The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is the perfect place for off-road enthusiasts and campers. It is a high desert with sandy, flat terrains, and steep lava rock canyons. Also, many of the trails can prove complicated, even for the most experienced motorcyclist. There are limited designated routes, specifically for vehicles as many roads and trails require motorcycles, 4WDs, or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is one of the many Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas that offers public recreational access for hiking, camping, boating, and more on federal wild lands.
Located roughly 10.9 miles southwest of Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation and 129 miles west of Humboldt State Wildlife Management Area, the area has attractive vistas and canyons that could be great for wildlife viewing or photography. If you plan to bring an RV, there are developed trailheads like the Turn of the Road trailhead and The Mission Wells trailhead.
It is a long trail with exciting things to see like wildflowers and mountain rangers. Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash.
Length: 8.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is a popular hiking trail that gets a lot of traffic. If you have a dog, remember to keep it on a leash while hiking the trail.
Length: 6.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Head to the Pyramid Lake if you wish to fish or to try out the lake for a swim. The lake produced the world-record-holding Lahontan Cutthroat Trout at 41 pounds. It is also the only home to cui-ui fish. Before you swim, fish, or camp on the land around the lake, ensure you get a valid tribal license.
You will likely see wild horses and burros in the area. Also, you might witness antelopes and raptors. If you move to the broad western slopes of the Dry Valley, you will be able to see congregations of antelopes and wintering deer.
Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is massive and best toured using a vehicle. Off-road vehicles are preferred for such trips since the area has sandy and rocky terrains that could be a problem for standard vehicles.
If you want to reach areas that are difficult for vehicles to access or that are too tough for hiking, you could opt for a horse. Horseback riding will allow you to access some of the best sites that provide an overview of the entire valley.
Hunting is allowed in season for individuals with valid permits who follow all required regulations.
BLM RV camping at Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is available. The Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area is wide enough for camping options, whether you prefer camping on higher ground or flat land. There are nearby Bureau of Land Management campgrounds like Fort Sage OHV Area and Chappie-Shasta OHV Area. Fort Sage OHV Area has six campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is 45 miles south of Susanville, California with designated roads and trails for vehicle use. Chappie-Shasta OHV Area has 27 first-come, first-served campsites for tent or RV camping and charges $10 per night for either tent or RV camping. There are no RV hookups, but there are picnic tables, potable water, fire rings, and trash collection.
If you prefer Bureau of Land Management free camping, you can try dispersed camping at the Rice Canyon OHV Area. It is eight miles east of Susanville, California with 120 miles of open land for OHV use. There are no RV hookups, but you will access vault toilets, recycling bins, BBQ grills, and trash receptacles. Use the BLM camping near me online guide to find Bureau of Land Management camping grounds.
As you plan to visit your preferred Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, it’s crucial to research the area before you leave. You might need to understand what type of weather to expect or the accessibility to water and supplies or amenities.
It would also help to check the available cooking options; it's best if you have the right RV cookware. Bring enough water on your trip to the Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area since much of the land is dry. You might need to cover miles before you get fresh water.
If you plan fishing or hunting, get the right equipment for these activities. Remember to avoid contact with wild animals as you go hunting. Don't disrupt the experience of other campers. Most of them are friendly and seek to connect with nature and have some time alone.
BLM camping is an exciting experience for a first-timer or an experienced camper. Also, Bureau of Land Management Camping is more affordable than most campsites. Before leaving for your camping trip, check out our blog for more information about BLM camping.
Bureau of Land Management camping requires that every camper takes responsibility for their camping sites. There aren’t any individuals that will clean after you. In this case, ensure that you pack your trash, and leave the site clean for other campers. Also, you may collect any plastics or cans for recycling. Bury human waste at least 200 feet away from any water bodies.
To reach Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area, use Route 36 while in Susanville, California. The route goes south to the US Highway 395 junction. Make a left turn, and continue on US 395 North. Drive for approximately 15 miles, and you will arrive at Wendel Road. Take a right turn. Keep driving for 21 miles before you reach the state line of Nevada. You should see the Turn of the Road trailhead. The trailhead is north of your location, which should be High Rock Road. Continue for another 12 miles on High Rock Road. Take a left turn onto Sand Pass to get to the Mission Wells Trailhead. Proceed for about a half-mile over the train tracks to Dry Valley Road, and follow the signs to your destination.
Address: Bureau of Land Management Eagle Lake Field Office Susanville, CA, 96130
Ready to visit Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area? 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.
