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 the federal government agency responsible for watching over much of the most precious natural land in the United States. The land they administer is divided into more than 850 separate sites that represent a variety of ecosystems, climates, and geographical features. If you're interested in visiting any of these unique sites for camping or other outdoor recreation, search online or check on the BLM website for "BLM camping near me."
Located in northwestern Wyoming, just east of Yellowstone National Park and north of the Shoshone National Forest, the Bobcat-Houlihan Trail is a BLM-protected site. The beautiful trail, surrounded by the majestic Absaroka Mountains, offers a moderately steep hike that leads to the boundaries of the Shoshone National Forest. Visitors to the site typically come to enjoy the hike, ride horses, camp out near the trailhead, observe the local wildlife, or all the above.
The Copper Lakes Trail is found within the North Absaroka Wilderness and traverses the area around its namesake bodies of water. Best used between July and September, the trail offers a serene hiking experience. The views in the area are breathtaking, and you can take a break for some fishing in the nearby lakes.
Length: 4.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Hauser Lake Trail is a moderately busy out-and-back trail near Wapiti, WY. The lake is a great fishing destination, and there are lots of camping opportunities in the area as well. The trail is surrounded by colorful wildflowers and, occasionally, interesting wildlife. The best time of year to take on this hike is between April and September.
Length: 1.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
The scenic Pahaska Sunlight Trail is an out-and-back trail that travels through the lush Shoshone National Forest. The trail is surrounded by tall trees and wildflowers and is known for its impressive views. Keep your eyes peeled — you might spot a herd of roaming deer in the area!
Length: 4.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
You'll find multiple opportunities for fishing and boating in and around nearby Yellowstone National Park. You can kayak, canoe, or float tube on any of its lakes, whereas motorized boating is permitted only on Yellowstone Lake and Lewis Lake. Fishing is possible in all the park's bodies of water. Yellowstone Lake is perhaps the best spot to cast your line — the calm reservoir is home to cutthroat trout and non-native lake trout. Another nearby fishing option is the South Fork of the Shoshone River, which is adjacent to the Bobcat-Houlihan Trailhead.
Climbing enthusiasts have multiple options near the Bobcat-Houlihan Trail BLM site. Shoshone National Forest is one destination with a handful of adventurous climbing opportunities. The Horse Creek Slabs offer the chance to do some sport climbing, and the forest contains several bouldering destinations as well. Alternatively, if you're a skilled technical climber, you can take on some of the majestic peaks to the west of the BLM site, such as Wapiti Ridge and Trout Peak.
Campers and hikers at the Bobcat-Houlihan Trail have reported numerous wildlife sightings. The rugged, high-elevation area is home to deer, moose, black bears, grizzly bears, elk, antelope, bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, and even the majestic bald eagle. If you head over to nearby Yellowstone, you also may get to spot a few wolves, bison, badgers, otters, or foxes.
If you're looking to enjoy a picnic lunch after your hike or while camping, you can find a few picnic tables near the Bobcat-Houlihan Trailhead. Another good option is to bring a blanket and picnic supplies with you on your hike. That way, you can rest and eat for a bit in the peaceful, forested area before heading back.
The Bobcat-Houlihan Trail is a popular destination for horseback riding. The trailhead at the site features horse-trailer parking and horse-hitching rails, and the trail itself is well-suited for the large animals.
You can partake in BLM RV camping at the site's trailhead, but there aren't any hookups or services offered, and you won't find any other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby. However, if you travel north to the Wapiti area, you'll find numerous options for RV campsites. For example, the Yellowstone Valley Inn & RV Park contains 60 RV sites with 20/30-amp and 30/50-amp electricity. It also offers sewage and water hookups with its sites. Another nearby option is the Green Creek Inn & RV Park, which has full-hookup RV sites available.
For Bureau of Land Management free camping, you essentially have the entire area to choose from. If you're willing to search for a suitable place — near the banks of the Shoshone River may be your best choice — and set up your own campsite, you'll be in for a serene camping experience.
When you're packing for your trip to the Bobcat-Houlihan Trail BLM site, remember that you'll truly be on your own in the area. Other than an information kiosk and toilets, there is no access to conveniences, food, or drinking water. If you choose to camp out at the trailhead, your campsite setup will be limited to what you bring with you and what you can put together. The remote location of the trail makes it very inconvenient to make any type of supply run, so don't expect that to be a practical option.
You should also ensure you're prepared for the potential presence of grizzly bears. They've been known to roam the area, so bring along bear spray and be diligent about keeping your food packed tightly and your campsite clean. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
To help preserve the health and beauty of the public land, the BLM requires that you thoroughly clean up after yourself and treat the area with respect during your visit. If you encounter any wildlife, remember that you're a guest in their home and maintain a safe distance. Additionally, only set up your campsite on durable land, and if you burn any campfires, keep their impact to a minimum. Overall, please do whatever you can to eliminate all traces of your visit.
To reach the Bobcat-Houlihan Trail from Cody, WY, follow Wyoming State Hwy 291 southwest for about 28 miles, then turn right onto Park County Rd 6EH and follow it for 3 miles. This will lead you to the trailhead of the BLM site.
Ready to visit Bobcat-Houlihan Trail? 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.
