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Boondocking

Unlock the freedom of the open road and immerse yourself in the world of boondocking – the ultimate adventure for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Boondocking, also known as dry camping or wild camping, is the art of camping off the grid, away from traditional campgrounds and hookups. It’s a chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the natural world.

Boondocking allows you to create your own path and choose your own adventure. Whether you prefer the serene solitude of remote wilderness areas, the breathtaking beauty of national forests, or the tranquility of lakeshores and deserts, boondocking offers endless possibilities to explore and discover.

Our comprehensive guide to boondocking equips you with essential knowledge, tips, and top boondocking locations across the country. From the rolling hills of Appalachia to the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, we’ll help you plan your off-grid escape.

With boondocking, you can camp under starlit skies, wake up to the sounds of nature, and enjoy the thrill of self-sufficiency. Whether you’re in an RV, camper, or just a tent, the freedom to choose your own campsite and immerse yourself in the great outdoors is unparalleled.

Boondocking is more than a way to camp; it’s a lifestyle that encourages exploration, self-discovery, and a deep connection with the natural world. Experience the beauty of unspoiled landscapes, the excitement of new horizons, and the simplicity of life on the road.

Join the growing community of boondockers and start your journey today. Embrace the spirit of adventure and the joy of spontaneous exploration. Discover why boondocking is the ultimate way to experience the world and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

3. Cox Canyon Arch - Aztec Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

11 Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking (Updated 2002)

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

The Aztec Ruins National Monument does not have many trails, but since we love hiking a lot, we visited the trails that were near and fantastic. We also had maps, and that helped a lot. I will describe some of the trails we loved the most so that you know what to look forward to. I will also rate the trails using easy, medium, and hard to choose the ones you will manage.

We enjoyed this place because it offered us an intimate experience unlike any we have ever had. We discovered plaster walls along the way and original roofs and saw a reed mat left behind by the early inhabitants. There were intriguing doors that were t-shaped and corner doors that provocatively faced the north. We saw the great Kiva as a place of wonder and a place where we felt a sense of sacredness. Read through to learn more about our adventure.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Colorado?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

History of Aztec Ruins National Monument

The t Aztec Ruins National Monument is full of history, and we learned a lot about the place. This Monument is located in Northwestern New Mexico in the city of Aztec. It is situated on the Animas River and was established in 1923. It was finally made a World Heritage Site in the year 1987 so that it can be protected and preserves. It is 320 acres wide, and we enjoyed our visit there.

Aztec Ruins

11 Best Aztec Ruins National Monument Free Camping Spots

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1. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Alien Run

Address
Aztec, New Mexico
GPS: 36.87804, -107.89841
Elevation: 6129′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. Alien Run Mountain Bike Trail consists of two looped mountain bike trails that cover over 26 miles. The original loop and the Outer Limits trail circle around a rumored UFO crash site. Dispersed camping is allowed in the area.

Best Review:

We camped in a tent in the soft dirt right by the parking lot. Except for a few mountain bikers in the morning, we had the spot all to ourselves. There’s two covered picnic tables. The bathroom was very clean. We walked a bit down the mountain bike pathway, and it looks very cool. Great cell service for AT&T and Verizon.

2. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Free Campsites – Glade Run OHV Area

Address
Farmington, New Mexico
GPS: 36.802763, -108.179315
Elevation: 5669′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument campsite area is dirt and 4 miles from a paved road. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Glade Run OHV Area.

Best Review:

Stayed 7 days. There are 10 real nice spots with covered tables and fire pits. There is even a handicapped area. A free permit is needed from the BLM. Their phone number is 505-564-7600. Call for the address. The above coordinates are not correct. They are 36.48’10.42 N / 108.10’48.96 W

3. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – Dunes Vehicle RA

Address
Road 6000
Farmington, New Mexico
GPS: 36.707255, -108.24087
Elevation: 5361′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unknown.

Best Review:

Over 800 acres of fun is waiting for off-road enthusiasts at the Dunes Vehicle Recreation Area south of Farmington. The off-highway vehicle area contains a wide variety of topography including large sand dunes, steep to gentle hillsides, and sandy arroyo bottoms. Innumerable roads and trails exist in the Dunes, created by nearly 40 years of off-road vehicle use.

4. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Cottonwood Campground – Navajo Lake State Park

Address
Navajo Dam, New Mexico
GPS: 36.810863, -107.676723

Management: State Park

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument campsite area is dirt and 2mi miles from a paved road. Cottonwood Campground – Navajo Lake State Park is open all year. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 days at Cottonwood Campground – Navajo Lake State Park.

Best Review:

This place does not have shower. A park worker greeted us and told us showers were at the pine river campground on the lake.

5. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Free Campsites – Angel Peak Scenic Area

Address
Off state rd 550 about 20 miles south of Bloomfield NE
Aztec, New Mexico
GPS: 36.545225, -107.862155
Elevation: 6643′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is Gravel and 1-6 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 Days at Angel Peak Scenic Area.

Best Review:

What a beautiful camping area on top of the mountain. We stayed here for 1 night on our way to the 4 corners. Clean are with 2 vault toilets and a few gazebos. Each site has a bench and fire pit. Multiple viewing areas around the campground for some great photos.

6. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – Beyond the Well

Address
Navajo Dam, New Mexico
GPS: 36.812921, -107.543115
Elevation: 6260′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument campsite area is dirt. Beyond the well is open Weather permitting. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Beyond the well.

Best Review:

Stayed here in the fall. It was beautiful. Quiet. No one else around. The GPS coordinates ended a little early. Keep driving beyond the pin and take the right fork (other road marked restricted). Lots of little spots for car camping and tent camping.

7. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Durfield BLM Boondocking

Address
Durango, Colorado
GPS: 37.219377, -107.699484
Elevation: 7026′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. Durfield BLM Boondocking is open May 1 to Nov 30. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay two weeks at Durfield BLM Boondocking.

Best Review:

My second time here. This time I got the site by the big pines on the right. Even though it’s 90°, the breeze is keeping it tolerable. Easy to find, read other reviews regarding location. Our site was trash free when we arrived. Road in is dirt but fairly smooth.

8. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Free Campsites – Cherry Creek Gravel Pit

Address
Hesperus, Colorado
GPS: 37.328922, -108.119816
Elevation: 7989′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument campsite area is dirt and 100 Yards miles from a paved road. Cherry Creek Gravel Pit is open Whenever not blocked by snow. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 Days at Cherry Creek Gravel Pit.

Best Review:

Tough first ascent with huge potholes and rocks, then the road gets smoother. Quiet spot. Bottom two (private but closer to road) spots were empty. Gravel pit had three RV’s and a couple of cars overnight.

9. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – Bay City Campground

Address
La Plata Canyon Road
Durango, Colorado
GPS: 37.360975, -108.078145
Elevation: 8734′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is Paved. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 14 days at Bay City Campground.

Best Review:

10. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Miner’s Cabin

Address
Durango, Colorado
GPS: 37.371249, -108.07663
Elevation: 8836′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument campsite area is Gravel and Six miles from a paved road. Miner’s Cabin is open Three seasons. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 days at Miner’s Cabin.

Best Review:

Past miners camp there are two more campgrounds madden and laplata city. We stayed at laplayta city. Steep hill in and out but nice quiet campsites. Bear have been seen in area. No cell service at all.

11. Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Free Campsites – Barnes Mountain Boondock

Address
FR 171
Durango, Colorado
GPS: 37.369575, -107.899104
Elevation: 9288′

Management: National Forest Service

There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 days. The road into this Aztec Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Review:

Coming after Memorial Day insures that you won’t come across any closed gates. That’s kind of the rules for most seasonal locations. The spot I ended up with was pretty good to say the least. Quiet, good views, plenty of shade.

Places and Things to Do and See in Aztec Ruins National Monument

I went to Aztec Ruins National Monument with my wife and am not lying when I say that we enjoyed every bit of it. I will discuss some of the things we enjoyed the most so that you know what to expect. Below are places and things to see and do in the Monument.

Visitor Center

This is the first place that we had to visit, the center was once Earl Morris’ house, and it has a rich history. We were asked to pay an entrance fee, and we received orientation where we were told all about the archeological site. This is where you also get to pick a trail guide to know where you are at all times. We saw beautiful artifacts more than 900 years old and even watched a 15-minute video about the ruins.

Aztec West Self-Guided Trail

Another activity that you can participate in is the self-guided trail. We explored a place called the Great house, an economic, social, and political center for the whole region. Along the way, we got to see skillful stone masonry and wood roofing that has been well preserved. The walls even had an original motor, which was pretty cool. We got to learn about the traditional Native American perspectives and the modern archeological findings. The highlight of it all was the great ceremonial Kiva over 40 feet wide and one of the oldest buildings of such kind.

Junior Ranger

If you visit this place with your kids, then this is a program that they will love. The kids are taught to become junior rangers, and they even get to earn a badge after complications of specific activities. We joined this program, and it helped us learn a lot about the ancestral Pueblo people.

Special Events and Interpretive Programs

In this program, we learned more about the history and traditions of the people that lived in the Aztec Ruins National Monument. There were different demonstrations of their arts which was pretty cool. You have to check with the schedules a month earlier to be sure to get this program.

Native Plants Walk and Heritage Garden

Both of this activities were inside the historic area. We were able to see traditional crops like sunflowers, corn, squash, beans, and even gourds. We enjoyed this activity a lot, and it made us appreciate gardening even more. We took a quick stroll and saw the plants that Southwestern people relied on for years.

Top 9 Trails to Hike at Aztec Ruins National Monument

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #1. Aztec Ruins West Great House Loop

Aztec Ruins National Monument (1)

This is the only trail that we visited in Aztec Ruins National Monument. It is 0.4 miles long, and I can rate it as an easy trail. We managed this trail with no problem, and the QR code spots along the way helped a lot. When you scan, you get to learn more about the place and its history. The paths were marked, so we did not wander off, which was a plus. We also got to learn about the Chaco Phenomenon, which made it an even better place.

Length: 0.4 mi
Elevation gain: 6 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Historic site, No dogs

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #2. Alien Run Trail at Hart Canyon

1. Aztec Ruins West Great House Loop - Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations

This trail is not part of the Aztec Ruins National Monument, but it is near, and that is why it’s on the list. The trail is 7.9 miles long, and I can rate it as easy. The trail is accessible all year long, and you are allowed to even come with your dog. My friends and I used mountain bikes, and we still managed even though the riding was a bit technical. The trail was also well marked, so you will know how to get there and back. There were also plenty of opportunities to go off-trail, but it was easy to get back on the road.

Length: 7.9 mi
Elevation gain: 646 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Mountain biking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Dog friendly, Forest, Views,
Wildflowers, Wildlife

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #3. Cox Canyon Arch

3. Cox Canyon Arch - Aztec Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

The Cox Canyon Arch is also not in Aztec Ruins National Monument, but it is located in Aztec. It is .04 miles long and can be rated as an easy trail. Any person with any skill can be able to maneuver this trail with no problem. We loved the arch and also loved how the trail was well marked. There were a few challenging spots, but the effort was worth it. There was also a nearby gas facility that we didn’t appreciate because it made some noise.

