The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook Trail takes hikers on a stunning journey through a colorful and geologically rich landscape. A federal government agency, the Bureau of Land Management, oversees and maintains the natural beauty of this 1.5-mile trail and the surrounding area. This BLM site is also open to mountain biking and other non-motorized activities, such as wildlife viewing and photography. Bureau of Land Management camping is limited to areas in Ten Sleep, though primitive camping is available at the Bob Draw Badlands WSA, located just a few miles north of the trail. You can also experience more of the great outdoors at two of Wyoming's most iconic parks — Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, which are fewer than 150 miles from the Gooseberry Badlands.
The Duck Swamp Interpretive Trail, near Worland, is a short hike in an 81-acre environmental education area. With interpretive markers along the way and flat terrain, this path is easy to navigate for hikers of all skill levels. On this loop trail, you can view a variety of indigenous bird species, like hawks, great blue herons, and ducks. Beavers, muskrats, and mink are some of the small mammals you might see in this dense wetland area.
Length: 1.0 miles
Intensity: Easy
Gooseberry Creek is a fishing stream located along WY-Hwy 431, just a few miles west of the Gooseberry Badlands. Anglers can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout along with bluegill. The Big Horn River is another excellent place to fish. You can snag walleye, sturgeon, and channel catfish along the banks or from non-motorized watercraft.
Ten Sleep Canyon is just 64 miles east of the Gooseberry Badlands and offers rock climbers more than 800 traditional, sport and ice-climbing routes to explore. The limestone surface of the rock in this massive canyon is perfect for crag and flake-crack climbers. Routes worth exploring include Circus in the Wind and The Morrigan.
Of the variety of wildlife you'll see on the Gooseberry Trail, deer, elk, and snowshoe rabbits are the most common. Black bears and mountain lions are prevalent in nearby areas, though some wander through the Badlands. You may also see foxes, raccoons, skunks, and badgers roaming through the brush. Pheasant, chukar, sage grouse, and partridge inhabit the area as well.
Picnicking is permitted along the Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook Trail and throughout the Gooseberry Badlands; however, there are no designated picnic areas.
The Basin Gardens OHV Play Area encompasses over 4,000 acres just outside the town of Basin. This expansive BLM recreation area features a wide-open space for ATVs and dirt bikes. The dry, flat terrain is perfect for beginners, whereas rocky areas give experienced riders more to explore.
The closest BLM campground that accommodates RVs is Castle Gardens Scenic Area, which is 63 miles east of the Gooseberry Badlands. This camping area allows BLM RV camping at four designated sites with access to covered picnic tables, a restroom, and fire pits/grills. No potable water or trash disposal service is available at the site, so you'll need to pack in your water and pack out your trash. If you want a camping experience closer to town, Worland RV Park and Campground features full hookups at 46 pull-through campsites, 13 of which are big-rig friendly. Guests also enjoy Wi-Fi, a camp store, and a laundry room.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is offered at the Castle Gardens Scenic Area, though you can also find free camping at the Basin River Access Site on the Big Horn River in Basin. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no amenities; however, this area accommodates rigs up to 35 feet. You can find more Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in outlying areas that are fee-free by searching for BLM camping near me.
Accommodations should be considered carefully when you're planning any BLM trip into a wilderness area. Have a backup list of campgrounds and RV parks to stay at in the event that BLM campgrounds are full. Many are located in remote areas without drinkable water or toilets. Pack your RV with extra water supplies, toilet paper, and clean bedding to make your trip more pleasant. Keep the activities you want to do in mind when loading your equipment. First-aid kits, sunscreen, and bug spray should be included on your list of essentials. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
BLM lands require that visitors tread lightly when they're exploring trails and canyons. Campsites on public lands should be kept clear and free from trash. Gear, refuse, and human waste should also be cleaned up and packed out if you plan on exploring backcountry areas. Exercise caution around certain types of wildlife as rattlesnakes and other predatory animals inhabit the Badlands. Be sure to stick to designated trails unless the WSA allows exploration off path.
From Cody, get onto US-14E to WY-120E. Turn right, and head south on WY-120E for 49 miles. Turn left onto WY-431E. The Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook Trail will be 7 miles in on the left.
Ready to visit Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook 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.
