The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
BLM sites offer a quiet, peaceful way to explore nature and the history of an area without worrying about crowds. These locations are unincorporated areas of public lands, set aside and preserved for everyone’s enjoyment. To find BLM sites, search for “BLM camping near me.”
Gunsight Wash is located in the southernmost part of Arizona within the town of Why. The area is part of the Sonoran Desert where visitors can see plants and animals, such as saguaro cacti, that are not found in any other part of the world. Gunsight Wash is popular for dispersed camping, and it offers beautiful views and easy access to many recreation options. The site is next to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and the Organ Pipe Cactus and Cabeza Prieta Wildernesses.
Located in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, this trail provides stunning views of the landscape of the Sonoran Desert.
Length: 3.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Although the trail is somewhat lengthy, it's well-kept and relatively gentle, and it offers beautiful views of the area’s cacti.
Length: 12.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail winds through a canyon and sees some steep climbs, but the path is excellent for viewing wildlife or taking in the scenery.
Length: 2.4 miles
Intensity: Hard
This gentle trail offers hikers beautiful views of the native plants in the area.
Length: 1.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
This is one of the best trails in the area for spotting native wildlife.
Length: 2.2 miles
Intensity: Easy
There are several options for rock climbers in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Most head to the tall, free-standing tower called Montezuma’s Head, which offers four traditional climbing routes. The area also features many opportunities for bouldering.
Organ Pipe Cactus Wilderness and Cabeza Prieta Wilderness as well as the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, are all excellent places to view wildlife, and many hikers spot wildlife on the trails throughout the area. Visitors can often see jackrabbits, quail, coyotes, bobcats, mule deer, mountain lions, javelina, hawks, golden eagles. You'll also find a range of reptiles, including skinks, whiptail lizards, tortoises, and several snake species, including rattlesnakes.
One of the best places for a picnic in the area is the Pinkley Peak Picnic Area in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Ajo Regional Park in Ajo, which is just north of Gunsight Wash, is also a great option for a picnic, and it has covered picnic tables, a dog park, and a swimming pool.
Horseback riding is one of the most popular recreation activities in Arizona. Equestrians can use most of the hiking and mountain biking trails in the area around Gunsight Wash. Visitors who are new to horseback riding can often take a trail ride with a guide.
BLM RV camping options are plentiful around Gunsight Wash. The Twin Peaks Campground is one of the most popular in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, but there are generally plenty of spaces to choose from. The campground offers restrooms, solar showers, and a dump station. Hickiwan Trails RV Park hosts 25 RV sites with hookups; a laundry room and clubhouse are also available.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available right at Gunsight Wash. There are no amenities in the area, but visitors can set up a campsite wherever they like.
The area around Gunsight Wash is home to many desert-adapted plants and animals, including rattlesnakes, cacti, and scorpions. Always observe wildlife, whether it's a reptile, mammal, bird, or insect, from a distance; this helps to protect both you and the animals. Do not touch cacti as their needles are barbed and can cause a serious reaction.
Gunsight Wash is relatively remote, so it’s important that you carry any essential supplies with you. The desert can be very hot and dry, and dehydration is a risk even in the colder months. You should always carry plenty of water and take small drinks of water often.
Summers in the desert can be very warm, with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees. The area is more popular in the cooler months of fall, spring, and winter. Temperatures can drop very quickly at night, however, even after the warmest days. Winter nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing, so dress in layers and bring plenty of extra blankets if you’re camping. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Practicing Leave No Trace guidelines can help to protect Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and other natural sites. Always be courteous to other campers or visitors to the area. Pack out all of your trash, and if you see any litter at the campground, pick it up and throw it away. Stay on trails as much as possible. Only start campfires when the danger rating is low in a fire ring or pit, and always make sure the embers are cold before you leave.
Gunsight Wash is located in Why, Arizona, about 1.2 miles south of the intersection of Highways 85 and 86. The entrance is south of the bridge. You’ll cross a wash and pass through a gate before entering the campsite.
Ready to visit Gunsight Wash? 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.