Length: 0.4 mi
Elevation gain: 127 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, No shade

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #4. Kinsey Trail and Rigormortis Loop

4. Kinsey Trail and Rigormortis Loop- Aztec Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

Another trail that is near Aztec Ruins National Monument is the Kinsey Trail and Rigormortis Loop. It is located in Flora Vista and measures 7.2 miles. I can rate this trail as moderate as it was a bit hard, especially if you are not a seasonal hiker. The area does not have much shade, so carry plenty of water. Some of us even decided to try it out with our mountain bikes, and it was still amazing.

Length: 7.2 mi
Elevation gain: 452 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Hiking, Mountain biking, Nature trips, Road biking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Views, Wildflowers

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #5. Anasazi Trail

5. Anasazi Trail- Aztec Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

The Anasazi trail is also another trail that is worth trying out. It is located in Farmington and has various scenic views. The trail is 2.9 miles long and can be rated as moderate. We decided to go on this trail with our mountain bikes, and it was still a lot of fun. The trail was short, and we enjoyed the sandstone features. There were also plenty of whoops on the banks, which was also a lot of fun.

Length: 2.9 mi
Elevation gain: 167 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Mountain biking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Views

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #6. Kinsey – Seven Sisters Loop

6. Kinsey - Seven Sisters Loop - Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots

Another easy trail near Aztec Ruins National Monument and is worth the visit. It is located near Farmington and can be tried by people of all skills. It is 8.8 miles long, and you are even allowed to go with your dog. Just make sure that you keep the dog on a leash. It was an excellent workout for all of us, and we appreciated the views. If you are using a mountain bike, look out for sandy washes requiring major descent.

Length: 8.8 mi
Elevation gain: 623 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Hiking, Mountain biking, Running, Rocky

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #7. Aztec Animas River Trail

7. Aztec Animas River Trail - Aztec Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots

I want to finish with an easy trail that I also loved a lot. It is called Aztec Animals River Trail and is located in Aztec. The trail is 1.6 miles long, and one of its great features is a lake. You can use the trail for different activities like running, walking, and even biking. There was also some exercising equipment on the way, which we loved a lot.

Length: 1.6 mi
Elevation gain: 62 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Road biking, Walking, Running, Lake, Paved, Wildlife

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #8. Simon Canyon Ruin

8. Simon Canyon Ruin Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail

If you are looking for a trail that is not too hard or too easy, then the Simon Canyon Ruin is a moderate that measures 1.6 miles long. It is located in Aztec, and one of the features that we loved a lot was the river. It was a quick hike for us, but that may be because we are seasonal hikers. The site was fantastic, and the trail was well maintained. There was also some slick sandstone, but it is not something you should worry about.

Length: 1.6 mi
Elevation gain: 147 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Camping, Hiking, Running, Dog friendly, River, Rocky, No shade, Historic site

Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail #9. Ditch Canyon Wash

9. Ditch Canyon Wash Aztec Ruins National Monument Hiking Trail

Another moderate hike near Aztec Ruins National Monument is the Ditch Canyon wash. It is also located in Aztec and has fantastic sceneries that we appreciate a lot. We shared the trail with others who were on their horses and others using their mountain bikes. It was overall a good trail, and I would recommend trying it out.

Length: 6.5 mi
Elevation gain: 246 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Horseback riding, Views, Rocky, Off trail

Aztec Ruins National Monument is worth a visit. It has a rich history and also several activities that you can participate in. I went with my friends and had a lot of fun. We would love to go back there again so that we can experience it more. It does not have many hiking trails within the Monument, but there are many around, and they are all fun.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

1. Lost Mine Trail Big Bend National Park

National Park Boondocking Travel Texas Boondocking

18 Free Campsites for Big Bend National Park in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Big Bend National Park has a beautiful and serene environment that has been surrounded by ancient nature and blessed by mother nature with the Chisos mountains. Big Bend allows people to enjoy various animals and plants that enhance its beauty. The variation of the desert temperatures gives the park a unique feeling. Viewing the existence of plants in the park enables one to appreciate the work of nature and view life positively. Read on to learn more about Big Bend and the reasons why you should plan to visi

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Texas? A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

History of Bend National Park

The park has a rich history deeply rooted as early as 1535, whereby Indian groups had inhabited the area believed to be the Chisos Indians who were nomads. They survived by practicing gathering, hunting, and agriculture with seasons. The Jumano, who were enemies of the Chisos, invaded the land and replaced them. The Europeans, who later on, began to explore the area, searching for gold and silver, removed the Jumano’s. The Spanish later set forts to stop Indian intrusion into Mexico.

Big Bend

Top 19 Free Camp Boondocking for Big Bend National Park

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1. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Chimneys West

Address
Unnamed Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.219236, -103.527889
Elevation: 2382′

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. This Big Bend National Park free campsite area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park.

2. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Croton Springs

Address
Unnamed Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.342986, -103.346119
Elevation: 3356′

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may sta up to 14 days with the permit. This Big Bend National Park boondocking area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park.

3. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend National Park

Address
Terlingua, Texas
GPS: 29.2502, -103.25045
Elevation: 5311′

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. This Big Bend National Park boondocking area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park. The road in is Dirt. Big Bend National Park is open All year. The maximum RV length at Big Bend National Park is 20′. You may stay 14 days at Big Bend National Park.

4. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Ocotillo Grove

Address
Gaging Station
Terlingua, Texas
GPS: 29.203252, -103.594789
Elevation: 2293′

Management: National Park Service

5. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Juniper Canyon

Address
Dodson Trail
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.223869, -103.241208
Elevation: 3980′

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. This Big Bend National Park free campsite area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park.

6. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Twisted Shoe

Address
Juniper Canyon Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.218567, -103.233411
Elevation: 3822′

Management: National Park Service

7. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Terlingua Abaja

Address
Gaging Station
Terlingua, Texas
Elevation: 2218′
_29.199151, -103.603712

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. 3his Big Bend National Park free campsite area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park.

8. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Government Springs

Address
Grapevine Spring
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.340652, -103.25536
Elevation: 3930′

Management: National Park Service

9. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Pine Canyon

Address
Pine Canyon Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.256704, -103.212555
Elevation: 4367′

Management: National Park Service

10. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Paint Gap

Address
Paint Gap
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.397415, -103.304238
Elevation: 3533′

Management: National Park Service

11. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Black Dike

Address
Unnamed Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.055686, -103.432684
Elevation: 2093′

Management: National Park Service

12. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Gauging Station

Address
Unnamed Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.035079, -103.389854
Elevation: 2103′

Management: National Park Service

13. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Grapevine Spring Rd

Address
Grapevine Spring
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.378162, -103.221126
Elevation: 3379′

Management: National Park Service

14. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Elephant Tusk

Address
Black Gap Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.129584, -103.206195
Elevation: 2543′

Management: National Park Service

A permit ($12) is required to stay in all backcountry campsites at Big Bend National Park. You may stay up to 14 days with the permit. This Big Bend National Park boondocking area is perfect to cut expensive costs for the park. This campsite is adjacent to the road and is located across from the Elephant Tusk Trailhead. The site is small. It is easiest to reach this site from the south along the River Road, as opposed to coming from the north via the Glenn Spring and Black Gap Roads. Sometimes water will flow in Fresno Creek after a rain event. Elephant Tusk 1 (EL-1) can accommodate 1 vehicle, 6 people, no horses. Remote site with very little vehicle traffic. There is no shade at this campsite. There is gravel ground cover with sparse creosote and lechuguilla. Excellent views of Elephant Tusk Mountain and Mariscal Mountain. Road is maintained for high clearance vehicles only. 4×4 may be required.

15. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – K – Bar

Address
Chihuahuan Desert Research Station Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.306854, -103.176644
Elevation: 3428′

Management: National Park Service

16. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Rice Tank

Address
Glen Springs Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.23008, -103.166555
Elevation: 3136′

Management: National Park Service

17. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Big Bend NP – Johnson Ranch

Address
Johnson Ranch Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.023484, -103.369957
Elevation: 2087′

Management: National Park Service

18. Budget Campsites for Big Bend Park – Glen Spring Road

Address
Glen Spring Road
Big Bend National Park, Texas
GPS: 29.257249, -103.15243
Elevation: 3123′

Management: National Park Service

Top Trails to Hike at Bend Park

There are numerous hiking paths in Big Bend National Park. There are 77 fantastic paths throughout the park. Plan to visit on a regular basis because you won’t be able to see everything in a day or a week. The Window View Trail, Lost Mine Trail, Emory Peak, Tuff Canyon, Balanced Rock, Hot Spring Trail, Ernst Tinaja, Chisos Basin Loop, and Santa Elena Canyon are just a few of the great hikes in Big Bend National Park. Don’t leave without visiting the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail.

1. Lost Mine Trail

1. Lost Mine Trail Big Bend National Park
The trail is moderate overall with some steep elevation at the top before revealing the most magnificent views of the Park and the Valley. Some shade but sunscreen essential. Well maintained and easy to navigate. Limited parking at the trailhead. Please be cautious and alert as you will be heading into Bear & Mountain Lion country . Enjoyable hike . We finished the trail in under 2 hours. Length: 4.8 mi
Elevation gain: 1,131 ft
Route type: Out & back Hiking, Forest, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

2. The Window Trail

2. The Window Trail Big Bend National Park
The upper half is a little tedious, but the Window is distinct and intriguing. In evaluations, I’ve noticed a wide range of difficulty ratings – my wife and I are in our sixties and have hiked a lot of trails. This trail was on the easier side of moderate for us. I can see how someone climbing up and out in the heat of the sun might find it unpleasant – we arrived very early. For us, the effort was well worth it. If you only have time for one trail hike, make it Lost Mine! By far the finest value for money. Length: 5.2 mi
Elevation gain: 948 ft
Route type: Out & back Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Forest, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

3. Santa Elena Canyon Trail

3. Santa Elena Canyon Trail Big Bend National Park This is a simple walk with excellent views. To gain height, stair climbing is required. The rock formations are spectacular and fascinating to observe. It is magnificent as you enter the canyon. This is a great little hike with enough of things to occupy your attention. We went to the canyon via Old Maverick Road (off-roading), which added to the thrill and excitement. For this option, you’ll need high clearance and 4-wheel drive. Length: 1.4 mi
Elevation gain: 157 ft
Route type: Out & back Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Running, Beach, Rails trails, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

4. Big Bend Hot Springs Trail

4. Big Bend Hot Springs Trail I merely hiked out to the hot springs and back, a total distance of 0.5 kilometers. The trail is flat and sandy, with little in the way of shade. The hot springs area is roughly the size of a huge hot tub, and it quickly fills up with visitors. The route down to the trailhead is dirt and gravel, but it’s not too awful, and it’s passable in most cars (though high clearance will make it easier). There are two parking spaces, one for RVs and trailers halfway down the road and one for automobiles immediately at the trailhead, which was packed when I arrived. It’s best to visit during off-peak hours because both the parking lot and the hot springs can get quite congested. Length: 1.2 mi
Elevation gain: 144 ft
Route type: Loop Kid friendly, Hiking, Hot springs, River, Views, Rocky, Historic site, Fee, No dogs

5. Basin Loop Trail

5. Basin Loop Trail Coming down from the Laguna Meadows side of the route, there are some spectacular views. Walking in a clockwise direction is recommended. This is a great trail! We started around 4 p.m. and found the first half to be warm and pleasant, with the sun shining brightly. The sun dropped behind the mountains, and a blast of frigid desert air blew in, turning any perspiration you’d worked up into chill zones. It was a great time! Length: 2.4 mi
Elevation gain: 465 ft
Route type: Loop Kid friendly, Hiking, Views, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

How to Get To Big Bend

Getting to Big Bend is easy. You can use two modes of transport, either driving to the park or you can catch a flight to the nearest town and drive to the park. For driving options there is no public transport and you will have to drive your car or join a tour group heading to Big Bend Park. Several highways lead to the park including the highway 170 from Presidio to Study Butte, 385 highway heads to Marathon, highway 118 from Alpine to Study Butte. The nearest airport connections are in the Texas, Midland, El Paso’s airports. If you are wondering after landing how to get to the park, at the airport, they have rental cars to anyone who wishes to proceed to the park.

