The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Many of the most scenic and peaceful camping destinations in the western United States are found on land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The federal government agency, which was founded in 1946, manages and protects more than 240 million acres of natural land. These areas are diverse, ranging from lush forests and crystal-clear lakes to vast, open deserts and majestic snow-covered peaks. Depending on your location, there may be several of these BLM-operated sites near you; to find out, simply search online for "BLM camping near me."
Wyoming is home to many BLM areas, including the Encampment River Canyon. The Encampment River Canyon is a wilderness study area (WSA) located at the southern end of the state, just north of the Colorado border. The 4,574-acre WSA features lush, forested slopes, sprawling grasslands, a gentle river, and scenic hiking trails. Every year, travelers from all over visit the serene area to enjoy activities like fishing, hunting, backpacking, horseback riding, camping, and wildlife viewing. The BLM site is also only a short drive from Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, which offers wonderful opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Located in the nearby national forest, the Lookout Lakes Trail is the perfect place for a quiet hike through gorgeous scenery. The trail meanders through forests and slopes, but the elevation gain is never overly difficult or straining. If you want, you can pause your trek to fish in the placid lake nearby.
Length: 4.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Browns Peak Loop is found near Centennial, WY within the breathtaking Snowy Range of mountains. The loop trail is moderately busy and can also be traversed by dogs and horses. The trail steadily rises, so bring plenty of water and be aware that the hike may require some endurance.
Length: 12.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Not to be confused with Oregon's Crater Lake, this Crater Lake Trail is an out-and-back hiking trail near Elk Mountain, WY. Best used between June and November, this hike features unforgettable views and calm serenity. Hikers should be aware that there will sometimes be downed trees obstructing parts of the trail, and the journey does get a bit challenging near the end.
Length: 3.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
There are several ways you can attack the Encampment River Trail, and one great option is to start at Purgatory Gulch. The out-and-back trail follows the Encampment River and can be challenging at times. Four-wheel drive is recommended for getting to the trailhead, and the best time to visit is between May and September.
Length: 5.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Conveniently located within the BLM site, the Encampment River is a popular fishing destination that's open to anglers year-round. When you cast your line, you'll have a good shot at catching a few brown, rainbow, and wild cutthroat trout. If you like, you can also use the river's waters for a fun day of floating or paddling. Another quality fishing spot in the area is Hog Park Reservoir, which is inhabited by brook trout, rainbow trout, and splake.
The nearby Snowy Range features quite a few climbing opportunities, especially for experienced technical climbers. Medicine Bow Peak, found within Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, is probably the most popular climbing destination in the area. Standing more than 12,000 feet high, Medicine Bow Peak is the tallest mountain in southern Wyoming, and climbers have several routes available for scaling it.
Keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep while exploring the Encampment River Canyon; the fascinating animals have been known to gaze down at hikers from their lofty perches. The area is home to quite a few other animals as well. You may also get the chance to observe mule deer, elk, moose, beavers, bobcats, coyotes, and black bears.
If you're looking to enjoy a picnic at the Encampment River Canyon, you'll have a couple of options. You can head to one of the campgrounds within the area and find multiple picnic tables and fire rings. Alternatively, if you want a more secluded experience, you can find a quiet slope and stake out your own picnic area to eat and enjoy the stunning view.
The Encampment River Canyon WSA is regarded as a quality location for hunting mule deer and elk. In fact, the site is considered a potential trophy area. However, there are no hunting seasons for bighorn sheep in the area due to their dwindling population.
Because of federal regulations regarding designated wilderness areas, RV camping is not permitted within the Encampment River Canyon. However, BLM RV camping is possible at the nearby Encampment River Campground, which isn't technically part of the WSA. The campground features eight campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, sandy tent pads, and parking spaces. The maximum vehicle length for the campground is 25 feet. In terms of other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, the nearby Hog Park Campground features pull-through sites and can accommodate big rigs. During summer, their sites can be reserved, but they're otherwise first-come, first-served.
For Bureau of Land Management free camping, the closest local option is the Battle Creek Campground to the west of the WSA. The campground is open from June through October and features both tent and RV camping options. Campers will have access to picnic tables and grills during their stay, which can last up to 21 days.
When you visit the Encampment River Canyon BLM site, prepare yourself for being in a very remote area with no major communities nearby. Supply and equipment runs will be inconvenient at best, so make a checklist before you leave and triple-check that you haven't forgotten anything. You should also bring along some bear spray and ensure that all of your food is packed and sealed tightly. Additionally, none of the BLM campgrounds in the area offer potable water, so bring your own, and consider bringing extra since you'll be far from civilization. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The Leave No Trace guidelines are a set of principles that all BLM visitors and campers should try to adhere to. These guidelines are aimed at preserving the health and cleanliness of the environment. Following these principles means properly disposing of all trash and waste, leaving everything in the area just as you found it, respecting the local wildlife, respecting your fellow visitors, and keeping your camping setup as low-impact as possible.
To reach the BLM site from Rawlins, WY, follow I-80 E for about 19 miles and take the exit for WY-130 E. Stay on WY-130 E for about 28 miles, and then continue onto WY-230 E for 11 more miles through Encampment to WYO 70. About a quarter mile west of Encampment, take a left onto County Road 353 and follow it for one mile south to BLM Road 3407. You'll reach Encampment River Campground after about three-quarters of a mile; drive through the campground to the parking area and kiosk in the back.
Ready to visit Encampment River Canyon? 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.
