The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Crystal Cave, also known as the Crystal Ball Cave, is a unique tourist attraction located in western Utah, only a couple of miles from the Nevada border. The site is one of many public areas in Utah under the protection of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Featuring a variety of impressive rooms and passages to explore, the cave is known as a fascinating destination for novice cavers. Many visitors to the cave choose to camp out in the remote area, which offers plenty of solitude and an excellent opportunity to connect with nature. Additionally, the site is located only a short drive from the breathtaking Great Basin National Park. Many of the sites protected by the BLM are top-tier camping destinations, which is why BLM camping is a frequent pastime for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to find the best Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and other sites in your area, perform an online search for "BLM camping near me."
This gorgeous out-and-back trail is located within Great Basin National Park. The route takes hikers through a grove of bristlecone pine trees and to the only glacier in all of Nevada. Throughout the trail, you'll find interpretive signs providing info about the local ecosystem. As you explore the area, you should keep an eye on the skies for the many interesting bird species inhabiting the area.
Length: 4.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This tranquil loop trail is another popular hiking route in Great Basin National Park. As you navigate the trail, you'll pass through forested areas and near two small alpine lakes. This route is suitable for hikers of all ability levels, including children. The ideal times to visit are between March and October.
Length: 2.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
This out-and-back trail explores the scenic wildlife refuge located northeast of the Crystal Cave BLM site. The trail, which can be fairly muddy after it rains, offers excellent opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife. You're welcome to bring your pups with you as long as they remain leashed.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
There aren't many significant bodies of water in the area surrounding Crystal Cave. However, if you're willing to drive a bit, there are some good boating and fishing spots to consider. If you head southeast of the BLM site, you'll reach Clear Lake, a very small lake that offers decent trout fishing opportunities. However, if you head a bit farther east to Yuba Lake, you can cast your line for trout, catfish, walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, and other fish species. Yuba Lake is also a popular spot for boating and watersports.
Rock climbing isn't a particularly popular activity in western Utah, but if you head into eastern Nevada, there are a few destinations worth checking out. One spot is Ely Ten, which offers a traditional climbing route near the city of Ely, NV. As you climb the rock formation, you'll also find a stone cave that you can explore.
The best area for wildlife viewing near Crystal Cave is the Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is revered as a premier birdwatching destination, with species like Canada geese, tundra swans, rough-legged hawks, short-eared owls, northern harriers, great blue herons, and many other avian species calling the area home. Other creatures known to inhabit the park include cougars, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and deer.
There aren't any established picnic areas around the Crystal Cave BLM site, and there aren't any nearby parks either. However, if you bring a picnic blanket or some other type of surface to sit on, you should have no problem finding a peaceful place to enjoy a meal outside the cavern.
The most popular activity at Crystal Cave is exploring the fascinating on-site caverns. The family-friendly attraction is filled with stalagmites, stalactites, columns, and crystal balls. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn all about its unique geology and history.
There aren't any established campgrounds at the Crystal Cave BLM site, but visitors are still welcome to enjoy BLM RV camping. You won't have access to any significant amenities or services at the site, and there aren't any RV hookups either. If you want to camp somewhere more modern, the best option is to travel west toward the Ely area. There, you can check out reputable RV parks such as the Majors Place RV Park or the Ely KOA Journey.
If you want to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping, you can stake out a spot in the area surrounding Crystal Cave. There's lots of open space throughout the area, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding spots for dispersed camping. However, it may be tough to find a secluded or shaded area.
When you're planning a trip to Crystal Cave, you should prepare for the BLM site's remote location. It will be a significant drive to reach any notable towns from the site, so you should bring everything you'll need with you. The site doesn't offer any food, potable water, or other supplies. You should also check the weather forecast before you leave for Crystal Cave. During the summer, the weather can get extremely hot in the area, so you may want to bring sun protection and lots of extra drinking water. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
While exploring the Crystal Cave BLM site, please follow the "Leave No Trace" guidelines. If you partake in dispersed camping, only set up your campsite on durable land. Pack out everything you bring in, and only observe wildlife from a safe distance.
To reach Crystal Cave from Ely, head south on US-50 E for about 64 miles. When you reach Gandy Road, turn left, and follow it for another 28.2 miles. Next, take a left onto W 30000 N Road, continue for 0.8 miles, and turn right onto N 4500 W Road. After 0.3 more miles, the Crystal Cave BLM site will be on your left.
Ready to visit Crystal Cave? 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.
