The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites offer an excellent way to explore an area away from crowds and distractions. Wilderness areas, such as the Fishhooks Wilderness in Arizona, are sometimes incorporated as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, which was established by the Wilderness Act of 1964. That act helps protect over 109 million acres of public land. To view the wide assortment of wilderness sites with camping amenities, search for "BLM camping near me."
The Fishhooks Wilderness is located outside of Safford, Arizona. It covers 10,500 acres and offers visitors a look into Arizona's diverse environments. Visitors to the area can explore a desert landscape or take in forested areas that grow along the area's creeks. The site and its surroundings offer lots of hiking, camping, boating, and fishing opportunities.
Located about 14 miles south of Fishhooks Wilderness, this trail is somewhat steep in parts, but it offers gorgeous views.
Length: 2.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail can become heavily overgrown, so carrying a map, compass, or GPS is recommended to help you find your way along this scenic path.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This short trail offers beautiful views but is gentle enough for even the most beginner hikers.
Length: 0.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
Located in nearby Roper Lake State Park, this short trail provides a beautiful stroll.
Length: 0.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
This trail, which connects to several other nearby trails, is excellent for hiking and mountain biking.
Length: 5.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Fishhooks Wilderness area and Safford are both located near the Gila River, which offers excellent fishing. One of the best spots for fishing is at the Old Safford Bridge. Many visitors to the area also enjoy rafting, floating, kayaking, and canoeing down the river.
The Fishhooks Wilderness is the perfect place to spot native wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, javelina, mule deer, rabbits, ground squirrels, whiptail lizards, rattlesnakes, skinks, bull snakes, and tortoises. The area is also home to several bird species, including quail, hawks, and roadrunners. Other great places to see wildlife include Roper Lake State Park, Dankworth Pond State Park, and the Coronado National Forest.
The Dry Canyon Picnic Area, which is part of the nearby Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, is an excellent place to picnic. The Canyon Overlook Picnic Area also offers shaded picnic tables. Both locations feature gorgeous views of the landscape.
Rock collecting is a popular activity in the area around the Fishhooks Wilderness, thanks to the prevalence of fire agate. It is most popular in the Black Hills Rockhound Area, where anyone can collect freely without a permit.
Horseback riding enthusiasts can ride along almost any of the area's local trails. Check the route's difficulty level before you head out to ensure that it is equestrian-friendly.
Some of the most popular BLM RV camping options are at Roper Lake State Park. There are RV sites throughout the park, many of which have hookups. The park also offers easy access to a range of recreational activities. Safford RV Resort also has large RV spaces as well as a pool, showers, and a laundry room.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at the Owl Creek Campground and in the Black Hills Rockhound Area. Dispersed camping is permitted in the Black Hills Rockhound Area, and campers can set up anywhere they like. The Owl Creek Campground has seven sites with grills and picnic tables. Restrooms are also available.
The Fishhooks Wilderness area is relatively remote, so it is always best to pack plenty of water, snacks, and first-aid supplies. During the summer, the temperature can climb to over 100 degrees, making exposure and dehydration serious risks. As you explore the area, continuously drink water even if you don't feel thirsty. Many people choose to explore this region during the fall, winter, and spring months when the weather is cooler.
Motor vehicles are not allowed in federally designated wilderness areas. This includes cars, RVs, OHVs, motorcycles, and motorboats. The Fishhooks Wilderness abuts San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation lands. If you need to cross these lands to reach portions of the wilderness, you must obtain a permit first. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
All Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and other natural sites deserve protection and respect. Leave No Trace practices, such as packing out all of your trash and disposing of it properly, help a lot. If you start a fire, make sure it remains safe and contained, and ensure that it's completely out before you leave. Only start fires in designated areas when the danger rating is low. Stay on trails or roads as much as possible and don't disturb plants and animals.
From Safford, take the US-70 W for about 21.5 miles. Turn right onto Fort Thomas River Road and continue for 1.3 miles before turning left on W Nash Willis Road/River Road. Keep driving for five miles. Take a right onto N Diamond Bar Ranch Road and continue for 2.7 miles. Make a right and stay on the road. After about three miles, turn right and continue for another three miles before arriving at the wilderness area.
Ready to visit Fishhooks Wilderness? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
