The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
BLM camping sites allow visitors to enjoy recreational activities like hiking, biking, boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming and explore an area away from crowds. Primarily left in their natural state, these sites provide visitors with unique opportunities for solitude. Most Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are cost-friendly and sometimes free. To find BLM sites with certain features and amenities, search for "BLM camping near me."
Muggins Mountain Wilderness is a 7,640-acre wilderness region found on the peripheries of California's border with Mexico. The wilderness features a cluster of rugged peaks with vivid, eye-catching solid rock formations. The profoundly cut washes and drainages below the peaks dissect the wilderness and give its unique topography. Muggins Mountain Wilderness sits 25 miles east of Yuma, Arizona and is next to the agricultural Dome Valley and Gila River. To the north of this wilderness lies the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and the Yuma Military Proving Ground. You can either spend a few days camping amidst the Muggins Mountain Wilderness' natural beauty or explore its famous trials. The breathtaking views, stunning night skies, and temperate climate make for a memorable outdoor experience.
Muggins Peak trail is an out-and-back hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain. Located near Wellton, Arizona, this trail offers breathtaking views of the nearby scenery.
Length: 5.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located near Yuma, Arizona, Telegraph Pass Trail takes hikers past the rocky outcrops, loose rock slopes, and dense vegetation that make for an adventurous and exciting hiking experience.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Muggins Peak is probably the most famous landmark in Muggins Mountain Wilderness. Although the climb looks challenging from the base, it's doable and not as dangerous as it seems. This class three climb is relatively easy for the significant part of the uphill surge, but there are some areas of loose rock that can make it challenging. Tread carefully, and you'll reach the summit within a few hours.
Muggins Mountain Wilderness offers numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. This BLM site is home to desert bighorn sheep that you can easily spot along the Muggins Peak trail. You will also spot bats, blotched lizards, rock wren, owls, and black-throated sparrows. The wilderness also boasts a unique mix of vegetation. The center of the wilderness boasts plains full of white bursage, desert lavender, desert ironwood, rock hibiscus, and saguaro cactus.
If you plan to spend a night or two in the Muggins Mountain Wilderness, be sure to look up at the skies at night. This wilderness is remote and far away from the cities, so artificial light here is virtually non-existent. At night, the skies can become very dark, highlighting the countless stars above.
If you want a more luxurious camping experience, consider RV camping at nearby spots like The Palms RV Resort. This campground offers full-hookup services and numerous modern facilities, amenities, and recreational activities for RVs, big rigs, trailers, and motorhomes. You may also opt for Yuma Lakes RV Resort, a nearby campground equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, water hookups, and clean washrooms that make for a luxurious and comfortable stay.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is allowed at the Muggins Mountain Wilderness area, although motorized vehicles and equipment are prohibited in federal-owned wilderness areas. This site allows campers to enjoy dispersed BLM RV camping in established areas. Campers can extend their stay for up to 14 days. Staying in this wilderness is free, but it's primitive. So, be sure to plan your trip ahead and be ready to go without running water and electricity throughout your stay.
The Muggins Mountain Wilderness area is remote and secluded, so ensure you pack a lot of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Be prepared for extreme temperatures and check the weather forecasts before leaving. From June through September, the temperatures can reach 115 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, and heat exhaustion and dehydration can be dangerous. During winter, guard against hypothermia.
The wilderness landscape is home to numerous insects and reptiles whose sting or bite can ruin your day. Don't put feet or hands where you cannot see. The terrain is rugged, and route-finding can be challenging as there are no established trails. Watch your footing and use a map or a GPS device. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Whenever you visit Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, respect wildlife and leave as minimal evidence of your visit as possible. If you start a campfire, keep it contained and put it out before you leave. Be respectful to fellow campers and keep noise to a minimum. Don't take any rocks, animals, or plants with you when leaving.
If you're planning to access Muggins Mountain Wilderness through Muggins Wash, use Exit 20 from I-8 in Dome Valley. Use Highway 80 and drive through Ligurta to Dome Valley Road before heading north to Avenue 20E. Turn east and take County 7th Street and go past the Dome Valley Transfer Station until you get to the Muggins Wash non-wilderness corridor. This corridor outspreads into the center of Muggins Mountain Wilderness, close to the southern base of Muggins Peak. However, it becomes rugged and rocky as you approach the peak and can only be accessed using a four-wheel-drive vehicle. So, it's best to leave your RVs and trailers near the information kiosk before heading to the wash.
Ready to visit Mount Nutt Wilderness? 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, 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.
