Montezuma Canyon

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) in Utah is charged with managing and protecting over 22 million acres of public land. BLM sites offer a variety of camping experiences ranging from primitive or dispersed camping to developed campsites. In addition to the plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities, the Bureau of Land Management camping in Utah provides a chance to appreciate the area's rich history. From the earliest settlers to the Native American tribes that once lived in the area, the area's past is embedded in its landscape. Utah's canyons, mesas, and rock formations have been preserved for generations to enjoy. You can locate BLM sites by searching "BLM camping near me." Montezuma Canyon in Utah is a beautiful BLM site offering a variety of camping experiences and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Located just south of Moab, Montezuma Canyon is an excellent spot for RVers looking for scenic hikes, off-highway vehicle fun, horseback riding, and more. This BLM site is known for its stunning red rock formations, dinosaur tracks, and petroglyphs. Visit the nearby Canyonlands National Park, which offers plenty of outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, and biking. Arches National Park is also nearby and allows visitors to explore its namesake arches.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Edge of the Cedars Indian Ruin Trail

This loop trail is wheelchair accessible as a majority of the route is generally flat. The pavement starts near the Edge of the Cedars State Park and travels around Anderson Valley to Indian Ruin Trail. This trail will take you through impressive archeological ruins and red rock formations. Length: 0.3 miles Intensity: Easy

Pipeline Road to Cross Canyon Overlook

Discover this out-and-back trail near Montezuma Canyon that is perfect for a day hike. Enjoy the stunning views as you traverse red rock formations, juniper forests, and slick rock. Length: 9.5 miles Intensity: Moderate

Hovenweep Ruins Trail

This historic loop trail takes visitors through the ancient village and 11 Puebloan ruins of Hovenweep. The route is well-marked and provides stunning views of the surrounding canyons. There is a visitor center at the trailhead. Length: 1.6 miles Intensity: Easy

Cajon Group Trail

Learn some history by hiking this out-and-back trail which is kid-friendly. It will take you through Cajon Village, which has a similar configuration as Horseshoe and Hackberry. Enjoy surviving structures at the head and learn about the ancient people who lived there. Length: 0.2 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Fishing opportunities exist on the San Juan River to the south and Recapture Reservoir to the northwest. San Juan River is renowned for its trout fishing and offers several campsites for those interested in longer camping trips. You must have a pre-season lottery permit issued to float at any section of the river. Recapture Reservoir is excellent for trolling motor boats, kayaks, or canoes. You can also enjoy swimming at designated spots on the Recapture Reservoir.

Climbing

Comb Ridge is one of the best rock climbing options near Montezuma Canyon. You will love the spectacular views of the San Juan River while atop. The area is popular among experienced rock climbers looking for exciting sport or trad routes.

Wildlife Viewing

Montezuma Canyon is home to numerous species of mammals, including mule deer, pronghorn antelope, black bears, mountain lions, elk, coyotes, and foxes. The area is also known for its large population of birds, including hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons. Reptiles such as gopher snakes, collared lizards, and western whiptail lizards can also be seen in the area.

Picnicking

Montezuma Canyon boasts several designated picnicking sites, each offering a unique experience. These sites have plenty of picnic tables and charcoal grills available for use. For a more secluded experience, the nearby Recapture Reservoir offers several primitive sites with covered shelters and grills.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping around Montezuma Canyon is possible. Devils Canyon Campground is one of the best Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near the site, charging $20 nightly. Their camping areas accommodate a maximum of two vehicles. You can also settle in at Blue Mountain RV Park, which has RV sites with full hookups.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is permitted around Montezuma Canyon. Valley of the Gods is a popular area for dispersed camping and is southwest of the site. This area does not permit campfires, however. Remember that most locations only allow for 14 consecutive days of free camping.

RV Rentals Near Montezuma Canyon Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Montezuma Canyon BLM trip

When visiting the Montezuma Canyon BLM site, bring plenty of warm and water-resistant clothing as the weather can be unpredictable. It is also suggested to bring a first aid kit, insect repellent, and sun protection. You should also bring food and water with you as the area has limited dining options. Bringing a map or GPS with you while exploring the area is also recommended. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

It is essential to practice the Leave No Trace principles when camping in public BLM land. These principles include packing out all trash, using existing fire rings, disposing of human waste properly, and avoiding disturbing wildlife. Campers should leave their campsite as they found it, avoiding new trails or campsites. Following these principles helps protect the environment and wildlife in these areas. It also helps to ensure that the beauty of public BLM land is preserved so that future generations can enjoy it.

Montezuma Canyon Location

Drive south on Highway 191 from White Mesa and turn left onto State Highway 262. Drive for 8.4 miles and turn left onto Hovenweep Road. Drive for 6.7 miles and join Montezuma Canyon Road. Drive on the road and turn right to drive 0.9 miles north to reach Montezuma Canyon. Address: Monticello Field Office, 365 North Main, Monticello, UT 84535 Ready to visit Montezuma 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 of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying 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.