The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees over 247 million acres of public lands in the United States. Established in 1946, the agency was put in place to help conserve the vast public lands and promote the importance of outdoor recreation. The agency also focuses on land restoration and clean energy. Along with over 400 campgrounds, the organization manages 81 rivers and more than 5,000 miles of trails. Keep in mind that most Bureau of Land Management campgrounds do charge upfront fees. These modest fees are used to help sustain and maintain the camping facilities. The state of Utah contains nearly 23 million acres of BLM-managed lands. Little Sahara Recreation Area in Nephi accounts for 60,000 of them. This unique recreation facility caters to campers and also attracts hundreds of thousands of off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts every year. Popular features include everything from dirt trails and sand dunes to the massive Sand Mountain that stands at a whopping 700 feet tall. There are three national parks within 190 miles of Little Sahara Recreation Area. Bryce Canyon National Park is about three hours south of the recreation area, and Capitol Reef National Park is two hours and 45 minutes to the southeast. The closest national park is Great Basin National Park, which is two hours and 20 minutes southwest of the recreation area.
Located about 50 minutes northeast of Little Sahara Recreation Area, this scenic trail runs along Salt Creek. During your hike, you will be able to enjoy mountain canyons and forested views. Moderate slopes provide a welcoming challenge for adventurous hikers. Length: 9.2 miles Intensity: Intermediate
This pet-friendly trail, which is 56 minutes northeast of the recreation area, offers opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. The trail winds through small groves of aspen and conifer trees. Since the trail doesn't get much traffic, it's an ideal option for those looking for peace and solitude. Length: 10.8 miles Intensity: Intermediate
The southern tip of Utah Lake lies about 53 minutes northeast of the recreation area. Serving as one of the top five largest lakes in the state of Utah, this 24-mile-long lake has a healthy population of largemouth bass, northern pike, catfish, white bass, and yellow perch. The lake also hosts a variety of water-based activities, including boating, canoeing, kayaking, and Jet Skiing.
With an elevation of over 9,200 feet, Black Crook Peak serves as the highest peak in the Sheeprock Mountains. The peak is located about an hour and 10 minutes northwest of Little Sahara Recreation Area if you travel via Vernon Reservoir Road. Rock climbers who make it to the summit are treated to gorgeous desert views.
Since Little Sahara Recreation Area is a part of the Sevier Desert as well as the Great Basin, it is a welcoming territory to a variety of interesting wildlife. Some of these animal species include the great horned owl, antelope, mule deer, lizards, snakes, and predatory birds. The Mount Nebo Wilderness, which is 56 minutes northeast of the recreation area, is home to mule deer, mountain lions, bobcats, black bears, and elk.
Jericho Picnic Area is conveniently located inside Little Sahara Recreation Area. The facility includes several ramadas, 40 picnic tables, restrooms, a play area, and an amphitheater. Another great picnic area is located 33 minutes east of the recreation area in Canyon View Park. Picnicking amenities include picnic tables, pavilions, and charcoal barbecue grills.
Little Sahara Recreation Area features OHV riding opportunities for enthusiasts of all skill levels. This recreational dune field features large free-moving sand dunes, dirt trails, sand bowls, low-lying sand dunes, and the 700-foot-tall Sand Mountain.
There are several non-primitive campgrounds in Little Sahara Recreation Area. White Sands Campground includes 100 campsites, vault toilets, and a children's play area. Oasis Campground offers 115 campsites, an RV dump station, drinking water, and flushable toilets. If you want to find more RV camping sites, search for "BLM camping near me."
There are free camping options just 54 minutes north of the recreation area at the Vernon Reservoir Campground. This open-setting camping facility welcomes both tent campers and RV campers. Restroom facilities, phone service, picnic tables, and lake fishing are available. However, there are no water services provided at this campground. Although Vernon Reservoir Campground is not considered a Bureau of Land Management free camping site, it is managed by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Helmets are required for all OHV riders under the age of 18. If you are over the age of 18, helmets aren't required, but they are strongly recommended.
Although off-roading does not take place on designated streets or highways, drinking and driving are still prohibited.
Don't forget to bring along a whip flag. Per both Utah state and United States federal regulations, all riders are mandated to use safety flags.
It is illegal to discharge a firearm while in Little Sahara Recreation Area. It's probably best not to bring any firearms on the premises.
Little Sahara Recreation Area typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures rising as high as 97 degrees Fahrenheit. The area averages about 229 sunny days per year. Therefore, be sure to dress accordingly. The least pleasant time to visit the site is during December and January when temperatures can fall as low as 19 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you've ever wanted to visit a desert ecosystem, Little Sahara Recreation Area is a perfect choice. This sand-filled recreational area provides opportunities for everything from off-roading and fat biking to sandboarding and wildlife viewing. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
As with all BLM-managed lands, make sure to show respect for Little Sahara Recreation Area. Clean up all trash, and don't leave any of your belongings behind. Alway practice the "Leave No Trace" guidelines durning your visit. Don't bring any glass containers as broken glass can become a major safety issue when left in the sand. Be sure to report all acts of facility vandalism to the nearest employee.
To reach Little Sahara Recreation Area from Salt Lake City, Utah, take I-15 S to Nephi, Utah. Once you reach Nephi, get off at Exit 225, and drive 14.5 miles along State Route 132. Stay on State Route 132 until you reach Route 1812. Make a right on Route 1812. Continue for 14 miles until you reach the Little Sahara Recreation Area signs. The entrance will be on the left. Address: 27020 W. Sand Mountain Rd., Nephi, UT 84648 Ready to visit Little Sahara Recreation Area? 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.
