GOHUNT's profile for Area 18 in Campbell, Wyoming provides some key insights and updates for hunters interested in this unit. As a "general" permit area for residents, permits are easily accessible over-the-counter, with limited restrictions for certain hunts like the Type 8 doe/fawn hunt on private land. Locals note the area's limited public land, making hunting challenging, especially with increased pressure observed in the 2022 season. However, reports indicate a healthy number of does and fawns, suggesting that unless a harsh winter occurs, the deer population should rebound, providing potential opportunities for future hunts.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 170"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-130" | 130"+ |
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This area is located in northeast Wyoming and lies north of Gillette. Public access is limited in much of the area. This area does have better public access than its neighboring units. In addition to mule deer, this area does have a small population of whitetail deer.For nonresidents, this area is part of Region C and tags drawn for this area are also valid in: 17, 19, 23, 26, 29, 31.
Over the last decade this area has suffered from harsh winters and heavy hunting pressure. The area still holds potential, but lacks the quantity of a decade or two ago. Most quality lands are privately owned and typically outfitted.
The terrain is typical of eastern Wyoming. It includes large flats with low rolling hills and prairies that typically break into rough and rocky country. Several small ponds and streams are found in the area. The Little Powder River is in the center of the unit and runs north to Montana. The Belle Fourche River is on the extreme eastern edge of the unit. There is not a large variance of elevation in the unit.
Access is limited in most of the unit. The largest portion of public land within the unit is around the town of Weston located in the Thunder Basin National Grassland (TBNG). Another large area of public access exist around the Cow Creek Buttes south of Weston. Most public lands are inaccessible because they are landlocked by private landowners. The option to pay for access to private exists and is common for this area. Two walk in access (WIA) areas are located within this unit. WIA #10 & #13. WIA #13 is located adjacent to public land in the TBNG, while WIA #10 is located off of Elk Creek Rd. north of Gillette. These two areas open up an additional 5,160 acres of private land to the public.
The open country vegetation consists of prairie grasses mixed with sagebrush flats. The broken country will be steep and consist of the same grasses but with more pine and juniper trees.
Gillette is the nearest city, located in the southwest corner of the area. It offers full accommodations with multiple options for hotels, restaurants, and bars. Gillette has several sporting goods stores that will have you covered for all your hunting needs. You can also find lodging located in the southeast corner of the unit in Moorcroft. This town of approximately 1,500 people offers 3 motels, and a few restaurants and bars. Camping is allowed on public land, but no improved camping locations are available.
Roughly 958 square miles
20.3% public land
Elevations from 3,600-4,600 feet