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BLM Camping

Paiute Wilderness Area


The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Paiute Wilderness Area is in northwest Arizona near the borders with Nevada and Utah. The wilderness area contains the Virgin Mountains, which are 5,600 feet high, and Mt. Bangs, with an 8,012 feet peak. 

Located 57 miles north of Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument and 46 miles northeast of Gold Butte National Monument, the wilderness area covers about 87,900 acres. There are more than 250 animal species in the area, including mountain lions, desert tortoises, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. It is the best camping ground for anyone seeking solitude or an adventure with friends or family. Zion National Park is also only about 75 miles away.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Grand Canyon via Whitmore Canyon Trail

The Whitmore Canyon Trails takes you through the Grand Canyon area, which has beautiful views from both sides. These are vast horizons visible from every tun. Also, at the end of the pathway, you get to cool off in a beautiful river.

Length: 1.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Mount Trumbull Summit Trail

If you are looking for a challenge, hike the Mount Trumbull Summit Trail. The trail gains 1,528 feet in elevation across rocky outcrops, and your reward will be an incredible view from Mount Trumbull's summit. The Grand Canyon, Pine Valley Mountains, Vermillon Cliffs, and the Kaibab Plateau are all visible. 

Length: 5.1 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

If you want to go on a fishing adventure, you might consider Virgin River, which is 35 miles northwest of the Paiute Wilderness Area. The river is within Zion National Park, where there is a paved trail that takes you around the river. The river has several native fish species, including Virgin River spine dace, speckled dace, desert sucker, and flannel-mouth sucker. Non-native fish species are cutthroat trout, brown trout, channel catfish, brook trout, and rainbow trout. A Utah State fishing license is required for every individual older than 16. A wilderness permit is required to use a watercraft on the Virgin River. There are also swimming holes for those not interested in fishing or boating. A great location is the Pine Creek Waterfall swimming hole.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

There is plenty of wildlife inhabiting this wilderness including the desert tortoise, mule deer, bobcats, skunks, coyote, fox, jackrabbit, and the bighorn sheep. Also, bring a pair of binoculars to watch birds like owls, eagles, and songbirds.

HuntingHunting

The presence of large game like the mule deer and bighorn sheep attracts many hunters to the wilderness. Check the Utah hunting season calendar to know the most appropriate times to hunt. Also, apply for a fishing and hunting permit via the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Rock Climbing

Head to Zion National Park for rock climbing opportunities. The park has wonderful sandstone cliffs that can act as big wall climbs. If you are inexperienced, avoid the rocky routes as they are difficult and could get you exhausted fast. Also, if an area has been dampened by seasonal rain, avoid climbing it.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds considered wilderness areas don't allow any motor vehicle or motorized equipment entry, so consider checking out nearby RV camping areas. The closest is Chief Sleep Easy RV Park. It has spacious tent and RV sites. The available amenities include trash bins, Wi-Fi, showers, electric hookups, toilets, and drinking water. Also, pets are allowed. It will cost you about $30 for a night's stay, and the maximum size for an RV is 37 feet. Virgin River Canyon Campground is 36 miles north of Paiute Wilderness. You will have access to a campground and day-use area for $8 per site per night and a $2 day-use fee per vehicle. There are 74 overnight sites with paved access roads. Amenities include a grill and fire pit, flush toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables.

Free Camping Campground Icon

Check the Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area for Bureau of Land Management free camping grounds. The conservation area is approximately 67 miles northwest of Paiute Wilderness. Beaver Dam State Park allows dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Only vault toilets, tables, and picnic pavilions are available. Drinking water is available between April and November. Baker Reservoir Recreation Area has 16 campsites that accommodate RVs and tents. Picnic tables and toilets are available, but there are no RV hookups. For more insight on public land camping, check the BLM camping near me map and guide.

RV Rentals Near Paiute Wilderness Area Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Paiute Wilderness Area BLM trip

Pack enough water, clothing, and toiletries. Also, confirm your RV cookware is functional. If you plan on dispersed camping, bring extra plastic bags for trash collection.

Check weather updates to get an overview of what to expect during that travel period. Bring enough changing clothes and footwear. Also, don’t forget insect repellents and sunblock. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

Every visitor must keep the BLM camping ground clean during and before they leave their campsite. Collect and pack your trash. If your campsite lacks toilets, bury human waste at least 200 feet away from a water source.

Leave No Trace
Location

Paiute Wilderness Area Location

While in St. George, take Interstate 15 for 10 miles and to exit 27 for Black Rock Road. Proceed for one mile and turn right. Go two miles and take a slight right turn onto BLM 1009 and continue driving for another 13 miles before turning right. Drive three miles and turn left towards BLM 1004. Maintain BLM 1004 for three miles and turn right on a dirt road. Follow the dirt road to reach the Paiute Wilderness Area. 

Ready to visit Paiute Wilderness 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.