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, or BLM, is a federal government agency responsible for protecting much of the country's natural land. The diverse natural areas that the agency administers offer visitors a variety of attractions and activities. Many of the BLM-maintained sites are popular destinations for camping enthusiasts looking to explore and get closer to nature. If you look up "BLM camping near me," you can check whether any of these beautiful areas are near you.
The Crescent Sand Dunes in southwestern Nevada is one great example of a unique BLM site. Located just north of Tonopah, Nevada, the Crescent Sand Dunes are primarily used for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Visitors take their motorcycles, ATVs, and carts out into the open desert for some thrilling experiences. Camping is also allowed around the dunes, so many travelers spend a day riding and then sleep under the stars.
Crescent Sand Dunes is about 80 miles north of Death Valley National Park.
The Old Tonopah Loop trail is found near the town of Tonopah and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trail, which typically isn't busy, offers scenic views of the surrounding desert. There's not much shade on the trail, so bring lots of water and sunscreen.
Length: 1.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Loose Tufa Trail is an out-and-back trail near the city of Fallon, Nevada. This lightly trafficked trail is excellent for hiking and mountain biking, and visitors frequently get the chance to spot some of the area's local wildlife. Dogs can use the trail, but they must remain leashed.
Length: 4.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Rattlesnake Hill Loop is a lightly trafficked loop trail located northwest of the Crescent Sand Dunes. The trail is covered in pretty wildflowers, and it's just as suitable for mountain biking as it is for hiking and running. You can bring your dogs along with you to enjoy the trail and its beautiful surrounding views.
Length: 3.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The calm waters of Walker Lake are found only a short distance southwest of the Crescent Sand Dunes BLM site. The cool lake is a serene oasis in the harsh desert, and it's a perfect destination for enjoying water sports, boating, and swimming. There's also a nice new boat ramp at the lake. If you want to do some fishing, head north to the Fallon area. Up there, the Stillwater Point Reservoir offers the opportunity to cast your line and catch a few carp.
If you're a skilled climber, you might want to take on several peaks to the southwest of this BLM site. Mount Grant stands more than 11,000 feet tall and features several climbing routes. Some of the other nearby peaks include Big Indian Mountain, Corey Peak, and Powell Mountain.
Because of the desert climate of the area, only specialized types of animals can survive around the Crescent Sand Dunes BLM site. Some of the species you may encounter are scorpions, snakes, lizards, coyotes, wolves, and foxes. In terms of birdwatching, you could spot various types of falcons, hawks, ravens, and eagles soaring in the desert skies.
You can find a few scattered picnic tables around the Crescent Sand Dunes BLM area where you can sit down and enjoy a nice lunch during breaks from OHV riding. Alternatively, you can head over to Walker Lake and set up a picnic blanket on the shore.
OHV riding is the primary attraction at the Crescent Sand Dunes BLM site. OHV travel is restricted to the existing roads and trails, but riders still have plenty of space to maneuver freely. The rolling dunes harbor many natural bowls, basins, climbs, and descending jumps. Keep in mind that the dunes at this site are somewhat soft. That softness can make it easy to get stuck if your vehicle isn't powerful enough.
BLM RV camping is possible at and around Crescent Sand Dunes, but it will be a primitive camping experience. There aren't any amenities or services offered, and you have to stake out your own spot. There aren't any other nearby Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, but you will find multiple RV campgrounds to the south near Tonopah. One good option is Tonopah RV — it has RV hookups, pull-through campsites, showers, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.
When it comes to Bureau of Land Management free camping, the area surrounding the Crescent Sand Dunes is wide open and full of possibilities. Most of the nearby land is desert, meaning you'll have plenty of space to post up wherever you desire.
Whenever you're planning a trip into the desert, make sure you're fully prepared for the climate and conditions. This BLM site doesn't offer any drinking water, so bring however much you expect to need and more. There's also virtually no shade or shelter in the area, so bring whatever sun protection you require.
To enjoy the most pleasant conditions, consider planning your trip in March through May or September through October. You should also make sure you always have a spare tire and let at least one person know where you'll be in the desert. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While visiting the Crescent Sand Dunes or any BLM site, stay diligent about doing your part to keep the area clean and preserved. The Leave No Trace guidelines outline the ways that you can help. Please properly dispose of or remove all your food and waste, respect all wildlife and your fellow visitors, avoid disturbing anything you find on the land, and keep the impact of your stay to a minimum.
To reach the Crescent Sand Dunes from Tonopah, take US 6 West/95 North and turn right between mile markers 55 and 54 onto Poleline Road. Follow the road for about 9 miles until you reach a dirt road on your left. Take the dirt road for about 2 miles, and you will reach the BLM site.
Ready to visit Crescent Sand Dunes? 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.
