The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
For those hikers and campers who prefer to explore natural areas in a peaceful, secluded setting, BLM sites are often an excellent choice. Some sites offer camping amenities while others have hiking trails, boat ramps, or areas of historic significance. Still others are largely untouched swathes of wilderness. To find BLM sites with camping amenities, search for “BLM camping near me.”
Gap Mountain Campground is a remote campground located near Nevada’s Gap Mountain. Because it’s so quiet and secluded, the area is an excellent space for private camping and amazing wildlife viewing. The closest major town to the campground is Ely, but the town of Lund is also nearby and offers many dining, shopping, and overnight accommodation options.
Located in nearby Spring Valley State Park, this trail is quiet and secluded and offers views of many fascinating sandstone formations.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail is located in Cave Lake State Park outside of Ely, and it’s a great option for viewing the surrounding landscape.
Length: 6.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Another beautiful trail in Ely, this path is an excellent way to spot native wildlife, and there are many photography opportunities.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the nearby Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, this trail provides incredible views.
Length: 2.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
A trail with some fascinating history, this path is located in the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park. It also has excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Length: 0.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
Comins Lake, located south of Ely and not too far from the Gap Mountain Campground, is a fantastic option for fishing and boating. Trout fishing is plentiful in the area.
The most popular spot for climbing near Ely is The Valley of the Kings, a large outcropping of rocks and cliffs. This location offers over 20 established sport routes, and there are single and multi-pitch climbing options in the canyon as well. The area hosts routes with a range of difficulties, and there are also some bouldering opportunities.
There are many spots in the area where you can view native wildlife, including the Gap Mountain Campground itself as well as the nearby Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, Comins Lake, and Cave Lake State Park. Wildlife enthusiasts can often spot or photograph elk, jackrabbits, chipmunks, ravens, golden eagles, bighorn sheep, deer, and hawks.
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is one of the best locations in the area for a picnic. Visitors can stop to use the shaded picnic tables and view some of the large, historic charcoal ovens. Cave Lake State Park also has picnic areas and provides easy access to several hiking trails.
BLM RV camping is available at the Ward Mountain Campground in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The sites are relatively small, but each features a picnic table and fire ring, and there are shaded canopy areas available for use. The Ely KOA Journey offers hookups, a dog park, and propane and firewood sales.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Cleve Creek Campground, which is located south of Ely, just before the Gap Mountain Campground. The campground is quiet and peaceful, and there are fire rings available at many of the sites. Berry Creek Campground also offers dispersed camping for anyone who’s looking for a slightly more rugged camping experience. The views from the campground are stunning, but the road in can be a bit rough, so it’s best for smaller vehicles or those with four-wheel-drive.
The area around Ely, Lund, and the Gap Mountain Campground sees relatively mild weather throughout the year. Temperatures can reach into the high 80s during the summer and drop into the 40s during the winter. Because the area is a dry desert landscape, however, temperatures can drop dramatically during the night, reaching well below freezing even during the hottest months. It’s always a good idea to dress in layers and pack extra bedding if you plan to camp overnight in the area. The Gap Mountain Campground is also relatively remote with few nearby amenities, so bring everything you need with you, including plenty of water.
Seasonal closures may occur in certain areas or be caused by different weather events, so always check ahead before you leave for your trip. It’s also always a good idea to learn about the policies at different BLM campgrounds and day-use sites. For example, some places allow pets on a leash, while others are not pet-friendly. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Whenever you’re enjoying Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, remember to either dispose of trash properly or take it with you when you leave. Use extreme caution when starting a fire, and only make fires in fire pits or rings where the burn can be controlled.
From Ely, take Highway 318 about 73 miles south.
Ready to visit Gap Mountain Campground? 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.
