What a Name, and What a Story!
Chugwater is the home of the Swan Land and Cattle Company, which in its day owned 1,000,000 acres of land and ran over 110,000 cattle. The Swan was instrumental in bringing ranching to the mountain west. Much about the Swan’s history can be learned at the Chugwater Museum. A National Historic marker can be found in Chugwater as well; it marks the stage stop on the Cheyenne to Deadwood route. Chugwater is also the home of Chugwater Chili. Started by five ranch families in 1986, the company now sells chili seasoning around the world and welcomes visitors to stop in for a free taste. The Chugwater Soda Fountain offers old fashioned shakes and malts in the oldest working soda fountain in the State of Wyoming. Meals are offered there and at the Buffalo Lodge and Grill and the new Stampede Eatery, which also features live music every Friday and Saturday evening.
You can find local artisan products at the Stage Stop Arts and Crafts Center as well as Variety Artisans Fabric and Gift Store.
Every year on the Saturday before Father’s Day, the town comes alive with thousands of visitors coming in to enjoy the Chugwater Chili Cook-off. Contestants from around the United States bring in their own regional red or green recipes to the challenge. Free samples! There is also live entertainment all day long. Fun for the entire family.
The Chugwater Town Park is the perfect place to stop and take a break. The park has all the amenities kids would want as well as adult exercise equipment and benches for a nice break.
INTERACTIVE AREA MAP
 | Elevation: 5,295′ Weather: 57°F (14°C), Wind W at 15 mph (24 km/h), 29% Humidity Population: 202 (2018) |
DEMOGRAPHICS
GOVERNMENT
Mayor/Council, Police Department – Platte County Sheriff, Fire District – 18 volunteers, Fire Insurance rating – 8 and 9, Ambulance service, No business license required or building codes
RECREATION
Baseball fields, Tennis courts, Swimming pool, Recreation center, Two parks
UTILITIES
Electricity – Wheatland REA, Water – Municipal, Sewer – Municipal Surge Lagoon System, Solid waste disposal available
SERVICES
Library, Day Care Center, Senior Center, Three churches, Motel, Two RV Parks, One monthly newspaper, Cable TV, Post Office