The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Rug Road is a 20-mile trail in Arizona that runs between Turkey Creek and Mammoth. This trail offers amazing views of Table Mountain and requires an off-roading vehicle that can handle a rough journey. Rug Road got its name decades ago when local travelers would fill holes and cover ledges with pieces of carpet to make the terrain easier to pass. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) protects and maintains this trail by enforcing responsible camping and exploration habits. Visitors can hike, camp, view the local wildlife and tour the region on ATVs. Hunting is also allowed if you have an up-to-date Arizona hunting license.
Don't forget to visit the nearby Saguaro National Park about 62 miles away. The Petrified Forest National Park is 215 miles north. Tucson, Arizona, is the largest city in the area and offers many recreational opportunities. Stock up your RV by stopping in smaller communities like Mammoth, San Manuel or Oracle.
Take your motorbike or four-wheeler out on this casual trail near Willow Canyon. The first few miles are tough, but the rest of the hike is peaceful and exciting.
Length: 24.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
This trail is perfect for those who want to encounter a lot of animals while exploring the land. You may run into a few people during the hunting season. Otherwise, this trail is usually quiet and peaceful.
Length: 2.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Strap on your hiking shoes and spend an afternoon making your way up Kennedy Peak. This trail provides exceptional views of the surrounding mountain ranges and lush valleys. Download a trail map before you leave as it can be hard to find the trail markers.
Length: 9.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Both Catalina State Park and Oracle State Park offer excellent nearby climbing options. You could also try climbing Mount Lemmon, Thimble Peak or the Ventana Canyon. Arizona summers can be sweltering so be sure to bring enough water and avoid climbing alone.
Arizona has one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. Porcupines, rattlesnakes, tree frogs, badgers and prairie dogs are all common finds in the area. You might even see collared peccaries, mule deer or kangaroo rats. Always be aware of your surroundings while exploring and keep an eye out for black bears, gray wolves and mountain lions.
You may have a hard time finding picnic areas outside of local campgrounds. However, you can still picnic out on the trails or near your RV. Take your breaks near already established fire pits and camping areas to minimize your impact on the land around you. Picnicking out in the wild is the best way to enjoy the Arizona wilderness.
Arizona is known for its wide-open deserts and tumultuous terrain. The best way to efficiently explore the state is with an off-roading vehicle. Many local trails are made specifically for ATVs and are likely too difficult to pass on foot. Explore as much of the state as you can by bringing along a vehicle that can handle all the bumps and potholes.
Staying at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds is the best way to get special access to local points of interest. Brandenburg Campground and Fourmile Campground are a short distance away from Rug Road and charge a small admission fee. When you search for "BLM camping near me," it's important to remember that many BLM campgrounds will have limited amenities. You'll likely have access to vault toilets, picnic tables and fire pits but not showers or electricity.
If you're looking for a more modern RV camping experience, you should check out other sites like Wishing Well RV Park. This campground offers laundry facilities, a community center and even seasonal events. Those interested in excellent hiking trails and explorable caves should stay at Peppersauce Campground. Spencer Canyon Campground and Catalina State Park Campground are two more excellent camping options that can accommodate both tents and RVs.
Dispersed camping is a popular option on BLM lands in Arizona. After a long day of hiking or ATVing, feel free to set up your tent under the stars. You can also park your RV on the side of a compatible highway. Bureau of Land Management free camping spots are limited so it's best to have a backup plan in case your desired spot is occupied. Campers can stay on BLM lands for up to 14 days at a time but this timeframe can vary depending on the specific site.
Rug Road is a rough trail meant only for sturdy off-roading vehicles with high clearance. It's best to plan to spend at least two days in the area so you can rest and recuperate. Bring plenty of extra water and food with you. You should also have a toolkit and spare tires in case of an emergency. Sunscreen, tough shoes and bug spray will keep you protected from the harsh Arizona elements.
Traveling in a group is the safest way to explore BLM lands. Rug Road crosses through several private and federal lands so be respectful of your surroundings as well as other campers. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
All BLM visitors are expected to clean up after themselves. Remove all trash and debris you bring into the area. Use existing campsites and fire pits to minimize your impact on the local wildlife and land. Gather dead wood already on the ground for your fires. You should also bury any human waste at least eight inches down and 200 feet away from any trail, water source or road. By always camping responsibly, you help to preserve the Arizona landscape for future travelers.
Starting at the east end of the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness, travel two miles up Turkey Creek. After Turkey Creek meets Oak Grove Canyon, you'll find Rug Road. The west end of Rug Road starts near Mammoth across the San Pedro River.
Address: 711 14th Avenue, Safford, AZ 85546-3321
Ready to visit Rug Road? 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.
