SHERIDAN — A narrow valley 30 miles southwest of Kaycee holds well-kept secrets of the American West.

At the site, called Hole-in-the-Wall, is a fertile grazing valley blocked by tall, red sandstone walls. In the 1880s, the secluded area had only one trail in and out of the escarpment, making it a popular hideout for some of the era’s most famous outlaws — including Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch Gang, Jesse James and Black Jack Ketchum. Historical accounts say the valley was home to cabins, stables and corrals so they could safely store stolen horses and cattle while they planned their next robbery.

Today, Hole-in-the-Wall is still remote.

Johnson County Tourism Association Marketing Director Toby Carrig said the site has 12 camping sites, accessible from May to December. Only high c

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