Natrona County

county

Natrona County, Wyoming

Overview

Geography

Region: Central Wyoming
Elevation: 6,086 ft
Total Area: 5,376 sq mi
Land Area: 5,340 sq mi
Water Area: 35 sq mi
Latitude: 42.97
Longitude: -106.8
Climate: Semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Average high temperatures in the summertime range between 82 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit, while overnight lows can dip to 40 to 50 degrees. Winters usually bring an average of 60 inches of snowfall each year, along with temperatures that hover around 20 to 30 degrees.
Notable Features: Casper Mountain · Devil's Gate · Hell's Half Acre · Independence Rock
Neighboring Areas: Johnson County · Converse County · Albany County · Carbon County · Fremont County · Washakie County

Demographics

Population (2020): 79,955
Est. Population (2026): 81,294
Median Age: 38.4
Median Income: $72,156
Poverty Rate: 9.6%
Owner-Occupied: 73.6%
Racial & Ethnic Composition: The racial makeup of Natrona County includes 88.46% White, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Black or African American, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.

Education

Recreation

Outdoor Access: Yes
Major Recreation Areas: Casper Mountain · Alcova Reservoir · Pathfinder Reservoir
Parks & Trails: Natrona County Parks system · Various trails on Casper Mountain

History

Founded: 1888
Incorporated: 1890
Named After: Deposits of natron (sodium carbonate) found in the area.
Historical Significance: Historically significant for its role in westward expansion, the energy industry, and as a commercial center in Wyoming.
Key Events: Robert Stuart discovers South Pass Route in 1812. · County created from Carbon County on March 9, 1888. · Organization completed in 1890.