The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Located off of I-70 near Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the South Canyon River Access allows anglers and water sports enthusiasts to launch their watercraft onto the Colorado River from the on-site concrete boat ramp. In addition to the boat ramp, a large parking area is also provided along with a restroom. This river access point is overseen by a federal government agency, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which maintains the natural integrity of public lands for the purposes of recreation and historical preservation. Bureau of Land Management camping is not permitted at South Canyon, though there are nearby primitive campsites located on BLM lands at the Cedar Mountain Camp less than 30 miles west of South Canyon. Within three hours of South Canyon, you'll also find two of Colorado's most impressive national parks - Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Storm King Trail sets off from Old Hwy 6 just off of I-70 less than five miles from the South Canyon River Access. This challenging loop trail is dedicated to the 14 firefighters who lost their lives on the mountain in 1994. The trail is known for its rapid elevation gain of nearly 1,500 feet and a few rocky switchbacks.
Length: 3.6 miles
Intensity: Hard
The Keyser Creek Trail is a seven-mile hike along a well-marked dirt trail near Tibbetts Ridge. This trail starts off on flat land and begins to slowly ascend up the side of a small mountain within the first quarter mile. Further up the mountain, several switchbacks make the trek more challenging, though the views from the mountainside are well worth the effort.
Length: 7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
At the South Canyon River Access anglers can hook several species of fish, including northern pike, small and largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie, though this area is well-known for its Gold Medal trout fishing waters, which boasts some of the largest brown and rainbow trout catches in Colorado. Boaters can also take advantage of the on-site boat launch, which is available for kayaks, canoes and small, motorized watercraft.
The nearest area for rock climbing is located at Rifle Gap Park, which offers more than 450 sport climbing routes. Climbers in the park enjoy the rugged cliff terrain on limestone surfaces with challenging flat holds, crimps and funky pinches. Ice climbing is also permitted during the winter months on popular routes that include Stone Free, Soul on Ice and Ice Palace. Expect steep curtains of sheer ice in low-altitude conditions that can vary from day to day.
Wildlife commonly seen along the Colorado River at the South Canyon River Access point include mule deer, big horn sheep and foxes as well as some elk. Black bears have also been spotted near South Canyon, though sightings are rare in the summer months. Visitors are likely to see American kestrels, gray jays, and red-winged blackbirds soaring the skies above.
There are no formal picnic areas at the South Canyon River Access; however, picnicking is permitted along the banks of the river. Be sure to clean up trash before leaving any picnic spot.
Though there are no developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near the South Canyon River Access, campers can enjoy RV campgrounds at Rifle Gap State Park and the Glenwood Springs West / Colorado River KOA Holiday. Visitors at Rifle Gap State Park can choose from five campgrounds with a total of 89 campsites that provide access to showers, vault/flush toilets, covered picnic tables, fire pits and a dump station. Glenwood Springs West / Colorado River KOA Holiday is located further west and offers campers full hookups with a 50-amp max, access to Wi-Fi and cable TV, and accommodations for rigs up to 95 feet. There are also recreational amenities, which include fishing, hiking and swimming at the on-site, heated swimming pool.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available just north of Rifle Gap State Park at the Cedar Mountain Camp. All eight of the primitive camping areas have fire rings and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The remote location of some campsites may limit RV accessibility, though most of the campsites can easily be found along Rifle Gap Road N.
As you plan your BLM trip to South Canyon, keep in mind that some BLM areas do not permit camping directly at the site. Other accommodations might need to be made at nearby state parks or RV parks that'll suit your camping needs. To find BLM RV camping near your destination, search for BLM camping near me for a list of developed, dispersed and primitive campsites. You should also be sure to equip your RV with necessities such as extra water, toilet paper and whatever gear you'll need for your favorite activities. Bug spray, sunscreen and first aid kits should also be packed. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When enjoying BLM lands make sure to remove all trash from any area that you visit to help maintain its pristine condition. Remember that you're sharing the land with others. Make sure to leave nature the way you found it, reduce noise, and leash your pets. Be aware of your surroundings and the animals that inhabit those areas. Carry bear spray when exploring hiking trails, and store your food in sealed containers to discourage curious wildlife.
From Glenwood Springs, hop onto I-70 W from 6th Street. Continue on I-70 W headed towards Chacra, and then take exit 111 for CO Hwy 134. Turn left onto CO Hwy 134. Drive for 5.3 miles along CO Hwy 134 until you see signs for the South Canyon Access Parking Area.
Address: 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652
Ready to visit South Canyon River Access? 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.
