Bessemer Bend
Historic Oregon Trail crossing on the North Platte River
Why People Move Here
Bessemer Bend is a tiny unincorporated CDP where the North Platte River makes a distinctive horseshoe turn southwest of Casper. The site holds deep historical significance: this was the last crossing point on the North Platte for Oregon, Mormon, and California Trail emigrants, and in 1847 Mormon entrepreneurs established a toll ferry here. In 1888 the town of Bessemer was platted across 49 blocks with ambitions of becoming Natrona County's seat, but the railroad bypassed it for Casper and the town faded. Today approximately 110–199 residents live in a quiet, rural setting with direct access to a blue-ribbon trout fishery and a BLM interpretive site preserving the trail-crossing history.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Natrona County School District #1
B- District-wide enrollment ~12,799 students, 14:1 student-teacher ratio
- Kelly Walsh High School (Niche B+) and Natrona County High School (Niche B) are the main high schools in Casper
FAQ — Bessemer Bend
What is the historical significance of Bessemer Bend?
Bessemer Bend was the last crossing point on the North Platte River for Oregon, Mormon, and California Trail emigrants traveling west. In 1847, Mormon entrepreneurs established a toll ferry here charging $1.50 per wagon. The Martin handcart company of nearly 500 Mormon pioneers camped here in October 1856 during an early blizzard before rescue teams arrived from Salt Lake City. A BLM interpretive site with an ADA-accessible trail documents this history year-round at no charge.
What fishing opportunities are at Bessemer Bend?
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department maintains the Speck/Bessemer Bend Public Access Area with an improved boat ramp on the North Platte River, which is rated a blue-ribbon (class 1) fishery. Game fish species include rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. The site supports wade fishing, float fishing, and waterfowl hunting. Alcova Reservoir is approximately 25 miles further southwest for lake fishing and boating.
How far is Bessemer Bend from Casper?
Approximately 12 miles southwest of downtown Casper via Bessemer Bend Road to WY-220, an 18-minute drive off-peak. All grocery stores, schools, medical facilities, and commercial services are in Casper. Residents are fully car-dependent.
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