The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
If you're an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys adventure, you should try Bureau of Land Management (BLM) camping. Throughout the United States, various natural areas are protected by the BLM. At these sites, you'll often find campgrounds, solitude, unique landmarks, wilderness areas, and opportunities for recreational activities. There are over 850 of these sites in the country, and you can find the ones in your region by searching online for "BLM camping near me."
One of the more unique BLM sites is the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, which is located in northern Arizona near the Utah border. The 280,000-acre monument is known for its breathtaking and diverse landscape, including areas like Paria Canyon, the Coyote Buttes, the Paria Plateau, and the Vermilion Cliffs themselves. The cliffs, which are made of Navajo sandstone, are also known for their amazing red and white swirls. Among the stunning cliffs, canyons, and rock formations, visitors will find some of the state's most impressive hiking trails. The BLM area also features two developed campgrounds and is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife species.
This popular out-and-back trail is perhaps the most famous hiking route within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. A permit is required to hike the trail, and you'll need to obtain one through the permit lottery. If you're lucky enough to explore the trail, you'll encounter many breathtaking landmarks, including multi-colored dome formations, the Melody Arch, the Dinosaur Tracks, and The Wave rock formation.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is another scenic hiking trail within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. To reach the loop trail, you'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and off-road vehicle driving is popular in the area as well. The ideal times to visit this route are between October and June, and your dogs can be off-leash in certain areas.
Length: 1.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
This out-and-back trail is located near Marble Canyon within the BLM national monument. Due to its scenic views, the trail is quite popular, and many hikers bring their dogs along. For the most pleasant conditions, you should visit the trail between October and April.
Length: 2.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The mighty Colorado River flows very close to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and offers some excellent fishing opportunities. Some of the species you can catch in the river include striped bass, black crappie, walleye, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. The river is also a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and motorized boating. Another nearby body of water that's great for fishing, boating, and watersports is Lake Powell, which is located northeast of the monument in Southern Utah.
If you're an adventurous rock climber, you'll have plenty to keep you busy around the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Although there aren't many popular climbing routes in the area, the monument is filled with a variety of canyons, cliffs, and unique rock formations. Many of these landscape features provide opportunities for rock climbing, with the difficulty levels varying quite a bit.
Many fascinating wildlife species inhabit the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. While navigating the rugged terrain, you might spot California condors, badgers, ringtails, spotted skunks, mountain lions, pronghorn, rock squirrels, desert bighorn sheep, and many other creatures.
Although there aren't any picnic tables or shelters at the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, you'll find plenty of spots where you can lay out a blanket and enjoy a spectacular view. Alternatively, if you head to the Lake Powell area, you should be able to find picnic tables at the Wahweap Recreation Area or one of the surrounding campgrounds.
There are two Bureau of Land Management campgrounds within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and BLM RV camping is possible for visitors. There are no RV hookups available at either the Stateline Campground or the White House Campground, and all campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you're looking for a modern RV park with electricity and water hookups, you could travel northeast of the monument and stop by The Canyons RV Resort and Cabins or Antelope Point Marina & RV Park.
You're welcome to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, but there are certain restrictions. For one, you must only set up your dispersed campsite in previously disturbed areas. Additionally, a permit is required for any overnight stay within Paria Canyon.
When planning your trip to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, you should know of the danger presented by the rugged terrain. Most roads that access the BLM site should only be navigated in vehicles with four-wheel drive. There are many unmarked roads throughout the area, and there may be occasional hazards. It's prudent to bring along a spare tire as well as extra gasoline and emergency supplies.
When exploring the national monument on foot, be sure to watch your step; the area is inhabited by a variety of snakes, venomous reptiles, and other creatures that you wouldn't want to step on accidentally. You should check the weather forecast before you visit the site as well. Environmental hazards like flash floods, extreme heat, and sandstorms have been known to occur in the area. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While visiting the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, please adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles. If you see any of the local wildlife during your stay, keep a healthy distance and remember that you're the guest in their home. Only hike on established trails, and be sure to pack out everything that you bring into the area.
To reach the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument from Flagstaff, AZ, head north on US Highway 89 and follow it to US Highway 89A at the Bitter Springs turnoff. This will take you to the outskirts of the BLM site.
Ready to visit Vermilion Cliffs 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.