Costs and Paid Camping For Bend Park

Big Bend National Park entrance fee is $30 for 15 passengers using a non-commercial vehicle, for private vehicles $30, motorists $25, and individual $15; all the passes are valid for seven days. However, you don’t need to go alone; the government has given free passes to all students who wish to visit the national park. Did you know you can get an America Beautiful Pass at just $80? This pass will give you access to all the U.S natonal parks for a whole year, which is very economical. A senior with 62 and above can get a lifetime ticket to visit the parks with the same amount of money. The camping sites cost $16 per night for Cottonwood and Chisos Basin campgrounds. It will cost $10 per night permit at the backcountry campsites.

Places and Things to Do and See

Big Bend Park has many places to offer its visitors. Things to do while in the park are also plentiful. You can enjoy all the beautiful sceneries and learn a lot about the Big Bends National history. It is home to many species, including 1200 plant species, 75 mammals, more than 450 bird species, and 56 reptiles. While in the park, you can see the Santa Elena Canyon, the tallest in the park and its river, the desert view at the Chimneys trail, where the view is magnificent with volcanic rocks. Hiking throughout the park at different trails is also an activity that you can engage in. You can go to the desert, the mountain, or the rivers for hiking. At the rivers, you can enjoy both boat and rafting, else if you have your passport with you, you can have the privilege of crossing the border to Mexico on a boat or drive through. You can also enjoy the long drives on of one of the many roads inside the park This will give you ample time to view the desert, high mountains and breath the fresh air of Big Bend Park. Note: many of these road do require a 4×4 vehicle with high clearance.

Things to Do at Big Bend

Big Bend National Park has many fun activities that you as an individual can do, or as a team, family. You can choose your activity. Some of the activities you can do at Big Bend National Park include hiking, mountain climbing, scenic driving, boat riding, horse riding, and stargazing.

How Much Time Do You Need For Your Visit

Big Bend is large and requires more time to visit than many parks; it will take at least 4 hours to drive to the park from the nearest airport. Due to time required to and from the park, you should plan on at least two to seven days for better explorations and site visiting. Plan to spend a large amount of time in the park seeing all three distinct areas; Chisos Basin, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive area, and the Rio Grande Village.

Alternative Accommodations and Dining Near Big Bend

Before thinking of visiting Big Bend , you need to consider the accommodation options available near or inside the park. One more thing is that you need to make a reservation before you head to the park if you’re planning to stay and explore the magnificent desert. The park spots for both RV and tent camping spots are booked full months in advance. The options are limited inside the park as they have three main campgrounds. If you opt to stay outside Big Bend Park in the nearby town, you will need a nice place to stay that is easy to drive by and gives you the best options. The accommodation choice may be influenced by the entry point you use. However, they are good hotels on all entry points like the Marathon lodging, Lajitas lodging, National park lodging, outlying lodging, and many more. You need to find the one that suits your needs best.

Best Time to Visit Big Bend

Big Bend National Park is known for its harsh climate during the winter and summer, with the temperature going as high as 100 degrees. You can imagine the heat around the park, different people have different tastes, and thus, the park has three beautiful seasons that anyone can relish; summer, winter, spring. The best time to visit and have ample time is during the spring season. Big Bend temperatures are mild. However, expect the park to be occupied by many people although it is large enough to accommodate everyone. During the summer, the hot temperatures can be harsh, and during winter, the climate shifts to freezing and snowing in the desert. Despite the climates in the desert in all seasons, it is never that bad to experience them. You will be amazed at how ideal it is to visit during summer or winter.

What to Pack For Your Visit To Bend Park

The excitement of visiting a new place or somewhere where you won’t have access to your wardrobe easily can be hectic. Some people enjoy packing while others don’t. You will not need a ton of bags for you to enjoy the adventure. To ensure you carry all the necessary items you might require while traveling to Big Bend National Park, here are a few things to help you park. Water bottles are essential in Big Bend , regardless of the season. Other things you need to pack during a summer trip include light clothes, comfortable shoes, a light backpack, hiking gear, snacks, a walking stick, insect repellent, toiletries, sun protection gears, cameras, a first aid kit, and a sleeping bag. If you are visiting Big Bend park during winter, ensure you carry the following with you, emergency blanket, snowshoes, essential toiletries, food, water, heavy clothes, walking sticks, raincoat, camera, gloves, and a GPS tracker. You might also like some of the articles from our website about boondocking and travel.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

4 Tonsina Creek Trail Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Free Campsites

Travel Alaska National Park Boondocking

16 Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, don’t miss the Kenai Fjords National Park. In addition to its glaciers and abundance of wildlife, the Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites are known for accessibility. It is located approximately 2.5 hours south of Anchorage, which serves as a good starting point for exploring the surrounding area and visiting its various attractions.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Alaska?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

Of course, visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park come for the Harding Icefield, but there is so much more to see and do in the park that you’ll want to keep reading to find out what else there is to do. A trip to Alaska would not be complete without visiting Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites, towering tidewater glaciers, orcas, and humpback whales. In addition, Kenai is one of the most diverse ecosystems in any national park in the United States, including Yellowstone found in this breathtaking landscape of mountains and sea.

Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites is located in southern Alaska and covers nearly 1,000 square miles of land and sea. But unlike most national parks, you will not be able to drive to the main attractions in your car. Instead, from a boat, you’ll get the best view of the park’s wildlife and landscape.

Because of the abundance of nutrients found in glacially-fed waters, fjords can be accessed by boat with Major Marine Tours. It is also an ideal habitat for various animals in the area. For example, a cruise through the Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites is an incredible way to see whales, puffins, and calving glaciers up close. Cruises are offered daily from March through October, with various half-and full-day boat options.

The Kenai Fjords National Park’s History

Kenai Fjords National Monument was initially designated by President Jimmy Carter on December 1, 1978, using the Antiquities Act, pending final legislation to resolve the allotment of public lands in Alaska. Establishment as a national park followed the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act in 1980.

Kenai Fjords is a geological landform story and a story about people’s lives. According to the evidence from archaeological excavations, Alaska Natives have been living in the area for thousands of years. Hunters, fox farms, gold miners, and others have recently exploited the fjords’ natural resources. It was designated a national monument in 1978.

An Alaskan national park, Kenai Fjords National Park, contains numerous stories about people and places from the northern Gulf Coast. From the Sugpiaq encampment littering the beach to the mining camps in Nuka Bay, these stories cover a wide range of topics. Various artifacts from bygone eras can be found here. Conservation of these time capsules is just as important as any other natural feature because they are irreplaceable.

Kenai Fjords National Park (3)

16 Fantastic Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots

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1. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Exit Glacier Road

Address
Seward, Alaska
GPS: 60.1539, -149.431366
Elevation: 105′

Management: National Forest Service

The road in is Paved. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 6 days at Exit Glacier Road. Near Seward, Ak, Exit Glacier is the most accessible glacier in the state. From the park entrance, it is a short hike to the actual glacier. Camping area is actually in the Chugach national forest.

2. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Free Campsites – Exit Glacier Road

Address
Seward, Alaska
GPS: 60.1539, -149.431366
Elevation: 105′

Management: National Forest Service

The road in is Paved. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Along the road going into the park, there are several large asphalt pullouts suitable for overnighting. Additionally, there are 6-10 small wooded campsites right off the road suitable for a small rig. Much over 30′ would not be recommended. You may stay 6 days at Exit Glacier Road.

3. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots – Engineer Lake

Address
Alaska
GPS: 60.473583, -150.327231
Elevation: 295′

Management: State Forest

Smaller site suit no more than 30′ RVs. Narrow rd in so use caution on road. Overlooking lake with picnic tables.

4. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Moose Pass

Address
Hwy 1 north of Moose Pass
Moose Pass, Alaska
GPS: 60.501698, -149.371721
Elevation: 494′

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Gravel. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. Large gravel area next to lake off the road to the east. Around 7-8 self made areas but room for plenty more. Boat ramp and lake access.

5. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Sites – Lower Skilak Lake Campground

Address
Cooper Landing, Alaska
GPS: 60.471663, -150.468114
Elevation: 213′

Management: State Park

The farthest campground on Skilak Lake Road. this is the only free campground of the three campsites on Lake Skilak. Can be approached from either end of Skilak Lake Road it’s on a gravel road suitable for small to medium RVs. Probably would not take a class A or a fifth wheel down to this campsite.

6. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots – Kelly/Peterson lakes

Address
mile post 68 Sterling Hwy Alaska
Sterling, Alaska
GPS: 60.525374, -150.396824
Elevation: 287′

Management: State Park

The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. Kelly/Peterson lakes is open May until snow. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Kelly/Peterson lakes.

7. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Kasilof River/ Tustumina

Address
Kasilof, Alaska
GPS: 60.253939, -151.173234
Elevation: 112′

The road in is Gravel and 5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. Boat Ramp with a handful of secluded spots. Big enough for larger rigs.

8. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Sites – Behind Boulder Off Highway AK1S

Address
Hope, Alaska
GPS: 60.7625, -149.39694
Elevation: 541′

Management: Public

Heading south from anchorage to steward on highway AK1-S, in between mile signs 57 and 58 (which will be on the left side of the road) but closer to mile sign 58, you’ll see a large boulder or raised up rock formation on the right side of the road. There are pull ins before and after the rock.

9. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots – Fred Meyer’s #70100017

Address
43843 Sterling Hwy.
Soldotna, Alaska
GPS: 60.489015, -151.049291
Elevation: 121′

Management: Retail Store

The road in is Paved. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 7 days at Fred Meyer’s #70100017.

10. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Resurrection Creek

Address
Hope, Alaska
GPS: 60.876251, -149.630966
Elevation: 331′

Management: National Forest Service

Camped here in July 2009. Biting black flies and “gold bugs” throughout the area. Will include pics shortly.

11. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Sites – Portage Lake Road

Address
Whittier, Alaska
GPS: 60.797165, -148.912216
Elevation: 37′

Management: National Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 1/8 miles from a paved road. There are several gravel pull outs in the Chugash National Forest along this road headed for Portage Lake and Glacier. A few are suitable for big rigs. Trees, river, mountains and glacier and free camping. May, 2013 we stayed overnight in a 27′ motorhome.

12. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots – Mile Post 13 Hope Rd

Address
Hope, Alaska
GPS: 60.92955, -149.54168
Elevation: 7′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Several pullouts along a gravel road. Ii is in Chugach State Park land.

13. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Crow Creek Road

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 60.995914, -149.091706
Elevation: 709′

Management: State Park

Several pullouts along a gravel road. I think it is in Chugach State Park land.

14. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Sites – South Fork Eagle River

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 61.222001, -149.439708
Elevation: 2110′

Management: State Park

At the trail head for several awesome hikes in the Chugach Stat. Parking is near homes, no fires allowed and multiple nights be frowned upon. Room for a truck camper or car camping. Not really room for an RV.

15. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots – Lake Lorraine Campground

Address
Wasilla, Alaska
GPS: 61.2889, -149.94513
Elevation: 184′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel and at eight miles from a paved road. Lake Lorraine Campground is open summer. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Lake Lorraine Campground.

16. Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations – Mt. Baldy Trailhead

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 61.338, -149.512
Elevation: 1834′

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Small parking before the trail. On a unit flat and You Will probably not be able for an RV but it was ok for a camper van. Let’s be honest there is not much choice near Anchorage.

8 Great Trails Near the Kenai Fjords National Park

Pack your best hiking shoes for an adventurous walking trip that loops from Anchorage and takes in all the highlights of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. On this 7-day tour, you’ll explore the mountainous trails of the Kenai Fjords and Chugach national parks, stand atop the ancient Harding Icefield and maybe even spot some marine wildlife in the cold coastal waters. With transportation between trails and leisurely stops in the laidback fishing town of Seward and the artsy town of Homer, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and refresh – or keep moving with one of the many optional add-on activities to choose from.

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #1. Harding Icefield Trail

1 Harding Icefield Trail Kenai Fjords National Park

I highly recommend the Harding Icefield hike in Alaska if you’re a hiker with some spare time here in Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites. These views are breathtaking and one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Alaska. However, I’m afraid this will be a DIFFICULT and LONG trek. I trust you get what I mean.

Due to the difficulty of the terrain, this hike is not recommended for first-time hikers. However, hikers of all skill levels will enjoy this route. If you can’t appreciate the view, I don’t think it’s worth the effort. Choose a day with good visibility, such as a sunny or foggy one.

Plan to bring plenty of food and water with you if you decide to go on this trek. If the weather suddenly changes, you’ll want to have plenty of extra clothing on hand.

Length: 9.2 mi
Elevation gain: 3,641 ft
Route type: Out & back

Camping, Hiking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Snow, No shade, No dogs

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #2. Calvin and Coyle Trail

2 Calvin and Coyle Trail Kenai Fjords National Park

This delightful little nature walk winds through dense spruce woods and magnificent open meadows near Homer off East End Road. The Beluga Wetlands observation deck provides spectacular birding and wildlife viewing opportunities. In January, the trail can be pretty icy, so be sure to bring spikes. An unmarked path that has not seen much use. Countless thrushes flew by and sent us tweets.

Spread out educational signage provide a wealth of information about animals and ecosystems. A nice place to walk your dog. An excellent little nature walk. Afterward, we walked in the woods near the Bear Creek Winery. However, even though it had rained, the route wasn’t too slick; we were able to navigate it with ease, thanks in part to the boardwalk planks that were neither slippery nor spongy.

Length: 1.3 mi
Elevation gain: 104 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Walking, Running, Dog friendly, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Muddy

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #3. Alaska’s Captain Cook Bishop Trail

3 Captain Cook Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Locations

There’s nothing better than a stroll down the beach, mainly if the area is completely deserted. Out here, you get that vibe. Afterward, take a walk on the beach with the entire family and enjoy the picnic spot (with its million-dollar vista). If you’re in the neighborhood, it’s well worth a stop for a look around. You may get a great view of the Cook Inlet from a short walk down the beach. At low tide, the atmosphere is eerily desolate and unwelcoming.

The Alaska Range may be seen from the summit. It’s a terrific place to relax and enjoy the view of Mount Iliamna at the end of the park. Keep to the sand and water! At low tide, the boulders seem tempting, but the mud is fine silt that may suffocate your feet and make it difficult to extricate them. Many individuals have drowned as a result of this error.

Length: 1.3 mi
Elevation gain: 160 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Forest, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #4. Hiking the Tonsina Creek Trail in Seward, Alaska

4 Tonsina Creek Trail Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Free Campsites

Tonsina Creek is reached after a three-mile hike that takes you from Lowell Point’s stunning beach area through beautiful hemlock and spruce trees. Take a moment to appreciate the views of Resurrection Bay as you ascend a little distance. The Tonsina Creek Path in Seward, Alaska, is a 5.5-mile out-and-back route that is heavily traveled and rated intermediate for its abundance of wildflowers. Open year-round, the trail is popular for hiking, walking, and snowshoeing. A leash is required for dogs to utilize this path.

When the weather is beautiful, many people will be out on this year-round trail. In addition, it’s a straightforward course, making it a popular choice for visitors from out of town. In the winter, spikes may be necessary. Low tide isn’t essential for a trip just to Tonsina Beach, but it is for Caines Head. On the way to the beach, we stopped to admire the most amazing skipping stones we’ve ever seen. These are the big ones that skip a lot and then break into multiple pieces. The excursion ended at the beach since we went at high tide. Beautiful landscapes.

Length: 3.4 mi
Elevation gain: 734 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Walking, Beach, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #5. Alaska’s Bear Mountain Trail – Sterling

5 Bear Mountain Trail Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Free Campsites

Take the Skilak Lake Loop in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge to mile marker 6.9 (available from Sterling or Cooper Landing). There is a somewhat steep. 8-kilometer ascent, but the view you’ll be greeted with at the top is more than worth the effort. Skilak Lake and the Kenai Mountains may be seen in the distance. The arduous journey to the mountain’s summit is frequently unprotected, steep, and rugged. The 2.3-mile hike to the summit of Bear Mountain ascends more than 1,800 feet in elevation. However, the path offers stunning views along the way, as well as several turn-around locations for those who don’t want to trek the entire distance. “It’s about the journey, not the goal.” That’s what Bear Canyon Trail is all about.

