Wyoming BioBlitz

Why Participate in Wyoming BioBlitz?

If you’re reading this, you probably already know how fun and exciting it is to notice new or uncommon species around you. BioBlitzes feed that sense of curiosity and discovery by encouraging people to observe everything around them, from moose to millipedes. By dedicating some time to look for new species, you’re also likely to learn about wildlife you didn’t even know about.

Wyoming BioBlitz is also a great opportunity for nature lovers of all backgrounds to spend time together doing something out of the ordinary. No level of expertise is needed, which means people of all ages can enjoy a weekend of exploring nature and the biodiversity in it.

Registration for Wyoming BioBlitz 2026 will open May 10 through June 8.

Participating in Wyoming BioBlitz also contributes scientific data that are useful to scientists and conservationists working to study and protect the region's wonderful plants and wildlife.

Finally, Wyoming BioBlitz provides a hands-on opportunity to learn from experts. Participants will meet local scientists and learn how they study their subjects. Teachers can also receive two Professional Standards Teaching Board (PTSB) credits for participating.

Need more convincing? Here's a video recap of Wyoming BioBlitz 2021:

Bridger-Teton National Forest

In 2026, Wyoming BioBlitz will be held at New Fork Lake Group Campground near Pinedale, Wyoming, June 26–28. Set in the scenic Upper Green River Valley, this campground sits along the shores of New Fork Lake with stunning views of the Wind River Range. Located roughly 10 miles north of Pinedale, the area is rich in wildlife and plant diversity, featuring sagebrush steppe, riparian corridors, wetlands, and nearby forested habitats. Participants can expect to encounter a wide variety of species, from migratory and resident birds to amphibians, small mammals, pollinators, and native wildflowers that thrive in this dynamic landscape. The mix of water, meadow, and upland habitats makes this an ideal setting for community science and hands-on exploration of Wyoming’s biodiversity.

View the New Fork Lake Group Campground information here. 

Camping, Food, and Water

The group campground includes picnic tables and a shared gathering space, a fire ring, vault toilets and additional port-a-potties, bear-resistant food storage boxes, and designated tent camping areas. Please note that there is no drinking water available at the campground. We will provide water, but you are encouraged to bring your own as well. Cell service is very limited or unavailable in the area. Bear spray will be available on site, though you may wish to bring your own.

Participants are welcome to camp at the group site during the event at no additional cost. For those who prefer indoor accommodations, the nearest options are in Pinedale, about a 35-minute drive away. There you will find hotels, motels, cabins, guest ranch lodging, as well as restaurants and grocery stores. Additional Forest Service campgrounds are also located around New Fork Lake and nearby Willow Lake.

Participants should plan their own meals, with the option to purchase a meal ticket for a shared dinner on Saturday evening, provided by Pitchfork Fondue, and a pancake breakfast on Sunday morning.

Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so please come prepared. We recommend bringing drinking water, warm layers and a rain jacket, a hat and sunscreen, bug spray, bear spray, a headlamp or flashlight, a camp chair, and personal camping gear if you plan to stay overnight. Binoculars or field guides are optional but encouraged.

The area supports abundant wildlife, including moose, deer, elk, and bears. To help keep everyone safe, please store all food and scented items in bear boxes or vehicles, keep campsites clean, give wildlife plenty of space, and keep a close watch on children, especially near the lake and forested areas. 

PTSB Credits

We offer two Professional Standards Teaching Board (PTSB) credits for teachers participating in Wyoming BioBlitz. To receive credits, you must be a PTSB-certified teacher, sign up for the credit by contacting Dusty Downey (dusty.downey@audubon.org, 504-453-4124), and participate in all activities during the event.

FAQs

1. What types of surveys will there be?

The types of inventory activities will depend on the species that the scientists are trying to find and document. Different groups will look for birds, fish, plants, invertebrates, mammals, microbes, fungi, etc. Some will be land-based; others will require wading in shallow water.

2. Who can participate?

Everyone! Children can participate in inventory activities, but they must be accompanied by an adult. There will also be activities just for children. Teachers can earn 2 PTSB credits. 

3. If I have a mobility issue such as using a wheelchair, can I still participate?

Yes, although many of the survey teams will be on trails that may make participation challenging.

4. What should I wear?

You will be outside and in the field, so you should dress accordingly. Layering is highly recommended to make you most comfortable. You should also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect you from potential sun exposure. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan on using the hiking trails.

5. What happens if it rains or there is bad weather?

Nature happens despite the weather. Wyoming BioBlitz will take place rain or shine. 

6. Where do I sign up?

Registration will open May 10 through June 8.

Event Organizers

Thank you to our cohosts UW Biodiversity Institute, Wyoming State Parks, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wyoming Natural Diversity Database, and Rocky Mountain Herbarium.