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), a government agency, oversees one-eighth of the public lands in the United States from wide-open spaces and scenic rivers to high-elevation mountains and other geological wonders. The agency allows camping, fishing, nature walks, and picnicking in these areas. One recreational area under the purview of the BLM in Nevada is the Dispersed-Nellis Dunes. It comprises 10,035 acres 40 miles northeast of Las Vegas. The large dunes with numerous trails make this a perfect recreation area for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts. You can explore the dunes on sand rails, ATVs and motorcycles. Several competitive race events happen here. It's also among the popular Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area.
Zion National Park is about 2.5 hours northeast of Nellis Dunes in Springdale, Utah. This is a perfect place for canyoneering and rock climbing. You can also enjoy scenic drives and view a variety of wildlife species. Other activities here include hiking, camping, and bird-watching. Alternatively, you can head to Death Valley National Park, which is two hours and 36 minutes northwest of Nellis Dunes in Furnace Creek, California. It's famous for experiencing the highest-ever-recorded temperature in the world. The activities here include hiking through the beautiful canyons and exploring landmarks like Badwater Basin.
Nellis Dunes Trail is a moderately trafficked out-and-back trail that offers scenic views. It's open for hiking or off-road driving.
Length: 2.2 miles
Intensity: Easy to hard
The Pecos-McLeod Trailhead is 42 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas. It has a gabion bench, two shade shelters, and art signs to help you navigate through the extensive desert plants. You can enjoy biking or walks with your pet, but keep it on a leash.
Length: 8.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Some of the top activities on the Buckskin Cliff Shadows Trail include bike riding, nature walks, hiking, and horse riding. The trail is 44 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas, and it provides beautiful views all around.
Length: 5.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
There are no water sources in the Nellis Dunes Recreation Area, but if you want to enjoy some boating, head to Lake Jacqueline, which is 43 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas. You can take a nonmotorized watercraft to explore the water. Fishing on this lake is only on a catch-and-release arrangement. The lake has a shark tank pool with mirrored glass, so you can swim with predators, ducks, turtles, and fish.
Red Rock Climbing Center, 40 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas, is an indoor facility offering top-rope and lead climbing. Beginners can start with the 35-foot walls, and there are even 1,000-square-feet radical hangovers and roof routes for the experts. If you want an outdoor experience, the facility offers guided climbing services at Red Rock Canyon, which is located 46 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in the Mojave Desert.
There are no picnic tables on-site, but you can set up your own in the open space or under an oak tree. Carry everything you need, and remember to clean up before you leave.
Nellis Dunes is the perfect place to drive an off-road vehicle or even hold a racing competition. Beginners and experts alike visit the dunes due to the diverse trails and stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip.
If you don't want to camp at the Bureau of Land Management free camping space in Nellis Dunes, there are several RV camping sites nearby. Hitchin' Post RV Park, a half-hour southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas, has full hookups, laundry facilities, pull-through sites, restrooms, and showers. There is also a restaurant on-site, Wi-Fi and a swimming pool. You could also stay at the Las Vegas RV Resort, which is 41 minutes southwest of Nellis Dunes in Las Vegas. The amenities here include Wi-Fi, hookups, a pool, laundry facilities, and back-in and pull-through sites.
Before you search for "BLM camping near me," note that you have an option to camp at the Dispersed-Nellis Dunes for free. It's a safe area that requires no reservations for BLM RV camping. You will get a space based on the first-come, first-served policy. However, there are no camping amenities on-site, so you will have to carry everything you need. Most people prefer camping at the Apex OHV Recreational Area at the intersection of State Highway 604 and Clark R. Petersen Road, 15 minutes north of Nellis Dunes. The spot is flat and well-leveled. There are no restrictions on the length of time you can camp here.
Nellis Dunes Recreation Area experiences sweltering summers and mild winters with cold nights. The region is generally sunny for most of the year, so pack accordingly. Remember to bring sunscreen, enough food, water, and flashlights. The area is usually tranquil during weekdays but gets extremely busy and noisy on the weekends. Camp at the farthest end along the Ritchie Bros. Auction Yard fence line for maximum serenity and peace. Cellphone signal strength is excellent, but it usually goes down a few times a day. Off-roaders should know that the trails contain loose dirt, sand, and hard pack. Pay attention to the rolling heels and dunes too.
BLM camping is an inexpensive way to have adventures in nature and explore new landmarks. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The BLM insists on responsible recreation to preserve public lands for the future generation. To play your role in this initiative, pack up all litter before you leave. Dispose of human waste and water appropriately. Do not disturb wildlife, and leave natural objects the way you found them. Use fire rings, keep the fire small, and burn all wood to ash to prevent accidents.
To get to Nellis Dunes from Las Vegas, take Interstate 15 North for about 15 miles to State Route 604, Exit 58. Turn right onto Clark R. Petersen Boulevard. There is a parking spot here, and you should see the dunes to the southwest.
Ready to visit Dispersed-Nellis 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.
