The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Pine Creek Camp Area lies in the very southeastern corner of Wyoming, just a few miles outside the town of Cokeville. The site, which offers a peaceful spot for overnight camping and numerous recreational opportunities, is one of many Wyoming locations administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). BLM-protected sites, which are spread throughout the United States, feature a diverse variety of ecosystems, attractions, and activities. Because of the appeal of these unique natural destinations, BLM camping has developed into a popular activity for those who enjoy traveling and feeling closer to nature.
In addition to its opportunities for camping, the Pine Creek Camp Area also attracts visitors looking to observe local wildlife, hike nearby trails, ride off-road vehicles, and even enjoy winter sports at the nearby ski resort.
The Historic Quarry Trail is located at the Fossil Butte National Monument near Cokeville. The scenic loop trail takes hikers through parts of the Wasatch and Green River Formations and leads to the site of a historic fossil quarry. You'll have a good chance to spot some interesting birds along the trail, and it's unlikely that you'll see too many other people. The best time to visit the trail is between March and October.
Length: 2.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Another beautiful trail near Cokeville is the Sublette Shed Loop, which meanders through lush forests and a gentle creek. The peaceful route features some elevation gains, but it doesn't become overly steep in any areas, and it should be manageable for most hikers. The loop trail doesn't often get busy, so it should provide some solitude.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Boars Tusk trail lies within the Sand Dunes Wilderness Study Area near the town of Rock Springs, WY. The out-and-back trail is extremely long but not particularly difficult to traverse. The route is sandy and surrounded by sagebrush as far as the eye can see. The Boars Tusk trail is open year-round, and there's no bad time of year to check it out.
Length: 11.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
The best nearby destination for angling is Bear Lake, which lies roughly 20 miles west of the Pine Creek Camp Area. The reservoir straddles the border between Utah and Idaho and is inhabited by a variety of fish species, including Bear River cutthroat trout, lake trout, Bonneville cisco, Bonneville whitefish, Bear Lake whitefish, and Bear Lake sculpin. The lake also features a marina and several gorgeous beaches, and it serves as a fantastic spot for recreational boating, watersports, and swimming.
There aren't many designated climbing areas found around the Pine Creek Camp Area BLM site, but there are a few options for experienced technical climbers. One of the nearest options is Mount Sublette, which stands about 11,000 feet high and is located in a very remote area. You should only attempt to climb Mount Sublette or any of the other nearby peaks if you're experienced and know what you're doing as the mountains in the area can be treacherous for unskilled or careless climbers.
If you enjoy observing interesting wildlife, you'll probably want to head southwest of the BLM site and check out the Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is revered as one of the best migratory bird sanctuaries in Wyoming. If you visit the area, some of the avian species you may see soaring above include the white-faced ibis, snowy egret, great blue heron, black-crowned night heron, bald eagle, golden eagle, and peregrine falcon. On the ground, you'll have a good chance to observe mule deer, pronghorn, and elk.
The Pine Creek Camp Area is equipped with multiple picnic tables. If you bring your own food along, you can take a seat at any of the tables and enjoy your food in the serene outdoor setting. If you prefer to really connect with nature, you can alternatively lay out a towel or picnic blanket on the grass and enjoy your lunch that way.
The Pine Creek Camp Area is a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys winter sports. For one, there are several miles of gorgeous snowmobiling trails found nearby. Additionally, the Pine Creek Ski Resort is located only a few miles from the BLM site and features 30 different ski runs of varying difficulties. The lodge at the resort also features a snack bar and serves meals during the day.
You'll find a great opportunity for BLM RV camping at the Pine Creek Camp Area. The campground features seven individual campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, you won't find any electrical hookups, potable water, or other nearby Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area. If you're in search of more modern accommodations, your closest option will be to travel southeast to the town of Diamondville, WY. There, you can stay at one of the quality RV parks, such as Riverside RV Park. A search for "BLM camping near me" will help you learn more about each location.
Another popular activity around the Pine Creek Camp Area is Bureau of Land Management free camping. As long as you put up your dispersed campsite outside of the established ones, you'll be able to camp pretty much wherever you like nearby. Wherever you decide to set up camp, make sure the land you're camping on is a durable surface.
When you're planning your trip to the Pine Creek Camp Area, remember to check the weather forecast before you head out. During the winter months, the area tends to see quite a bit of snowfall, which may affect your ability to drive to the site. If you plan to stay at one of the campsites, you should also have a secondary plan in case the campground is fully occupied. Since there are only seven campsites, it's not uncommon for the site to be at capacity, especially on the weekend during peak camping season. Since campgrounds in the area are sparse, you may want to bring along whatever supplies you'd need to put up a primitive campsite of your own. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
To help keep the Pine Creek Camp Area pristine and beautiful for the foreseeable future, the BLM needs the help of visitors like you. During your visit, please treat the area as you'd like your own home to be treated. The site is a "pack in, pack out" area, so please remove all of your garbage when you leave.
To reach the Pine Creek Camp Area from Cokeville, travel east on Highway 232 for about eight miles. At that point, you should see signs for the Pine Creek Ski Area. Follow those signs, and you'll eventually reach the campground.
Ready to visit Pine Creek Camp Area? 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.
