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BLM Camping

Dry Canyon Picnic Area

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

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Dry Canyon Picnic Area

Natural and largely untouched by people, BLM sites allow visitors to get to know an area. They also offer a wide range of recreational activities, and some BLM areas may have historic significance. To find out which sites offer camping options, you can search for “BLM camping near me.”

The Dry Canyon Picnic Area is located near Safford, Arizona in the southeastern corner of the state. The area is part of the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, and both are located along the Gila River. The landscape around the picnic area is a blend of desert cacti and mesquite trees. There is also a nearby boat take out where visitors can launch a boat or raft to float down the Gila River.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Ladybug Trail

Despite its gentle name, this trail features some steep climbs. However, hikers are rewarded with gorgeous views at the top of the trail.

Length: 10.9 miles

Intensity: Hard

Heliograph Peak Trail

Located in the nearby Coronado National Forest, this trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Length: 3.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Mariah Mesa Trail

This trail, located in Roper Lake State Park, is a gentle stroll that’s perfect for the entire family.

Length: 0.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Arcadia Trail

One of many trails in the Coronado National Forest, this path traverses wooded landscapes and is a great way to spot wildlife.

Length: 9.4 miles

Intensity: Hard

Dankworth Pond Trail

Located in nearby Dankworth Pond State Park, this trail offers excellent photography and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Length: 1.4 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Visitors to the Dry Canyon Picnic Area can fish, swim, and boat right at the Gila River. Tubing or rafting down the river are very popular activities. Anglers can catch catfish from anywhere along the river, including near the Old Safford Bridge.

Wildlife Viewing

The Dry Canyon Picnic Area is a great place to spot wildlife, but visitors can also head to the Coronado National Forest, Roper Lake State Park, or Dankworth Pond State Park. At any of these locations, visitors can often spot javelina, mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, rabbits, hawks, roadrunners, ravens, and quails. The area is also home to reptiles such as king snakes, bull snakes, tortoises, rattlesnakes, whiptail lizards, and skinks.

Picnicking

The Dry Canyon Picnic Area is a great place to have a picnic, and the area is open all year. There are vault toilets available. The nearby Canyon Overlook Picnic Area is also a good option. It features shaded picnic tables and offers beautiful views.

Rock Collecting

Geology enthusiasts may want to stop at the nearby Black Hills Rockhound Area. Anyone can dig here without a permit, and collectors may be able to find fire agate, which they can take home.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping enthusiasts will have plenty of options in the area around Safford and the Dry Canyon Picnic Area. Safford RV Resort offers 92 spaces and features friendly, helpful staff. Roper Lake State Park also offers several large RV sites with full hookups. Riverview Campground is another BLM site that offers beautiful views, and it’s an excellent place to view wildlife. It’s also located only minutes from the picnic area.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at the nearby Black Hills Rockhound Area, where visitors can set up a dispersed site. Free camping is also available at the Owl Creek Campground. The campground features limited amenities, but its seven sites do have picnic tables and grills, and there are restrooms available.

RV Rentals Near Dry Canyon Picnic Area Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Dry Canyon Picnic Area BLM trip

The desert can be both exciting and dangerous to visit, so it’s important to always keep alert to your surroundings. If you hear a snake rattling, move away and don’t disturb it. Observe animals from a distance, and remember that cacti can cause injury, so don’t try to touch them.

The area around the Dry Canyon Picnic Area sees mild winters, but summer temperatures can be very hot. Always pack plenty of water and screen yourself from the sun. Be alert to the signs of dehydration, and drink water frequently even if you don’t feel thirsty. Even on the warmest days, nighttime temperatures can drop dramatically, so pack additional clothing if you plan to spend time in the desert after dark.

Each BLM site has different rules. For example, many sites only allow for stays of up to 14 consecutive days within a month’s time. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations at any areas you plan to visit before you head out. Before you leave on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

The desert, like all ecosystems, is fragile, so it’s important to do your part to protect it whenever you enjoy any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds or day-use areas. Fires can be incredibly dangerous, so keep even the smallest fires controlled and contained, and don’t start a fire if it’s windy out or if the fire danger rating is anything except low. Throw away all trash, or, if a trash can isn’t available, take it with you when you leave. Try not to disturb the plants and animals in the area. Stay on the trails, and don’t take any plants or animals home with you.