The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
BLM day-use areas and BLM RV camping sites are public lands that have been protected for use by anyone who wants to get closer to nature. These sites offer a range of recreational activities. Some areas are historically important while others are praised for the beauty of their landscape. If you want to find a nearby BLM camping site, you can search for “BLM camping near me.”
Rattlesnake and Mee Canyon are located in the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness Area. They encompass a large area of beautiful countryside for visitors to explore. The canyons are an excellent option for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also view many unique rock features, including the famous Rattlesnake Arches.
This trail passes by the beautiful Rattlesnake Arches, which is one of the most striking rock formations in the Rattlesnake/ Mee Canyon area.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail offers views of the gorgeous scenery in the Rattlesnake/ Mee Canyon area, and it connects to several other trails.
Length: 5.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the Colorado National Monument area, this trail provides scenic views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Length: 1.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail, located in Grand Junction, which is the closest town to the Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons, passes several fascinating rock formations.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
This trail offers a bit of a climb and beautiful panoramic views.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing enthusiasts can head to the Colorado River, which runs through Grand Junction. Anglers can often catch catfish, largemouth bass, walleyes, cutthroat trout, and pike. Visitors to the river can also enjoy a canoe, kayak, or boat ride. There are also several lakes along the nearby Grand Mesa, many of which offer excellent fishing, boating, and swimming options.
The area around Grand Junction offers plenty of climbing opportunities. There are several climbable towers in the Colorado National Monument area. Most are traditional climbs although there are some sport and top-rope climbs as well. The area is also known for its excellent bouldering options.
The area around the Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons is perfect for spotting wildlife. Visitors can also explore the wider Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness Area for many wildlife viewing opportunities. Species native to the area include eagles, deer, bighorn sheep, rabbits, ground squirrels, mountain lions, and a range of lizards and snakes.
The Devil’s Kitchen Picnic Area is one of the best locations to stop for lunch. The area offers beautiful views, shaded picnic areas and several tables, a drinking fountain, and clean bathrooms. Canyon View Park in Grand Junction also offers covered picnic tables and grills. This park also has a large playground and a pond with paved pathways throughout.
It’s easy to find RV camping choices near Rattlesnake/ Mee Canyon. The Grand Junction KOA Holiday offers full hookups, bike rentals, a pool, and Wi-Fi. Canyon View RV Resort features 160 large sites with full hookups. There is also a fenced dog run, a playground, a splash pad, a heated pool, and clean showers and bathrooms.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available in the Rattlesnake/Mee Canyons area, but it’s restricted to certain areas. Visitors can’t set up a camp within 0.25 miles of the Rattlesnake Arches Loop or along the access road that leads to the trail. Camping is also not allowed in the Mee Canyon Alcove.
The road into this area can be rough, so a vehicle with high clearance is recommended. You may want to check the road conditions before you head out, and don’t try to traverse the road during inclement weather. The canyons are a desert environment, so it’s very important to always bring enough water with you.
The area around the canyons sees relatively mild weather all year. Temperatures spike in July and August, but they rarely exceed 95 degrees. During the winter, temperatures can drop into the high 30s, and nights can be well below freezing. It’s best to explore the area during the spring and fall months. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Enjoying the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds means taking care of the land you’re using. Take your trash with you when you leave. Only ever build a controlled fire in a designated area, such as a fire ring or pit. Observe wildlife from a safe distance, and try not to disturb any wildlife you come across.
From Grand Junction, take I-70 west to Fruita and turn left at the off-ramp. You’ll see signs for the Colorado National Monument, and you’ll want to enter the monument area. Continue for another 11 miles. At the Glade Park turn-off, take the 16.5 Road, which is on the right. Take another quick right onto the Black Ridge Access Road. This road is recognizable thanks to signs for the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Continue for 13 miles until you reach the trailhead.
Ready to visit Rattlesnake/Mee Canyons? 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.
