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 a federal government agency that watches over public areas all over the United States. With oversight of more than 247 million acres, the BLM protects wilderness areas, campgrounds, nature trails, landmarks, and various other natural sites. BLM camping, which is the practice of staying overnight within BLM-administered areas, has become a popular activity for camping enthusiasts and those who love exploring nature. If you think you'd enjoy seeing some of these sites in person, search online for "BLM camping near me," and start planning a trip to one of your region's BLM locations today.
One unique BLM site is the Nopah Range Wilderness, which is a vast area in southern California spanning 106,620 acres. Situated around the Nopah Mountains, the area features a rocky desert landscape with varying elevations and many amazing geological formations. Visitors to the site can partake in primitive camping, hiking, climbing, and other activities. Plus, they can head northwest to the nearby Death Valley National Park, which is one of the most incredible natural areas on the planet.
This out-and-back trail lies in the Mojave National Preserve, which is located south of the Nopah Range Wilderness. The route is known for providing visitors with the chance to see the incredible Kelso Dunes, which are over 600 feet tall and feature breathtaking sandy slopes. The trail is also known as a superb place to watch the sunset, and the best times to visit are between October and May.
Length: 2.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in Death Valley National Park, this out-and-back trail is one of the more popular hiking spots in the area. The trail itself is relatively short, but the real jewel is the fantastic scenic viewpoint that sits 5,000 feet above the amazing Death Valley. If you want a real treat, make the trip for either sunrise or sunset. Even after the sun goes down, the trail's views are magnificent. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this hike.
Length: 1.0 miles
Intensity: Easy
There are very few bodies of water near the Nopah Range Wilderness. The region is very arid, so you'll have to travel a bit from the site if you want to do any real fishing or boating. One option is to head southeast into Nevada and make your way to Lake Mohave, where you can cast your fishing line for largemouth bass, striped bass, and rainbow trout. You can also enjoy motorized or non-motorized boating on the reservoir or take a kayak, canoe, or raft out on the nearby Colorado River.
While camping in or hiking through the Nopah Range Wilderness, you might catch a glimpse of a golden eagle, desert tortoise, bighorn sheep, or wild horse. You might also spot a variety of other unique birds, amphibians, and insects around the site. If you head northwest toward the Death Valley area, some of the other species you could encounter include coyotes, roadrunners, mountain lions, and jackrabbits.
The Nopah Range Wilderness likely doesn't feature any picnic tables or established picnic areas. However, if you enjoy looking at impressive views while you eat, it's absolutely worth bringing some sort of picnic surface with you.
Sadly, BLM RV camping is technically not permitted within the Nopah Range Wilderness. Because the site is designated as a wilderness area, you aren't permitted to operate any motorized equipment there, and that includes RVs and other vehicles. You can either stake out your own primitive RV campsite outside the wilderness area or travel to one of the closest RV parks. A couple of the nearest quality options for modern RV camping are the Tecopa Palms RV Park and Tecopa Hot Springs Campground & Pools.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is the only camping option within the Nopah Range Wilderness. The site doesn't boast any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, so if you want to stay overnight in the area, you'll need to set up a dispersed campsite. The terrain is fairly unforgiving, so you will probably be roughing it if you choose to camp in the area. If you're okay with that, though, it could be a peaceful, memorable experience.
If you're planning a trip to the Nopah Range Wilderness, you should be careful about visiting during the summer months. This region of California is prone to incredibly hot weather, with temperatures sometimes reaching well into the triple digits. Even during spring and fall, you'll want to come equipped with sun protection, and you might need lots of extra drinking water. There's not all that much shade around the site, so be prepared to be out in the sun a lot.
The Nopah Range Wilderness is a remote area, but there are several communities within a reasonable distance of the site. If you need to make a run for food, water, or any other supplies, the best option is probably to head southwest into Tecopa, CA. There have sometimes been rattlesnakes and scorpions spotted around the wilderness area, so make sure that you're staying attentive while walking at the site. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While you're visiting the Nopah Range Wilderness, please try to minimize your impact on the land and follow the Leave No Trace guidelines. If you find anything unique or interesting during your exploration of the land, please leave it just as you found it and refrain from disturbing the local ecosystem.
To reach the Nopah Range Wilderness from Shoshone, CA, head east on CA-178 (Charles Brown Hwy) until you come to Chicago Valley Road. Turn right, then stay right to stay on Chicago Valley Road. This road will take you to the outskirts of the BLM wilderness area. There are quite a few other routes that will take you to the outer edges of the site.
Ready to visit Nopah Range Wilderness? 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.
