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 was established in 1946 and boasts a large and diverse inventory of public land. Because the land is federal, the Bureau of Land Management has a mission of management and stewardship. Bureau of Land Management camping is possible throughout the United States, and you can find BLM sites by searching for "BLM camping near me."
Box Elder is one of the best Bureau of Land Management campgrounds located near Dolores River Canyon, six miles northeast of Dove Creek. This campground has 11 campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and two vault toilets. There are no fees charged at this site. However, it usually gets filled up pretty quickly on holiday weekends due to its small size. Most visitors visit this campground from mid-April to mid-June when there is a "boatable release" of water into the Lower Dolores River from McPhee Reservoir. The towering canyon walls combined with the shade from the trees growing at Box Elder Campground provide an element of relief from the summer heat. In addition, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located 109 miles south of this campground, and Mesa Verde National Park is less than 50 miles away. Box Elder's strategic location makes it an ideal spot for your next camping trip.
The Dolores River Trail is a flat path that begins and ends near McPhee Reservoir and follows the Dolores River. This trail is excellent for fishing, road biking, running, and swimming. The trail is well-maintained, and the site is accessible year-round. It has an elevation gain of 100 feet but is still well-shaded by trees.
Length: 3 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Boggy Draw OHV Loop Trail begins at Forest Road 527-Boggy Draw Road and ends at Boggy Draw OHV. The trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and running. The trail is also dog friendly and has an elevation gain of 1,263 feet.
Length: 18 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing is a popular activity among campers at Box Elder Campground. The Dolores River provides excellent fishing spots in the spring and early summer. The river is home to various fish species, including kokanee salmon, rainbowfish, and brown trout. Box Elder Campground also offers access to canoeing expeditions. This is due to the vast amount of canyons available near the campground. The "boatable release" of water into the Lower Dolores River from McPhee Reservoir is also a phenomenal natural activity that supports boating.
There are several climbing areas near Box Elder for adventurous climbers. The Dolores River Canyon is a popular place for sport climbing and bouldering, depending on the weather. This area has a quality Wingate Sandstone rock established with a variety of routes and climbs to choose from. Most of these climbs are short but fun, making them great for beginners.
There are countless wildlife-viewing opportunities at Box Elder Campground. The forestland provides a habitat for mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, river otters, and wild rabbits. Box Elder Campground is also a hot spot for bird-watching due to the diversity of bird species found in the area. The canyons in this campground are a great place to spot peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and brown eagles.
Box Elder is a great place for picnicking due to its proximity to the Dolores River. This campground has 11 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and two vault toilets.
If you prefer to camp with various amenities, there is an RV Camping option within 50 miles from Box Elder. The Views RV Park & Campground is situated 32 miles from Box Elder and has large full-hookup RV sites. The campground is big rig friendly and provides BBQ grills, picnic tables, free Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry facilities. McPhee Campground, located 31 miles from Box Elder, offers clean, modern RV sites. The campground is near hiking trails and a boat launch on the Dolores River.
For those on a budget, there are Bureau of Land Management free camping opportunities within a few miles of Box Elder Campground. Mesa Verde National Park is located 36 miles north of Box Elder and offers free dispersed camping on the rim of an ancient cliff dwelling. Pets are welcome at this site, and fire pits are provided at campsites.
When planning your BLM RV camping trip to Box Elder Campground, ensure that you look up the weather beforehand. This site is highly dependent on seasonal weather patterns. You should pack the appropriate gear for the conditions. You should also know that RV campsites are limited in this area. The best option is to find an alternative nearby campground with RV sites to park your RV in case the RV campsites at Box Elder are all occupied. Also, pack enough food, sunblock, bug repellent, and other first-aid items before heading to camp at this site.
BLM Camping at Box Elder provides visitors with amazing views and memorable times with their friends and families. The fun activities at the campground and its magnificent landscapes will give you an experience unlike any other. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
BLM regulations require that you take care of the land you visit and leave it in the same or better condition than when you found it. Practice the "Leave No Trace" principles while you visit and enjoy nature here. Visitors should also dispose of waste properly and pack out any collected trash. Safe boating and swimming practices are highly recommended to avoid accidents and protect the environment.
To reach Box Elder Campground from Dolores, head south on 4th Street toward Railroad Avenue. Then turn right at the first cross street onto CO-145 S. Railroad Avenue. Drive two miles and turn right onto CO-184 W. Stay on the road for another 8.1 miles, then turn right onto US-491 N. Drive 21 miles and turn right onto Co Rd 10/Rd 9.9. Continue along the road for about 10.5 miles, and you'll arrive at the campground.
Ready to visit Box Elder Campground? 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 will also have your RV to return to for the night. You'll also enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
