The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The 30-mile-long Guadalupe Backcountry Byway is a scenic roadway that runs from about 12 miles north of Carlsbad, New Mexico, very near Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the northern edge of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, near Dell City, Texas. Along its route, the Guadalupe Escarpment and the Chihuahuan Desert become the Permian Basin. There are informational kiosks at pullovers along the highway to help you understand the constantly changing scenery, the local oil and gas industry, and the local wildlife. With two national parks and numerous other sites nearby, you will want to explore this area. Therefore, consider staying at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Generally, you can stay in these goernment-maintained campgrounds that offer minimal or no services for free or at a very reasonable fee for up to 14 out of 28 days before moving at least 25 miles away. Therefore, you will want to look for BLM camping near me wherever you go.
This trail starts at Southeast New Mexico College in Carlsbad. Many hikers follow this trail starting about an hour before sunset, to view the city below as the sun sets. There are many native plants, such as the Ocotillo cactus, and wildflowers along this gravel trail's path. Length: 2 miles Intensity: Moderate
This trail at Carlsbad Caverns National Park starts near the main cave's natural entrance. After following the path for about one mile, you will see historical mining equipment. The trail continues its uphill route to the White City RV Park and Campground. Length: 3.7 miles Intensity: Moderate
The Brantley Lake Shoreline Trail is at the south end of the lake. Start this trail near the Brantley State Park Visitor Center and follow it to Limestone Campground. There are signs along the trail's edge to help you learn more about the native plants and animals. Length: 3.2 miles Intensity: Moderate
Brantley Lake is a fantastic place to go fishing for bass and catfish. Boat ramps on the east and west sides of the lake make it easy to launch a vessel onto this 4,000-acre lake. This lake also has over 30 miles of shoreline, where anglers can fish from the shore.
The 15 crags at Last Chance Canyon in Lincoln National Forest are terrific places for sports climbs. A favorite location within the canyon is Mad Cow Wall. This wall gets almost no sun, so it is a fantastic place for a summer climb. The climbs on limestone rock are rated at about 5.1.
Black River Recreation Area, about 28 miles south of Carlsbad, New Mexico, is a great place to see wildlife and lots of birds. Head to the wildlife viewing platform in the spring, and you might see threatened Bell's vireo, gray vireo, and varied buntings especially in the spring. The platform can also be a great place to see mammals such as squirrels, mule deer and deer mice.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is a fantastic spot for a picnic. After your picnic, check at the park's headquarters to see what interpretative programs rangers have scheduled, take a stroll through the zoo to see the native animals living there and go for a hike along the Pecos River.
RV camping is available in three campgrounds at Guadalupe Mountains National Park. There is a beautiful campground near the lake at Brantley Lake State Park.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Parks Ranch Cave, which is about 25 miles south of Carlsbad. This site contains the largest gypsum cave in the United States. You can also enjoy free camping at Chosa Campground in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Another option at Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Sunset Reef Campground. Camping is limited to five days at this campground.
Guadalupe Backcountry Byway is very curvy in places. It is best to scan the highway as far ahead as possible. If you are approaching a blind curve, slow down. Concentrate on keeping the RV centered in your lane. Never go faster than you are comfortable driving or the weather conditions allow. Most people have a great time camping at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. This area allows you to explore unique ecosystems. You can go mountain biking, camping and hiking. Before you start, make the most of your trip by checking out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
There are minimal services along the Guadalupe Backcountry Byway, so be sure to fill up with fuel and grab some snacks before you go. Plan how you will contain your trash before you stop as you will not want to litter along the way. Since the byway is only 30 miles long, bringing a small trash bag may be a great idea.
The Guadalupe Backcountry Byway starts at the intersection of US 285 and New Mexico State Highway 137. Getting to this intersection from Carlsbad National Park is easy by going southeast on New Mexico 7. Turn left on US 180. In Carlsbad, turn north on Canal Street. Continue onto US 285 and continue until it intersects with New Mexico State Highway 137. Address: Guadalupe Backcountry Byway, US 285, Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220 Ready to visit Guadalupe Backcountry Byway? 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.
