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 a federal agency responsible for overseeing more than 245 million acres of public land in the United States. These lands are found primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, and offer a range of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. BLM RV camping offers people a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the country's most scenic and untouched landscapes. If you're wondering, where can I find BLM camping near me, you may want to consider the Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area in Colorado. The Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area offers a stunning getaway in the heart of Colorado's Gunnison National Forest. Known for its picturesque landscape, outdoor enthusiasts flock to this area for hiking, biking, fishing and more. Located near Crested Butte, the recreation area is also a little over two hours northeast of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
The trail takes you along Oh Be Joyful Creek, which provides breathtaking views of waterfalls and wildflowers. Length: 8 miles round trip Intensity: Moderate
This trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of the Elk Mountains and the town of Crested Butte. Length: 4.8 miles round trip Intensity: Moderate
The Oh Be Joyful Creek is a popular spot for fly-fishing with anglers seeking out native cutthroat trout. Some specific locations for fishing along the creek include:
This access point provides a convenient spot for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines downstream from the campground.
The Oh Be Joyful Trailhead offers another excellent spot for fishing, providing easy access to the creek.
While there are no boating facilities within the recreation area, the Taylor River, 50 minutes southeast of the recreation area, offers excellent rafting, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities.
Located about 40 minutes southeast of the recreation area, Almont Campground offers river access. It is an ideal starting point for a day on the water.
Situated along the Taylor River, Five-Mile Boat Launch provides easy access for rafters, kayakers, and canoeists looking to explore the river's exciting rapids.
Another watercraft launch option is North Bank Campground, located approximately 45 minutes southeast of the recreation area. The campground offers a boat ramp and is situated near prime fishing spots.
Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area is home to various wildlife species, including elk, deer, and black bears. In addition, keep an eye out for smaller critters such as marmots, pikas, and an array of bird species.
The area offers several designated picnic spots for visitors to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. There are no covered shelters, but the beautiful natural surroundings more than make up for it.
Oh Be Joyful Campground is the primary camping destination within the recreation area, featuring 15 first-come, first-served campsites. While no hookups are available, the campground provides vault toilets, bear-proof food storage lockers and fire rings. For an RV camping experience beyond the recreation area, consider staying at the Crested Butte RV Resort, which is only a 24-minute drive to the southeast.
Bureau of Land Management free camping and dispersed camping are allowed in the Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area as long as campers follow the BLM's guidelines for "Leave No Trace" camping. Some popular locations for dispersed camping in the area include: Gunsight Pass Road Located approximately 28 minutes south of the Oh Be Joyful Campground, this area offers several dispersed campsites along the road. Be prepared for rough, unpaved terrain, and ensure your vehicle can handle the conditions. Slate River Road Twelve minutes southeast of Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area, Slate River Road provides additional Bureau of Land Management camping opportunities along the scenic Slate River. Look for established campsites with fire rings. Kebler Pass Road (County Road 12) Drive 37 minutes southwest of the recreation area to find Kebler Pass Road. This area offers a variety of dispersed camping sites amidst beautiful aspen groves. The road is well-maintained but can be busy during peak season. While camping in these areas is free, campers must remain within designated areas and adhere to the 14-day stay limit. Be sure to practice "Leave No Trace" principles and respect the surrounding environment.
Before embarking on your adventure, pack essentials such as warm clothing, rain gear, and bear spray. Also, be prepared to store your food securely as the area is home to wildlife, including bears. Checking the weather forecast before your trip and finding RV-accessible Bureau of Land Management campgrounds will help ensure a smooth experience. The joys of BLM camping in the Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area includes stunning landscapes and various outdoor activities. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When camping in the Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area, practicing "Leave No Trace" principles is essential. This means cleaning up, disposing of waste properly, and minimizing your environmental impact. By doing so, you help preserve the area's natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
The Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area is located just north of Crested Butte, Colorado. To reach the area, drive approximately four miles north of Crested Butte on Gothic Road (County Road 317), and turn left onto Slate River Road (County Road 734). Follow this road for about five miles to reach the Oh Be Joyful Campground and trailhead. Address: 2343-2345 Co Rd 734, Crested Butte, CO 81224 Ready to visit Oh Be Joyful Recreation 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.
