Billy Creek State Wildlife Area
This is a very interesting State Wildlife Area that will reward the adventurous birder. It consists of several distinct and separate tracts of land that encompass low hills covered in montane shrubland. Dusky Grouse can be numerous in the dense Gambel oak woodlands, and breeding warblers include Virginia’s and MacGillivray’s. The riparian forest along the stream bottom has produced Western Screech-Owl. Elk and deer can be found here, and the oaks may harbor the beautiful Colorado Hairstreak butterfly.
Restrictions: Please respect private property; roads may be impassable when wet
County: Ouray
Directions: From Ridgway, travel north on US 550 past Ridgway Reservoir to CR 4 and turn east. At an intersection with another road, turn north to stay on CR 4 Road; the road will immediately make a few hairpin turns and then straighten out somewhat. Continue uphill to intersection with CR 4B and turn west and follow all the way to CR 2, then turn west, again, which leads back to US 550. These roads traverse both public and private lands, so please respect private property. From Colona, take US 550 south to CR 2 and follow the above directions in reverse.
Alternate Directions: From Montrose, go south on US550 for about 12 miles to the town of Colona and take a left onto Buckhorn Road. Follow this road as it curves around to the SWA in 5 miles.
Habitat: Scrub Oak Forest, Mixed Conifer Forest
Dates of Access: Closed Jan 1 to April 30 to protect wintering big game.
Hours: 24 hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: A valid hunting or fishing license, or State Wildlife Area pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing any state wildlife area or state trust lands.
Parking: Mostly roadside
Lodging: Primitive camping, or hotels in Montrose or Ridgway
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 66 B3-B4
ROC: 115 D1
Latitude: 38.24812
Longitude: -107.74482