Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Big Sandy Reservoir State Wildlife Area is located in Sublette County, Wyoming, encompassing the expansive Big Sandy Reservoir and surrounding uplands. The reservoir was created by the Big Sandy Dam on Big Sandy Creek and serves as an important habitat for fish and migratory birds. The area lies within a high-elevation sagebrush steppe ecosystem, with piñon-juniper woodlands and riparian zones providing diverse environments for wildlife. Anglers visit the reservoir for excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for northern pike, tiger muskies, and trout species. The wildlife area also supports a variety of bird species including waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and sage grouse during seasonal migrations and breeding periods. Big Sandy Reservoir offers accessible shoreline for fishing and boating with campsites nearby for overnight stays. Visitors can enjoy quiet paddling, bird watching, and photography amid the wide-open skies and expansive water views. The surrounding terrain is rolling and relatively flat, making it suitable for easy hiking, bird watching, and wildlife observation. While there are no developed trails, dispersed hiking and nature watching provide low-impact recreation opportunities. The area is managed for wildlife habitat conservation and public outdoor use, balancing recreational use with maintaining habitat for native species. Its remote and sparsely populated location appeals to visitors seeking solitude and nature appreciation away from crowded tourist areas.
