TWIN BUTTES WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The area has interesting and unusual geologic features. Fossil deposits and evidence of early man can be found throughout the WSAs. Indians pursuing a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle occupied the area continuously for 9,000 years. The Pine Springs archaeological site, a cultural ACEC, is adjacent to the WSAs. The southeast flanks of Black Mountain are covered by one of the most extensive (and significant) tipi ring sits in southwestern Wyoming. Existing cultural resource data supports the conclusion that these WSAs are a sensitive area of highly significant values.

Visitation Information

Take State Highway 530 south 19 miles to county 4-1. Turn west onto 4-1 for 11 miles to an unnamed two track route, in two miles the unnamed two track route will become the east boundary road for Devils Playground WSA. Follow the boundary an additional 3 miles to the north boundary for Twin Buttes WSA. Motorized travel is expressly prohibited. Additionally, the WSA is closed to mineral entry, including gold panning.

Visitor Advisory

Access to wild lands inherently requires good navigational skills and four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles. Visitors should be prepared for adverse weather and road conditions. The WSAs in the BLM Field Office are primarily accessed by unnamed or unsigned two-track roads that in many cases may be difficult to find without sufficient navigational skills and equipment.

Wilderness Study Areas

WSAs are undeveloped federal lands that retain their primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation, and are managed so as not to impair their suitability for preservation as wilderness. Backcountry recreation is a common use along with Leave no Trace Outdoor ethics. Please be advised these areas are restricted and do not allow for the use of motorized and mechanized equipment.