The Big Horn Mountains surround the Powder River Basin, and the area is said to be a sacred Indian region. The famous Hole-in-the-Wall, which boasted outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, is found nearby.

Currently, the Powder River Basin has an abundant supply of coal and oil that is being sought after.

The most astonishing characteristic of the basin is its still-abundant wildlife. There, one of the last herds of plains elk roam about the Powder River, and eagles and falcons continue to roost. The area has plenty of pronghorn antelope. In several areas the bobcat population has reached an all-time high. The North Fork of the Powder River offers successful fishing. The North Fork region, Gardner Mountain, and Powder River are all currently being considered for wilderness designation in order to preserve the unique aspects of the land.