Flume Canyon

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

Flume Canyon is a beautiful recreation area located in eastern Utah. Sitting just north of Moab, Flume Canyon is a great spot for a variety of outdoor activities. This location is public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM was originally tasked by Congress to manage public lands within the United States, making sure that public areas were maintained and conserved. Over time, the BLM has come to manage over 245 million acres of outdoor space. Visitors can often find free camping by searching for “BLM camping near me.” Most public lands offer their sites for free camping, making serene camping both affordable and fun.

While camping is available at this site, Flume Canyon is widely known for its hunting opportunities. However, there are other great recreational opportunities nearby, including hiking, biking, and more. This site is also less than two hours from Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Both of these parks are popular for their scenic attractions and breathtaking landscapes.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Fisher Towers Trail

Fisher Towers Trail is located south of Flume Canyon and offers an iconic geology hike. Hikers will travel between canyon towers and along a scenic creek.

Length: 2.2 miles

Intensity: Moderate

McDonald Creek Trail

This route takes hikers along miles of luscious trails. McDonald Creek Trail runs along a stream bed to the Colorado River, making it a great site to observe natural beauty.

Length: 4.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Delicate Arch Trail

This trail is located within Arches National Park. Delicate Arch Trail takes hikers through twists and turns, ultimately leading to the world-famous Delicate Arch. The hiking terrain consists mostly of large rocks.

Length: 3.0 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

There are great options for fishing and boating at nearby Highline Lake. Highline Lake has a boat ramp, making motorized boating an option. Many visitors use Highline Lake for kayaking and canoeing on “Wakeless Wednesdays,” a day each week dedicated to non-motorized boating. Fishing is available and common with fly anglers.

Wildlife Viewing

Flume Canyon is home to various species of waterfowl and large animals. Throughout the year, visitors can view wildlife in its natural habitat. In this region of Utah, there are large populations of mountain lion, elk, and black bear.

Hunting

The most common recreational activity at Flume Canyon is hunting. Primarily, visitors to this region take advantage of the large elk population within the canyon. During limited times of the year, black bear and cougar hunting is available. As always, ensure that you have proper permits and licenses prior to hunting in the area.

Picnicking

Flume Canyon is an accessible spot for picnicking. Because Flume Canyon is BLM-managed land, visitors can pick a spot along the various trails and open landscapes to have a picnic lunch. There is no drinking water on site for visitors, so be sure to pack potable water for your visit. When choosing a spot for your picnic, stay alert for rattlesnakes that may hide in overgrown areas.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is possible at Ballard RV Park and Cabin Rentals. This RV park offers full hookups, pull-through spots, and laundry facilities. Located just outside of Moab, Utah, this location is convenient for camping.

Free Camping

Visitors to this site can enjoy free camping on BLM-managed land at Flume Canyon. Flat grounds within the canyon can accommodate tents for camping. While there are no official campsites or camping accommodations at Flume Canyon, visitors can practice primitive camping anywhere that is appropriate. The Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are a great option for campers looking for a free place to stay near Flume Canyon.

RV Rentals Near Flume Canyon Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Flume Canyon BLM trip

In planning your trip to Flume Canyon, visitors should know that the area is home to rattlesnakes. Especially during the spring and the hot summer months, you can expect rattlesnakes to frequent the area. When camping or spending time at Flume Canyon, watch where you step and set up camp. Keep a safe distance, and do not provoke a rattlesnake if you encounter one during your visit.

Flume Canyon and the surrounding area does not have good cell phone reception. It is a good idea to pack a paper map and information in case cellphone service is unavailable. Additionally, inform others of your location and projected plans in case of emergency. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

The BLM successfully protects its lands by implementing Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines instruct visitors about how to behave when they are visiting any public, BLM-managed area. According to Leave No Trace, visitors should ensure that they are disposing of waste properly and only camping on durable surfaces. While enjoying time at Flume Canyon, make sure you leave what you find. If you are planning to have a campfire, carefully maintain your fire to minimize impacts on the area and reduce the risk of wildfires.

Flume Canyon Location

Flume Canyon is best accessed from Mack, Colorado. To get to the site from Mack, take Highway 70 west for approximately 28 miles. Take exit 214 toward Cottonwood Road. After approximately 15 miles, the entrance to Diamond Canyon Road is ahead, leading you directly to Flume Canyon.

Ready to visit Flume Canyon? 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.