The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is an agency responsible for protecting and maintaining hundreds of diverse natural areas throughout the United States. Each of its sites offers something unique to visitors in terms of its scenery, landmarks, attractions, and recreational activities. One thing that many of the 800+ BLM sites have in common is the presence of a well-kept camping area. Because the opportunities you will find if you search "BLM camping near me" are so abundant, the practice of camping outdoors at BLM sites has become a very popular activity.
The Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor Center lies in Central California, roughly 20 miles south of busy Sacramento, CA. The unique BLM site is the focal point of the Cosumnes River Preserve and features a 400-square-foot deck as well as a variety of fascinating interpretive exhibits. If you visit the preserve and visitor center, you'll find opportunities for many different outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
The most popular trail near the BLM site is the Cosumnes River Walk Trail. The gorgeous loop trail is well-maintained and a great destination for hiking, trail running, and bird-watching. The trail isn't very difficult to traverse; for most people, it will essentially be a leisurely walk along the beautiful river. The very popular trail is open all year.
Length: 3.2 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Wetlands Walk is another trail found at the Cosumnes River Preserve with scenic views and a serene atmosphere. There are a couple of options for how you can hike this scenic trail. You can either take it to River Walk Loop or the Boardwalk Loop. The former is a bit muddy and closer to a true hike, while the latter is a kid-friendly walk along a wooden boardwalk. Either way, you'll enjoy great views of the river and surrounding preserve, and both options should be suitable for hikers of all skill and fitness levels.
Length 1.7-1.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
Boating is a popular activity along the beautiful Cosumnes River. The BLM site features a dock that you can launch your boat from, and the river is known for its excellent flat waters. Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting are all fantastic options on the river. If you want to fish in the Cosumnes River, you'll have to do so from your boat on the main channel of the river, outside of the preserve. Alternatively, you can do your angling at the nearby Sacramento River to the west, which is inhabited by king salmon, steelhead, large and smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, striped bass, bluegill, catfish, and several other species of fish.
The Cosumnes River Preserve is renowned for its fantastic wildlife observation opportunities. If you're attentive and have some luck while you're visiting, you may get a look at a coyote, gray fox, red fox, bobcat, river otter, western striped skunk, mink, badger, mule deer, or ringtail. It isn't only mammals that inhabit the area, though. There are quite a few fascinating species of reptiles and amphibians as well, like the Pacific tree frog, Gilbert skink, western spadefoot toad, and a variety of turtles, salamanders, lizards, and snakes. If you enjoy bird-watching, you'll want to be on the lookout for the Swainson hawk, sandhill crane, and Canada goose.
At the Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor Center, you'll find ample picnic tables and sheltered areas where you can enjoy a nice lunch. Alternatively, many who visit the site bring along a picnic basket and blanket, then trek down to the banks of the majestic river and eat beside the water. That way, there's a pleasant view to accompany the meal, and they can watch the boaters float past.
Unfortunately, visitors to the Cosumnes River Preserve will not be able to partake in RV camping as the area is day-use only. Since you won't find any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds around the site, you'll have to figure out other arrangements for your overnight accommodations. Campgrounds in the area are sparse, but there are a couple of quality options where you'll have access to RV hookups and certain services. If you head west past the West Side Fwy, you could camp at the New Hope Landing RV Park & Marina.
If you're planning to enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping, you'll need to do so outside of the actual Cosumnes River Preserve. Because the preserve is located so close to the bustling city of Sacramento, it may take some effort to find an appropriate spot for dispersed camping without being on someone's property. You may end up needing to travel south or west to a more remote or open area.
If you're planning a trip to the Cosumnes River Preserve, there are a few rules and some other information that you should know. No dogs or other domestic pets are allowed at the preserve; not only can their presence disrupt the local ecosystem, but it can also put them in danger. You won't find any food, supplies, or first-aid items available on site, so you'll want to bring them with you.
While you're spending time at the site, remember that only the boardwalks, trails, and waterways are open to the public and remain open from sunrise to sunset. Finally, make sure to bring some insect repellant with you to protect you from the many mosquitoes inhabiting the area. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
During your visit to the Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor Center, please adhere to the Leave No Trace guidelines. If you come across anything cool or particularly beautiful on the land, observe it with your eyes only; refrain from altering or taking it. If you encounter any wild animals, remember that you're only a guest in their home and give them plenty of space.
To reach the Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor Center from Sacramento, travel southbound on Interstate 5 until you reach the exit for Twin Cities Road. Take the exit, then head east on Twin Cities Road to Franklin Boulevard and turn south. Continue on Franklin Boulevard past Desmond Road, and after another half-mile or so, you will reach the visitor center on your left.
Ready to visit Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor Center? 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 of 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.
