The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
If you enjoy traveling, camping beneath the stars, and having fun out in the fresh air surrounded by beautiful scenery, then Bureau of Land Management (BLM) camping would be a perfect pastime for you to try. The BLM, a federal government agency, has the task of watching over our country's outdoor federal lands. Among the agency's hundreds of diverse natural sites, you'll find a variety of geographical features, unique attractions, recreational opportunities, and peaceful campgrounds. If you'd like to find your nearest destination, search "BLM camping near me" or check the BLM website to discover the sites in your area.
The Corn Springs Campground is located in the southeastern corner of California, a few miles southeast of Joshua Tree National Park and about 45 miles west of the California-Arizona border. The campground, which is administered by the BLM, lies deep in a canyon of the Chuckwalla Mountains and was once a major occupation site for prehistoric Native American groups. Visitors to the area can find evidence of those prehistoric inhabitants in the form of fascinating petroglyphs at the site. Those who travel to the area can also enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and, of course, camping!
There are numerous scenic trails found within Joshua Tree National Park, and one excellent example is the Mastodon Peak trail. The loop trail takes hikers to the base of the Mastodon Peak summit, and if you don't mind a short scramble, you can climb to the top of the craggy granite peak. Then, you'll pass an old gold mine and plenty of unique desert vegetation. To stay comfortable and avoid extreme heat, you'd be wise to visit the route between October and April.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Another fantastic route to check out in Joshua Tree National Park is the Black Rock Canyon Trail. The relatively challenging out-and-back trail is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Although there isn't too much elevation gain along the trail, the views only get better and better as you progress. If you can, try to plan your hike between September and May.
Length: 3.0 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Corn Springs Campground lies in an arid region of Southern California, so you'll have to travel a bit to find fishing and boating opportunities. If you head east, you'll reach the majestic Colorado River, which separates California from Arizona. If you cast your line in the river's waters, some of the fish species that you might come away with are largemouth bass, rainbow trout, channel catfish, striped bass, black crappie, and walleye. You can also take your canoe or kayak out on the river, but if you're not an experienced paddler, be careful. In some sections of the river, the water can get pretty rough.
Climbing enthusiasts visiting the Corn Springs Campground area will probably want to head northwest to Joshua Tree National Park. There, they'll find a variety of great routes for bouldering and trad climbing. In recent years, the park has become an extremely popular winter climbing destination because of its stunning, surreal landscape, mild temperatures, and grippy rocks.
The area surrounding the Corn Springs Campground is home to lots of cool wildlife species that you may spot during your visit. If you go for a hike near the site, keep your eyes open for American badgers, California black bears, ringtails, mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, western spotted skunks, long-tailed weasels, gray foxes, and desert kit foxes. There are numerous avian species living in the area as well, and you might spot a bald eagle, red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, golden eagle, osprey, great blue heron, or peregrine falcon. However, those are just a handful of the hundreds of birds inhabiting the region's skies.
At the Corn Springs Campground, each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table. You don't need to worry about bringing a blanket, towel, or any portable chairs; as long as you bring the food, you can simply hunker down at one of the tables and enjoy the desert scenery around you.
You're welcome to take part in BLM RV camping at the Corn Springs Campground. There are nine campsites available for $6 per night, and each site is equipped with a picnic table, grill, shade ramada, vault toilet, and potable water. Although there aren't any additional Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near the Corn Springs Campground, you can find other quality camping options if you travel a few miles north. If you'd like more modern overnight accommodations with amenities and hookups, one nearby possibility is the Green Acres Mobile Park. Another good choice is the Lake Tamarisk Desert Resort.
Provided that you remain outside the established Corn Springs Campground, you can enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping anywhere in the surrounding area. There's plenty of open space to set up a dispersed site, but you won't have any access to the drinking water or primitive amenities at the BLM campground.
If you're heading out on a trip to the Corn Springs Campground, remember to check the weather forecast and to prepare accordingly. Usually, the climate is pretty consistent, but the area can reach sweltering, oppressive temperatures during the summer months. While you'll have water available at the campground, make sure to carry at least a gallon with you if you go on a hike or participate in any other outdoor recreation. If you plan on dispersed camping outside of the BLM campground, you should also bring some kind of sun protection, such as your own ramada and plenty of sunscreen. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When visiting the Corn Springs Campground, remember to treat the land the way you'd like your own home to be treated. Be sure to keep any campfires you burn small and contained within the provided pits. There will probably be other campers at the site; be courteous and respectful of their privacy at all times.
To reach the Corn Springs Campground from Desert Center, CA, head east on I-10 for 9.1 miles, and then take exit 201 toward Corn Springs Road. After only 0.2 miles, turn right onto Corn Springs Road, and then follow it for approximately 6.8 miles. You should see the sign for Corn Springs Campground, and it will be a right turn to reach it.
Ready to visit Corn Springs Campground? 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.
