Killpecker, WY
Name: Killpecker Dunes, Wyoming
Location:
Southern Wyoming
Description:
Killpecker Dunes is the second largest active sand dune field in
the world.
The Greater Sand Dunes ACEC is part of the larger Killpecker
Sand Dunes. The western portion of the ACEC includes the Sand Dunes and
Buffalo Hump Wilderness Study Areas (WSA). These are areas of land that have
potential for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System. The BLM
is required by law to maintain the natural character of WSAs. Recreational
activities like hiking, hunting, and horseback riding are allowed while those
that involve the use of motorized vehicles or mechanical transportation are
not.
The BLM has established
Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) to provide interim protection for this area until
Congress can make the final decision. BLM has determined that the Buffalo Hump
areas does not meet Wilderness criteria, but WSAs cannot be released until
Congress takes action.
Elevation -
Directions to Killpecker:
Tri-territory Road (County Road 4-17), which leaves U. S.
Highway 191 approximately 12 miles north of Rock Springs. The turnoff to the
dunes is not marked, and like many rural roads, Tri-territory Road is not paved
and may also be known as "Chilton Rd".
Link to Google Maps of the intersection of U. S. Highway 191 and
Tri-territory Road. GPS Coordinates: 41°43'36.03"N, 109°16'26.97"W
This looks like this is the parking area at the dunes:
Please note: If you are trying to find these dunes for your
first time, I am not sure that I would recommend doing it in a motorhome or
with a large trailer. The dirt road is very long, and the condition of
the road changes with weather. Bring a GPS and use this information as a
tool, but don't depend on this page as your sole means of direction unless
you like an adventure.
Killpecker Camping Area:
Camping is allowed in the parking area. Pit toilets and running
water are available.
Area Managed By:
BLM
- Wyoming Rock Springs Field Office
Rules:
No person shall operate an OHV on public
lands:
-
in a reckless, careless, or negligent manner
-
at excessive speeds which endanger others
-
while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or
dangerous drugs
-
in a manner causing undue damage to or disturbance of
soil, vegetation, wildlife, livestock, cultural resources, or other
authorized land users
-
without lighted headlights and taillights during the
period from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise
-
without a muffling device to prevent vehicles from
making excess noise.
Drivers of off-road vehicles will yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians and horseback riders
Other Information:
-
Greater Sand Dunes Area of Critical Environmental Concern
(ACEC)
-
The Steamboat Mountain
area is crucial birthing habitat for deer and elk. This area is closed to
motor vehicles from May 1st through June 30th to protect this habitat.
-
The western portion of
the ACEC includes the Sand Dunes and Buffalo Hump Wilderness Study Areas (WSA).
These are areas of land that have potential for inclusion in the National
Wilderness Preservation System. No motor vehicle traffic is allowed in
the WSAs.
The WSA has not been designated as Wilderness, but must be
"protected" by the BLM until Congress does something to either
designate or free it up. If access is important to you, please contact
your representatives in Congress and ask them to:
1. Release Buffalo Hump Wilderness Study Areas (WSA) back to
its' former use.
2. Enact a Wilderness Study Release bill so that WSA's are not left in limbo
forever.
More info on
Wilderness Study Area Release
Other Photos:
Photos courtesy of Mark Rolland
Photos courtesy of K. Harding
Weather:
Links:
Services in Rock Springs:
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