BLM Camping and Recreation: The Complete Guide

Some of America's most awe-inspiring camping opportunities can be found on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) undeveloped public lands. These often untouched destinations are a highlight for any outdoor enthusiast searching for open space and solitude to pitch a tent and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Besides developed campgrounds, national conservation areas, and open-air recreation, the BLM also provides dispersed camping for those who truly want to get away from it all.

BLM lands offer a variety of recreational vehicle (RV) and camping types for those looking for adventure. From fully-developed RV parks and campgrounds to true boondocking (free camping in remote areas) and dry camping (camping in an RV with no electricity or water hookups), there’s something for every kind of explorer across the United States.

History of the Bureau of Land Management

The Bureau of Land Management was founded by President Harry Truman in 1946, through a merger of the General Land Office (GLO) and the U.S. Grazing Service. The agency history goes back to the creation of the GLO in 1812. In addition to the development of the GLO, the Homestead Act of 1862 gave individuals the opportunity to freely claim rights to government land.

A government entity that's overseen by the Department of the Interior, the BLM monitors hundreds of millions of acres of public lands and minerals in each of the 50 states in the U.S. It also manages wildlife and offer plenty of recreational opportunities to campers and outdoors enthusiasts on public land.

BLM-Managed Areas

The Bureau of Land Management manages over 245 million acres across the United States. These include wilderness areas, landmarks, historic trails, scenic rivers, wilderness areas, and primitive public land. These areas tend to be secluded and offer travelers an escape from the hustle and bustle of more heavily touristed recreation areas.

• Alaska is the largest BLM-managed area in all of the U.S. Since most of this land is unoccupied by man, the mission is to maintain the ecosystems and wildlife that roam these cold lands.
• The Mojave Trails National Monument has a rich history including ancient lava flows, dunes, and mountain ranges; this “desert” is protected for its Native American trade routes, undeveloped stretches of the famous Route 66, and World War II-era training camps.
• The San Juan National Forest covers more than 1.8 million acres of land among a handful of cities in the southwestern corner of the Centennial State. Durango sits in the center of the forest, housing the Supervisor’s Office and guided tours to this BLM treasure.
• Valley of the Gods is a beautiful drive for travelers who skip the overcrowded Monument Valley nearby. Rich in Native American history, the area has Navajo guides who walk travelers through the area, teaching them about its history and why it must be preserved.
• Red Rock Canyon is one of Nevada’s first preserved lands and a popular tourist attraction just 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. With mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, and more, this gorgeous stretch of desert is a must for those traveling the area.
• An oft-visited area running along the Arkansas River, the Browns Canyon National Monument preserves the natural habitat of bighorn sheep, elk, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons which have dwindled in population over the last century.
• The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area straddling the borders of California, Arizona, and Baja California, is a large sand dune field, much of which is off-limits to vehicular traffic due to preservation efforts. Some areas open to off-roading see tourists from all over the U.S. each year for the unique trails and terrain to tackle.

BLM-Managed Campsites

Campsites managed by the BLM are primitive and untouched, although you won't have to hike into the backcountry to get to them. BLM-managed campsites will typically be a small clearing with a picnic table, fire ring, and may or may not offer restrooms or a potable water source, so be sure to bring your water. You may not find a campground attendant, but rather an iron ranger, which is a collection box where you can deposit your camping fees.

There are thousands of BLM-managed campsites available across the United States. Here are a few popular options:

• Darby Well Road, Arizona: This site offers Southwestern vistas in close vicinity to the awe-inspiring Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
• Carrizo Plain National Monument, California: Hours from the coast, the land around this often overlooked monument is freckled with wildflowers in the spring.
• Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Colorado: Well off the beaten path, this campsite offers solitude as far as the eye can see, with complete silence surrounding the area at night.
• Carbella Recreation Site, Montana: The closes you can come to camping at Yellowstone National Park while still on free BLM land.
  

Developed Campsites vs. Dispersed Campsites

There are two types of BLM-managed camping destinations: developed campgrounds and land for dispersed and dry camping. Developed campgrounds offer a similar experience to traditional camping in national and state parks, with some even containing partial hookups for RVs. Dispersed BLM campsites do not offer utilities, bathhouses, or assigned sites, and are often in remote areas. Some may be inaccessible for RVs. Developed campgrounds often charge fees ranging from $10 to $30, while all dispersed campsites are free.

How to Find a BLM Campsite

The easiest way to find a BLM-managed campground is to use the interactive maps available on the Bureau of Land Management website. These maps will allow you to search for the type of campsite you're looking for within specific states.

If you live near a local field office, you can also get in-person advice from managers who can provide tips personalized to the type of camping experience you're looking for. This is especially helpful if you plan to camp with an RV and are unsure if the campsite you're looking at is appropriate. Managers can also provide the latest updates on the current condition of specific campsites. You can find your area’s local field office on the BLM website.

How to Reserve a BLM Campsite

The easiest and most efficient way to find BLM campgrounds across the country is at Recreation.gov, which allows you to search for outdoor activities on public lands, including the national parks, national forests, and army corps of engineer projects.

From the results page, BLM campgrounds are listed with a link to area descriptions and campground details. You can check the available campsites by interactive map, find an open campsite with the online calendar, and reserve your spot with an online payment and reservations system. 

Due to weather conditions, many campgrounds are only seasonally available, so make sure to check if the campground you're eyeing is open before planning your trip.