The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Several hundred of the country's most scenic and serene natural areas are watched over by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These public sites are very diverse, featuring campgrounds, day-use areas, wilderness areas, hiking trails, and unique landmarks. Many sites administered by the BLM are known for being excellent camping destinations, which has led to BLM camping becoming a very popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts. If you'd like, you can try out BLM camping for yourself, and the easiest way to get started is by looking up "BLM camping near me" online. That will give you some insight as to the most interesting BLM locations near your home.
If you find yourself in southern California, one BLM site you can check out is the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail. The remote trail is located on Mopah Peak in the Turtle Mountains, and it's often visited by adventurous hikers and climbers. Many who visit the area also take the time to visit nearby attractions like Joshua Tree National Park and Lake Havasu.
The BLM site itself is the most popular hiking trail in the area. The trail will take you to the summit of Mopah Peak, where you'll be able to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the region. The climb is considered one of the area's most difficult hikes, so it should only be attempted by skilled and experienced climbers.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Hard
This scenic loop trail is located in Cattail Cove State Park and takes hikers along the picturesque Lake Havasu. There's also plenty of beautiful desert scenery to enjoy along the route, and most visitors get to experience solitude. The ideal times to visit the area are between September and April.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located near Lake Havasu City, AZ, this out-and-back trail is known for its breathtaking views of the nearby lake. The route is very well-maintained and features the well-known London Bridge near the end of the trail. The trail is also very flat, and the vast majority of hikers should be able to navigate it with no issues.
Length: 4.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
If you're looking to enjoy water-based activities, you'll probably want to travel east of the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail and visit either Lake Havasu or the Colorado River. The river is a great destination for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting as well as fishing for large and smallmouth bass, walleye, striped bass, and black crappie. You can also take your motorized or non-motorized boat out on Lake Havasu or partake in a variety of watersports. If you decide to cast your fishing line in the large reservoir, you may catch striped bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, large and smallmouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, and crappie.
While you're exploring the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail, it's definitely worth being on the lookout for wildlife. The area is home to a wide variety of interesting species, including coyotes, bighorn sheep, black-tailed jackrabbits, squirrels, kangaroo rats, roadrunners, golden eagles, prairie falcons, quail, rattlesnakes, and a variety of lizards and other snakes.
You won't find any picnic tables or shelters along the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail. The trail is located in a remote wilderness area, so you'll need to bring along your own portable surface or picnic blanket. The terrain is pretty rough along the hike, so your best option may be to have your picnic either at the trailhead or after you've reached the summit. If you decide to eat at the summit, you'll certainly have tremendous views to enjoy during your meal!
Unfortunately, BLM RV camping isn't a feasible option at the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail. Because the BLM site is located within an area designated as wilderness, the use of motorized equipment is not permitted. Since you won't find any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds that offer RV camping in the area, you could instead travel a few miles to one of the nearest RV parks. A couple of nice, modern RV parks located southeast of the BLM site are the Rio Del Sol RV Haven and the Big River RV Park.
As long as you adhere to the federal wilderness regulations, you're welcome to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping at the site. However, you won't be able to camp on the actual trail, so you'll need to search the surrounding area for a good spot. Since the site is located on a mountain, it may not be easy, but you could potentially find a nice place for your dispersed campsite.
When you're planning a trip to the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail, make sure you're fully prepared for the challenges of the area. In addition to being a very difficult climb, the trail is located in a very remote area. You should not attempt to make the trek unless you have the physical ability needed.
You would also be wise to come equipped with lots of drinking water as well as food that doesn't need any significant preparation. Since you likely won't have any cellphone reception from the site, you should also let someone close to you know exactly where you'll be before you leave on the trip. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
During your time at the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail, it's imperative that you follow the Leave No Trace guidelines for minimizing your impact on the land. If you come across any wildlife in the area, keep in mind that you're an intruder in their home. Refrain from approaching any wild animals or getting unnecessarily close to them.
To reach the Mopah Peak Hiking Trail from Needles, CA, travel south on U.S. Highway 95 for roughly 35 miles. When you come to BLM Route NS634-Mopah Trail, take a right, and then, follow it for about four miles. There will be a small parking area located at the wilderness boundary, and you'll also find an information panel there for the trail.
Address: BLM Needles Field Office, Needles, CA 92363
Ready to visit Mopah Peak Hiking Trail? 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.
