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) maintains the Wahweap Wilderness Study Area in Southern Utah. The BLM works to preserve federally owned land for all citizens. Since the land is public, you're free to camp there as long as you follow some basic rules. You'll find Bureau of Land Management camping in most open areas where others have camped before. Don't park near a body of water or in protected areas. In Utah, you can stay on BLM land for two weeks within a 28-day period.
As part of the Kaiparowits Plateau, Wahweap WSA is filled with natural wonders. It sits among unique rock formations and dramatic red cliffs. It's home to a wealth of million-year-old fossils. Nearby, you'll find the famous Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Drive your RV around 70 miles west to reach Zion National Park. In the other direction, you'll find Bryce Canyon National Park. The rim of Grand Canyon National Park is a little over an hour away.
The Wahweap Hoodoos trail begins north of Big Water and leads directly into Wahweap WSA. It follows Wahweap Creek through a flat, sandy area that leads to Utah's famous Wahweap Hoodoos. The first set of otherworldly rock formations appears about three miles into the hike, with the final set a little over four miles from the trailhead. While most of the trail is relatively flat or on a slight incline, there's little shade. The sandy ground becomes muddy after rain, which increases the hike difficulty.
Length: 10 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This lengthy trail passes through canyons packed with pinyon trees, dramatic cliffs, and red rock formations. If you prefer backpacking and overnight camping, this trail will meet your needs. It begins on soft, sandy land and then runs through a creek bed. During the summer months, the area is hot, and much of the trail is in direct sunlight, upping the difficulty of the hike.
Length: 11.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This hike is short, easy, and scenic, making it a good choice for families. After a steep step-down at the beginning of the trail, you'll find yourself in a large tunnel. This trail was originally created as drainage for the surrounding canyons, and time and the environment have carved the tunnel into a sandstone marvel.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
In and around Wahweap WSA, you'll find dozens of box canyons, large boulders, and terraces to climb. Some notable climbing locations include nearby Buckskin Gulch and Jack Riggs Bench. Look for areas with limestone formations rather than the typical soft sandstone that fills the area. Be mindful of the rules when climbing in Wahweap WSA. Practice Leave No Trace principles—don't leave your carabiners and anchors behind.
Wahweap WSA and the surrounding region are prime areas for wildlife viewing. Wild ferrets and coyotes weave through the pinyons and shrubs. Bighorn sheep scale the sides of the canyons. You'll find black bears, mountain lions, and elk. Occasionally, you might spot a golden eagle soaring overhead. Every spot in the WSA is ideal for getting close to nature. Consider checking out nearby Old Paria, where you can stop for spectacular views as well as a restroom.
There are two Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby in Grand Staircase-Escalante. Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground has 13 sites, bathrooms, potable water, and picnic tables. There are no reservations, and it's on a first-come, first-served basis. Deer Creek Campground is more primitive. It has only seven campsites and no water. Because of its size, it's best suited for travelers who want to park their RVs and hike in. For RV camping with more amenities, including Wi-Fi, water, and dump stations, visit Kanab. You'll find multiple parks near this small, charming town.
Wahweap WSA allows dispersed BLM RV camping in any area where you won't disturb wildlife or the environment. To responsibly take advantage of Bureau of Land Management free camping here, only park where others have camped before. This limits the damage done to the area's flora and fauna.
When planning your trip to Wahweap WSA, keep in mind that many of the roads and trails are rocky or sandy dirt rather than paved. It's easy to get stuck if you take a wrong turn. When it rains, many of the roads become impassable. To see what amenities are nearby, search for "BLM camping near me." It's also a good idea to contact the Bureau of Land Management for terrain updates.
Check your RV's water levels, food supply, and gas since the area is remote. It's this remote, wild beauty that makes Wahweap WSA a good spot for BLM camping. You'll find solitude among the rare formations and twisting canyons. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
We all have a duty to preserve public land for future generations. On your trip to Wahweap WSA, practice what the BLM calls Leave No Trace. Whatever you bring in, take it back out with you. Clean up after any pets. Remove all your waste. Keep your trash with you until you reach a city or campground so you can dispose of it responsibly. Don't remove natural objects such as rocks or flowers.
Begin your RV trip to Wahweap WSA at nearby Kanab, Utah. From there, take US-89 east. After about 46 miles, you'll turn left on Cottonwood Canyon Road for access to Wahweap WSA.
Ready to visit Wahweap WSA? 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.
