The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are available near Little Yampa Canyon. The Bureau of Land Management takes care of more than 247 million acres of land in the US. Moffat County, Colorado is one of the region's most remote environments, ensuring few distractions. Yampa Valley contains the area known as Duffy Canyon and is home to the Yampa River. The river's abundant flow makes it an ideal location to enjoy water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Since Moffat Country's crown jewel is so scenic, it should be on everyone's list of places to see. Fortunately, individuals may camp for free, and there are tons of other activities to enjoy. Your family could go hunting, ride ATVs, and view wildlife while exploring. Fishers may discover abundant fishing opportunities along the riverside, delivering pristine waters. Rocky Mountain National Park awaits only 175 miles away to the east, so there is plenty to see in the region.
Adventurers can anticipate an abundance of incredible scenery while visiting the remote canyon. Portions of the Yampa River Core Trail snake through the region, providing a great hike.
Length: 7 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Yampa River flows abundantly and offers ample fishing opportunities for aspiring anglers who catch rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bass, pike, and catfish. Everyone over the age of 16 who's fishing must have a Colorado fishing license. In addition to fishing, the park is a breathtaking place to see from inside a raft. BLM designated 13 public access sites along the river and some of them at Duffy Mountain. There is a portion of the river that is not suitable for canoes, but kayakers will have fun. It is located in Juniper Canyon.
Over 200 species of migratory and resident birds inhabit the park's boundaries. These include ravens, bluebirds, gray jays, and yellow warblers. Additionally, warm-water fish swim in the river, such as bonytail chubs. On land, explorers may glimpse larger game animals, like elk and deer. Typically, animals are most active during the summer months, starting in June. Bureau of Land Management free camping will give you a chance to see elk and deer during your trip.
Unfortunately, Little Yampa Canyon lacks publically accessible picnic tables. On the other hand, travelers can eat anywhere they want to stop, but be careful. Make sure to pull away from major roads before tossing a blanket on the ground. More importantly, do not settle down closer than 200 feet from the water's edge.
Craig KOA Journey sits on US Hwy 40 and is close enough to be convenient. This RV camping location is rated highly for the bathrooms and showers available to campers. Similarly, the Routt County Fairgrounds has hookups for traditional RVs but is farther. Nevertheless, the amenities do not include showers or restrooms. East Cross Mountain Put-In and Campground are to the west and next to Dinosaur National Monument. If your family wants to see it, this site may be an enjoyable addition to your itinerary.
There are five dispersed camping sites throughout Little Yampa Canyon. South Beach Put-in features a grilling grate only three miles south of Craig. Further downstream, there is the Antlers Campsite, and it can be identified by the large cottonwoods and accompanying signs. Then, Friends Campsite is another 6.9-mile float down the river from Antlers. As you continue your river-based exploration, there are three additional sites. Bubba's Beach can take up to five hours of nonstop paddling to reach, so be prepared for exertion.
There is too much to see on the Yampa River to experience it all in one day. Most travelers prefer to relax, take their time, and take advantage of one of the five BLM campgrounds. People who try to float the whole distance in one day often end up finishing in the dark, and this can be dangerous, so plan your trip in pieces. If you get stuck and you have cell reception, you can always search for "BLM camping near me" to see which of the five campgrounds on the river you are closest to.
Bug spray and sunscreen are crucial, especially during the hottest parts of summer. Also, pack smaller disposable Ziplock bags to protect electronics if you are nearing the river, and bring extra garbage bags so that you can collect and pack out your trash. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Little Yampa Canyon deserves your protection, requiring cleanup at each site. Try to camp on dry land and high ground. In the morning, pack out any garbage, and bury your bathroom waste at least 200 feet away from the edge of the water. When you see wildlife, do not confront them as you are merely a visitor in their home.
Head south on Moffat County Road 13 from Highway 40 on Craig's westside. Continue southbound until you see signs for Moffat County Road 17, then head west. After several more miles, you will arrive at the entrance road leading up to Duffy Mountain.
Ready to visit Little Yampa Canyon? 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 of 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.
