Union Hills Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Area · Colorado

Union Hills Wildlife Area

Union Hills Wildlife Area in Colorado offers secluded natural habitats ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, and seasonal outdoor recreation amidst expansive open landscapes.

Wildlife Area2,267

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,267

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Union Hills Wildlife Area

Union Hills Wildlife Area in Colorado offers secluded natural habitats ideal for wildlife observation, hunting, and seasonal outdoor recreation amidst expansive open landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Union Hills Wildlife Area is a 2,267-acre protected parcel located in Yuma County in northeastern Colorado. Characterized by its flat to gently rolling prairie terrain, the area encompasses a mix of native grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields that provide critical habitats for a diverse array of wildlife species. Historically used for hunting and wildlife management, Union Hills is recognized for its populations of mule deer, pronghorn antelope, upland game birds such as pheasants and grouse, as well as numerous waterfowl species during migration periods. The area is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife focusing on habitat conservation and regulated hunting opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts come for birdwatching, hunting during designated seasons, and wildlife photography, appreciating the peacefulness of this relatively undisturbed landscape. Unlike large national parks, Union Hills offers a quiet, low-traffic experience where visitors can engage with prairie ecosystems rarely found in such protected status. Winter transforms the area into a stark but beautiful open range, while spring and summer bring wildflowers, migratory birds, and active wildlife. Access is generally through county roads with basic visitor amenities minimal, making it popular among those seeking off-the-beaten-path outdoor opportunities.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Union Hills Wildlife Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Prime habitat for upland game birds such as ring-necked pheasant and sharp-tailed grouse✦ Open prairie landscapes ideal for spotting mule deer and pronghorn antelope✦ Seasonal waterfowl stopover areas important for migratory bird watching✦ Quiet, low-traffic environment perfect for solitude-focused outdoor recreation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Union Hills Wildlife Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Seasonal Hiking

Available in Union Hills Wildlife Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Union Hills Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees; hunting requires valid Colorado licenses and permits during seasons

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Union Hills Wildlife Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Wray, Colorado
⌖ 10.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wray, Colorado

Wray offers a quiet outdoor experience on Colorado’s plains with great wildlife viewing, bird watching, and access to gentle hiking and biking in nearby wildlife areas.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Holyoke, Colorado
⌖ 27.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Holyoke, Colorado

Holyoke, Colorado offers outdoor lovers quiet plains, calm waters, and open skies ideal for hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and camping. Use this friendly small town as your base for exploring eastern Colorado’s natural spaces.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Yuma, Colorado
⌖ 32.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yuma, Colorado

Yuma, Colorado is a quiet plains town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful hikes, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With nearby parks and wide-open spaces, it’s a low-key basecamp for nature and prairie adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Paoli, Colorado
⌖ 33.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paoli, Colorado

Paoli, Colorado is a peaceful small town near the Laramie Foothills and Pawnee National Grasslands offering hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. It’s an ideal base for outdoor lovers seeking quiet plains and foothill adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Haxtun, Colorado
⌖ 40.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Haxtun, Colorado

Haxtun is a small town in northeastern Colorado offering quiet access to open plains, state wildlife areas, and peaceful trails. Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and stargazing away from the crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Stratton, Nebraska
⌖ 47.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stratton, Nebraska

Stratton is a quiet Nebraska town offering gentle hiking, bird watching, and fishing amid open prairie and calm reservoirs. It’s a peaceful stop for nature lovers seeking uncrowded outdoor experiences.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town