The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The San Miguel River in Colorado is part of a delicate ecosystem with amazing recreational and scenic value. The river flows down from the San Miguel Mountains through the Uncompahgre National Forest until it joins the Dolores River. The San Miguel River is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a national organization dedicated to protecting the diversity and health of the land for future generations. Exploring BLM lands is one of the best ways to see and experience the natural majesty of the United States. Along with hiking and exploring, visitors can also fish and camp along the San Miguel River. You'll have access to amazing views of nearby mountains and the Uncompahgre Plateau.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a little over 100 miles away while Mesa Verde National Park is 116 miles south near Durango, Colorado. Many of the boroughs and communities near the San Miguel River are small and unincorporated. You'll likely have to get the majority of your supplies from Naturita, Redvale, or Placerville.
The full Paradox Trail connects the Kokopelli Trail and Tabeguache Trail. Some of the trail is marked with cairns while other parts can be difficult to follow. This is a kid-friendly path that offers amazing views of local animals and wildflowers.
Length: 118 miles
Intensity: Easy
Hike your way through the forest and along the edge of a canyon. This trail has a slight elevation gain as well as technical sections perfect for trail running. Dogs are welcome as long as they're kept on a leash.
Length: 4.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fly-fishing is incredibly popular on the San Miguel River. About 50 miles of the river holds trout. Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and cutbows are all popular finds. If you're fishing from higher up toward the mountains, you're more likely to find brook trout. The upper parts of the river are popular with kayakers and those looking for exhilarating whitewater rafting opportunities.
Along with the San Miguel Mountains, you can also try your hand climbing Spruce Mountain, Coventry Hill, Wrights Mesa, and Patterson Mountain. There are several prominent plateaus and ranges in the area perfect for every level of climber.
While you're out exploring BLM lands in Colorado, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, beavers, white-tailed kites, bald eagles, prairie dogs, and rattlesnakes. Elk is one of the most common finds in the state's forests. Large predators in the region include mountain lions and black bears.
Much of the area around the San Miguel River is dominated by lush forests and meadows. You'll likely have a hard time finding picnic tables or a formal resting area. Don't let that stop you from picnicking during your BLM exploration. Plan time to rest and eat outside your RV or while you're hiking a trail.
There are very few large cities near the San Miguel River. Once you stop for the night, set up your camping spot and lay back for an amazing view of the nighttime sky. With very little light pollution or smog, you'll likely be able to see hundreds if not thousands more stars than you would back home.
The first step to planning an RV camping trip to BLM lands is to search online for "BLM camping near me." Bureau of Land Management campgrounds offer the best access to key sites and trails. Primitive sites like BLM Ledges Cottonwood Campground, BLM Ledges Rockhouse Campground, and BLM Lower Beaver Campground all charge a minimal fee for both RV and tent camping. It's important to note that while these campgrounds are in excellent locations, they often have very basic amenities like vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. If you want access to potable water and electricity, reserve a spot at Country RV Park. They're open all year long and offer laundry facilities, a dump station, and showers.
Dispersed camping is another popular option for BLM RV camping enthusiasts in Colorado. Plan to tent out in the wilderness or park your RV along an accessible highway in the area. Bureau of Land Management free camping options give you the flexibility to stop and camp whenever you need a break. You can also stay at Iron Springs Campground, which is free for campers and popular with local hunters.
If dispersed camping appeals to you, be aware that the best spots may already be taken when you arrive. The safest way to camp is by grabbing a spot at a local campground. You won't have to worry about your plans changing because you couldn't find a good site in the area you want to explore. The best way to explore the forests and meadows around the San Miguel River is with a group of like-minded hikers. Traveling together is the best way to prevent a potential emergency.
Bring plenty of bug spray as well as water and sunscreen. Pack sturdy hiking shoes and always keep an eye out for ticks and snakes. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
All visitors on BLM lands are expected to clean up after themselves. Don't leave food scraps or debris behind as you pack up. Respect your fellow hikers as well as any wildlife you come across. While you may just be visiting the San Miguel River, the local animals call it their home. Try to find a good campsite rather than creating one. Strive to minimize your impact on the local environment. Do your part to preserve the landscape for future hikers and explorers.
Starting in Placerville, Colorado, travel north along State Highway 145 toward Naturita. There are several convenient fishing access points along the way. Three miles east of Naturita, the State Highway 90 turn-off will give you access to the special management area of the San Miguel River.
Address: 2465 S. Townsend Ave., Montrose, CO 81401
Ready to visit the San Miguel River? 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.
