The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness is located on the western edge of the Buckskin Mountain in Arizona. This wilderness area is home to a volcanic tuff with sandy washes and deep canyons. Since 1990, the Bureau of Land Management has managed this protected wilderness area. If you want to settle down and enjoy the beauty of the Arizona desert, make sure to plan a vacation to the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness.
The namesake peak of the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness rises above the 18,790 acres of protected area. Gibraltar Peak has an elevation of 1,568 feet. The landscape is dotted with native plant species such as the barrel cactus, palo verde, creosote bush, and cholla. If you want to bring your RV for a quiet vacation to enjoy the beauty of nature, Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness is the ideal spot.
This trail is the perfect spot for running and hiking. You will see many people traveling down this path. October to April is the best time to visit.
Length: 6.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail is the ideal way to explore the local area. Be prepared to traverse rugged terrain and get a close look at the desert landscape on this route.
Length: 3.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
Rock climbing is permitted in the park. Test your skills as you scale up the steep canyon walls of this desert wilderness area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant in the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness. This protected area is home to a small population of desert pronghorn sheep. You will also see coyotes, jackrabbits, and roadrunners. Some visitors have even spotted the elusive mountain lion in this part of the state. Owls, ravens, and quails also make their homes in this wilderness area. Like most desert regions, you will find many small lizards and snakes in the park.
Unfortunately, there are no designated spots for picnicking. However, that doesn't mean you cannot find a location to enjoy a meal. This wilderness area has a few places to set up a couple of chairs and tables for a relaxing breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Keep in mind that the desert sun is hot, and you will want to bring some type of umbrella or other protection for shade.
If you want to get a closer look at the desert canyons, horseback riding will give you a unique perspective. Take your horse to explore the colorful landscape of the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness. The trails are rugged, making it an exciting challenge for both horses and riders.
Many visitors come to enjoy the solitude of nature. When visiting this protected wilderness, don't forget to look up at the night skies. The Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness is away from the big cities, giving you the perfect opportunity to do a bit of stargazing during your vacation.
If you are looking for a Bureau of Land Management free camping site, there are several RV camping options within the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness. However, many of these spots are primitive. Check out Emerald Cove RV Resort for a resort-style campground. This campground has 410 sites for RVs and offers full hookups. You can enjoy many activities at this resort, including kayaking, swimming, fishing, boating, and mini-golf.
In addition to this resort-style campground, there are other options near the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness, including Campbell Cove RV Resort and Crazy Horse Campgrounds.
Buckskin Mountain State Park is another option, but it is not associated with the Bureau of Land Management. There is a $10 entrance fee. These camping sites do have electricity and water hookups. Plus, there are other modern conveniences for campers to use.
The Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness does not have designated BLM RV camping sites, but you are allowed to boondock within the area. Since you will not have access to water or electricity, you will need to be self-sufficient for the duration of the trip.
These Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are located in remote areas with limited facilities. Keep that in mind for your vacation, especially when it comes to the heat. Always have fresh water on hand.
The desert sun can become sweltering, and the high heat can cause exhaustion in a few minutes. Wear durable clothes, apply sunscreen, and drink plenty of water when traveling outside. Don't forget a first aid kit in case of an emergency.
Snakes and lizards are always a concern, and a few can be poisonous. Keep a safe distance from any type of wildlife. When hiking or walking, wear boots to protect your feet. Watch your step in this park with the treacherous terrain.
To find out the amenities in your area, search "BLM camping near me." Before visiting the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness area, stop by our blog to learn more about BLM camping.
When you visit any BLM site, be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles. When choosing a spot, make sure that it will not disrupt the natural landscape. Since there are no garbage receptacles at the location, take all of your trash and waste with you. If you set up a fire, always properly extinguish it before leaving. Never take anything from the area.
If you are traveling from Phoenix, you want to travel west on Interstate 10 to the Quartzite exit. From there, proceed north on State Road 95 toward Parker to State Route 72. Turn west on Route 72 and travel two miles south to Shea Road. You will want to follow this paved road for five miles. As you get closer to the wilderness area, follow the signs into the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness area.
Ready to visit the Gibraltar Mountain 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 of 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.
