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 an agency responsible for protecting many of the country's public lands. In total, there are more than 850 BLM sites, and many of them contain well-maintained camping areas, unique geographical features, and impressive landmarks. In addition to enjoying BLM camping, visitors to these natural sites can partake in activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Depending on where you live, there may be several beautiful BLM locations within a few hours' drive of your home. You can find the closest choices by searching online for "BLM camping near me."
The Gunnison Forks Day Use Area is a BLM-protected site located in western Colorado, roughly 40 miles southeast of Grand Junction, CO. The serene site is only a short distance from popular areas like the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. In addition to checking out the nearby attractions, visitors can enjoy activities like boating and picnicking at the BLM site.
This out-and-back trail is found in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The route will take you along the Gunnison River and through forested areas. Although some areas may be a tad bit difficult, the trail should be manageable for most hikers. Typically, you won't encounter too many other people while hiking in the area.
Length: 5.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This out-and-back trail is also located south of the BLM site within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The trail is very rocky and offers some impressive views of the remote area. You should have a decent chance of spotting local wildlife while hiking the trail.
Length: 5.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This scenic loop trail is located in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The trail is great for hiking, trail running, and bird-watching, and the best times to visit are between March and October. Keep in mind that after it rains, the route can get pretty muddy and slick in certain areas.
Length: 1.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
If you want to do some fishing during your visit to the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, you're in luck. The Gunnison River is inhabited by many brown and rainbow trout, and there's easy walk-in river access right at the BLM site. The river is known as an excellent angling destination. There's also a boat ramp located at the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, and you're welcome to take your kayak, canoe, or raft out on the river. Additionally, the nearby Gunnison River Pleasure Park features another boat ramp that you can use.
You'll find several quality destinations for rock climbing in the nearby Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The area features multiple canyons with steep black granite walls and red sandstone formations. One of the most popular areas to climb is the Western Rim area, where elevations reach as high as around 8,000 feet. The views from the Western Rim are regarded as some of the most spectacular in the region.
Although most of the area's wildlife tends to steer clear of the actual Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, there are many cool species inhabiting the region. If you spend time exploring the nearby trails, you'll want to keep an eye out for coyotes, ringtail cats, mountain lions, mule deer, river otters, elk, kit foxes, bald eagles, spotted bats, and a variety of other birds and small mammals.
Picnicking is one of the most popular activities at the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area. The site boasts picnic tables with shelters as well as restrooms. The site is close enough to the nearby river that you should be able to enjoy the peaceful sound of rushing water while you eat.
Although BLM RV camping isn't permitted within the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, there are nearby options. Although the area doesn't feature Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you can head to the Gunnison River Pleasure Park, which is located adjacent to the BLM site. If you'd prefer RV camping somewhere with hookups and more modern accommodations, you could head to the nearby Delta, CO area. There, you could stay at the Valley Sunset RV Ranch.
If you're hoping to enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping, it will need to be outside the boundaries of the day-use area. Overnight camping is not permitted within the site, so your best option may be to travel south along the Gunnison River to find a secluded spot. Then, you can set up a dispersed campsite for a peaceful stay.
If you're planning a trip to the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, you should be aware of the services and conveniences provided at and near the site. For example, there's a sanitation dump station located at the BLM site. Additionally, if you don't have your own boat, you can rent a raft at the nearby Gunnison River Pleasure Park. The pleasure park also has showers, parking, and river shuttles available, making it a convenient place to stay for anyone visiting the area.
If you intend to partake in boating on the Gunnison River during your trip, remember that the stream can be quite fast-flowing and rough in some areas. Make sure that you're choosing an area where you'll have sufficient skill and experience to remain safe. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
It's important that during your visit to the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area, you make an effort to minimize the impact of your day. Please adhere to the seven Leave No Trace principles. At the BLM site, all of your trash, including toilet paper, needs to be packed out.
To reach the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area from Delta, travel east on Hwy 92 until you come to 2810 Rd. You should see a sign on the corner for the Gunnison River Pleasure Park. Turn south on 2810 Rd, then follow it until you come to the BLM parking lot.
Ready to visit Gunnison Forks Day Use 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.
