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BLM Camping

Welcome Spring

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) is a government agency that was established as an independent entity by President Harry S. Truman in 1946. It is responsible for managing public lands across the United States. These public lands comprise around 10% of the total land area in the country. BLM operates under the United States Department of the Interior to ensure responsible land use and conservation. The agency aims to maintain, preserve, and utilize public lands in a sustainable and adaptable manner. Bureau of Land Management camping opportunities are available nationwide although some campgrounds may require a reservation and a small fee. If you would like to find suitable and exceptional BLM camping options around your area, search for "BLM camping near me." One BLM site worth exploring is Welcome Spring in St. George, UT. Welcome Spring is ideal for campers looking for an off-the-beaten-track camping experience. It is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty, featuring stunning vistas of rugged canyons, vast plateaus, and magnificent rock formations. Additionally, this remote BLM site is an excellent destination to explore the area's natural wonders since it is situated 67.5 miles from Zion National Park and 167.3 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park. Visitors can expect a quiet, peaceful camping environment with ample hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing opportunities. Year-round, Welcome Spring boasts world-class climbing opportunities thanks to its lush riparian ecosystem, phenomenal limestone cliffs, and cave topography. The area's high elevation and desert climate create an exceptional outdoor experience, with cool nights and warm, sunny days. Also, the site has several notable historic landmarks, such as ancient rock art and cliff dwellings. These landmarks provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich history.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

The Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree Road Scenic Backway OHV Trail

The Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree Road Scenic Backway OHV Trail is a point-to-point trail near Ivins, UT. It is widely popular among off-road driving enthusiasts. However, it still offers some quiet moments during off-peak hours. The ideal time to visit this site is between March and October. You can even bring your furry friend along, as dogs are welcome and permitted off-leash in some areas. Length: 11 miles Intensity: Easy

Beaver Dam Wash The Cathedral

The Beaver Dam Wash The Cathedral is a moderately challenging out-and-back trail near Gunlock, UT. This trail takes an average of one hour and 46 minutes to complete. It is excellent for hiking and offers a unique opportunity to explore the area with little interference and disturbance from other hikers. Length: 2.9 miles Intensity: Moderate

Scrub Benchmark Trail

The Scrub Benchmark is an out-and-back trail near Littlefield, AZ. It is a moderately challenging route that takes an average of four hours and 49 minutes to complete. This trail is ideal for hiking and offers a chance to experience the area's beauty with limited interruptions from other hikers. Length: 7.27 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

The Virgin River runs through the Welcome Spring area, offering great fishing and boating opportunities. Fishing is allowed year-round as long as you have a valid Utah fishing license. However, boating on the Virgin River is allowed in specific areas. Swimming is also permitted in certain sections of the river.

Climbing

The Beaver Dam Wash, located about 30 miles south of Welcome Spring, offers unique climbing opportunities year-round. The area's dramatic topography of limestone cliffs and caves makes it a popular destination for rock climbers.

Wildlife Viewing

Welcome Spring is home to various wildlife species, including mule deer, coyotes, and bobcats. The site also features different bird species, such as hawks and eagles. Visitors can also spot the desert bighorn sheep in the Virgin River Gorge.

Picnicking

There are several designated picnicking areas at Welcome Spring, including the Beaver Dam Wash and the Red Cliffs Recreation Area. These areas offer covered shelters, picnic tables, and grills, making them perfect for a family day out. Additionally, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape while they relax and enjoy a meal.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

If you're planning an RV camping trip near Welcome Spring, there are several camping options available for you. The Virgin River North Campground is the closest campground to the BLM site and is located near Virgin, UT. This campground offers multiple campsites. However, the campground does not offer electric hookups. Another excellent camping option is the Quail Creek Campground, which is located near Hurricane, UT. The campground has several sites suitable for RVs up to 40 feet long. Some of the sites offer electrical hookups. In addition, a dump station is available on-site.

Free Camping

There are a few options for free, dispersed camping near Welcome Spring. One excellent option is the Gooseberry Mesa area. This site offers dispersed camping with no facilities. This area is popular among mountain bikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another great free camping option is the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. This site features several primitive campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The grounds have picnic tables and fire pits, but there are no facilities. Also, camping is limited to 14 days.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Welcome Spring BLM trip

When planning your BLM camping trip at Welcome Spring, it's essential to keep a few things in mind. First, check the weather forecast beforehand, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly in this desert environment. Also, pack accordingly and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for both hot days and cool nights. Remember to also check fire restrictions before starting any fires. Additionally, if you plan on camping in your RV, research the availability of RV-accessible camping areas and any necessary permits or fees. One of the joys of camping at Welcome Spring is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and solitude of the desert environment. Take advantage of the site's wildlife viewing opportunities, hiking and biking trails, and stargazing opportunities. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When camping on public BLM land like Welcome Spring, it is essential that you leave the site as you found it so as to ensure the area remains pristine for the next visitors. The "Leave No Trace" policy is essential to preserving the natural environment. The "Leave No Trace" principles include packing out all trash and disposing of waste properly, leaving natural and historic areas undisturbed, respecting wildlife and their habitats, and being considerate of other visitors. By following these principles, you can help protect Welcome Spring for future generations and preserve the beauty of the wilderness.

Welcome Spring Location

To get to Welcome Spring from St. George, UT, drive 3.7 miles north on Highway 18 North (Bluff Street), and then turn left onto Snow Canyon Parkway. Drive 1.4 miles; then, turn left onto 2000 North (Pioneer Parkway). After driving for 3 miles, turn right onto Old US Highway 91 and continue for 16 miles until you arrive at Welcome Spring. St. George Field Office Address: 345 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit Welcome Spring? 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.

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