Summary
The area is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including prairie grasses, badgers, coyotes, and golden eagles, among others.
The wilderness area is a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the area's hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
One of the main attractions in Lostwood Wilderness is the Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses a large portion of the wilderness area. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope, and features several hiking trails and wildlife observation areas.
Another point of interest in Lostwood Wilderness is the historic Fort Buford State Historic Site, which dates back to the 1860s. The site features a reconstructed military fort and museum, showcasing the history of the area's early settlers and Native American tribes.
The best time of year to visit Lostwood Wilderness is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the area's wildlife is most active. However, visitors should be aware that the area can be prone to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes during the summer months, so it's important to check weather forecasts before planning a trip.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Smishek Lake City Park
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Lake Park - Powers Lake
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Powers Lake City Park
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