The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) not only preserves nature and the environment for the American public’s recreational use; it also protects historically significant areas for research and public viewing.
One such location is Painted Rock Petroglyph Campground southwest of Phoenix, Arizona. Ancient rock carvings created by Native American tribes hundreds of years ago are the site's focus. A portion of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail also passes through the site. There are several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the region. This BLM site provides camping facilities and day-use attractions within an extensive example of Sonoran Desert vegetation and topography.
This trail is the primary historical attraction of the site. The self-guided tour leads hikers through an interesting jumble of giant granite and basalt boulders. Interpretive plaques point out and describe petroglyphs and other historical features. There is a $2 per vehicle fee at the park entrance.
Length: 0.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Located 45 miles northeast of the Painted Rock Petroglyph site, the trail is a combination of two-track trails and desert washes. This out and back trail follows long ridges and passes through extensive stands of saguaro cacti and other Sonoran vegetation. The trail is generally unmarked, so it is recommended for experienced hikers.
Length: 9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing the Lower Colorado River is possible at Betty's Kitchen Wildlife BLM Area. About 100 miles west of Painted Rocks Petroglyph Area, Betty's Kitchen provides a pier for recreational fishing. Bluegill, catfish, and even a few bass call the river home. The site also has hiking, picnicking, and camping areas. There is a $10 Day Use fee at the site.
The Sonoran Desert surrounding the Paint Rock Petroglyph area is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The section of the desert is home to mule deer, kit fox, Gambel's quail, chuckwalla lizards, and other reptiles. Another feature of the area is a spectacular display of desert vegetation. Saguaro, barrel, and several cholla cacti populate the park, as do ironwood and palo verde trees.
The Painted Rock day use area has complete picnicking facilities. There are several tables under two canopies. There are vault toilets, charcoal grills, and trash facilities. There is no water or electricity at the picnic area. There is a $2 day use fee. There is no additional fee if you are staying at the campground.
There are RV Camping facilities at Painted Rock Petroglyph Campground.
The site features 59 individual campsites and two large group sites. The campsite is attached to the picnic area. There are no water, electrical, or dump facilities. The campground is gravel and compacted dirt. Tent camping and RV camping are welcome. There is an $8 overnight fee.
Palms Mobile Home and RV Park:
The nearest full-service RV park, Palms Mobile and RV Park provides full hookups and dump services. Located in Gila Bend, the facility is a 30-minute drive from the Painted Rocks Petroglyph Campground. Shopping, restaurants, and hotels are all nearby. The park is also a 30-minute drive from Phoenix.
Margie’s Cove Campground:
Located on Hwy 85, this Bureau of Land Management free camping site is 45 miles northeast of the Painted Rock Petroglyph Campground. The site provides primitive camping sites for small RVs or tent camping. Three campsites, fire rings, picnic tables, and a vault toilet are available. The road is suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather. To find other campsites, you can do an Internet search for "BLM camping near me" when you are in the area.
The Painted Rocks Petroglyph Area is part of the Sonoran Desert. The temperature in the area is often over 100 degrees. Even in cooler months, the dry climate demands that you consume plenty of water. Be sure you have plenty of drinking water when visiting the region. Have appropriate clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunblock to protect you from the sun.
In late summer, monsoon storms often occur in the afternoon. The storms can bring over an inch of rain in less than an hour. Flash floods are common. Keep track of the weather, and be alert for ominous clouds. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for information about BLM camping. In bad weather, ordinarily passable roads may become flooded. Check with the local BLM District Office before heading into unknown territory.
The petroglyphs at Painted Rock Petroglyph Recreation Area were created by Native Americans several hundred years ago. Only our care and respect will help maintain them for the future. Follow BLM Outdoor Ethics guidelines when visiting historical sites. Do not leave the trail or climb on rock formations that are not intended for climbing. Ensure trash goes into appropriate containers or is packed out when you leave. Leave the park as you found it.
From Gila Bend, take Interstate 8 west for 12.5 miles. Turn right at Exit 102. Travel north on Painted Rocks Dam Road for 10.7 miles. Turn left at Rocky Point Road and travel west 0.6 miles to the campsite.
From Yuma, take Interstate 8 east for 100 miles. Turn left at Exit 102. Travel north on Painted Rocks Dam Road for 10.7 miles.
Turn left at Rocky Point Road. The campsite is 0.6 miles to the west.
Address: 46101 Rocky Point Rd, Gila Bend, AZ 85337
Ready to visit Painted Rocks Petroglyph Campground? 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.
