yellowstone East KOA Holiday in Cody, Wyoming, and it has been a fantastic basecamp for exploring the area.
We booked one of their full-hookup Paw Pen sites, and if you're traveling with dogs, this setup is a total game changer. Each site includes a private fenced-in area where your dogs can relax outside with you while staying safely contained. The pen even comes equipped with a trash can, waste bags, and a covered shelter to help keep your pets comfortable during the hotter parts of the day.
The campground also offers plenty of activities for families. Amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, kiddie pool, jump pillow, playground, large outdoor chess set, and gem mining. There is no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained after a day of sightseeing.
One of our favorite perks has been the complimentary pancake breakfast served every morning. The kids made sure not to miss it, and for good reason. The pancakes are excellent, and the gentleman cooking them is incredibly friendly and welcoming.
If you're planning to attend the Cody Nite Rodeo, the KOA makes it easy. Tickets can be purchased right at the front desk, and the campground offers a free shuttle service that takes you directly to the rodeo entrance and brings you back afterward.
This was our family's first rodeo, and it exceeded every expectation. The atmosphere was welcoming, family-friendly, and packed with energy. The kids stayed engaged the entire evening and even had the opportunity to participate in activities down in the arena. Watching the cowboys and cowgirls work with their horses was truly impressive, showcasing a level of skill, care, and precision that is hard to appreciate until you see it in person. If you've never experienced a rodeo before, I highly recommend adding one to your travel plans.
While in the area, we also explored McCullough Peaks and Gilmore Hill. These scenic backroads wind through the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Management Area, home to more than 140 wild horses roaming freely across approximately 110,000 acres. We were fortunate enough to spot a small herd of three horses grazing peacefully and spent some time watching them. We also saw an incredible number of pronghorn throughout the area.
If you have a capable vehicle and are comfortable driving on gravel and dirt roads, I highly recommend making the trip out to McCullough Peaks. The wide-open landscapes, abundant wildlife, and chance to see wild horses in their natural habitat make for an unforgettable Wyoming experience.
Scout
