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BLM Camping

Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak)

BLM sites are areas of public lands that are unincorporated. These sites can be excellent spots for wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, learning about the area’s history, or even doing some Bureau of Land Management free camping. To learn more about what each individual site offers, do a search for “BLM camping near me.”

Sweetwater Rocks, also known as Savage Peak, encompasses an area of 7,041 acres. The area is relatively remote and is quite rugged, with several mountainous areas. There are also a mix of meadows, sagebrush, pine, fir, and aspen stands. Both the remote location and untouched landscape make Sweetwater Rocks an excellent place for camping, hiking, photography, wildlife viewing, or simply getting away from it all for a while.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Johnny Behind the Rocks Trail

This trail in Lander, one of the closest cities to Sweetwater Rocks, rewards hikers with stunning views of the area.

Length: 7.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

North Slope Trail

This trail in Sinks Canyon State Park offers incredible views of the canyon.

Length: 3.3 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Raft Lake Trail

Located in the Wind River Roadless Area, this trail is quiet and secluded.

Length: 13.5 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Upper Brewers Trail

This beautiful trail takes hikers through gorgeous forest scenery.

Length: 5.1 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Flood and Hindle Trail

This trail offers beautiful scenery, and there are also educational signs along the trail that detail the area’s history.

Length: 1.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

There are many great areas for fishing in the region around Sweetwater Rocks. Sinks Canyon is a great place for catching brown and rainbow trout. Brook trout can also be caught in nearby Baldwin Creek. Louis Lake is excellent for boating and catching lake trout, and those who enjoy fly fishing will often have success at the north fork of the Popo Agie River.

Climbing

The Sweetwater Rocks themselves are actually a perfect spot for rock climbing. There are many bouldering opportunities, and visitors can explore several different sport and traditional routes. There are also several excellent cliffs for sport climbs in the Lander area, including some along Sinks Canyon.

Wildlife Viewing

Sweetwater Rocks is a great place for viewing wildlife as is the nearby Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. Both areas are home to pronghorn antelope, owls, sandhill cranes, eagles, coyotes, mule deer, foxes, elk, and bears. You might even spot a mountain lion.

Picnicking

Sinks Canyon State Park offers several picturesque picnic areas with tables. Bruce Picnic Site, which is located along the Popo Agie River, is also beautiful. There are many picnic tables and fire rings available.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

There are many great options for RV camping near Sweetwater Rocks. Sleeping Bear RV Park and Campground offers full hookups, clean showers and bathrooms, and a playground. Mountain Range RV Park is known for its friendly staff and exceptional customer service. They offer full hookups, a coin laundry service, and a dog area.

Free Camping

Visitors to Sweetwater Rocks can enjoy free dispersed Bureau of Land Management camping anywhere that isn’t private property. Remember to be respectful of the area when you camp, leaving as little trace as possible. There are no amenities, so pack everything you need with you before you head out.

RV Rentals Near Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak) Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak) BLM trip

The area around Sweetwater Rocks is very remote, so make sure to bring everything you need with you, including plenty of water. Much of the area passes through sections of private land, so remember to stay on the designated roads or trails and obey all of the signage.

Sweetwater Rocks and the surrounding areas are home to rattlesnakes, so use caution when you’re hiking, camping, or rock climbing, and stay aware of your surroundings. Never try to touch or move any snakes that you come across. Coyotes, bears, and mountain lions are also relatively common in the area. It’s important to observe these animals from a distance and disturb them as little as possible.

In general, BLM camping areas allow for two tents or eight people per site. If you’re doing some dispersed camping, stays of up to two weeks are allowed within a 28-day period. You might also want to call ahead to ensure there’s room at any campsite you’re interested in as most BLM camping areas don’t take reservations. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

It’s important to treat any natural area with care, and Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and sites are no exception. In areas such as Sweetwater Rocks where there are few amenities, take all of your trash with you when you leave and dispose of it in a bin. Only build a fire in a fire pit or ring and check the fire danger rating before you start a campfire. It’s always best to disturb the native plants and animals as little as possible. Don’t take any plants, animals, or rocks home with you.

Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak) Location

From Lander, take US-287 south for about nine miles. Turn left to continue on US-287 south and drive for another 51 miles. Sweetwater Rocks will be on your left. Access to the area depends on driving through private property, so be sure to get the landowner's permission before heading out.

Ready to visit Sweetwater Rocks (Savage Peak)? 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.