CCC Ponds Recreation Area | Pinedale

Information

Landmark: CCC Ponds Recreation Area
City: Pinedale
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

CCC Ponds Recreation Area, Pinedale, USA Wyoming, North America

The CCC Ponds Recreation Area is a series of man-made ponds located in Pinedale, Wyoming, USA.

This area serves as a habitat for waterfowl and offers recreational opportunities.

Visual Characteristics

The recreation area consists of approximately 15 shallow ponds, varying in size from 0.5 to 5 acres. The water color is typically a murky brown, influenced by sediment and algae. The surrounding terrain is flat, characterized by sparse native grasses, sagebrush, and scattered willow thickets along the pond edges. No significant rock formations are present.

Location & Access Logistics

The CCC Ponds are situated 3 miles south of Pinedale, Wyoming, accessible via US Highway 191. Turn east onto County Road 111-2 (also known as the CCC Ponds Road) and proceed for approximately 0.5 miles. A gravel parking lot is available at the main entrance, with capacity for approximately 20 vehicles. No public transport services this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The ponds were constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of a project to create waterfowl habitat and manage local water resources. The area is classified as a constructed wetland ecosystem, designed to support migratory bird populations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include birdwatching, fishing for stocked trout (catch and release is encouraged), and nature photography. Designated walking paths circle some of the larger ponds, offering access points for observation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities include a small gravel parking area and a limited number of primitive picnic tables. No restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors are present. Cell phone reception is intermittent and generally unreliable.

Best Time to Visit

For birdwatching, the best time is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) migration periods. Early morning and late evening offer optimal lighting for photography. Fishing is generally productive throughout the summer months.

Facts & Legends

A specific local tip: the westernmost ponds tend to attract a greater diversity of waterfowl due to less human activity and denser emergent vegetation.