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BLM Camping

Dominguez-Escalante Site

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Dominguez-Escalante Site

A quiet, less crowded way to explore a new destination, BLM sites are unincorporated areas of public lands cared for by the Bureau of Land Management. Some are designed for recreation, others provide excellent wildlife viewing areas, and a few, such as the Dominguez-Escalante Site, are historically important. Many of these areas also offer BLM RV camping or free Bureau of Land Management camping. To find BLM camping sites, search for “BLM camping near me.”

Located in the Vermillion Cliffs next to the Kaibab Plateau and the Kaibab National Forest, the Dominguez-Escalante Site is a historic area that marks a campsite used by Father Silvestre Escalante and Father Francisco Dominguez on their expedition through the southwest in the early days of westward expansion. The site is relatively remote but is located in an area where many recreational activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are popular.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Waterhole Canyon Trail

This beautiful trail winds through a canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Length: 2.8 miles

Intensity: Easy

Horseshoe Bend Trail

Circling around one of the most beautiful sights in Arizona, this trail is perfect for wildlife viewing, photography, or simply enjoying the scenery.

Length: 1.5 miles

Intensity: Easy

Nine Mile Draw Trail

A trail that offers a bit of a challenge for anyone looking to push themselves, the Nine Mile Draw Trail rewards hikers with beautiful views.

Length: 9.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Page Rim View Trail

This trail, which offers gorgeous views of the landscape around Page, Arizona, is easy enough for the whole family.

Length: 10.3

Intensity: Easy

Upper Antelope Canyon Trail

This stunning trail is not only perfect for hiking, but also provides visitors with views of some of the most beautiful rock formations in the area.

Length: 6.5 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Although the area around the Dominguez-Escalante Site is arid, there are still some great fishing opportunities. The nearby Glen Canyon Dam and sections of the Colorado River offer excellent fishing options. Anglers can catch bass, catfish, trout, and walleye.

Climbing

There are several excellent bouldering options around the Dominguez-Escalante Site. Big Water Boulders, located off of the same road the site is on, offers several challenges. Visitors to the area can also find some great bouldering challenges at Antelope Canyon.

Wildlife Viewing

Because the Dominguez-Escalante Site is so remote, wildlife-viewing opportunities are everywhere. Visitors can often see deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, javelina, cottontail and jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and the occasional bobcat. Many types of snakes and lizards also call the area home, and birdwatchers will delight in the many native species. Bird enthusiasts may also want to venture to the nearby Condor Viewing Site, which is another BLM location.

Picnicking

The Condor Viewing Site is a good option for a picnic. Visitors can use the viewfinder to spot rare California condors and other wildlife. They can also take advantage of the area’s shade shelter and picnic tables.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

There are several RV camping options near the Dominguez-Escalante Site, including some Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Lees Ferry Campground is private and offers spectacular views. There is a dump station, and potable water and grills are provided. For a less-rugged camping experience, the nearby Wahweap RV & Campground offers full hookups, as well as grills, picnic tables, and fire rings.

Free Camping

Many people who visit the area near the Dominguez-Escalante Site enjoy free dispersed camping along the shores of Lake Powell, which isn’t too far from the site. Bureau of Land Management free camping is also available at the Stanton Creek Primitive Camping Area. Neither the camping area nor the primitive camping at Lake Powell offer amenities, but the sites are secluded and peaceful, and the views of the scenery are unmatched.

RV Rentals Near Dominguez-Escalante Site Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Dominguez-Escalante Site BLM trip

The Dominguez-Escalante Site is an excellent way to learn more about the history of the area while also getting in tune with nature and the outdoors. Visiting the site often feels like stepping back in time, but there are still many nearby options for more modern living. For those who are interested in primitive camping or want to enjoy a hike or some fishing at a nearby location, it’s important to remember that the site is located in a desert landscape. Summers can be incredibly hot, so most people prefer to visit during the cooler months. Temperatures during the day in the fall, spring, and winter are milder, but nights can be very cold. Dress in layers, and always pack plenty of water no matter what time of year it is.

Most BLM sites allow for stays of up to 14 days, but some campsites might only allow for short stays, so check ahead and plan accordingly. Most camping areas in Arizona are open all year, but it’s a good idea to check that there haven’t been any closures and that space is available. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

It’s important to protect any natural site, but one of such historic significance deserves even more respect. Never leave any trash; either take it with you or dispose of it properly when you leave the area. Only make fires in rings or pits, and ensure the fire danger is low before building one. This is especially important in an arid region such as the landscape around the Dominguez-Escalante Site. Try not to disturb the flora and fauna, and don’t take anything from the site home with you.