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Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Habitat Management Area · MT

Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area, located in Montana, is a prime destination for wildlife observation and offers a peaceful outdoor retreat.

Wildlife Habitat Management Area17,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

17,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area, located in Montana, is a prime destination for wildlife observation and offers a peaceful outdoor retreat.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area is situated in south-central Montana near the Bighorn River and extends through the dynamic landscapes of the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. It is managed by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks and plays a crucial role in supporting river and upland habitats that are home to a variety of wildlife species. This area is crucial for bird enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot eagles, hawks, and other bird species. The habitat also supports mammals like deer and the occasional mountain lion, making it a significant conservation zone for the region's biodiversity. The area's namesake, the Yellowtail Dam, forms Bighorn Lake, providing plentiful fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a serene environment. The landscape includes stunning cliffs, lush riverbanks, and open fields, creating a diverse outdoor experience for all visitors.

Field Guide · Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Embrace the Wild Beauty of the Pryor Mountains★ 7.7⌖ 22 miWildlife Viewing
Pryor Mountains

Embrace the Wild Beauty of the Pryor Mountains

Explore the rugged Pryor Mountains near Billings, Montana. This area is ideal for wildlife viewing, particularly the wild horse herds. Enjoy hiking and photography with stunning views. Best visited in late spring or early fall. Prepare for a remote experience.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Discover Bighorn Canyon's Majestic Beauty★ 8.5⌖ 23 miWildlife Viewing
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Discover Bighorn Canyon's Majestic Beauty

Explore Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in Fort Smith, MT. Known for its stunning gorge and diverse wildlife. Activities include hiking, boating, and wildlife photography. Best visited in Spring and Fall. Quiet retreat for adventure seekers.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Winding Wonders at Devil’s Canyon Overlook★ 8.4⌖ 25 miHiking
Devil's Canyon Overlook

Winding Wonders at Devil’s Canyon Overlook

Enjoy sweeping views at Devil's Canyon Overlook in Montana's Bighorn Canyon. Perfect for photographers and wildlife watchers, this drive-in viewpoint offers a magical perspective of rugged cliffs and the winding river below. Visit late spring to early fall for best weather.

Horseshoe Bend Campground Loop A: A Scenic Escape in Wyoming★ 7.8⌖ 29 miCamping
Horseshoe Bend Campground Loop A

Horseshoe Bend Campground Loop A: A Scenic Escape in Wyoming

Explore Horseshoe Bend Campground Loop A in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area near Lovell, WY. Perfect for camping with opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing. Enjoy the scenic views of Bighorn Lake and red sandstone cliffs. Ideal for adventure seekers.

Discover the Mystery of Medicine Wheel★ 8.5⌖ 34 miCultural Exploration
Medicine Wheel

Discover the Mystery of Medicine Wheel

Explore the historic Medicine Wheel near Lovell, WY. This cultural site in the Bighorn Mountains offers serene views and is ideal for wildlife photography and cultural exploration.

Cultural ExplorationView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The breathtaking vantage points overlooking Bighorn Canyon✦ Abundant bird-watching opportunities along the Bighorn River✦ Fishing in the prolific waters of Bighorn Lake✦ Remote hiking trails that offer solitude and adventure
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management 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 Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees or permits are required to access the area.

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).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Afterbay Campground

Located near Afterbay Lake, offering easy access to fishing and hiking opportunities.

Black Canyon Campground

A small, secluded campground near the canyon providing basic amenities and scenic views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

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

Fort Smith
⌖ 0.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Smith, MT

A remote and tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore scenic waterways and rugged landscapes in the heart of Montana.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Lovell
⌖ 39.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lovell, Wyoming

A charming small town gateway to the rugged beauty of Bighorn Basin and Pryor Mountains, offering outdoor thrills and historical exploration.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Lockwood
⌖ 41.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lockwood, Montana

A quiet suburban community close to Billings offering access to plains and nearby rugged Yellowstone landscapes for diverse outdoor activities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Armstead
⌖ 42.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Armstead, Montana

A quiet, remote small town offering rugged access to river paddling, hiking, and backcountry winter adventures near the Beaverhead River and surrounding wilderness.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Billings
⌖ 42.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Billings, Montana

An energetic hub for outdoor enthusiasts with easy access to diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to vast prairies.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Huntley
⌖ 43.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Huntley, Montana

A quiet rural town offering easy access to big-sky Montana outdoors with prime opportunities for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching along the Yellowstone River corridor.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Yellowtail Wildlife Habitat Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.