Sheep Creek originates in the Uinta Mountains and flows northward through Daggett County, Utah, before emptying into Flaming Gorge Reservoir approximately six miles south of Manila. This tributary to the Green River system carves through the striking Sheep Creek Geological Loop, where uplifted and tilted rock formations expose millions of years of geological history along the creek's canyon walls. The canyon walls rise between 100 and 1,000 feet above the water, creating an intimate paddling corridor through layers of colorful sedimentary rock.

The creek offers limited but noteworthy paddling opportunities primarily near its terminus at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The Sheep Creek Boat Launch, located where the creek meets the reservoir, serves as the primary access point for paddlers. From here, kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders can explore the lower canyon in a designated wakeless zone, paddling upstream into the narrow creek corridor for approximately two miles. The calm, flatwater conditions make this section suitable for novice paddlers, though the confined nature of the canyon requires basic boat control skills. The creek itself is small and brushy through much of its length, with challenging angling conditions in the upper reaches. However, the lower section near the reservoir provides the most accessible paddling experience. Early morning and late evening hours offer the best conditions, avoiding both afternoon winds and motorboat traffic on the reservoir.

Sheep Creek gained special management attention from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources for its Colorado River cutthroat trout population. A fish trap and spawning facility operates at Sheep Creek Lake in the upper drainage, where biologists collect eggs from native cutthroat during their spawning runs. The creek is closed to fishing from August 15 through the last Saturday of November to protect spawning fish. During September and October, bright red kokanee salmon also run up the creek to spawn, creating a spectacular wildlife viewing opportunity that draws visitors to witness this annual migration. Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep frequent the canyon walls—the creek's namesake—and sightings are common along the shoreline.

The Sheep Creek Overlook provides dramatic views into the canyon from above, while the Sheep Creek Geological Loop, a 10-mile paved scenic drive, offers multiple vantage points and interpretive information about the area's unique geology. Special regulations apply at Sheep Creek Lake, including artificial flies and lures only, with specific cutthroat trout size restrictions. The area experiences peak visitation during summer months, with spawning season in fall attracting both anglers and wildlife watchers. Winter access becomes limited as snow closes higher elevation roads.