The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Ironwood Forest National Monument is a 129,000-acre stretch of gorgeous desert land in southern Arizona, just outside of Tucson. The site, which is protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is the home to one of the richest stands of ironwood in the Sonoran Desert as well as several desert mountain ranges and valleys.
The national monument also features fascinating archaeological sites with artifacts covering a 5,000-year period. Although there are no Bureau of Land Management campgrounds found at the site, the scenic area is still a fantastic place to go if you've been searching for primitive BLM camping. Additionally, the unique Saguaro National Park is located only about 15 miles southeast of the national monument, and it's a popular attraction for adventurous travelers visiting the area.
The Ragged Top North Gully Trail is a challenging out-and-back trail located within the Ironwood Forest National Monument. The route is typically pretty overgrown and requires a significant amount of bushwhacking, and there's some steep climbing as well. However, if you make the trek, you'll get to see some unique rock formations and breathtaking desert views. You most likely won't encounter any other people on the hike, so it's a great option if you like to experience solitude in nature.
Length: 4 miles
Intensity: Hard
Another quality route found within Ironwood Forest National Monument is the Waterman Peak Trail, which is known for its impressive views of the nearby desert mountains. The out-and-back trail requires some steep climbing at times, and you'd be wise to bring along poles if you have them. Your dogs can accompany you on the hike as long as they stay leashed.
Length: 1.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Bridal Wreath Falls Trail is a beautiful out-and-back route located in Saguaro National Park. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and the waterfall it leads you to is awesome. There's also plenty of great desert scenery throughout the entire area. Unfortunately, dogs aren't permitted on this popular trail.
Length: 5.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Ironwood Forest National Monument is an arid area, but that doesn't mean there aren't any nearby opportunities for water-based recreation. One of the most popular options is Silverbell Lake, which is found near Tucson. The placid reservoir is stocked with bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and rainbow trout, but anglers should keep in mind that there are daily limits for certain types of fish. The lake is also a pleasant destination for paddle-boating and motorized boating, but swimming is unfortunately not permitted.
Visitors to the Ironwood Forest National Monument have to do a bit of searching to find quality climbing destinations, but there are a few in the area to be found. One well-kept secret is The Sanctuary bouldering area, which is located just inside the boundaries of Saguaro National Park. The area is very remote and doesn't often see visitors, so it's especially important to practice proper safety procedures while climbing!
The Ironwood Forest National Monument is an excellent place to observe and photograph cool wildlife. The Sonoran Desert environment is home to a variety of interesting species, including desert bighorn sheep, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, mule deer, and foxes. There are also more than 50 different species of birds inhabiting the national monument, including the endangered cactus ferruginous pygmy owl. The nearby Saguaro National Park is another fantastic destination for wildlife viewing, with amazing creatures such as roadrunners, Gila monsters, horned lizards, and kangaroo rats calling it home.
You probably won't come across any picnic tables or shelters in the Ironwood Forest National Monument. That said, the area certainly offers plenty of locations that would serve as beautiful picnic spots. While taking a break from checking out the amazing archaeological sites, you could put down a big blanket and have a pleasant lunch.
BLM RV camping is possible at the Ironwood Forest National Monument, but anyone who chooses to do so will need to rough it a bit. There aren't any designated camping areas at the BLM site, but there are plenty of nearby campgrounds if you head toward the highway to the east. For example, if you want to stay at an RV park with amenities and hookups, you can camp at the Lees Ranch RV Park or the Tres Mesquites RV Park.
Visitors to the Ironwood Forest National Monument are welcome to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping. As long as you do so on durable land, you should be able to set up a dispersed campsite wherever you prefer. You'll need to supply everything for yourself, and you may find the land to be a bit unforgiving. However, if you don't mind a primitive camping experience in an arid desert environment, you should have a wonderful time enjoying the gorgeous scenery and relaxing serenity.
If you're planning a trip to Ironwood Forest National Monument, make sure that you have camping plans before you head out. Since there's no official BLM campground at the site, you'll want to be careful that you don't end up scrambling to find accommodations. If you decide ahead of time, you can either come prepared with your dispersed camping gear or have a nearby campground in mind. If your plans fall through, you can always search for "BLM camping near me" once you get to the area.
Ironwood Forest National Monument is located in the Sonoran Desert, which is very dry throughout most of the year and features extreme temperatures during the summer. Additionally, there is relatively little shade to be found around the BLM site. So prepare by packing lots of drinking water and any protection from the sun that you think you may need. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
During your visit to Ironwood Forest National Monument, please adhere to the Leave No Trace guidelines and keep your impact to a minimum. Throughout your trip, make an effort to plan your travel and activities in advance whenever possible. Doing so will make it easier for you to avoid negatively affecting the natural land.
Ironwood Forest National Monument is located roughly 25 miles northwest of Tucson. There are two primary entry points for the BLM site. From Interstate 10, you can enter via Avra Valley Road, or you can take the Red Rock exit and then head southwest on Sasco Road to Silverbell Road.
Ready to visit Ironwood Forest National Monument? 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.
