The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The United States Bureau of Land Management is a government agency that administers federally protected, often undeveloped land. Bureau of Land Management camping is a great option for those who like roughing it and don't need many amenities. Idaho is home to many BLM sites, including Bruneau Wild and Scenic River. Located deep in the desert, this river sits in southwestern Idaho and features canyons carved by three different rivers. Though you need a permit to access the river, it's easy to get one as long as you know where you want to launch and get out of the water. A 50-mile stretch of Bruneau Wild and Scenic River offers challenging rapids as well, and it's possible to reach parts of both Oregon and Nevada depending on how far you want to go.
Located on the western side of the river, this trail is easy to access. Not only does it offer views of the water, but it also helps you get your boat to one of the launch points. You can reach the trail via Blackstone Grasmere Road.
Length: 0.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
When the river is low, you can easily access this trail on the eastern side of the river. Suitable for families and pets, it's a good place to see the native wildlife and explore pastures filled with flowers. This trail also allows dogs to go off-leash.
Length: 0.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
The only way to hike between the canyon bottom and the rim is this trail. You need a vehicle with four-wheel drive to reach the trailhead that sits a few miles from the river. Highway 51 has an exit to the trail.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Not for the faint of heart, this trail starts at a hot spring and has multiple places where you can dig for rocks. You can leave your car in the parking area or take a 4WD vehicle deeper into the canyon. With lots of rocks and challenging spots, this trail requires that you take your time and use caution.
Length: 7 miles
Intensity: Difficult
This scenic river has many native species of fish, including bull trout and redband trout. Kayaks and rafts are a few examples of the watercraft allowed; however, you need to obtain a permit before you get on the water. The application asks for the number of people in your group and the name of your leader along with where you want to get in and out of the water. You have the option of spending a day on the river or moving south or west to another state.
The canyons that surround the wild and scenic river are perfect for rock climbing. Many know the steep areas of the Obed cliffs, which are close to the spot where the Obed River meets Clear Creek. You'll find spots such as Stephen King's Library where climbers named specific cliffs in honor of his books.
You can head up to the canyon rim to see wild animals roaming around the edge or go deep into the canyon and see the animals as they come out for water. You might see pygmy rabbits and coyotes along with caribou and grizzly bears.
Though the Bruneau Wild and Scenic River does not have designated picnicking areas, it does have many places where you can relax. The Bruneau Canyon Overlook lets you put down a blanket and enjoy the views of the water as you eat. There are also a few spots near the boat launch at Bruneau Takeout.
This is one of the only recreational areas in Idaho where you can sandboard. You need to hike up to the top of the canyon before you can slide down on your board. Shops close to the river rent boards for the day.
BLM RV camping makes it easy for you to camp near the Bruneau Wild and Scenic River if you want to hike or raft. Bruneau Dunes State Park is the closet spot for RV camping near the river. This campground has 82 sites with water and electric hookups as well as two cabins. You can also camp at the Lake Cleveland East Side Campground near Lake Cleveland, which is about two hours away. It has eight sites for RVs and tents, some of which are close to the clean bathrooms.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is also available near the river. There is a small camping area near the Jarbridge River Launch Site, which helps you launch your boat for free. This campground offers spots large enough for RVs, but many visitors prefer to stay in tents. If you bring a tent, you'll also find a few places where you can park your boat for the night and camp right next to the water.
Planning your trip to Bruneau Wild and Scenic River can be made easy by searching for BLM camping near me prior to your departure. You can learn about both Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and private campgrounds before you leave. Though there are some gravel and paved roads in the area, many are dirt or primitive roads that are hard to drive on with an RV. Make sure to look for the large brown shelters along the river and throughout the canyon. They have maps that show your current location and what you need to do to reach other areas. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The BLM encourages visitors to follow the Leave No Trace policy. It asks that you limit the changes that you make to the landscape and environment. Bring bags with you to hold all of your trash. You may see a few trash cans that allow you to dump the refuse too. Keep in mind that many wild animals call this scenic river home, and human trash and waste are harmful to their environment.
To reach Bruneau Wild and Scenic River, find the One Stop in Bruneau and look for Hot Springs Road. You'll follow this road south for 15.5 miles before you take a right at the sign for Bruneau Canyon Overlook. Stay on this road for another three miles to reach the overlook. There are signs that show you how to reach the river and different boat launches.
Ready to visit Bruneau Wild and Scenic 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.
