White Canyon Wilderness

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

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White Canyon Wilderness

Congress appointed the Bureau of Land Management to manage public lands, which cover over 245 million acres and provide a variety of uses, including recreation. Bureau of Land Management camping is allowed on BLM lands in Arizona for up to 14 days within a period of 28 consecutive days. White Canyon Wilderness is a BLM property that covers 5,790 acres of rugged terrain and deep canyons. The orange and red walls of the beautiful canyons reach up to 800 feet in height. White Canyon Wilderness provides you with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing as well as dispersed camping. If you're looking for camping area and more activities, head to nearby Lost Dutchman State Park. Plus, you’ll find Saguaro National Park only 92 miles away.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

White Canyon Trail

This dog-friendly trail is open all year. You’ll follow a stream while surrounded by beautiful scenery. A waterfall and swimming hole adds to the fun of your visit. Length: 3.3 miles Intensity: Moderate

Battle Axe Road to White Canyon Wilderness

This trail has lovely scenery, but the terrain is a little rough. Flowing water adds to the beauty of this area. Length: 9.1 miles Intensity: Moderate

Reymert Mine Trail

This trail is a rocky dirt road with a low elevation gain. There’s a historic mine at the end with old structures to explore. Length: 4.5 miles Intensity: Moderate

Picket Post Trail

This is a challenging but fun journey to the top of a desert summit. The peaceful trail is surrounded by saguaro cactus. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Superstition Mountains and Weavers Needle. Leave a note for other hikers in the mailbox at the top. Length: 5.2 miles Intensity: Difficult

Fishing and Boating

While there are no fishing spots in White Canyon Wilderness, the Arizona Fish and Game Community Fishing Pond is nearby. Here, you’ll enjoy catch-and-release trout fishing, in addition to fishing for catfish, sunfish, and carp. The pond is located in a beautiful setting with walking trails. Swimming and wading are allowed.

Climbing

There are several climbing opportunities within White Canyon Wilderness. You’ll find a variety of cliffs and canyons that are suitable for climbing, but you’ll need to bring your own equipment. There are no rental shops close by.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife such as bighorn sheep, black-tailed jackrabbits, and Gila monsters can be seen throughout White Canyon Wilderness, as well as tarantulas and scorpions. Bird-watching is a popular sport here, and you’ll often find black bears, mule deer, and mountain lions coming down to the stream from the forested areas on the northern edge of this location.

Picnicking

There are no designated picnic areas with tables in White Canyon Wilderness. However, you will find many lovely spots where you can enjoy a primitive picnic on the ground while surrounded by nature. Be sure to pack a blanket to sit on.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

When searching for BLM camping near me, you’ll find that RV camping is available at the Lost Dutchman State Park Campground less than 44 miles to the northwest. There are 138 sites, each of which includes its own fire pit, picnic table, and grill. Among these sites, 68 have water and electric hookups. A $5 nonrefundable fee is required to make a reservation. A free dump station is half a mile from the check-in station for all registered guests.

Free Camping

Technically, there is no Bureau of Land Management free camping in White Canyon Wilderness. However, you will discover dispersed camping at Pioneer Pass Campground less than an hour's drive to the north in the Tonto National Forest. The 23 primitive sites are first come, first served. Each one has a grill, picnic table, and fire pit. There are vault toilets, but no water or trash containers are available.

RV Rentals Near White Canyon Wilderness Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your White Canyon Wilderness BLM trip

White Canyon Wilderness experiences a temperate desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. You can expect highs up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in July and lows in the 40s in January. The area is known for its sunny days that are ideal for exploring the beautiful surroundings. When packing, include layers of lightweight clothing that protect you from the sun. You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots with substantial tread. The rocky terrain of the canyon is stunning, but it can make for some unsure footing. Bring along a backpack to carry snacks and water, which are must-haves for this climate while hiking and climbing. You’ll want your camera too, as the scenery is breathtaking. Cooking options are limited to your RV kitchen and your campsite’s fire ring and grill. Buy your food supplies before you arrive. The nearest grocery stores are a 15-minute drive away, in Superior, AZ. You are allowed to picnic along the area trails, but make sure to clean up after yourself. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

White Canyon Wilderness and area Bureau of Land Management campgrounds enforce the "Leave No Trace" principles, which require you to leave the area as you found it. Gather all your trash and waste and take them with you to dispose of properly. You want to keep these BLM lands beautiful for future enjoyment. Don't damage the natural environment by digging trenches or disfiguring the trees’ bark, and respect the wildlife by observing it from a safe distance. Most importantly, be considerate of other visitors.

White Canyon Wilderness Location

Located in Pinal County, the wilderness lies about 7 miles south of Superior, AZ as the crow flies. From Superior, head south on North Magma Avenue toward Main Street. Travel 9.6 miles before turning right on East Cliffside Road. Look for White Canyon Wilderness in another half-mile. Address: Tucson Field Office, 3201 East Universal Way, Tucson, AZ 85756 Ready to visit White Canyon 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.