Hunters generally agree that access to public land in Area 3 - Keyhole, Wyoming, is quite limited, with only 18% of land classified as public and much of it being inaccessible. Success on public land is possible but requires diligent preparation, including good maps and GPS with land ownership features, indicating a need for thoughtful planning before hunting. Late season sees medium to heavy hunting pressure, which has left antelope, even does, skittish, suggesting careful stalking and possibly considering other units with similar draw odds but less pressure. The feedback highlights the importance of understanding land access and the benefits of considering alternative units for a more relaxed hunting experience.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Antelope | 65"-70" | 70"+ |
High
Low
Area 3 is located in the northeast corner of the state and just west of the city of Sundance. Comprised of high plains desert and forested hills, this unit contains small amounts of BLM and State lands and even a small block of National Forest lands. Public hunting opprotunies are very limited here and most of the success in this unit is found on private lands.
This area has limited public access via country roads that touch State and BLM Lands. An outfitter can be useful in gaining access to private lands. Antelope are more concentrated in the western part of the unit, but the terrain throughout the area is good for stalking.
This unit, like other surrounding units, consists of a variety of grassy or desert-like open prairie with large basins, creek bottoms and rolling hills that provide opportunities for stalking. The Keyhole State Park area has flatter land and rougher terrain.
State highways, county roads and smaller two-track roads provide public access to hunters in this area. This area is bordered by County Roads 263, 116 and U.S Highway 14 on the north, Interstate 80 on the south and County Road 68 on the west. Hunting is permitted on Bureau of Reclamation controlled portions of the Keyhole State Park.
This unit is comprised of open, high desert prairie typically among sagebrush or grasslands. Rocky bluffs, sagebrush and ponderosa pines can be found as the elevation increases.
Sundance is the closest town and offers many options for lodging, groceries, gas and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can camp in remote locations.
Roughly 331 square miles
18.7% public land
Elevations from 3,900–5,400 feet