The camp gained National Historic Landmark status in 2007. Now, with the new interpretive center, visitors can take an even more in-depth look at the history and legacy of the 14,000 internees who were relocated to Heart Mountain following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Managed by the Heart Mountain, Wyoming Foundation, a nonprofit committed to preserving and promoting the camp, opening the learning center is a long-time dream of the group’s founders coming to life.
Expect to find educational exhibits, artifacts, authentically replicated barracks, a memorial garden and an introductory video produced by Oscar-winning documentary director Steven Okazaki. Also, get a peek at historic buildings that are still standing on the site such as the hospital, guard tower and high school on a short self-guided walking tour of the complex. You’ll be able to see first-hand what’s changed — and what hasn’t — since the 1940s when the camp began.
To get there, head northeast from Cody 14 miles on Highway 14A to Road 19.