The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail is a system of trails and paths around the Gooseberry Mesa in southern Utah. The rim of the mesa reaches 5,200 feet, giving visitors amazing views of the surrounding red rocks and land. You can even see the huge sandstone structure of nearby Zion National Park. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) protects and maintains this land. Visitors can hike, bike, camp, and view local wildlife in the area. Sand Hollow State Park and Quail Creek State Park are also easily accessed from this location.
The Zion National Park is less than an hour away, and Bryce Canyon National Park is about 100 miles away near Panguitch, Utah. Hurricane, Utah, is the largest city in the area, with a population of more than 20,000 residents. While stocking up on supplies in the city, stop by the fascinating Hurricane Valley Pioneer Museum.
This trail is best suited for biking but can also be hiked. You'll have an exhilarating time navigating the rocks, hills, and obstacles in your way. Catch amazing views of the nearby inactive volcano as well as plenty of petrified trees and wildflowers.
Length: 8.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This popular trail regularly draws in both locals and visitors. The trail is walkable but best suited for bikes. There's minimal shade, so bring a lot of sunscreen and water. The area's often windy, which will help to cool off the scorching summer heat.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Don't miss out on exploring this one-of-a-kind trail in Zion National Park. You'll start off walking through a creek before scaling your way up a steep, rocky walkway. There's an easily accessible waterfall that beautifully freezes over during the colder months.
Length: 9.1 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Quail Creek is a popular local fishing area that holds crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, and carp. Experienced and novice fishers alike can try baitcasting, fly fishing, and spinning. Many of the deeper rivers, creeks, and lakes are also open to kayaking and canoeing, but likely won't allow motorized watercraft.
The wilderness around the Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail is rich in climbing opportunities. Zion National Park is full of climbable peaks, including Mount Kinesava, The West Temple, Crater Hill, and The Watchman. You can also travel a little further south to explore the Canaan Mountain Wilderness.
Utah is home to more than 600 species of reptiles, birds, mammals, fish, and amphibians. Mule deer, pronghorn antelope, sheep, and bison all roam the area freely. You may even catch a glimpse of a mountain lion, coyote, or black bear. The Bureau of Land Management strives to protect and provide homes for several endangered Utah species like the Gunnison grouse.
The Gooseberry Trailhead has a bathroom available for public use. Feel free to eat and rest in this area before continuing toward the other trails. There aren't many shade structures or picnic tables nearby. Plan to take most of your meal breaks near your RV or while you're out exploring.
The Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail is far from the hustle and bustle of major Utah cities. With miles of clear sky above you, you'll have an amazing time seeing new stars and constellations in amazing detail. If you have any extra storage space, plan to pack a collapsible telescope.
Finding the right RV camping spot for your Utah trip will ensure you have premium access to the best sites and trails. Popular Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area include BLM Ponderosa Grove Campground and BLM Red Cliffs Campground. These sites charge minimal fees and may have amenities like vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. While searching for BLM camping near me, you may also find campgrounds like Leeds RV Park and Motel, Sand Hollow State Park Campground, and Zion Canyon Campground and Quality Inn. These campgrounds will have more modern amenities like riverfront access, dump stations, free Wi-Fi, and swimming pools.
Dispersed camping is completely free and legal on BLM lands in Utah. Make yourself comfortable at a Bureau of Land Management free camping spot near the Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail. Avoid camping right at a trailhead or too close to an established campground. You can also try to find a spot to park your RV on nearby W Main Street or State Route 59.
Every visitor to Utah needs to bring a lot of water, sunscreen, and bug repellant. Use a lightweight backpack, and be sure to pack a tent, cookware, and extra clothes. Bring a headlamp or flashlights if you plan to explore or hike at night. The summer season is often uncomfortably warm, so plan your visit during the spring or fall. Be prepared for challenging weather conditions like severe thunderstorms and extreme wind. Download any trail maps to your phone, and bring paper maps in case you lose cell service. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Practicing Leave No Trace principles is an essential part of being a responsible camper. Fully clean up after your group by removing all of your debris, food, and garbage. Try to find a good campsite rather than make one. Make as low of an impact on the environment as you can. Remember that while you may be a visitor to the area, the local wildlife calls it their home.
Starting at St. George, Utah, travel north down Interstate 15. Take Exit 16 toward Hurricane, Utah. Turn right on Main Street, then turn left onto State Route 59. Take another left on the Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway. After about 2.8 miles, turn left again and head northwest until you reach Gooseberry Trailhead. Download the Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail brochure to learn how to access the other trails in the area.
Ready to visit Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail? 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.
