The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Throughout the United States, hundreds of beautiful natural sites are protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These public areas are very diverse, including wilderness areas, campgrounds, nature trails, and a variety of other locations. If you enjoy visiting new places and exploring the natural world, you may want to try BLM camping at some of these tranquil sites. There may be BLM locations within a short distance of your home, and you can locate them with a simple online search for "BLM camping near me."
If you're a hiking enthusiast, one BLM site worth visiting is the Duncan Trailhead, located within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area in western Colorado. The scenic trailhead provides access to two rugged hiking trails, one of which leads to the nearby Gunnison River, where visitors can partake in water-based recreation. The area also offers nearby opportunities for picnicking and primitive camping, and the incredible Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is only a short drive away.
One of the trails accessible via the Duncan Trailhead is the Duncan Trail, an out-and-back route that's great for hiking and bird-watching. The trail is quite steep and will take you through rugged wilderness down to the Gunnison River. The route is also very rocky, and the ground can be somewhat loose in certain areas. The ideal times to visit the trail are between April and October.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This scenic loop trail is also accessible directly from the Duncan Trailhead. The loop combines sections of several routes in the area, and while there are many elevation changes, they're generally very minor. At times, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gunnison River below. You may be tempted to climb down to the stream, but doing so from this trail isn't safe.
Length: 4.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is another out-and-back trail in the area that will take you right to the mighty Gunnison River. In addition to being an excellent hiking route, this trail is suitable for horseback riding. If you want to make it all the way down to the water, you'll need to have some rock-climbing ability to make your way down the cliffs.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Hard
The nearby Gunnison River is known as a fantastic place for year-round fly-fishing. The most common fish species caught in the area are brown and rainbow trout, but you might also reel in a few Kokanee salmon. Certain sections of the Gunnison River are also suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. Keep in mind that the waters of the Gunnison can be very harsh in some areas, so it's always important to be careful that you're only boating in parts of the river that you have the ability to handle.
Climbing enthusiasts will find many excellent opportunities in the nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The park features numerous traditional climbing routes around the northern rim of the majestic canyon. You can visit spots like Aretes, the Checkerboard Wall, and the North Chasm View Wall. The difficulty levels of the park's routes range from 5.9- to 5.11+.
The canyons and wilderness surrounding the Duncan Trailhead are inhabited by numerous wildlife species. Some of the species you should watch for are coyotes, mountain lions, elk, mule deer, river otters, ringtail cats, spotted bats, and kit foxes. If you enjoy bird-watching, you should also keep an eye out for chukar, bald eagles, and a variety of other cool raptors.
The Duncan Trailhead is a fine place to enjoy a picnic lunch. The site features a shade structure, picnic table, and vault toilet, so as long as you come prepared with food, you should have everything you need. Alternatively, you could head to the nearby Montrose, CO area and have a lovely picnic by the water at Taviwach Park.
Unfortunately, you won't be able to enjoy BLM RV camping at the Duncan Trailhead site. The site is located within the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness, and there is no motorized equipment allowed in areas federally designated as wilderness. There also aren't any established Bureau of Land Management campgrounds around the trailhead. If you're looking for a peaceful RV camping destination in the area, you could head to the nearby Olathe, CO area and stay at the Uncompahgre River RV Park.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is a great option around the Duncan Trailhead. You won't be able to set up your dispersed campsite at the actual trailhead or on any of the designated trails, but the surrounding area should provide some great opportunities.
When you're planning a trip to the Duncan Trailhead, remember that you must pay a nominal fee at the self-serve pay station for use of the wilderness area. You should also come fully prepared with all of the food, drinking water, and equipment that you expect to need during your trip. None of these things are offered at the BLM site, and the closest towns of Olathe and Montrose will be inconvenient to reach after you've arrived at the trailhead. While you're at the Duncan Trailhead, you can visit the on-site information kiosk to learn more about the area and nearby trails. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The BLM relies on visitors like you to keep the country's public lands in pristine condition. While you're at the site, please minimize your impact and follow the Leave No Trace guidelines. Please remember to pack out all of your garbage when you leave the area.
To reach the Duncan Trailhead from Olathe, head east on Falcon Road for approximately 3.8 miles. The road will transition to gravel and turn into Peach Valley Road. Continue on Peach Valley Road for about 4.8 miles, and then take a right on Duncan Road. After about 1.8 miles on Duncan Road, you will come to the trailhead.
Ready to visit Duncan Trailhead? 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.
