The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a federal government agency dedicated to administering federal lands. With over 850 natural areas under their management, the BLM is responsible for protecting many of the country's most beautiful camping areas and outdoor recreation hubs. In fact, many of the lands under BLM administration offer some form of camping whether it be modern or primitive. If you live in the western United States, there's a good chance that one or more of these sites are in your region. With a search for "BLM camping near me," you can locate any local BLM-maintained areas.
One scenic BLM site is Idaho's Tower Rock Recreation Site. Located just west of Payette National Forest, the site is known as one of the spots where Lewis and Clark camped during their famed expedition. The area is also a wonderful destination for camping, auto touring, fishing, and boating.
Boulder Lake Loop Trail is a relatively challenging trail near Payette National Forest. The loop trail tends to get somewhat busy, and the best time to visit is between May and October. There are also some great fishing opportunities along the trail if you want to bring your gear along.
Length: 6.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Box Lake Trail is located near the Tower Rock Recreation Site and is excellent for both backpacking and hiking. The trail runs along its namesake lake, and you'll enjoy plenty of scenic views on the hike. Because of its difficulty, you likely won't encounter many other people on the trail.
Length: 7.1 miles
Intensity: Hard
The Payette Lake Peninsula Trail is a popular out-and-back trail near Ponderosa State Park. During spring and summer, the trail is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. Once the winter weather arrives, many visitors use it for snowshoeing. The trail, which is suitable for hikers and bikers of all skill levels, offers beautiful views of the nearby lake.
Length: 4.0 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Tower Rock Recreation Site lies right near the spot where Salmon River meets Lake Payette. As a result, there are plenty of nearby opportunities for fishing and boating. The river is a great place to catch a few steelhead or trout, and its waters are also popular for floaters. Alternatively, you could go for a swim in the lake or take your boat out for some waterskiing.
The most popular climbing destination near the Tower Rock BLM site is Slick Rock, which is found in the alpine environment of Payette National Forest. Slick Rock features some of the longest continuous technical rock climbing that you'll find in the entire state. The routes range from eight to 10 pitches, and their difficulties vary from 5.6 to 5.10+.
Many visitors to the BLM site make a point to observe or photograph the local wildlife. Some of the species you're likely to see in the area include elk, moose, foxes, deer, and rabbits. If you were to venture into the dense trails of Payette National Forest, you might spot bears, mountain lions, river otters, or mountain goats.
Although you'll need to bring your own food and water, the Tower Rock Recreation Site offers a picturesque setting for a picnic. The site's six separate camping areas offer multiple picnic tables to choose from. Alternatively, you could head to the shores of the nearby lake or river to lay out a blanket. There's nothing better than a relaxing meal by the water!
BLM RV camping is welcomed at the Tower Rock Campground. Although you won't have any RV hookups, the campground does feature RV-friendly pull-through campsites. It's also nice and affordable; the camping fee at the site is only $5 per night. In total, you'll find six separate Bureau of Land Management campgrounds at the Tower Rock Recreation Site. At these campsites, you'll have access to trash receptacles, firepits, toilets, picnic tables, and easy river access.
You likely won't find any established Bureau of Land Management free camping in the area. However, if you prefer not to stay at one of the nearby $5-per-night BLM campgrounds, you always have the option to stake out your own primitive campsite. You may have good luck finding a suitable spot somewhere along the Salmon River. Alternatively, the Porcupine Point area on the shores of The Narrows may offer a pleasant spot for a makeshift camping setup.
If you're hoping to find a campground with RV hookups and modern amenities available, your best bet will be to head into the nearby city of McCall. There, you'll not only find RV accommodations, but you'll also find access to a number of stores and conveniences, should you need them.
If you end up staying at one of the more minimalist BLM campgrounds at the site, remember to bring plenty of food that doesn't require much to cook. If you can't eat it as is or prepare it over a fire, you'd best leave it at home. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
During your visit to the Tower Rock BLM site, you can play a role in preserving the area's beauty and health by responsibly disposing of or removing your trash, respecting the local wildlife, and leaving anything you find in nature undisturbed. Keep any campfires to a minimum impact. Additionally, if you choose to set up your own campsite, please only do so on durable land surfaces.
The Tower Rock Recreation Site is located right in the city of McCall. To reach the BLM site from Boise, ID, you simply take ID-55 N for 95.7 miles. The recreation site will be on your left, roughly 10 miles after you pass the town of Salmon.
Ready to visit Tower Rock Recreation Site? 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.
