The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The White Rock Range Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is a 3,767-acre stretch of mountain terrain straddling the Utah-Nevada border. The White Rock Range WSA is one of several hundred natural areas in the western United States protected and administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM is a federal government agency responsible for maintaining more than 247 million acres of land, spread among a diverse variety of separate sites. Every year, many of these sites are visited by numerous outdoor enthusiasts looking to forge a connection with nature and enjoy the fresh air. You can find out if there's any camping in your area by searching "BLM camping near me" or visiting the BLM website.
The White Rock Range WSA is not only a popular camping destination, but it's also frequently utilized for hiking, climbing, horseback riding, hunting, and observing the many amazing creatures that inhabit the area. The area isn't just rocky terrain either; visitors will also have the chance to explore numerous grassy meadows and pinyon-juniper woodlands.
Located near Enterprise, UT, Pilot Peak Trail is a moderately busy out-and-back trail best used between March and October. A river flows through the scenic area, and most of the trail covers rocky terrain. There's very little shade in the area, so remember to bring your sunscreen and drinking water.
Length: 8.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This loop trail is most notable for its abundance of beautiful wildflowers and impressive views. The loop trail gains quite a bit of elevation and is relatively challenging to traverse. For the most part, you won't see too many other people along the path.
Length: 7.1 miles
Intensity: Hard
The Lava Tube Trail is a popular out-and-back trail within Snow Canyon State Park. The hike will take you through desert land and past massive rock formations, and the views of the surrounding area are unforgettable. The trail is pretty easy to traverse, but if you decide to explore the actual lava tubes, it will require a little bit more difficult climbing. However, it's well worth it to check them out.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Much of the area surrounding the White Rock Range WSA is arid, but if you head southeast of the site, you'll eventually reach Sand Hollow Reservoir at Sand Hollow State Park. The 1,322-acre warm water reservoir is a fantastic spot for swimming, boating, waterskiing, and fishing for catfish, crappie, and bass. If you choose to fish, it's up to you if you want to cast your line from a boat or the shore.
The nearby White Rock Mountains are a unique climbing spot for experienced climbers. The area features quite a few interesting and diverse rock formations, which can provide exciting challenges for adventurous climbers. The mountains contain several routes for multi-pitch climbs; anyone who attempts these climbs will be rewarded with stunning views of the desert below.
The White Rock Range WSA is well-known for being the home of many interesting wildlife species. Make sure to bring your camera as you may get the opportunity to snap a great picture of a majestic cougar or bobcat perched on a rocky ledge. Some of the other creatures you may spot include badgers, jackrabbits, elk, mule deer, and various types of birds and reptiles.
You may not find any picnic tables, restrooms, or available drinking water around the White Rock Range WSA, but you'll certainly have opportunities to enjoy lunch with an incredible view. If you want to lay out a blanket, you'll have to find a spot that isn't too rocky, but the scenic setting for your picnic will be well worth the effort.
Because of the federal restrictions for designated wilderness areas, any RV camping in the area will need to be outside of the actual WSA. You won't find any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds at the site, but you will find multiple options for RV campsites around some of the nearby towns. One option is the beautiful Gunlock Campground, which doesn't offer any hookups but can still accommodate RVs. Alternatively, if you go a bit further southeast, you can stay at McArthur's Temple View RV Resort. There, you'll have access to over 260 spacious RV campsites with full hookups.
One nearby destination for Bureau of Land Management free camping is the primitive Pahranagat Campground, which is located to the west of the BLM site on the Nevada side. The quiet campground features 15 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers at the site are only permitted to stay for a maximum of 14 days per calendar month.
When you're planning a journey to the White Rock Range WSA, you should prepare for the lack of available services and amenities at the site. You'll need to bring your own drinking water and food, and you would be wise to only bring things to eat that you can prepare without much equipment. Some of the nearby campgrounds do offer fire rings, but they're likely the only cooking aid you'll have.
You should also keep in mind that the weather in southwestern Utah and southeastern Nevada can change very quickly. The summer can get very hot, but it may suddenly start raining. Check the forecast and ensure that you have all the clothing and gear you'll require. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The Leave No Trace principles offer a set of guidelines for keeping your impact on natural land to a minimum. The BLM requires that you follow these principles while BLM RV camping. Please avoid leaving behind any trash or food waste, and keep a healthy distance from any wildlife you come across. If you burn any campfires, keep them to a minimum, and don't disturb anything you find around the natural area as you may be disrupting the local ecosystems.
To reach the White Rock Range WSA from Cedar City, UT, start by heading west on Hwy 56 for about 51 miles until you reach Modena, UT. Take a right where Hwy 56 intersects with Modena Canyon Road, and follow Modena Canyon Road north for roughly 12.6 miles. Turn left on Halls Road and follow it west for 1.1 miles. Then turn right onto 13600 W. Head north on that road for about 11.1 miles, turn left onto a winding dirt road, and follow it west for 6.2 miles until you reach a "Y" intersection. Turn right at the intersection and continue for one mile. At that point, the road will merge with Reeds Cabin Summit Road and curve slightly to the right. After 1.9 more miles, you'll reach the southern end of the BLM site.
Ready to visit White Rock Range 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 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.
