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) promotes the sustainable use and preservation of public lands, encompassing roughly 10% of the nation's total land surface. BLM sites offer various recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Many developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in California are available for public use, charge a small fee, and have some amenities. The South Nopah Range Wilderness Area is in east-central California, 22 miles east of Shoshone. It spans 7,060 acres and has stunning desert and mountain landscapes. The region's scarce vegetation primarily consists of desert scrub and ivory-spined agave plants. There are no designated trails in the wilderness area; however, it offers thrilling backcountry camping and hiking opportunities. Popular destinations nearby include Mojave National Preserve, which is 61 miles to the south, and Death Valley National Park, 64 miles to the northwest. In addition, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is 75 miles to the east in Nevada.
The China Ranch Trail is eight miles west of the road access point to South Nopah Range Wilderness Area. Part of this loop trail follows the Amargosa River and leads you by large craters and canyons. Interpretive signs along the route will inform you about local geography and the river's historical importance to settlers making their way west. This path is an easy-going walk on a mostly gravel path. Length: 3 miles Intensity: Easy
This captivating out-and-back route in the expansive Mojave National Preserve, south of the wilderness area, allows visitors to experience the awe-inspiring dunes firsthand. During this hike, you will gain 600 feet of elevation to reach the summit, which offers panoramic views of endless dunes fading into the distance. Length: 2.9 miles Intensity: Moderate
In Death Valley National Park, Dante's View Trail is an out-and-back route that stands out as a beloved hiking destination in the region. While the trail is short, the true highlight lies in the breathtaking scenic views of the stunning Death Valley landscape. For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on the route during sunrise or sunset as the colors and atmosphere are truly captivating. Length: 1 mile Intensity: Easy
During your camping or hiking adventures in this region of California, be on the lookout for the magnificent golden eagles, wild burros, desert tortoises, wild horses, and bighorn sheep as they are known to roam the area. Additionally, birders may see desert songbirds and prairie falcons. If you venture toward the Death Valley area, you might also come across coyotes, roadrunners, mountain lions, and jackrabbits.
Thirty-three miles southwest of the wildlife preservation, Dumont Dunes OHV Area encompasses 7,620 acres of public land open to off-road vehicle riding. It allows OHV enthusiasts to climb steep sand dunes that descend into deep bowls or ride the open desert. This area is suitable for ATVs, dune buggies, and four-wheel drive vehicles with tires designed for traction in the sand.
BLM RV camping is not allowed within the boundaries of the South Nopah Range Wilderness Area. No motorized vehicles, including RVs, are not permitted. However, several options are nearby, including Red Rock Campground near Redrock Canyon. It is a BLM camping site with vault toilets, picnic tables under shade structures, fire rings, and grills. To the north is Texas Springs Campground in Death Valley National Park, overlooking Furnace Creek. It features 92 campsites, with some that are shaded by trees. This campground offers restrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, drinking water, and an on-site dump station. It also provides easy access to popular hiking spots like Golden Canyon and Zabriskie Point.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available on the eastern outskirts of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Lovell Canyon Campsite and Camp Potosi Park offer dispersed camping near Spring Mountain. If you are looking for other free camping sites during your RV trip, you can search "BLM camping near me" online.
If you're planning a trip to the South Nopah Range Wilderness Area, it's essential to be cautious of the extreme heat in this region. Make sure to pack appropriately for the desert environment by bringing suitable clothing, sunscreen, ample water, and essential navigation tools such as maps, compasses, and GPS devices. Additionally, you are advised to stay vigilant when exploring the area on foot since rattlesnakes are common. BLM camping offers you a low-cost way to set set up a base camp near popular destinations for outdoor activities. However, these sites often do not offer amenities like hookups. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
During your visit to the South Nopah Range Wilderness Area, you are required to abide by the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the land. These principles encourage you to travel and camp on durable surfaces, properly dispose of trash, leave natural vegetation and wildlife undisturbed, and minimize campfire impacts. By following these guidelines, you can do your part to protect and preserve the area's natural wonders.
From Barstow, CA, travel north on I-15 for approximately 63 miles. Next, take exit 246 onto CA-127 North. Continue on CA-127 North for about 61.4 miles until you arrive at the South Nopah Range Wilderness Area. Latitude and longitude: 35.852936, -116.097238 Ready to visit the South Nopah Range Wilderness 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.
