The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Many of the United States' unique, beautiful natural areas are protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the vast majority of those contain peaceful camping areas that you can discover by searching "BLM camping near me." In western Arizona, one wonderful BLM site is the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness, a 25,050-acre space containing a diverse collection of landforms, plant communities, and wildlife species. Outdoor enthusiasts who visit the site can enjoy peace and quiet, solitude, and beautiful scenery as well as opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and primitive camping.
One excellent nearby hiking trail is the Eagle Peak Arch Trail, which is popular with hikers. In addition to hiking, many people also visit the route to partake in bird-watching and off-road driving. Despite the beautiful views and scenery in the area, there aren't typically too many people on the trail, so you should be able to enjoy some solitude during your hike. You can bring your dogs with you, but they'll need to stay leashed.
Length: 3.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located near Alamo Lake State Park, the Lake Alamo Radio Towers Loop is a peaceful trail where you'll enjoy beautiful wildflowers, a quiet atmosphere, and good opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife viewing.
Length: 3.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Harquahala Mountain Trail is a very long, challenging out-and-back trail located near Salome, AZ. The difficult trail includes some steep climbs, but those who traverse them are rewarded with stunning views of the area. In addition to hiking, the Harquahala Mountain Trail is a fantastic destination for trail running and horseback riding as well. Your pups can come with you to the trail, but they'll need to be leashed at all times.
Length: 13.5 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Alamo Lake, located roughly 15 miles north of the BLM site, is one of the premier fishing destinations in Arizona. The fishery has a thriving population of largemouth bass, and anglers will also have a good shot at catching crappie and tilapia. The small reservoir also features several boat ramps and is popular for both motorized and non-motorized recreational boating. Alternatively, you can head west to the Cattail Cove State Park area and enjoy some water-based recreation in the majestic Colorado River.
If you're a skilled, adventurous climber, you can attempt to summit the towering Harcuvar Peak, which stands 4,618 feet high. To reach the summit of Harcuvar Peak, you must contend with rough desert tracks and steep, rocky slopes. Relatively few climbers summit the peak, but those who do are rewarded with an unforgettable panoramic view of the beautiful desert region.
The Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness is inhabited by a variety of unique wildlife species, and anyone who visits will have a chance to observe them firsthand. The wilderness area is home to desert bighorn sheep, cougars, desert tortoises, desert night lizards, Gilbert's skinks, golden eagles, and a variety of hawks. If you're a serious wildlife enthusiast visiting the area, though, you may want to travel southeast to the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to many interesting mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
While the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness certainly presents great opportunities for picnicking, picnic tables and designated areas will be few and far between. However, if you bring supplies for your own picnic setup, such as a blanket, towel, or fold-out chairs, you can choose any spot you like to enjoy your meal. If you want to experience impressive views while you eat, consider finding a location with a slightly raised elevation to set up your picnic.
Unfortunately, BLM RV camping is not possible within the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness as motorized vehicles are prohibited within all federally designated wilderness areas. Despite these restrictions and the lack of nearby Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you shouldn't need to travel too far to enjoy modern RV camping. A few miles south of the BLM site, you'll find multiple campgrounds with full hookups and numerous amenities, such as the Morenga Palms RV Park and the Indian Hills RV Resort.
There's plenty of open space surrounding the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness, and much of it is ripe for anyone looking to enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping. One good option for your dispersed camping may be to travel north and find a peaceful spot near the banks of the Bill Williams River. Wherever you choose to put together your primitive campsite, just make sure you're doing so on a durable surface.
If you're taking a trip to the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness, try to plan your camping arrangements ahead of time. You won't find any established campgrounds whatsoever in the remote wilderness area, so if you plan to stay overnight at the actual BLM site, remember to bring everything that you'll need for a campsite. You'll need to bring your own drinking water, supplies, and food that requires little preparation. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Because the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness is such a remote area with a fragile ecosystem, it's especially important that you do your part to preserve it during your visit. If you avoid disrespecting the land by littering, disturbing nature, or confronting wildlife, you'll be helping to keep the site pristine.
To reach the Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness from Wenden, AZ, follow Alamo Rd north for 5.9 miles, and then, take a right onto Low Mountain Road. Continue for 3.2 miles and take a right onto the dirt road and remain on it for 5.2 more miles. At that point, turn left onto another dirt road and follow it for 7.1 miles, and you will reach the BLM site.
Ready to visit Harcuvar Mountains 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.
