Area 102 in Buffalo, Wyoming, predominantly comprises national forest land unsuitable for pronghorn, with better habitat found in privately owned foothills and sage flats. While 67% of the unit is public land, much of this is poor pronghorn habitat, creating a challenging situation for hunters reliant on public access. Savvy hunters recommend using detailed maps and GPS with landownership layers to navigate the area, and some have had success reaching out to private landowners for access. Despite the challenges, hunters report successful harvests through strategic planning, early morning efforts, and understanding the limitations of available public land.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Antelope | 65"-70" | 70"+ |
High
Low
Area 102, also referred to as Buffalo is located in the north-central part of the state near Buffalo. Comprised of high plains desert and forest, this unit contains good distributions of National Forest, BLM and State lands. Antelope can be found in scattered numbers here along the valley floor.
Great numbers of antelope can be found here along with decent public access options. Some of the best bucks, and success rates, will generally be found with private lands but public land hunters who hunt hard can find success.
This area consists of a variety of grassy or desert-like open prairie, with large basins, creek bottoms and rolling hills that provide opportunity for stalking. Ranch and farm lands provide the most opportunity. Mountainous areas dominate the western half. of the unit but these areas are not typical habitat for antelope and no hunting opportunities will be found there.
Wilderness
Under Wyoming law nonresidents are not permitted to hunt big game or trophy game in any federally designated wilderness areas without the presence of a licensed guide or resident companion. The resident companion must first get a free non-commercial guide license from a Game and Fish office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds, small game, or coyotes in wilderness areas.
Public access in this unit is poor. It contains several well maintained roads, a few BLM and Forest roads and smaller 2-tracks. It is bordered by Interstates 90 and 25 and Wyoming Highway 196 on the east, County Road 14 on the south, the divide along the Big Horn Mountains on the west and South Piney Creek and Piney Creek on the north.
Shortgrass prairie and high desert prairie dominates the area. Private croplands will draw antelope from the surrounding prairie. Rocky bluffs, sagebrush, cedars and timber are to be expected as the elevation climbs into the National Forest in the west part of the unit.
Buffalo is the closest town of any size, and offers different options for lodging. Groceries, gas, and other amenities can be found here as well. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location.
Roughly 464 Square miles
67% public land
Elevations from 4,600 – 13,200 feet
14.1% Wilderness