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Blackridge Wilderness

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

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Blackridge Wilderness

Blackridge Wilderness Area sits on more than 13,000 acres spread over Utah. It is one of the extensions of Zion and among the most incredible sights managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Two wild and scenic rivers cut through the Blackridge Wilderness. Around 7.5 miles of the LaVerkin Creek and 1.29 miles of Smith Creek are on the BLM property. Both rivers run almost the entire year and are covered with rich riparian zones of willows and cottonwoods. The channels of these streams tend to be a bit narrow with extremely steep sidewalls. Ecosystems in this wilderness area range from the low desert at the base of LaVerkin Creek via the pinyon-juniper woodlands found in the middle elevations. The higher elevations of the desert are full of ponderosa pines, aspen, and Douglas fir.

Blackridge Wilderness elevation ranges between 3,650 and 6,550 feet, making it a haven for experienced hikers and climbing enthusiasts. There are different varieties of wild animals that roam around this desert land. Some of the animals you can spot during your visit include wild turkeys, mountain lions, deer, elks, and foxes, among others. You'll also have the chance to see different bird species, amphibians, and reptiles. While there are no marked trails within Blackridge Wilderness, nature lovers can participate in various outdoor activities, including climbing, hiking, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and camping. The summer temperatures in the wilderness often go beyond 100°F. During the winter season, average temperatures are about 50°F during daytime and below freezing after sunset. Therefore, the best time to visit this BLM area is during autumn and spring. If you reside in Utah or its environs, Blackridge Wilderness is an enjoyable BLM camping spot worth your consideration.

What to See and Do

Climbing

Climbing is one of the most popular activities that travelers enjoy when visiting Blackridge Wilderness due to the many cliffs and mountains surrounding the area. It is a great way to exercise your body and enjoy the magnificent views of the wilderness area from the top of the cliffs and mountains. Remember to carry safety equipment and climbing gear since there's nowhere to rent climbing gear on the site. Summer heat in Utah can go over 100°F, so bring enough water if you plan on exploring the area during the hot months.

Wildlife Viewing

One of the relaxing outdoor activities you can enjoy during your visit to Blackridge Wilderness is wildlife viewing. You can spot large wild animals in the BLM area, including wild turkeys, deer, elks, and foxes, among others. Also, remember to bring your binoculars with you to see different bird species, amphibians, and reptiles on the site.

Picnicking

There are no picnic benches at Blackridge Wilderness Area. However, that should not stop you and your family from enjoying a mouth-watering meal surrounded by breathtaking sceneries. The nearby campgrounds offer picnic tables, allowing you to share meals and enjoy quality time with friends or family around campfires. Besides, picnicking is a great way to relax after climbing cliffs.

Hunting

If you love hunting, there are many wild animals within Blackridge Wilderness Area. You'll find game animals such as antelopes, elks, pheasants, wild turkeys, grouse, and mule deer, among others. Hunting in this BLM land is permitted as long as you aren't in a state park, national park, or near a monument. However, you'll need a permit to hunt in Utah. The good news is that you can obtain a hunting permit within a short time from dealers nationwide, as well as online.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

RV camping lovers can park their motorhomes and trailers in the nearby RV-friendly sites. Zion Canyon Campground is one of the closest RV parks to the BLM area. The park has 119 campsites, comprised of RV and tent sites. Of these, 105 sites offer full hookups, while 14 have electric and water hookups only. This camping ground offers modern restrooms, fire pits, grills, picnic tables, a swimming pool, playground, water, and a dumping station.

Free Camping

Lava Point Campground offers an excellent camping site for primitive campers exploring the Blackridge Wilderness Area. This Bureau of Land Management free campground has six primitive campsites and is open from May to September every year. Trash cans and pit toilets are available, but there's no potable water. This BLM campground only accommodates trailers and recreational vehicles that do not exceed 20 feet. Campfires are allowed, and you'll also find picnic tables around this Bureau of Land Management campground.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Blackridge Wilderness BLM trip

Since the Blackridge Wilderness Area is close to Zion National Park, getting there is fairly easy. However, the BLM site is surrounded by huge mountains and giant cliffs, making it difficult to drive big vehicles like RVs and camper vans. Therefore, if you plan on taking a big vehicle, remember to drive slowly around the sharp curves, especially if the road is snowy or wet. Remember to check the road conditions on the BLM site's website before your trip to avoid bumping into an unexpected road closure.

When exploring Blackridge Wilderness, keep in mind that there's both private and public land. Avoid trespassing and driving through private lands without permission. Cellphone service is also limited near the BLM site, depending on your network provider. So bring a map and compass to help you navigate the area without getting lost. Whether you are camping with friends, taking a BLM RV camping trip with your family, or on a solo mission, there's plenty to enjoy and see at Blackridge Wilderness. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

BLM requires every visitor to clean up after themselves to help maintain the natural resources of Blackridge Wilderness. Leave the site clean by packing out all your belongings and trash since the area doesn't have garbage collection facilities. Avoid confronting the wild animals and know how to behave when they approach you. Be mindful of other visitors on the BLM site by avoiding loud noises and keeping your pets on a leash. Observing these rules will help maintain the natural qualities of the wilderness area for future generations.