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BLM Camping

Alkali Creek WSA

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Alkali Creek WSA is located near Shell, Wyoming, between the Bighorn, Shoshone, and Bridger-Teton National Forests. It’s also near Yellowstone National Park. The WSA covers 10,000 acres and has been left in an almost completely untouched state. There are few marks of any human habitation throughout the wilderness, and the vastness of the area offers a range of recreational activity opportunities.

BLM locations like the Alkali Creek WSA are areas of public lands that have been set aside for protection and enjoyment. These lands often offer camping, hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing opportunities, among other recreational pursuits. To find BLM sites with camping options, search for “BLM camping near me.”

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Mirror Lake and Lost Twin Lakes Trail

This trail in the Bighorn National Forest offers stunning views of the area’s scenery and often offers great wildlife viewing.

Length: 10.9 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Jaws Trail

This gorgeous trail passes by a creek and offers beautiful views and excellent photography opportunities.

Length: 6.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Crystal Falls Trail

This trail can sometimes be difficult to follow, so it’s best for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

Length: 3.3 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Porcupine Falls Trail

This short trail offers a few steep sections but rewards hikers with stunning views.

Length: 0.8 miles

Intensity: Easy

Paradise Falls Trail

Located in the nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, this trail meanders through meadows and forested areas before descending to the falls that give it its name.

Length: 2.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Medicine Lodge Canyon is one of the best nearby locations for fishing. Both spin and fly fishing are popular, and trout and mountain whitefish are the most common catches.

Climbing

Shell Canyon offers some of the best nearby climbing opportunities. The area features 25 climbs, including traditional, top-rope, ice, aid, and mixed routes. Piney Creek Canyon in the Bighorn National Forest also offers some excellent sport climbs, and there are about 85 possible routes.

Wildlife Viewing

The Alkali Creek WSA is the perfect spot to view wildlife, as it is secluded and peaceful. However, Yellowstone National Park and locations in the nearby national forests also offer excellent wildlife viewing. Native species include bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, elk, wolves, mountain lions, wild horses, bears, bison, eagles, and songbirds.

Picnicking

The Lake Point Picnic Site is an excellent location for taking in the area’s beautiful views and having lunch. The site offers several picnic tables, many of which are located near the water. Restrooms are also available.

Horseback Riding

Many of the trails in and around the Alkali Creek WSA are excellent for horseback riding. OHV trails are often the most suitable for horses, but riders can check what each trail’s designated use is before heading out.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

You can enjoy peaceful, scenic BLM RV camping at the Sibley Lake Campground in the Bighorn National Forest. There are 16 sites available, and 14 have electric hookups. Potable water and vault toilets are also available. The Shell Creek Campground also offers some electric hookups, and there are picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. Another excellent choice is the Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA Journey. This campground offers sites that can accommodate even the largest RVs, and 50 amp electrical hookups are available. A dog park and pool are also located on-site, and the campground provides easy access to nearby fishing and hiking.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available in the Alkali Creek WSA, but there are no amenities, and the area can be too difficult to navigate for some RVs. Free camping is also available at the Little Goose Campground. This small campground offers three sites, and it provides easy access to a number of trails and fishing locations. The Shell Reservoir Camping Area also offers beautiful primitive camping opportunities.

RV Rentals Near Alkali Creek WSA Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Alkali Creek WSA BLM trip

Parts of the Alkali Creek WSA border or surround private property. Stay off of private property unless you have been given permission to pass through it. Always obey any posted signs, rules, or regulations, and respect both BLM and private lands. The roads leading into and around the WSA can be quite rugged, and four-wheel-drive or all-terrain vehicles may be required.

The WSA and the surrounding area see relatively mild, dry summers, so most visitors choose to explore the area during these months. However, winter can also bring beautiful views. Winters in the area are very cold, however, and see heavy snowfall, so if you plan to camp overnight during the winter, early spring, or late fall, pack accordingly and always check the weather for snowstorms before you leave.

Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and wild areas such as the Alkali Creek WSA require special care, which is where Leave No Trace guidelines come into play. The WSA is nearly untouched, and to keep it that way, always pack out all of your waste and leave as little mark on the landscape as possible. Stay on designated trails and roads and only camp on firm ground. Try to camp in areas that have already seen camping use. Only start fires in pre-existing, designated rings or pits, and always exercise extreme fire caution. Keep a safe distance from wild animals. Do not take any plants or animals home with you.

Alkali Creek WSA Location

From Shell, take U.S. Highway 14 west for 4 miles. At milepost 0, the Red Gulch Back Country Byway/Alkali Road begins. This road borders the area to the north and east and provides access to the WSA.

Ready to visit Alkali Creek 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.