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BLM Camping

Lakeview

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

If you are searching for a quiet retreat, consider the Lakeview District in Oregon. The Bureau of Land Management operates this protected natural site. When you head out to the Lakeview District, keep in mind that many of the campsites are primitive. If you want to enjoy those Bureau of Land Management free camping sites, they cannot be reserved. These spots are only available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Lakeview District is a BLM site covering over four million acres of land. It has a diverse landscape that ranges from forested mountains to high elevation deserts. There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, including hiking, climbing, and water sports. The Gerber Reservoir and Topsy sites are located in the Klamath Falls area. At these locations, you will find the developed camping facilities. The Klamath River is also the spot for those who want to whitewater raft.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Petroglyph Lake and Poker Jim Rim

This out-and-back trail is six miles long. For most people, it is a moderately challenging hike. The course is popular for bikers and hikers, but there are some remote spots to enjoy a bit of solitude.

Length: 6.1 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Hart Mountain Hot Springs Trail

If you want an easy trek, consider this trail. Most people can walk the entire loop in under 20 minutes. This path will lead you to the popular hot springs. In the summer, the trail is filled with visitors.

Length: 0.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Wildlife Viewing

You will find plenty of bird species throughout the Lakeview District. Sandhill cranes and Ross geese can be found in the fields. Goldeneyes, mallards, and teals often flutter near the water basins. In some places, you can even spot eagles and hawks. Coyotes, mule deer, pronghorns, and elk often roam around the protected land. If you get close enough, you can see otters and musks near the rivers.

Picnicking

There are several picnicking spots in the Lakeview District. Grills, restroom facilities, and tables are located near the Topsy and Gerber sites. For the most part, there are limited picnic facilities. You will need to bring your own chairs and tables. If you head out on the trail, there are some primitive picnicking spots at the trailheads.

Hunting

Hunting is allowed in the Lakeview District, but you will need to visit the office to obtain a permit. Big game hunters can try bagging elk, mule deer, or antelope during the open season.

Fishing

If you love trout fishing, you will want to explore the Lakeview District. At the Gerber Reservoir, you can take your boat and head out for the day's first catch.

Vehicles

Auto touring is permitted in the Lakeview District. If you don't want to walk, then these tours are a great way to view the natural wonders. Before you head out with an RV, make sure that it can handle the narrow roadways in the area.

Water Sports

Whitewater river rafting is a popular sport in the region. If you are not up for a wild adventure, there are calmer activities to enjoy, such as kayaking and boating. You can even take a leisurely swim in the cold, clear waters near Gerber Reservoir.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

If you want more amenities than those provided by the Bureau of Land Management, then there are a couple of RV camping options for your trip. The Junipers RV Resort is a family-owned park set on a working cattle ranch. It offers fully shaded spots for RVers. Along with that, there is a reservoir for paddling and fishing. There are a few other RV campgrounds near the Lakeview District, including Wild Goose Meadows RV Park and Oregon Outback RV.

Free Camping

Boondockers will be able to use a limited number of BLM RV camping sites in the Lakeview District. Modern facilities are available near the more populated places, such as the Gerber Reservoir. At that location, you will find showers and restrooms. However, there is no access to water or electricity.

RV Rentals Near Lakeview Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Lakeview BLM trip

Before you visit the Bureau of Land Management campground, make sure you are prepared. Since most of the land is located in remote areas, you will have to be self-sufficient for the duration of the trip. Make sure you have plenty of camping supplies for cooking and personal care. Packing a first aid kit is a must. While you can get help, you may have to drive to a ranger's office. Most RV campers should expect to rough it for a few days. If you want to take the rig and settle down at a secluded spot, the Lakeview District is the right place.

When you park at a primitive site, don't expect any running water or electricity. You will be responsible for finding potable water for your RV. Consider an RV park if you want to enjoy the Lakeview District but cannot live without those luxuries. You can access plenty of amenities, including hot showers and laundry facilities.

If you search for "BLM camping near me," you will find Goose Lake Recreation Area. While it is not an official BLM location, it does allow RV camping. Before heading out to the Lakeview District, make sure to visit the blog to learn all of the details of BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When visiting a BLM location, remember to abide by the Leave No Trace principles. Being prepared is one part of those values. Ensure that you have all supplies before you settle down for the night. Traveling the roads at night can be dangerous, and you could harm the wildlife. Never park your RV in a spot where it can damage the local environment. If you go into a body of water, check that the boat is not leaking gas or other fluids. You should place all waste and garbage in trash receptacles. While fishing and hunting are permitted, always make sure you have the proper licenses to participate in those activities. When you leave no trace, your campsite should look like no one has been there.

Lakeview Location

It is an easy journey if you are heading to these Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. When you take Oregon's Outback Scenic Byway, it passes through the Lakeview District along Highway 395.

Lakeview District Office:

1301 South G Street

Lakeview, OR 97630

Ready to visit Lakeview District? 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 of 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.

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