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) manages nearly 10% of all American land. If you're looking for a rugged camping adventure, then consider Bessemer Bend, which is a BLM-managed spot in Wyoming. This site sits under the unique Red Buttes, and it was part of the Oregon Trail. In fact, it was the final fording site for the North Platte River. Bessemer Bend was a crucial low-water crossing for emigrants traversing the continent who didn't want to pay tolls for ferry crossings downstream. Today, the location has an interpretive site and a trail, picnic tables, parking, and a vault toilet. No fee is required, and it is ADA-accessible. Wyoming's two national parks are both northwest of Bessemer Bend. Yellowstone National Park is about 270 miles away, and Grand Teton National Park is about 250 miles away.
This hike in Rotary Park lets you start at the base of a waterfall and get breathtaking views of the city of Casper. Expect to see blue grouse and deer along this well-marked path. The trail is dotted with cabins along the way. Length: 4.5 miles Intensity: Easy
If you want time on the water, then Alcova Reservoir is where to go. With nearly 2,500 acres of water, it's a premier destination in the area for fishing. You might hook walleye or kokanee salmon, and there is plenty of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. The banks of this lake have beaches, campgrounds, and even a full-service restaurant.
The town of Alcova is also a great destination for rock climbing, thanks to Fremont Canyon. This place is a gorgeous destination and also one of the state's hidden gems. The North Platte River runs through the canyon, and the towering rock walls are a thrill to climb. The climbs here run from 40 feet to more than 400, and the difficulty range is 5.6 up to 5.13 with good holds.
Dozens of bird species might be flying overhead while you're here. If you're lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of some bald eagles. On land, you'll probably see plenty of pronghorn, foxes, and mule deer. Badgers, black bears, and elk are other animals that you might see on occasion.
Rotary Park is nearby and is home to Garden Creek Falls. Its a great place for a meal outside. There are multiple picnic tables and a gazebo in a location with iron footbridges. Sit and dine sitting among ponderosa pine and aspens.
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds aren't available at Bessemer Bend itself, but you can do BLM RV camping at other sites in the area. Buffaloberry Campground outside of Alcova has four RV camping sites and offers a vault toilet, fire rings, and picnic tables. The site is ADA-accessible but doesn't have water. Sites are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Pete's Draw Campground has seven campsites with RV parking, fire rings, and picnic tables. No water is available, and sites are first come, first served. Activities include boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing for both overnight and day-use visitors.
Bureau of Land Management free camping in dispersed style is available at Riverside Park in the city of Douglas. There is no reservation system available, so overnight campsites are given on a first-come, first-served basis. Take advantage of a sanitary dump station, drinking water, showers, toilets, and fire rings in the ADA-accessible space. You can reserve the park shelter for free, but you'll need to handle permits and fees if your event includes liquor. To see all of the available options for free BLM camping nearby, search "BLM camping near me" when you arrive near Casper.
Be aware of the fact that bears might visit your campsite. Most wildlife in Wyoming is shy and will stay away from you, but food can change their mind. Pack up your trash and food securely at night. Also, while buffalos, bears, and moose may look docile, they are aggressive when they are startled or feel threatened, so keep your distance. All of these animals are deceptively fast, so stay further away than you think you need to. When the sun goes down, you should also be ready for the cold. Low humidity and high altitude can mean dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Pack a warm coat and pants, even if you're visiting in the summer. Always have sunscreen handy. Most of the state has a high altitude, and that means more UV exposure than you might be used to. Your sunscreen should be at least SPF 30, and sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide provide more physical protection. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Being able to use BLM lands recreationally is tempered by the responsibility of preserving them for later use. If you genuinely want to leave no impact, then you need to plan in advance so that you're prepared to truly leave no trace of your visit. Check maps to be sure you only travel on durable surfaces with your RV, and dispose of all your waste correctly.
Starting from Casper, head south 8.1 miles on CY Ave./Wyoming Blvd. When you get to the intersection with WYO-220, make a right turn. Follow Bessemer Bend Road to the west for 2.1 miles until you get to the bridge. Casper Field Office Address: 2987 Prospector Drive, Casper, WY 82604 Ready to visit Bessemer Bend? 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.
