The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
If you are near Arco, Idaho, and looking for BLM camping near me, head to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. The 42 sites at Lava Flow Campground, operated by the National Park Service, are terrific options available year-round. The monument and preserve surrounding this campground are fantastic for hiking, caving and climbing. The facility takes its name from the fact that the other-worldly landscape looks similar to that found on the moon. Like other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds across the western United States, you can stay for up to 14 days for a minimal fee or free. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is about 129 miles from Yellowstone National Park and about 160 miles from Grand Teton National Park.
This paved trail runs past several cinder beds. Along its course are signs telling you about the challenges of protecting this fragile ecosystem. Length: 0.5 miles Intensity: Easy
This well-maintained trail allows you to see nearly every type of volcanic feature that created the unique landscape at this national monument. This trail starts out paved before turning into lava rock and cinder bed. It starts at the Tree Molds Trailhead. Length: 1.8 miles Intensity: Easy
See the impressions left in the rocks when hot lava flows knocked them down between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago along this trail. This trail skirts along the edge of the Blue Dragon Flow, allowing you to see the blue lava rock caused by titanium magnetite crystals in the rock. Length: 2 miles Intensity: Easy
The Big Lost River is a terrific place for a fly fishing adventure. The river's East Branch usually offers the best fishing, with anglers often bringing home native trout up to 20 inches long. It can easily be reached by driving along Trail Creek Road. The North Branch offers even easier fishing conditions, especially near the bridges and campgrounds.
Head about 45 minutes northeast of Arco to go climbing at The Fins. You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access the last few miles. Most routes on the east-facing limestone walls are sports climbs, but there are a couple of traditional climbs. There are seven fins, so everyone can find a spot to climb at this remote location.
Drive along Loop Road, starting at the Visitors Center at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, to see the park's main features and wildlife. You may catch glimpses of mule deer, coyotes, porcupines, mountain cottontails and jackrabbits. These animals are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your drive accordingly.
The east side of the visitors center at Craters of the Moon is a fabulous place for a picnic. While dining, watch for the many songbirds who live in this park. After you finish eating, watch films, see displays and visit park rangers in the center.
RV camping is available in the Lava Flow Campground at Craters of the Moon during warmer weather. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring. You may also consider camping at one of the six campsites at Medicine Lodge Archaeological Site. Reservations are required from May to September, but the campground remains open year-round.
Backcountry camping is allowed at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, especially in the wilderness area. Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Fish Creek Reservoir. This campground is popular with hunters, but only expect to see water in the reservoir if it is spring. Another terrific choice is Magic Reservoir, which is a great place to go waterskiing, fishing and boating. The two adjacent sites along Silver Creek are terrific options for anglers looking to catch trout.
A favorite activity at Craters of the Moon National Monument is visiting the five publicly accessible caves. Lava flow formed these caves. The largest cave is the Indian Cave, which has openings letting in plenty of sunlight, but two of the caves are entirely dark. Therefore, you will want to bring a source of light with you when visiting Boy Scout and Buffalo Caves. You can use a flashlight or a headlamp, but it should have at least 200 lumens. Furthermore, you should be able to set it to shine a long-distance and a spot beam. It is always best to bring a backup light source with you. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a fantastic place for a camping adventure where you will have fun hiking, picnicking and caving. Nearby, you will find terrific fly fishing. Before you set out on your camping trip, learn more about BLM camping by reading this blog.
About 200,000 people visit this monument annually. Therefore, everyone needs to clean up after themselves. If you create trash, put it in one of the trash receptacles. The "Leave No Trace" guidelines protects natures beauty. That way, the area stays beautiful for others to enjoy.
Getting to Craters of the Moon National Monument from Arco, Idaho, is easy. Start by following US 20 West for 39.5 miles. Then, turn left on Stubb Road, almost immediately turn left on Peck Road and get on US 20 East. Continue for 20.2 miles, and you will arrive at the monument. Address: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, 1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, Idaho 83213 Ready to visit Craters of the Moon National Monument? 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.
