Killpecker Sand Dunes ~ Wyoming

​Flickr album link: Killpecker Sand Dunes

The Killpecker Dunes Open Play Area is both a vast protected wilderness and it is a haven for dune buggy riders. This recreation are is located in the Red Desert region of southern Wyoming and no matter which direction you come from, it will be a long ride on a bumpy dirt road getting there. The dirt access road starting at Highway 191 south of Eden is one of the smoother routes to the big dunes and the signage is easy to spot. There are several other points of interest in this area listed on the directional signage along the way that do not readily appear on a map, so it is best to plan on doing an extended touring venture.

Dispersed camping is allowed in existing spots throughout these public lands and there is a large campground with facilities at Killpecker Dunes. There is also plenty of room for RV campers and buggy haulers in the staging area and overcrowding is rarely a problem. The closest town for modern amenities, services and supplies is Rock Springs, while fuel and some snacks can be found in Eden. This part of the Red Desert is a very remote area and where there is silty sand, vehicles will get stuck, so packing a tow rope, shovel, tall jack, spare tire and a flat kit is advisable. The choice of vehicle must be considered and a high ground clearance 4x4 with all terrain tires is best for the task. ATV and Jeep rentals along with excursion outfitters can be found in Rock Springs, so anybody can join in on the fun.

Most of the Killpecker Dunes visitors are strictly there to have fun in the sun while carving up the towering dunes with all terrain vehicles. The vehicular recreation section is restricted to the towering dunes, which covers a lot of ground for miles around. The majority of this park actually is a protected wilderness around the big dunes that is off limits to vehicles, so it is important to pay attention to the boundaries in order to avoid costly fines. There are some remarkably beautiful desert landscapes to be found in the wilderness and it is a great place to explore on foot. There are a few dirt roads that go into the dunes wilderness with room for roadside parking, but once again, a capable vehicle will still be needed since there are sections of the road that are deep silt. To give an idea of how bad the silt pockets can be, I could not get through with an overloaded 4x4 Jeep diesel with all terrain tires, so please do not kid yourself about the capabilities of an all wheel drive sedan!

Part of the fun is getting there and there is plenty of wildlife to see on the way through sagebrush country to Killpecker Dunes, so be sure to pack a camera for the ride. The Boars Tusk rock pillar landmark is worth checking out on the way to the wilderness area and there are a few other scenic landmarks to look for too. Killpecker Dunes definitely is a destination for both nature lovers and extreme sports enthusiasts, so be sure to chalk this Red Desert attraction high on the list!
​