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BLM Camping

Sonoran Desert National Monument

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

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Sonoran Desert National Monument

The Sonoran Desert National Monument is a BLM site 60 miles south of Phoenix, Arizona, and about an hour and 15 minutes from Saguaro National Park. The monument is home to an enthralling saguaro cactus forest and many other native desert plants. Visitors can explore three mountain ranges, two hill areas, three wilderness areas, and several historic or archeological sites.

BLM sites are areas of public land that have been set aside so visitors can enjoy unique experiences with nature. Many of these sites, including the Sonoran Desert National Monument, welcome camping. To find other BLM sites with camping options, search for "BLM camping near me."

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Margie's Cove Trail

This trail in the monument is a prime path for spotting wildlife or viewing some of the area's rare plant species.

Length: 7.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Big Horn OHV Trail

Although this trail was designed for OHVs or all-terrain vehicles, it is also a fantastic option for horseback riding.

Length: 33.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Butterfield Pass

This beautiful trail is ideal for hiking or mountain biking, and anyone adventuring along the trail can also set up a dispersed campsite wherever they like.

Length: 14 miles

Intensity: Easy

Rainbow Valley South Loop Trail

This beautiful trail offers spectacular views of the Sonoran Desert and is usually quiet.

Length: 5.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Quartz Peak Trail

Located in the nearby Sierra Estrella Wilderness, this trail offers a strenuous hike and plenty of exercise for more experienced hikers.

Length: 5.6 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Wildlife Viewing

The Sonoran Desert National Monument is an ideal place to view wildlife. Woodpeckers and owls nest in the trunks of saguaro cactuses, and visitors can often spot coyotes and jackrabbits. This BLM site is home to many desert snakes, including rattlesnakes, bull snakes, and king snakes. You might also spot roadrunners, quail, cactus wrens, and a variety of lizards.

Picnicking

The Table Top Roadside Picnic Area is a perfect stop for lunch. The area offers beautiful views, and there are several tables, including one that is wheelchair accessible. Burleson Park in Gila Bend is also a great picnicking location with several grassy areas, picnic tables, and picnic pavilions.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of the most popular activities within the Sonoran Desert National Monument. There are four designated trails that span about 26 miles, but you can ride almost anywhere you like as long as you are careful not to disturb the native landscape.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is available at the Painted Rock Petroglyph Campground. The campground costs only $8 per night and has 59 campsites. Picnic areas, grills, and restrooms are available. Another excellent option for RV camping near the Sonoran Desert National Monument is Sonoran Desert RV Park in Gila Bend. The park has comforts like restrooms, showers, a heated pool, and full hookups. Pets are welcome. For a cozier camping experience, Sonoran Skies Campground in Ajo offers sites with either full or partial hookups. The park also features a dump station, restrooms, and Wi-Fi.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available right in the Sonoran Desert National Monument. Campers can set up a dispersed site almost anywhere. Just check to make sure the area isn't blocked off for camping before setting up. There are also two developed campgrounds, called the Table Top and Margie's Cove West campgrounds, inside the monument. These campgrounds offer some amenities, including toilets.

RV Rentals Near Sonoran Desert National Monument Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Sonoran Desert National Monument BLM trip

Interstate 8 and State Route 238 both cross through the Sonoran Desert National Monument and provide access to various areas you might want to visit. Once inside the monument, aside from these two main roads, most routes are primitive. Even the main roads can be easily damaged during bad weather. You may need an all-terrain or four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate, so it's important to always check the status of roads before heading out. Motorized vehicles and bikes are permitted in certain areas within the monument.

The Sonoran Desert National Monument is quite remote, and cell phone reception can be spotty. The weather can be scorching and unpredictable, especially during the summer months. Sudden "monsoon" thunderstorms can cause flash floods. If you're planning to visit the monument, always pack emergency supplies and plenty of water. Let someone know where you're going and when you plan to return.

Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Protection of the landscape is critical in any area, but Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and natural areas in desert environments are particularly vulnerable and need extra care. Remember always to practice fire safety. Only start a fire when necessary, and always use a designated fire pit or ring. Cover any coals with sand and ensure they're cool before leaving the area. When hiking or horseback riding, stay on trails and strive to limit any damage to plants. Always observe animals from a distance. Startled animals can be dangerous, so watching them from afar can help to keep both them and you safe.

Sonoran Desert National Monument Location

From Phoenix, take the I-10 west for about 32 miles. You can access the monument via the I-8 by taking exit 144 for the Vekol interchange or exit 140 for the Freeman interchange. You can also use Route 238 and Maricopa Road to access the area at the North Maricopa Mountains.

Ready to visit the Sonoran Desert 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.