Quick Tips
- Tire chains recommended during periods of inclement weather
- Quality optics recommended for locating sheep
- Stop by the sporting goods store in Bowman for any last-minute supplies
- PLOTS properties and the Little Missouri National Grassland create a large, consecutive area of public access in the unit's badlamds
On the Ground
This unit lies just north of I-94 and has consistently produced some great rams over the last several years. It's comprised mostly of the Little Missouri National Grasslands which means great public access from all sides. The southwest corner and most of the eastern edge, along Highway 85 are primarily private property. The rest of the unit is part of the North Dakota badlands, which means rough and rugged terrain. There are plenty of buttes and draws, especially along the Little Missouri River, that hold bighorn sheep.
The Little Missouri River badlands hold the majority of the sheep within the unit. Some areas are more rugged and remote than others. Over the years, good mature rams have been taken from both the northern and southern end of the unit. Be sure to check out the harvest reports for a good starting point in search of a good mature ram.
Terrain
Although many areas of this unit are easily accessible, there are plenty of spots that will require a hike. And if you’re willing to put in a long hike, you’ll have ample opportunity to get away from all other hunters. More mellow farmlands and pastures cover most of the western and eastern sides, while steep buttes and rough, densely forested draws and creek bottoms are closer to the river. The bottoms of draws throughout this unit support thick deciduous trees and even some junipers. Between the buttes and valleys lies relatively flat, barren fields of native grasses and wheatgrass. As you head towards the southeast portion of this unit you’ll find some lush wheatgrass fields and agricultural property mixed with the eroding badlands. Heading south along the western edge, however, the terrain remains rough badlands with deep draws and creek bottoms.
Roughly 977 square miles
40% public land
Elevations range from 1,900 – 2,900 ft
Vegetation
The Little Missouri River flows right through the center of this unit, creating a heavily forested valley of deciduous trees, primarily aspen and oak, as well as some small, dense stands of ponderosa pine. Most creek bottoms and draws are forested with aspen and oak as well as some ash, elm, birch and juniper. Buckbrush thickets are common in the northern portion of this unit, but can be found throughout. Primary grasses in this unit include blue grama grass and wheatgrass.
Access
Most of this unit is extremely rough, with a few roads winding through the bottoms of draws. There are enough roads through the tough terrain that you’ll be able to find a spot to hunt without having to hike too far. It may not be the spot you’re wanting to hunt, but there are options. The farther you’re willing to hike in the badlands, the more opportunity you’ll have on the Little Missouri National Grassland. The oil industry is active in many of the roughest parts of the area. Wherever there’s an active oilfield, the roads will be well maintained to accommodate the increased truck traffic.
Camping and Lodging
The outskirts of this unit, Belfield, Medora, Beach, and Grassy Butte each have motel accommodations available. There are a few campgrounds along the Little Missouri River and near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Belfield is a good town to stay in if you’re hunting the southern part of 4C. Belfield has a sporting goods store as well. This unit is desolate, don’t get stuck out there low on fuel or without food and water. There are at least three or four RV parks along Highway 85 between Belfield and Watford City if you have a camper trailer.
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