Public Use of Craig Mountain WMA

Rider on horseback.

Opportunities for public activities are plentiful for anyone who enjoys the out-of-doors. Hunting, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross country skiing, snowmobile riding, wildlife viewing, photography, camping and many more activities are enjoyed daily by the public on Craig Mountain WMA. With the vast diversity of landscape and resulting flora and fauna, the opportunities for recreation are nearly endless.

General hunting for white-tailed deer, black bear and mountain lion, and controlled hunting for mule deer, elk, and bighorn sheep are available during specified season dates. Upland game bird hunting is also very popular, with chukar partridge, forest grouse, and wild turkey being the most popular.

Fishing is available in several locations; smallmouth bass, crappie and rainbow trout are available in nearby Waha Lake and Soldiers Meadow Reservoir. Anglers particularly enjoy excellent opportunities in the Snake and Salmon Rivers, which contain smallmouth and large-mouth bass, trout, crappie, channel catfish, steelhead, Chinook salmon, and white sturgeon.

Use of All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s) is allowed on designated open roads. These roads are available to all motorized vehicles during non-winter months. Snowmobilers may enjoy good winter conditions on numerous trails on the mountain from November 26 to March 15. Trails are restricted in order to discourage encroachment onto winter ranges for deer and elk. However, there is approximately 300 miles of groomed trails in the area, many of which are on Craig Mountain WMA.

Designated parking areas and public beaches accommodate a variety of adventure seekers. Camping is permitted, but it is necessary to supply your own water and all unattended campfires must be extinguished. Horseback riders enjoy excellent riding conditions throughout the CMWMA and have access to three livestock corrals. Challenging terrain offers hikers and mountain bikers a perfect haven for exercise and dramatic views. Bird watchers, photographers, wild flower enthusiasts and mushroom pickers all have an abundance of opportunities to enjoy their favorite recreational activities. White-water river rafting is extremely popular on both the Snake and Salmon Rivers. The opportunities for outstanding outdoor recreation are endless.