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BLM Camping

Diablo Canyon Recreation Area


The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

If you are looking for a remote camping adventure, try Bureau of Land Management free camping. Although many BLM camping experiences are free, some sites charge a nominal fee to use their facilities. BLM camping is usually set in undeveloped areas, although RV camping is occasionally available. One may also experience boondocking or dry camping at BLM sites. If you want to check out Diablo Canyon Recreation Area, you will have a primitive camping experience. The area features four walk-in tent sites and four car sites, but it has no water or restroom facilities. A lack of modern amenities is typical at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Fire pits and grills are usually provided, but little else is available. Some sites take advanced reservations, but most are available on a first-come, first-served basis, including Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. Campers can spend up to 14 days on a BLM campsite. If you are planning a BLM camping trip to hike the majestic cliffs of Diablo Canyon, search “BLM camping near me" for all available locations.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Diablo Canyon Trail

Diablo Canyon Trail is an out-and-back trail that runs through the recreation area. It is a popular trail for hiking, camping, and birding. The best time to hike this trail is between November and April. Length: 5.9 miles Intensity: Medium

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

Fishing and boating aren't the top recreational activities when camping in the Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. However, you may participate in these activities in nearby state parks, such as Pecos Canyon State Park.

ClimbingClimbing

People flock to Diablo Canyon Recreation Area to scale the vertical walls of the beautiful canyon. There are more than 100 climbing routes near Diablo Canyon Recreation Area, and most of the climbs rank at a mid-level intensity. Winter Wall and Solar Cave are the top climbing attractions at Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. However, one may also opt for Eden Canyon, Groot, or Sun Devil Wall.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

As you are hiking or camping at Diablo Canyon, note that some venomous reptiles call this area their home, so always be aware of your surroundings. The 5.9-mile trail throughout the canyon offers many opportunities for birding. You may also find salamanders, native wildflowers, and various amphibians during your adventure.

Picnicking

Picnicking is available at the camping areas throughout the park, but individuals are asked to follow the "Leave No Trace" policy when picnicking. There are multiple fire rings and picnic tables throughout the recreation area for your convenience.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

Although four car sites are available at Diablo Canyon Recreation Area, BLM RV camping is not possible at Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. In nearby Sandoval County, the Vista Linda Campground allows for RV camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping costs $10 per vehicle per night, and vault toilets are available. The Jemez Falls Campground is open May through November and accommodates RVs up to 40 feet. They also charge $10 per vehicle per night, and potable water is available. Paliza Family Campground costs $8 per vehicle per night. There are 30 sites available, and five feature shade shelters. This campground offers vault toilets but no dump station.

Free Camping Campground Icon

There is no fee to camp at the Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. However, campers are only permitted to stay up to two weeks.

RV Rentals Near Diablo Canyon Recreation Area Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Diablo Canyon Recreation Area BLM trip

Diablo Canyon Recreation Area is nestled between the dramatic vertical cliffs of the canyon with the same name, making it a perfect destination for rock climbing and scenic, challenging hikes. The BLM campsite lies on the eastern side of the canyon, while the U.S. Forest Service manages the opposite side. You might recognize the scenery from the big screen as Diablo Canyon has been featured in several films. Many people enjoy BLM camping in this area due to the remote nature of the campsites. While the best months to visit are in late spring and early fall, if you don't mind the heat, summer is also a good time for BLM camping in Diablo Canyon. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

It is important to "Leave No Trace" when ending your adventure at Diablo Canyon Recreation Area to maintain the BLM site for future enjoyment. "Leave no trace" means picking up all trash, disposing of it properly, and removing any other items that might indicate that you have recently been at the campsite. In addition, remove all food waste so that wildlife isn't attracted to campsites.

Leave No Trace
Location

Diablo Canyon Recreation Area Location

Address: Old Buckman Road, Santa Fe, NM 87506 To get to Diablo Canyon Recreation Area, take Veterans Memorial Highway, also known as State Road 599, to the Camino La Tierra Road exit. Head west for approximately four miles toward the Rio Grande. Turn right on Old Buckman Road, which is a dirt road. Parking for Diablo Canyon Recreation Area is located 7.5 miles down the road on the left. Ready to visit Diablo Canyon Recreation Area? 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.