The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Millions of acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) parkland have been set aside for recreation, livestock grazing, energy development, and other public uses. Many BLM parks are home to Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Many BLM campgrounds charge a small fee, while others are free. In most cases, visitors are welcome to camp for as many as 14 consecutive days at a single BLM campsite.
Horse Thief Camp is an established recreation area within the Kingston Mountain Wilderness in Southern California. The area is situated in San Bernardino County, just a few miles from the Nevada border. Horse Thief Campground is a first-come, first-served camping area with three single campsites and one double campsite. The campground has picnic tables, fire grates, and vault toilets. Water and firewood are not available. Search BLM camping near me to discover even more BLM campgrounds in the area.
This 137.9-mile four-wheel-drive trail connects the Colorado River to the Mojave River. It traverses a barren stretch of volcanic desert that features mountains, canyons, and mesas.
Length: 137.9 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This 3.1-mile out-and-back route is situated in the Dead Mountains Wilderness Area in Needles, California. The scenic peak offers stunning views of the sprawling Mojave Desert.
Length: 3.1 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This 3.29-mile out-and-back trail is situated in Laughlin, Nevada. There is a scenic waterfall situated along the final stretch of the path.
Length: 2.39 miles
Intensity: Easy
This BLM area encompasses over 47,000 acres of desert wilderness in Picture Canyon. It is also home to the nearly 4,000-foot Mount Manchester.
Length: n/a
Intensity: Difficult
Check out the boat launches at Jacks Smith Park and River Road in Needles. Enjoy a leisurely paddle down the Colorado River. Rainbow trout are stocked from winter through spring. The river is also populated by several wild species, including largemouth bass, Spanish, and carp. Popular fishing spots include the Topock Bridge and the Topock Marsh.
Christmas Tree Pass is a popular climbing spot in nearby Laughlin, California. Nearby Newberry Mountain is also home to several remote desert climbs. The hiking trails at Sara Park in Lake Havasu City, Arizona require minimal rock climbing. You'll feel like a real mountain climber as you bypass the tall boulders that streak this desert park's remote hiking trails.
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge is nestled along the Colorado River in the area just north of Lake Havasu City, Nevada. The remote wilderness is home to several unique animals, including wild burros, waterfowl, jackrabbits, and more.
This section of the Mojave Desert boasts dozens of scenic spots where one can rest or picnic. Bring a small picnic to the Horsethief Springs. Visitors can only stay up to 30 minutes at this remote desert watering hole.
Bighorn sheep, coyote, and quail hunting are all permitted in the nearby Mesquite Wilderness. Hunters will need to acquire the appropriate tags and licenses and adhere to California hunting regulations.
Bureau of Land Management Camping is available at multiple locations in and around the Kingston Mountains. Established RV camping is also available at Needles KOA Journey on Route 66 and Calizona RV Park on Mile Road. There are also a large number of riverside RV campsites and a boat launch at Needles Marina Resort.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available as Horse Thief Camp in the Kingston Mountains. The campground has three single campsites and one double campsite. It is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Roadside camping is permitted within the Pahrump Valley Wilderness off Excelsior Mine Road and within the North Mesquite Mountains Wilderness on the western end of Sandy Valley. You'll also find free RV-friendly campsites at the Snaggletooth Primitive RV Camp in the Chemehuevi Mountains near Needles, California. This campground is situated directly off of US Highway 95. Visitors may stay for up to 14 days. The area is fairly populated and noisy due to its proximity to the highway. However, there are several quiet sites located in the rear section of the park.
Horse Thief Camp is located in a remote section of the Mojave Desert in Southern California. The campground does not have firewood or potable water. Therefore, you will need to bring along a sufficient supply if you wish to camp overnight. The camping area is also located a long distance from major shopping areas and civilization. Therefore, you will want to pack a wide range of provisions, including food, fuel, emergency supplies, and more. You'll need to travel to Primm, Nevada or Baker, California for gas, food, or other provisions. As always, let someone know your trip itinerary and return date before you set out.
While the desert is suitable for year-round camping, we highly recommend that you plan your trip for sometime between late fall and early spring. This section of Southern California experiences very hot temperatures during the summer months. Since there is limited water and shade, advanced planning is strongly encouraged. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace while visiting Horse Thief Camp. Find ways to minimize your impact on the environment. Carry out trash and waste products. Use established campsites and fire rings. Observe animals from a distance. Do not disturb cultural artifacts or native species. By doing this, you can help sustain the health and diversity of this land.
Horse Thief Camp is located one hour west of Primm, Nevada. To get there, take Interstate 15 at Cima Road. Travel north for 12 miles. When you come to a fork, bear right onto Excelsior Mine Road. Continue for 14 1/2 miles. The campground will be on your right. An information sign and restrooms can be seen from the road.
Ready to visit Horse Thief Camp? 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.
