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 preserves land for the public's current and future enjoyment. There is ample BLM land located throughout Colorado. Both fee-based designated camping spots and free dispersed BLM RV camping are available. To find a site, search for "BLM camping near me."
North Desert is a BLM site located just outside Fruita, Colorado. It is a popular destination for OHV recreation, mountain biking, mountain climbing, and wildlife viewing. The park encompasses several trails that run from Grand Junction, Fruita, Rabbit Valley, and Utah Rims. The area has relatively mild weather year-round, though peak camping season runs from March to November.
The Zippity Loop is a singletrack mountain bike trail that runs across the hills and ridges of the Fruita Desert. The steep, sandy inclines make it a good match for advanced riders.
Length: 8.5 miles
Intensity: Difficult
The 158-mile Kokopelli Trail is a bike route that serves as a rugged intersection between Fruita, Colorado and Moab, Utah. It consists of dirt and paved singletrack and doubletrack trail. The length and terrain make it a difficult yet popular challenge.
Length: 158 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This singletrack desert trail winds through the semi-arid grasslands and mesas of the Fruita Desert. It is popular with horseback riders and bikers.
Length: 5.1 miles
Intensity: Moderately Difficult
The Little Salt Wash Trail is a paved walkway that transcends a small section of the Fruita Desert. It is popular with hikers and bikers. The trail's easy ascent makes it a suitable adventure for families with small children.
Length: 1.2 miles
Intensity: Easy
This 1.8-mile desert loop is popular with horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers. There are several spots along the trail that offer a scenic view of the nearby canyon and desert valley.
Length: 1.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
Highline Lake, just 20 minutes southeast of Fruita, serves as a popular spot for fishing. Local species include crappie, bluegill, carp, bass, catfish, and trout. Boating is permitted, though the lake often reaches capacity during peak season weekends. Mack Mesa Lake, which is also located in Highline Lake State Park, is an equally fruitful destination.
The Fruita Canyon offers plenty of climbing opportunities. Ballerina is a 50-foot trad that receives regular visitors. The Ribbed Buttress is a 400-foot trad with two climbs.
The North Desert of western Colorado is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Bison, elk, mountain lion, black bear, and bird of prey sightings are common in the area. The arid shrublands serve as a home for many small creatures, including snakes, prairie dogs, and jackrabbits.
The Fruita Picnic Area is a scenic roadside stop with picnic tables, grills, a large fire pit, pit toilets, and running water. Nearby Highline Lake State Park is also a popular picnic spot. The park boasts waterside picnic tables and firepits.
The North Desert offers visitors various opportunities to engage in OHV recreation. Motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and full-sized four-wheel-drive vehicles are welcome on designated trails.
There are several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in and around Fruita. BLM RV camping is possible at the North Fruita Desert Campground. The campground has 50 individual sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are picnic tables, fire rings, pit toilets, and running water on site. Monument RV Resort in Fruita, Colorado, offers more luxurious accommodations, including 95-foot pull-through sites, 30/50-amp hookups, and paved interior roads. Another nearby RV camping destination is the James M Robb Colorado River Campground in Mesa. The park facilities include a dump station, picnic area, and laundry room.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available on the BLM land that is alongside the North Fruita Campground access road. The Jouflas Campground, located within the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, has eight dispersed camping sites that are free and open to the public. These sites give visitors direct access to the Rabbit Valley Motorized Area in Fruita.
You must consider the desert climate when planning a trip to the Fruita Desert. Extra water and hydration packs will help you stay healthy and alert while you are traversing the area's exposed trails. While the city of Fruita has plenty of shopping and restaurants, picnic supplies and firewood will enable you to enjoy food without missing a beat. The Fruita Desert is a relatively mild place throughout the year. However, you should dress in layers and prioritize clothing and gear that will protect you from the elements. A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and shades are must-haves for anyone who wishes to spend an extended amount of time in wide-open grasslands or canyon mesas.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Follow the principles of "Leave No Trace" when camping in the Fruita Desert. Dispose of waste properly. Minimize your impact on the environment, and do your best to respect the wildlife. Keep in mind that many dispersed camping sites require you to bring along a portable toilet and fire pan. Remember, when you enjoy nature responsibly, you help preserve it for future visitors.
When traveling to the North Desert from the nearby city of Fruita, you should head north on North Maple Street toward East Pabor Avenue. Continue onto 17 ½ Road for three miles. Turn right onto North 3/10 Road. Turn left onto 18 Road. The North Desert Trailhead will be on your left in approximately seven miles.
Ready to visit North Desert? 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.
