The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Ferris Mountains is a recreational and wilderness-study area that is owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This area is made up of 22,245 acres of rugged terrain and tall mountain peaks. The tallest point of the Ferris Mountains is Ferris Peak, which measures 10,037 feet. While most of the land is hilly and mountainous, there are some valleys and meadows that make perfect places for overnight camping and hiking.
The Ferris Mountains are located 240 miles from Grand Teton National Park and 400 miles from Yellowstone National Park. The nearest town to these mountains is Bairoil, a friendly and scenic place with a population of about 100. For more shopping options or to get gas, check out Rawlins, a larger town 75 miles south, or Jeffery City, which is 55 miles north of Bairoil.
The Cottonwood Creek Dinosaur Trail is a short, easy hiking trail that makes a loop near the Alcova Reservoir. This trail also features archeological sites with dinosaur fossils.
Length: 0.7 mile
Intensity: Easy
The Sheep's Bridge Trail follows the small but scenic Sheep's Bridge over a river. The trail itself is fairly smooth but changes elevation regularly. It should also be noted that horses are permitted on this trail.
Length: 5.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Popo Angie Falls Trail follows a steep climb in elevation but has an extremely rewarding waterfall view at the end of the path.
Length: 3.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing and boating are permitted at Ferris Mountains in the multiple creeks that run through the area. Boats, kayaks, and canoes may have difficulty accessing the creeks without a reliable off-roading vehicle. Fishing is a popular activity here, and anglers can find species such as channel catfish and cutthroat trout.
Rock climbing is also popular at Ferris Mountains, especially climbing on Ferris Peak. The Ferris Mountain Range is full of peaks both tall and short, giving amateur and expert climbers the challenge that's right for them. Keep in mind that there are no marked trails to the top of any of the mountains, so climbers and hikers must navigate their own paths.
The Ferris Mountains are a great place to go for wildlife viewing because the area is full of canyons, valleys, and meadows where native animals travel and live. When you visit Ferris Mountains, you're sure to see deer or elk, and you may also catch a glimpse of moose and grizzly bears. Be sure to keep your distance from larger animals, and keep in mind that they are not familiar with humans because they are in their natural habitats.
While there are no designated picnic areas or shelters at Ferris Mountains, picnicking is allowed, and perhaps the most enjoyable area for picnicking is in the valley area. You can sit among the wildflowers and grass of the meadows and have your meal with spectacular views of the mountains around you.
The Ferris Mountains area is a popular destination for local hunters. Deer and elk are the most sought-after animals here, and rabbits are also available as game.
When you're looking for RV camping in the Ferris Mountains area, you may prefer to find a campground with electricity and water ready for you to use. One campground in this area you could consider is Rawlins KOA Journey campground, which has full hookups, water, and even free Wi-Fi. You may also like Red Desert Rose Campground, which has the same hookups, water, Wi-Fi options, and an on-site golf course. If you don't mind a lack of hookups, check out Dugway Campground in Sinclair, a campground on a riverside that feels secluded but still has bathroom facilities and shelter areas.
If you're looking for Bureau of Land Management free camping options, try staying at Ferris Mountains. This area permits dispersed BLM RV camping with no fees, and some RVs may be able to access the meadows near the area's front entrance. Keep in mind this land only offers primitive camping choices, so no electrical or water connections will be found there.
If you are planning to camp out at the Ferris Mountains, be sure to pack things like water and batteries. You may also want to pack lots of blankets and portable non-electric heaters if you plan to stay overnight because the nights at Ferris Mountains are cold and windy, even in the summer. During the daytime, it may be helpful to have light clothing and sunscreen to beat the sun and heat.
When you choose to camp on BLM-owned land, you're choosing a primitive camping experience in a quiet, natural environment. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When you visit the Ferris Mountains area, make sure to follow the BLM's Leave No Trace policy, which was put in place to protect native wildlife and habitats. Be sure to pick up all of your trash and food from this area. Bring your own trash bags for garbage collection since there are no trash bins available. Keep your distance from wildlife, too.
To find the Ferris Mountains recreational area, head north on US 287 from Rawlins for 42 miles. Then turn onto WY 220E and take this road for eight miles. Turn onto CR 499 for two miles, and then turn right onto Cherry Creek Road. Follow Cherry Creek Road for about eight miles, and then you will find a park entrance for the Ferris Mountains.
Ready to visit Ferris Mountains? 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.
