The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
As an agency of the US Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management manages federal lands, also known as BLM sites. A BLM site refers to land managed by the agency for outdoor recreation, energy production, livestock grazing, and mineral development. All BLM sites in the US have a combined area of 245 million acres. Bureau of Land Management camping is widespread and encouraged in Arizona. Many people in the state tour BLM sites in Arizona and other states during their free time. Although the Bureau of Land Management provides free camping, individual sites may charge a small fee, while others may need guests to make reservations. Search "BLM camping near me" to find sites in your area.
Harquahala Peak Observatory is near Wenden, Arizona. It comprises two buildings with wooden beams that sheltered staff from the Smithsonian Institution in the early 1900s. Thanks to its beauty and remoteness, Harquahala Peak Observatory is an ideal camping site. Other activities suitable at Harquahala Peak Observatory include learning about historical events, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. There are two national parks within a four-hour drive from Harquahala Peak Observatory: Saguaro National Park, situated about 200 miles south of the site, and Grand Canyon National Park, located 220 miles north. Harquahala Peak Observatory is south of Winden and southwest of Wickenburg.
The Harquahala Peak trail is a great place to hike. The trail leads to the highest point in the Harquahala Peak Mountains and the whole of southwest Arizona. It would be best to prepare yourself adequately before hiking the trail because it is not an easy one. When you reach the top, you will be rewarded with picturesque views of the surrounding mountain ranges and deserts.
Length: 5.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Head over for a hike on the Sunset Pass Trail if you want a more challenging adventure. This trail has high elevation gains within short distances. Also, desert plants like cactus are many along the hike.
Length: 12.5 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This Bureau of Land Management free camping site offers guests hands-on activities to learn about important historical events in the US. The Harquahala Peak Observatory itself is a historical site. When you reach the site, you will learn how staff from the Smithsonian Institute used the area as a test site for studying the sun and the climate between 1921 and 1926. When you visit the Sunset Pass, you will learn how it was the battleground for the Battle of Sunset Pass. It is where a troop of US Army soldiers intercepted and engaged a gang of Tonto Apaches who had stolen livestock.
There are many creatures at Harquahala Peak Observatory and the neighboring areas. Common animals you can see around the site include mule deer, mountain lions, and desert bighorn sheep. Reptiles like rattlesnakes and Gila monsters inhabit Harquahala Peak Observatory. Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, situated a few miles from Harquahala Peak Observatory, hosts desert bighorn sheep and other animals native to this region.
Hunting is possible in the area around Harquahala Peak Observatory. Visitors can hunt both small and big game animals in designated areas.
Picnicking is possible at Harquahala Peak Observatory and its environs. The area has several camping sites fitted with picnic tables, shelters, and restrooms. Others even have fire pits and grills.
While RV camping is not possible at Harquahala Peak Observatory, many Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are in the neighboring areas. Lower Wolf Creek Campground in Harquahala Mountains Wilderness is a fantastic place for RV camping. This campground is located in a beautiful place surrounded by verdant vegetation and boasts necessary camping amenities like picnic tables, grills, vault toilets, garbage points, and fire rings. Another amazing RV camping sport is Aztec Village RV Park in Wickenburg. It has a large space for camping and is near eating, shopping, and entertainment areas.
Situated in the Harquahala Mountains, free camping is possible in many areas. Dispersed camping is allowed in areas where there are no recreation facilities. The maximum time people can camp in the wilderness is 14 consecutive days. The dispersed camping sites are mainly located along secondary roads.
Although Harquahala Peak Observatory and its environs are camping sites frequently visited by people, the region has wild creatures. There are venomous snakes, fierce reptiles, and other dangerous animals.
Cell phone service tends to be on and off in the area, so prepare yourself to avoid any inconveniences.
The nearest towns to get food are Wickenburg, located 38 miles away from Harquahala Peak Observatory, and Winden, located 27 miles away.
Because of its location in the desert, Harquahala Peak Observatory experiences harsh weather conditions. Summer days are often hot, with temperatures of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter days can drop to below 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pack a change of clothes and footwear to use. Also, carry personal hygiene items and drinking water.
BLM camping has many advantages like promoting physical activity and fitness, increased social interaction with other people, quiet time in the natural environment that helps to reduce stress, and affordable camping options.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
BLM requires guests to leave no trace. Leave your camp the way you found it by collecting and disposing of garbage. Bury any human waste far away from water. Do not harass or intimidate the animals. Visitors must follow these rules to reduce their impact on the environment.
Take Interstate 10 to the Salome Road exit. Drive North to Eagle Eye, then turn right after 9.6 miles. Drive 8.5 miles to reach the Harquahala Peak Observatory.
Ready to visit Harquahala Peak Observatory? 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.
