The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The three Wyoming District Offices of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) preserve over 18 million acres of natural wonders for public enjoyment. They also regulate mining and drilling on over 42 million acres of mineral-rich land. The BLM promotes responsible business practices on public lands while conserving historically significant and environmentally sensitive areas for public recreation and learning.
Alkali Draw WSA is an area of nearly 17,000 acres. The draw is created by the convergence of several smaller draws draining from mountains in the area. Generations of erosion have sculpted the region, leaving a topography of washboard formation, rims, and cliff escarpments. Alkali Draw WSA provides hiking, hunting, climbing, and even cave exploration opportunities. The Wasatch National Forest and Ashley National Forest are just two of the many places to explore within a two-hour drive of Alkali Draw WSA.
The White Mountain Petroglyph site is culturally significant to four Native American tribes. Rock art panels over 200 years old line the trail. The site is ADA-accessible and is free of charge to use.
Length: 0.67 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This high-altitude trail is a short portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST). The trail follows Willow Creek before climbing through a stand of aspens toward a grassy plain. Old roadbeds and mine shafts provide extra points of interest to the extreme wilderness along the trail.
Length: 6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Tour is a 24-mile driving tour between Green River and Rock Springs. Over 1,000 wild horses reside within the Rock Springs BLM District. The area is also home to pronghorn, elk, deer, coyotes, and various raptors. There are several ADA-accessible pullouts along the road.
The Three Patches Picnic area is a short drive south of Rock Springs, Wyoming. The moderately developed site is accessible via a paved road. Several picnic sites have tables, fire rings, or standing grills. There are also group sites. The picnic site was created by and is maintained by local Boy Scout troops.
BLM RV camping is available at Fontenelle Creek recreation area. The campground boasts 55 campsites with covered tables, fire rings or standing grills, vault and flush toilets, RV dump sites, and potable water. Paved and gravel trails lead to the reservoir’s edge. A boat launch is also available.
The Weeping Rock campground is also available for RV camping. The campground is located at the south end of the Fontenelle Reservoir. Facilities include a small boat launch, picnic tables, vault toilets, and fire rings at each campsite.
Slate Creek campground is near Fontenelle, WY. This Bureau of Land Management free camping facility has dedicated RV spots, dispersed tent areas, and vault toilets. Situated on the banks of the Green River, fishing and small craft boating are also available.
Tail Race campground is a minimally developed area south of the Fontenelle reservoir and within walking distance of the Green River. The three campsites have tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet.
The Alkali Draw WSA is an undeveloped recreation area. There are no facilities and no drinking water. Plan ahead. Have ample water for everyone in your group. Have a plan in case of emergencies. Research the nearest population centers and have a route planned ahead of time.
Alkali Draw and the surrounding areas are part of the Rocky Mountains. Weather can be extreme and change in a manner of moments. Have cool clothes for the daytime and warm clothes for the evening. Long sleeves, long pants, and large brimmed hats will protect you from the summer sun. In spring and fall, jackets are essential. Don't be caught out with inappropriate footwear. Closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are your best bet in this area.
Experiencing the mountain wilderness is a unique gift. Being properly prepared will help you enjoy it. Make plans, but be prepared to change them. If a campground you intend to stay at is full or closed, do an internet search for "BLM camping near me" to find another place to sleep. There are several Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area. Have the contact information for the local BLM district office, as they can provide valuable information. Before heading into the region, check out our BLM camping blog for tips and information.
The Alkali Draw WSA and the Rocky Mountains are a treasure that we have the opportunity to enjoy. It is up to us to ensure that the region stays pristine for those who will follow us. Review the BLM Leave No Trace guidelines before you go out to enjoy the wonders of nature. Even inadvertent damage is damage. Know how to protect the wilderness as you enjoy it.
From Farson, WY, travel 15 miles east on Highway 28. Turn south on county road 4-21. You will reach the north boundary of Alkali Draw WSA in 25 miles.
Rock Springs Field Office: 280 Highway 191 North, Rock Springs, WY 82901
Ready to visit Alkali Draw 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 RV Share.
