At a Glance
Quick Tips
- The rugged terrain within the unit has good elk populations
- Using maps with land ownership is recommended
- ATVs are recommended
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |


Hunters exploring Area 49 - Otter Creek in Wyoming emphasize the importance of scouting the terrain ahead of the hunting season due to its challenging landscape. Many suggest focusing efforts around water sources where game is more likely to be found during drier months. The area is noted for its variable draw odds, with hunters advising others to have backup plans due to the unit's popularity. Overall, preparation and adaptability are key, with several recommending starting the day early to increase chances of success.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | Dummy | Dummy |
This area is made up of high plain desert, the Lysite Mountains and the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains and is located in the central part of the state. The area has large amounts of BLM and State Lands and is bordered by U.S. Highway 16 on the north. Access might be difficult on the eastern portions of the unit where it is primarily private lands.
The terrain is moderate/rugged, with elk located mostly in the rugged and sparsely timbered foothills of the Big Horn Mountains. This is a large unit with lots of country to hunt. Bigger elk typically come from the more rugged and remote locations in the unit or the fringes of large ranches.
This unit stretches from the Big Horn River, east across farm land and high desert country to the Big Horn Mountains. Elevations range from 4,100 feet on the Big Horn River to the Gold Mine Road at 8,700 feet. The area is gently contoured throughout the unit and changes to steep and rugged around the Big Horn Mountains.
The unit does have a good portion of public land and access is quite good throughout the western portion of the unit. The eastern portion though has tough access and much less public land. Elk are typically more common in the eastern portion where the access is tougher. Four-wheel drive or ATVs are recommended when traveling off the maintained roads. Rocky roads can take a toll on vehicles. Some good maintained roads within this unit are Hazleton Road, Rome Hill Road and Dry Farm Road.
The area is high desert country, dry and mountainous with scattered juniper on rocky slopes. Sagebrush, mountain shrubs, grasslands and lodgepole pine make up most of the habitat. Conifers, wet meadows and rock outcroppings cover much of the remaining land.
Worland is the nearest town to the unit and offers several options for lodging, groceries, gas, sporting goods and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can also camp in remote locations within the area.
Roughly 1239 square miles
69% public land
Elevations from 4,100–8,700 feet
Nearby campgrounds at Meadowlark Lake