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 is responsible for managing public lands in the country, including 15 million acres in California. You are welcome to hike, boat, and camp in these rangelands, forests, and deserts. Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds charge a small fee, and there are often amenities like bathrooms, potable water, and picnic tables. Alternatively, it is free to camp in BLM dispersed camping areas, and they usually have parking areas to set up your RV for camping but lack amenities. The agency asks that you use existing fire rings and camping spots if they are available to mitigate your impact on the local habitat. In addition, when camping outside of developed campgrounds in the Golden State, you must get a California Campfire Permit to have a campfire. There is no charge for the permit, and you can obtain one online. Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area is in southern California and 12 miles away from Yuma, Arizona. The area in and around Pilot Knob is rich in geographical and human history. There is a historical marker to commemorate where troops trained for desert fighting during World War II under the leadership of General Patton in Pilot Knob. Close by in the town of Felicity is the Center of the World, which has a 21-foot-tall pyramid, stairs from the Eiffel Tower, and over 500 granite panels inscribed with world history. The area is also popular for boating, hiking, and OHV riding. If you are on your way to Joshua Tree National Park, it is located about a two and a half hour's drive to the northwest.
This hike is near Yuma in the West Wetlands Park. It follows the Colorado River, and cottonwood trees shade you as you traverse the route. If you are looking for a leisurely stroll, there are several benches to rest and watch the water. Alternatively, the trail is also popular for mountain biking. Length: 2 miles Intensity: Easy
This challenging trail is 16 miles west of Pilot Knob. It takes you along ridgelines overlooking the desert landscape below and Yuma in the distance. Be prepared for some rock scrambling, and bring plenty of water if you choose to take on this hike. Length: 5.7 miles Intensity: Difficult
Even though the area is a desert, fishing and boating opportunities are nearby on the famous Colorado River. Anglers can catch trout, bass, and bluegill. Senator Wash Boat Ramp Day Use Area, 30 miles north of Pilot Knob, is a popular place to launch kyacks and canoes to paddle in the calm waters of the Senator Wash Reservoir.
The wildlife in and around Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area is varied and plentiful, and you will see elk, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and javelina passing through. Small animals include chuckwallas, spotted lizards, and diamondback rattlesnakes. If you visit the Colorado River, you will also see cranes, egrets, grebes, and many other species of birds.
The are several excellent picnic grounds in Yuma. Joe Henry Memorial Park has a large playground, picnic tables, restrooms, and trees for shade.
The Imperial Sand Dunes BLM area is less than nine miles east of Pilot Knob and open for OHV use. It has a 40-mile trail system in an area with dunes to enjoy a ride and play in the sand.
BLM RV Camping is available at Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area. There are no amenities, and the RV sites are genuinely primitive. There is a dump station nearby at a local gas station, and potable water is available at nearby rest stops along the highway from El Centro, California, to Yuma, Arizona. If you are looking for full hookups and other amenities, several campgrounds near Yuma are excellent options.
All camping at Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area is Bureau of Land Management free camping. If you are looking for more options once in the area, you can search "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet to locate them.
During the summer, temperatures can easily exceed 100 degrees at Pilot Knob, so many people plan their trip here for a different part of the year. You will need to bring along plenty of water whenever you visit because none is available at the site. You should plan a gallon of water per day for each group member for arid environments like the one at this BLM site. In addition, have a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. The area in and around Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area is a great place to enjoy this region of California's rugged landscapes and wildlife. BLM sites in the state also offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy your vacation. Planning for a trip to remote locations like Pilot Knob can be daunting. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
By following the "Leave No Trace" principles, you can reduce your impact on the environment and ensure that your camping site is ready for the next RVer to enjoy. Before leaving your camping spot, make sure you clean up and dispose of all trash and food scraps properly. When exploring, use designated trails, maintain your distance from wildlife, and leave behind plants, rocks, and other natural materials you find.
From Yuma, Arizona drive west on Interstate 8 for 7.7 miles to Exit 164. Then take Sidewinder Road for nine miles south to Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor Area. GPS Coordinates: 32.74273889, -114.7554806 Ready to visit Pilot Knob Long Term Visitor 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 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.
