About McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area
The McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Management Area (HMA) is located 12 to 27 miles east of Cody (70 miles east of Yellowstone National Park) and encompasses 109,814 acres of land, including the McCullough Peaks Wilderness Study Area. The climate is typical of a cold desert with annual precipitation averaging five to nine inches. Stock reservoirs and intermittent streams fed by winter snows and spring runoff provide adequate water for the HMA. Topography is highly variable, ranging from mostly flat to slightly rolling foothills carved by drainages, to colorful badlands and desert mountains featuring steep slopes, cliffs and canyons. A diversity of coat colors (bay, brown, black, sorrel, chestnut, white, buckskin, gray, palomino, and blue, red and strawberry roans) and patterns such as piebald and skewbald are found in the McCullough Peaks wild horses. The animals tend to be moderate- to large-sized and habitat conditions are such that the horses are in very good condition. The combination of size, conformation, coat colors and patterns, and excellent physical condition have become a draw for potential adopters and a matter of reputation for McCullough Peaks horses. Be sure to bring your binoculars and always look on both sides of the roads for both the mustangs and other wildlife!
How to Get There
Travel east from Cody on Highway 14-16-20 to mile marker 72 (about 18 miles). On the left you will see a gate; horses are often in this area and you can enter if you choose. If not, continue to near mile marker 74 where you will see a kiosk and the Whistle Creek road sign on your left; enter, proceed to pipeline marker 75 (about 6 miles) and enjoy the remarkable panoramic view of the badlands.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area
Heading to McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area?
No central reservation system listed for McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14733) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area?
Travel east from Cody on Highway 14-16-20 to mile marker 72 (about 18 miles). On the left you will see a gate; horses are often in this area and you can enter if you choose. If not, continue to near mile marker 74 where you will see a kiosk and the Whistle Creek road sign on your left; enter, proceed to pipeline marker 75 (about 6 miles) and enjoy the remarkable panoramic view of the badlands.
How do I contact McCullough PeaksWild Horse Herd Management Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 307-578-5900 or email: cody_wymail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
