The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are terrific places to camp across the United States. You can generally stay at these facilities for up to 14 out of 28 days for free or at a minimal fee. While many do not have hookups, most are in unique ecosystems that you will want to explore. Some are near hiking or biking trails. Others are near great fishing holes. For example, consider Red Mountain Wilderness in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area in Utah. This wilderness is about 40 miles from Zion National Park, 146 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park and about 330 miles from Arches National Park. Red Mountain Wilderness lies directly east of the Santa Clara River. Snow Canyon State Park forms part of its southern and eastern boundaries. This wilderness, created by Congress in 2009, covers more than 18,700 acres.
The Vortex Trail at Red Mountain Wilderness leads to a natural bowl made of sandstone. You can climb in and out of the bowl, but the sandstone can be slick. Right before you get to the bowl, there is a small area of natural rock towers. Length: 2.3 miles Intensity: Moderate
The Petrified Dunes Trail at Snow Canyon State Park runs across dunes at Snow Valley State Park. The return part of this trail is uphill, and it can be slick in places as you walk across the petrified dunes. There is no shade along this trail. Length: 1.2 miles Intensity: Moderate
This short trail leads to a beautiful slot canyon. If it has rained recently, there is a minor wash where you may need to walk through runoff. Many beginning climbers will enjoy climbing in the slot canyon. Length: 0.3 miles Intensity: Easy
Nearby Quail Creek State Park is a beautiful place for a fishing trip. State workers completed building the 600-acre reservoir in 1985. Since the water can be up to 120 feet deep, anglers often catch large rainbow trout. Boats are available to rent at this park.
The Island in the Sky part of Snow Valley State Park is a terrific place for a climbing adventure. The Aftershock Wall usually offers the best climbing because of the many possible routes. Sports climbers will enjoy the shorter routes, but climbers combine the short courses with triad climbs to summit this 450-foot-tall wall.
Mohave Desert landscapes cover part of the Red Mountain Wilderness, while Great Basin landscapes cover other areas. Mixing the two makes this facility a terrific place to see wildlife. While most visitors will see mule deer, kit foxes, cottontail rabbits, jackrabbits, and lizards, lucky visitors may also see more elusive animals, like bobcats, mountain lions, and coyotes.
RV camping is unavailable at the Red Mountain Wilderness, but there are many fantastic choices nearby. There is a campground at Snow Canyon State Park, with 13 sites featuring full hookups. There is also camping available at Red Cliffs Campground, which is within Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. You'll find 23 campsites at Quail Creek State Park.
While you will need to submit an application at least three days before camping, the Sand Cove Primitive Camping Area is a fantastic Bureau of Land Management free camping place to stay between sandstone formations. Boondocking is also allowed at Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. You can also find free camping in some regions of the Santa Clara River Reserve.
Especially since this area can get very warm in the summer and there is very little shade, ensure that you check the weather before starting your camping adventure. Consider visiting in the spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate because the roads are often closed by snowfall during winter. When doing outdoor activities, bring enough water to stay hydrated. Potable water is minimal, so create a plan before heading to the Red Mountain Wilderness.
Walking on sandstone can be tricky because it easily becomes slick. Therefore, you should wear hiking boots with good traction that helps protect your ankles. Additionally, using hiking poles can help you be more stable. Hiking, biking, stargazing, fishing, and other outdoor activities are fun and help you reconnect with nature. Do an internet search for "BLM camping near me" to find new locations to explore. Before you start, make the most of your trip by checking out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Aim to leave only a few footprints and take only memories with you when visiting Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and other locations. Camp only on durable surfaces where others have stayed before. Minimize the impact of any campfires as much as possible, and pack out your trash. Furthermore, remember that you are visiting animals in their homes, so do not attempt to approach them.
In St. George, Utah, start on University Avenue going south. Turn right on Bluff Street, which becomes Utah 18. Turn left on Snow Canyon Drive. Continue for about 3.4 miles, and you will see the Red Mountain Wilderness. Address: Red Mountain Wilderness, Snow Canyon Drive, Dammeron Valley, Utah 84783 Ready to visit Red Mountain Wilderness? 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.
