Explore Star Valley Ranch: Wyoming’s Premier Small-Town Retreat

Star Valley Ranch is an incorporated Wyoming town in Lincoln County, about 60 miles south of Jackson, with two public golf courses (Cedar Creek and Aspen Hills), an RV resort, and a quiet residential community surrounded by national forest. The right fit is golfers looking for two courses on one trip, RV travelers wanting a Wyoming basecamp south of Jackson, and visitors who want the Star Valley pace without the Jackson tourist load. The wrong fit is anyone wanting walking-distance Jackson access; this is an hour-plus drive over the mountains and into Star Valley.

Star Valley Ranch: Scenic Wyoming Community with Golf Courses & Trails

A residential community functioning as a small destination. Two 18-hole public golf courses (Cedar Creek and Aspen Hills) operating late spring through early fall. RV resort with full hookups for travelers using Star Valley as a touring base. Hiking, fishing, and forest access through adjacent Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Winter activities (snowmobiling, cross-country skiing) on local trails. Limited on-site dining; most meals come through the nearby town of Thayne or further into Star Valley.

Why people go

Three reasons. First, two-course golf access. Most Wyoming destinations have one course; Star Valley Ranch's pair lets a golf trip stay in one place without driving. Second, the pace. Star Valley is genuinely quieter than Jackson; a week here runs slower than a week in Teton County, which suits some travelers and not others. Third, the RV-friendly setup. Full hookups, easy access, and Wyoming pricing make this an appealing stop on a longer regional RV trip.

Other similar businesses

For Jackson-area golf, the public option in Teton County is more expensive and busier; Star Valley Ranch offers two courses at lower price points but adds the drive. For RV stays, the resort is a quieter alternative to Jackson-area RV parks. For travelers wanting Tetons-front access daily, Star Valley Ranch is the wrong base; for travelers using the area as a touring waypoint or for golf-focused trips, the math works.

How to plan a visit

Book golf tee times ahead, especially Cedar Creek on summer weekends. RV reservations fill out for July and August; book several weeks ahead. Bring layers (Wyoming weather shifts), bear-aware food storage if camping, and a plan for groceries (Thayne and the broader Star Valley have basics; for a wider selection, plan a stop at Broulim's in Alpine on the way in or out). Cell service is patchy in spots; download offline maps before driving in.

The catch

Three honest tradeoffs. First, this is not Jackson. The drive is real (60 miles, 75-90 minutes depending on conditions). Second, dining and shopping are limited; if you need a wide restaurant scene, Jackson is the option. Third, golf is seasonal; winter visits work for snow recreation but not for the courses.

Before you go

Pair a golf trip with a fly-fishing day on the Salt River, which runs through Star Valley and sees less pressure than the Snake. Local guides can put you on cutthroat and brown trout in genuinely uncrowded water, and the morning-fishing-then-afternoon-golf rhythm is one of the underrated Wyoming summer patterns. The drive into Jackson is doable for a day or two of Tetons exposure if you want it, but the trip works as a Star Valley-only week as well.

Final take

For a golf-and-RV-friendly Wyoming basecamp south of Jackson with quieter pace and two-course access, Star Valley Ranch is one of the right calls. Plan for the drive, book tee times early, and accept the trade of urban access for genuine Star Valley quiet.

FAQ

Are the golf courses public?

Yes. Cedar Creek and Aspen Hills are both public.

How far is it from Jackson?

About 60 miles south, 75-90 minutes depending on weather and conditions.

Is there RV camping?

Yes. The RV resort takes reservations; book ahead in summer.

What's open in winter?

Snowmobile and cross-country skiing; the golf courses close for the season.