The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Located near the town of Caliente in southern Nevada, not far from Las Vegas and the borders of Utah and Arizona, Chief Mountain West is a recreation area and the site of the Silver State Trailhead. The area is sparsely populated, and it’s also located near Kershaw-Ryan State Park, so there are many opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife sightings. Chief Mountain West is a popular place to hike, mountain bike, picnic, or camp. The trailhead also leads to several OHV trails.
Bureau of Land Management sites like Chief Mountain West are public lands, but they’re protected by the BLM. These areas offer a way for visitors to get back in touch with nature. The sites also protect that nature, ensuring that the areas remain beautiful for generations to come. To find other BLM sites, search for “BLM camping near me.”
This trail offers excellent views of the park and the nearby landscapes. The trail is also dog-friendly.
Length: 1.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Although this trail is mainly used for off-roading, horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers can also enjoy it. The trail is generally quiet and doesn’t see too much activity.
Length: 28.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This short trail leads to a fossil site, and visitors can dig for trilobite fossils to bring home.
Length: 0.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
This gorgeous trail just outside of Caliente provides beautiful views and offers a great challenge for more experienced hikers.
Length: 9.6 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Located in nearby Beaver Dam State Park, this trail is a great way to view wildflowers or animals.
Length: 0.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Many visitors head to the nearby White River for excellent trout fishing opportunities. Anglers can use fly fishing, baitcasting, or spinning techniques. Beaver Dam State Park also offers fantastic fishing. The area’s streams are stocked with trout, and anglers have a five-catch limit.
Rainbow Canyon offers some of the best nearby rock climbing in the area. The area known as The Aretes or the Road Area provides 26 traditional and sport climbs up a limestone cliff. The Sandy Cove Area offers 19 traditional and sport climbs.
Chief Mountain West is a great place to spot wildlife, but Beaver Dam and Kershaw-Ryan State Parks also offer excellent wildlife photography and viewing opportunities. Animals native to the area include jackrabbits, porcupines, turkeys, coyotes, mule deer, herons, and bobcats. The area is also home to several snake and lizard species.
Chief Mountain West is a fantastic spot for a picnic. The area offers several picnic tables under shade structures. There are also fire pits and restrooms. Beaver Dam State Park also offers several picnic areas. The picnic tables are shaded, and barbecue pits, drinking water, and restrooms are available.
BLM RV camping is available at the Kershaw-Ryan Campground in Kershaw-Ryan State Park. The park offers 16 camping sites with showers and a dump station. Campers can stay for up to a week. Each campsite has a picnic table, ramada, fire ring, and grill. Young’s RV Park is another great RV camping option. The park is family owned and offers full hookups. The park is pet-friendly and provides access to nearby trails.
Visitors can enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping right at Chief Mountain West. There are few amenities, but the camping area is private and secluded and provides beautiful views. Chief Mountain South also offers similar camping amenities. The Stampede Campground is another great free camping option. The campground offers only primitive sites and no amenities, but it provides gorgeous views, and it’s close to several towns.
The Chief Mountain West area is relatively remote. Remember to always let someone know where you’ll be going and when you plan to return so that they can alert emergency services if necessary. Bring first aid supplies with you so you can treat minor issues. It’s also a good idea to pack plenty of water and snacks.
Temperatures around Chief Mountain West are relatively pleasant throughout the year, with summer daytime temperatures in the high 80s or low 90s and winter daytime temperatures in the mid-40s or -50s. However, nighttime temperatures can drop swiftly, often reaching below freezing. If you plan to camp in the area or you want to stay out into the evening, dress in layers and prepare for the cold. Always check the weather before you head out, and don’t hike along the trails if storms are in the forecast. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When hiking, always stay on the trail so as not to disturb the landscape. If you plan to boondock outside of Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, choose an area that has been used previously or doesn’t have too much vegetation. Always pack out everything you bring with you, including food waste.
From Caliente, take U.S. Highway 93 west for about 16 miles until you reach North Poleline Road. Continue on North Poleline Road northwest for about three miles. You’ll see a sign for the Silver State Trailhead. Turn east and continue for another half a mile until you reach the trailhead and recreation site.
Ready to visit Chief Mountain West? 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.
