Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Lincoln County in western Wyoming, Star Valley State Wildlife Management Area (WMA) encompasses diverse landscapes including riparian zones, wetlands, sagebrush flats, and forested foothills. The area supports a wealth of wildlife species such as mule deer, elk, moose, pronghorn, sharp-tailed grouse, and numerous waterfowl species. The WMA lies in the scenic Star Valley, which stretches along the Wyoming-Idaho border, providing an important corridor for migrating animals and bird species. The area is managed primarily for wildlife habitat conservation and sustainable hunting, with seasonal restrictions to protect delicate breeding grounds. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities including hunting, wildlife photography, birdwatching, and snowmobiling during winter months. The WMA also offers important wetland habitats dominated by cottonwoods and willows alongside Bear River drainage, which helps sustain amphibians and migratory birds. Nearby historic ranching communities add cultural context to the landscape, and access points are conveniently located close to the towns of Afton and Thayne. The area's mix of open fields, water bodies, and nearby mountain vistas delivers varied terrain and scenic appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Star Valley State WMA is a key component of Wyoming’s efforts to maintain healthy wildlife populations and provide public outdoor recreation opportunities within the broader intermountain ecosystem.
