Shirley Basin Wildlife Habitat Management Area Adventures

Shirley Basin Wildlife Habitat Management Area (WMA) is a 181,000-acre protected area located in Carbon County, Wyoming. Managed primarily for wildlife conservation, it supports critical habitats for species such as pronghorn antelope, mule deer, sage grouse, and various upland game birds. The terrain is characterized by vast open basins, rolling sagebrush-covered hills, intermittent wetlands, and rugged outcrops, typical of high desert steppe ecosystems. The area is part of the larger Shirley Basin region, known for its expansive landscapes and biodiversity. Historically, Shirley Basin's land has been used for grazing and mining, but conservation efforts have focused on balancing these uses with habitat protection. Visitors come to Shirley Basin WMA mainly for wildlife viewing, hunting (especially pronghorn antelope and upland game birds), and photography. The sprawling landscape offers solitude and a chance to experience the Wyoming high plains with minimal development. The lack of official developed campgrounds and limited maintained trails makes this area a destination for visitors comfortable with dispersed camping and off-trail navigation. Access points are generally dirt roads suitable for high-clearance vehicles. The area's wildlife draws hunters during the regulated seasons and bird watchers year-round, especially in spring and fall. Its remote nature and opportunities to spot iconic western species add to its appeal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path wildlife management areas in Wyoming.