The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Over 850 natural areas throughout the United States are under the administration of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These diverse public sites are home to unique landmarks, peaceful camping areas, breathtaking landscapes, and fantastic opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many lovers of the outdoors have adopted BLM camping as a way to experience these great locations and explore more of the country. You can start doing the same, and the first step is to search online for "BLM camping near me." Then, you can choose a few BLM sites in your region and start your adventure.
There are many BLM-protected areas in Arizona, and one of them is the Table Top Wilderness. Located just south of Phoenix, AZ, the site comprises 34,400 acres of mountains, canyons, lava flows, flat-top mesas, and gorgeous desert land. Visitors to the wilderness area frequently enjoy camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and other activities. Many also take the opportunity to visit the nearby Saguaro National Park, which is considered by many to be the gem of the Sonoran Desert.
This out-and-back trail is the most popular hiking destination in the Table Top Wilderness. The route requires quite a bit of climbing, so it's not necessarily suitable for beginner hikers. If you successfully navigate the route, you'll reach the summit of Table Top Mountain, which will reward you with exceptional views of the area. In addition to hiking, the trail provides opportunities for bird-watching and off-road driving.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Hard
Located in the gorgeous Saguaro National Park, this popular out-and-back trail features a majestic waterfall and plenty of lovely scenery. If you want to see the waterfall at its best, it's a good idea to visit the trail after it has recently rained. There's a fair bit of elevation gain, but most hikers should be able to manage. Unfortunately, you'll have to leave your dogs at home when visiting this trail.
Length: 5.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
There's not a whole lot of water around the Table Top Wilderness, but fishing enthusiasts will have some nearby options. The most significant body of water in the region is the Gila River, which flows to the northwest of the BLM site and offers opportunities to catch channel catfish, carp, and largemouth bass. The large river is also a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and floating.
Although the route to the top of Table Top Mountain is considered a hiking trail, it can also be viewed as a climb. The summit reaches 4,373 feet, and those who make it enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the desert below. There are also several other popular climbing areas in the greater Phoenix area. One of the best destinations is the McDowell Mountain Range, which offers a variety of sport and traditional climbing routes ranging in difficulty from 5.5 to 5.9 PG13.
The Table Top Wilderness is inhabited by many cool wildlife species. While you're exploring the site, you might catch a glimpse of desert bighorn sheep, javelinas, and coyotes. You might be lucky enough to spot a giant spotted whiptail lizard, an Ajo Mountain whipsnake, or a variety of other reptiles. Bird-watching is a popular activity for visitors as well, and several species of raptors can regularly be seen gliding overhead.
It's unlikely that you'll find any picnic areas or tables around the Table Top Wilderness. But if you're alright with the harsh desert conditions, you can always bring along your own surface to sit on and search for a suitable spot. There are plenty of tremendous views to enjoy in the area, so if you can find a comfortable place, it certainly won't be a boring picnic.
Unfortunately, BLM RV camping is not permitted within the Table Top Wilderness. There are no official Bureau of Land Management campgrounds at the site, and federal regulations prohibit the use of motorized equipment in wilderness areas. However, you're welcome to partake in RV camping as long as it's outside the boundaries of the actual wilderness. If you prefer modern accommodations, there are several nearby RV parks with hookups and amenities. For example, you could camp at Saguaro-One RV Park or Wild West Ranch & RV Resort.
If you don't mind primitive camping in a fairly harsh setting, you can absolutely enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping at the site. It may be difficult to find a secluded spot due to the nature of the landscape, but you're welcome to stake out a dispersed campsite in the area.
When planning a trip to the Table Top Wilderness, you'd be wise to inform family members or friends of where you're headed. It's unlikely that you'll have any cellphone reception at the site, so communicating with loved ones may not be possible. There is no drinking water available in the wilderness area, so you should bring enough for your trip and, if possible, a significant backup supply.
Quite a few dangerous snakes and scorpions are known to inhabit the area, and you would not want to be bitten or stung by something venomous. While walking in the wilderness, you should always watch where you're stepping and putting your hands. You should also be aware that the Sonoran Desert is a relatively common area for illegal activities like drug smuggling and human trafficking. If you see anything suspicious during your visit, it's important that you refrain from intervening and instead contact local law enforcement.
During the summer months, the Table Top Wilderness can sometimes get as hot as 115 degrees. Don't forget to bring plenty of sun protection and stay hydrated when the weather is in or near the triple digits. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
By respecting and following the Leave No Trace guidelines, you can minimize your impact on the land and help preserve it for future generations. Please remember to leave the area just as you found it and avoid removing or disturbing anything you find in nature.
To reach the Table Top Wilderness from Phoenix, head west on I-10 until you reach Exit 12 for Highway 85. Take the exit, and then continue south on Highway 85 for about 32 miles. Take the exit for I-8 heading east, and then stay on I-8 for approximately 25 miles. At that point, you'll reach Exit 144 for Vekol Road, which will take you to the wilderness area.
Ready to visit Table Top Wilderness? 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.
