The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Are you searching for an excellent rock climbing adventure? The Homestead Climbing Area may be just what you are looking for, boasting 12 limestone walls in a remote wilderness setting. The road in requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle or a short hike. There are no facilities, but overnight stays are welcome.
The area is located on Arizona State Route 77, approximately 14 miles north of Winkelman and 16 miles south of Globe in Gila County. The area is approximately 70 miles north of Tucson and 100 miles southeast of Phoenix. A permit from the Arizona State Land Department Recreation Permit is required to access the site.
The Homestead Climbing Area is home to no fewer than 200 routes ranging in difficulty levels from 5.7 to 5.13b. Past visitors recommend a 70-meter rope and 20 quickdraws. Each route has a unique style and sun aspect. The desert climate ranges in elevation from 3,000 to 4,000 feet. The Tufa City and Rough Rider walls are considered the "most glorious" at the site. The limestone is not highly pocketed. The potential for new routes is high.
The area's varied topography provides an abundance of native and migratory animals and birds. Javelina, coyote, mountain lion, deer, fox, bobcat, and several varieties of snake are indigenous. There are no fewer than three varieties of rattlesnakes in the area. A wide variety of hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey visit the site regularly. Turkey vultures are a common sight.
Picnicking and overnight camping are permitted at the site. The Homestead is a wilderness area, and there are no tables, toilets, or other facilities. Be sure to bring and consume plenty of water. Secure food and trash as bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife are typical at the site.
The area is suited for observing the night sky, with the lights of major metropolitan areas miles away. Many major constellations are easily visible. You can even see the Milky Way on clear nights. Nights in the desert can get cool. A set of warm clothes for stargazing may be necessary.
BLM RV camping at the Homestead is only possible in a rig with off-road capability. A vehicle with four-wheel drive is recommended. Free Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are also available approximately 15 miles south on Arizona Highway 77 at the Christmas Campground and The Shores Campground. Both areas have gravel parking areas and toilets. No other services are available at these sites.
If you do not want to spend the night in the wilderness, The Winkleman Flat Park and Campground is 15 miles to the south on AZ 77. Operated by the town of Winkleman, the campground can provide water and electric hookups. You can find an RV park with full hookups and dining at the Apache Gold Casino, 20 miles northeast of Homestead on US 60.
Camping is allowed at The Homestead Area. There are no toilets or any other facilities in the area. There are also Bureau of Land Management free camping sites at the Gila River Recreation Area. This BLM facility is approximately 15 miles south on AZ 77. The Tonto National Forest provides free camping at the Pinal Peak and Upper Pinal Campgrounds. The areas are both south of Globe. There are restrictions and closures as a result of fires from time to time. Check with Tonto National Forest before planning a trip to Pinal Campgrounds.
When visiting remote BLM Wilderness areas, remember that camp spots are limited and often not accessible to larger RVs. If you plan to visit a wilderness area, be sure that your rig can access the site. Search "BLM camping near me" for sites that may better fit your needs. It may be safest to find a local RV park for your rig and visit the wildness or recreation area with an ATV or other four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Remember that being close to nature requires some caution and preparation since BLM campgrounds are often very remote. Be informed and prepared before heading out to a BLM campground. Have plenty of water. Have adequate trash collection facilities. Watch out for inclement weather. Flash floods are common in the Homestead Climbing Area.
It is important to remember that some of the animals that live in this area are dangerous. Keep food and trash secured, and watch your step! A rattlesnake will almost always alert you to its presence by rattling its tail, so pay attention. If you hear a loud sound that reminds you of a sprinkler or a baby's rattle, freeze! Before you head out, check our blog for up-to-date information about BLM camping.
The Arizona Bureau of Land Management Camping emphasizes outdoor ethics and its Leave No Trace policy. We all must contribute to the conservation of natural areas that we visit. Always drive and camp only in designated areas. DO NOT remove any nature that you find. Remove any trash or waste that you find or bring. Keep fires within fire pits, and extinguish them before leaving. Do not confront or harass any wildlife. Remember, this is their home.
To get to The Homestead Climbing area, head south from Globe or north from Winkelman on AZ 77. The access gate is on the east side of the road at Mile Post 153.3, immediately south of the guard rail. There is no signage along the highway. Use caution, as there are no pullouts or turning lanes. Be sure to close all gates as you pass.
Address: Homestead Climbing Area, Winkelman, AZ 85192
Ready to visit Homestead Climbing Area? 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.