Getting to the wilderness limit at the foot of the mountain requires a short quarter-mile climb from the trailhead, located on a major highway and next to a parking lot. At this point, the terrain is narrow and steep, ascending about 450 feet in switchbacks. Five hundred feet of rocky elevation in a tiny side canyon lead to a massive plateau after it levels off for a short time. There is a 400-foot artificial crest at the top of the plateau, which it traverses slowly. To the right (northeast) (northeast) are Fay Canyon vistas (northeast).

To reach the summit, the route ascends a few hundred feet. Awe-inspiring panoramas may be seen in this area. A glimpse of the San Francisco Peaks can be seen in the north after a further 200 yards of flat land via Red Canyon. Then, return the same way you came. If there is a lot of snow on the mountain, avoid this hike.

Length: 3.5 mi
Elevation gain: 2,631 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Views, Wildflowers

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #6. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

6 Hidden Creek Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots

A well-maintained trail, the Kenai Nature Trail, is an excellent place to start. Visitors to the Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites may detach Headquarters Lake, which is a short distance from the refuge. Continue to the Centennial Trail Loop, a two-mile nature trail that provides excellent animal watching possibilities.

Length: 2.6 mi
Elevation gain: 269 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Cross-country skiing, Hiking, Nature trips, Snowshoeing, Walking, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #7. Cooper Landing, Alaska’s Hidden Creek Trail is a three-mile-long route

6 Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Kenai Fjords National Park Boondocking Spots

Flat and meandering, this three-mile out-and-back track is situated off the Skilak Lake Loop. Between July and August, you’ll pass through a range of landscapes and have plenty of opportunities to collect berries. In addition, you’ll drive through an old burn area from the 1996 wildfire, which offers spectacular views of the nearby Kenai Mountains in the distance.

Length: 2.9 mi
Elevation gain: 396 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers

Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail #8. Russian River Falls is located near Cooper Landing, Alaska

8 Russian River Falls Kenai Fjords National Park Hiking Trail

The Russian River Campground is the starting point for this fantastic hike. The whole family will love the broad gravel route with minimal elevation rise. Salmon may be seen swimming in the streams below the falls in the summer. However, bears are known to frequent this region, so use caution.

Length: 5.2 mi
Elevation gain: 610 ft
Route type: Out & back

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Fishing, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Fee

Places and Activities in Kenai Fjords National Park

Enjoy Whale-watching at Kenai Fjords National Park.

The Kenai Fjords whale-watching cruise is an excellent option for anyone who wants to see animals in their natural habitat. While visiting Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites, it is common to see humpback whales and orcas. Humpback whales and orcas (killer whales) are more common sightings than Minke whales and fin whales, but they are still possible killer whales. The best time to go whale watching in Alaska is during daylight hours from June through August. You can also go for whale watching in the Kenai Fjords.

Visiting Exit Glacier Is a Must-do.

There is only one Glacier in the Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites that can be accessed by vehicle, and it is Exit Glacier. This Glacier can be seen in all its glory from various hiking trails in Alaska. The Exit Glacier Nature Center is a must-see before you leave. Ranger staff is on hand to answer any questions you may have about the area.

Kayaking in Kenai Fjords National Park.

It’s a great way to see the park if you’ve got some experience in kayaking. Compared to using a boat, which makes more noise and makes it more difficult to sneak into nature, paddling allows you to get closer to it without being noticed. So if you’ve always wanted to try kayaking, this is the place for you. You will have an incredible experience surrounded by a plethora of wildlife and protected coves as well as wild and rocky beaches.

Kayaking into the Kenai Fjords National Park Free Campsites on your own is a problematic endeavor. For your safety and the safety of other visitors, the National Park Service recommends that you travel with a guide. Other options include having your kayak delivered nearby and paddling around protected areas once you’ve arrived at your campsite. A kayak can also be dropped off at the public use cabins.

Go Boat Sightseeing In the Fjords

This is the park’s most famous attraction and for a good reason. A trip on a boat to see the massive glaciers merge with the ocean is an experience you won’t forget. If you’re on a ship, there’s a good chance you’ll see wildlife like whales, harbor seals, bald eagles, sea lions, and sea otters.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

8. Moose Flats Loop Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Spots

Travel Alaska National Park Boondocking

16 Boondocking Spots In Denali National Park in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

We recently came back from a trip to Denali National Park in Alaska. The park is about 220 miles southwest of Fairbanks, the largest city near it. I planned this trip after we moved back to the states due to Covid.

This trip was an amazing experience for me because there are so many things to do there. There are plenty of places where you can camp, fish, canoe, kayak, hike, bike, etc., basically, activities that would make your head spin. We thought we should go back someday and spend more days because there was too much stuff to do in the short four-day pass we bought and now that we have Senior America Beautiful Pass all of those fees are waived.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Alaska?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

To help you understand more about this park, Let me share a brief history of the Denali National park.

History of the Denali National Park

The Denali National Park is a national park located in Interior Alaska, centered upon Denali (Mount McKinley), the highest mountain in North America.

Woodrow Wilson established it on February 26th, 1917, to protect 6 million acres of pristine wilderness.

The park includes abundant wildlife, including Dall sheep and grizzly bears and plant life such as Alaskan yellow cedars and Sitka spruces.

The vast majority of visitors come between mid-May and late September, which gives them access to Mount McKinley. The weather here can be brutal at times, but you can still visit during other seasons if you’re flexible with your plans.

During winter, it’s impossible to get inside the park without the proper gear and knowledge of how to navigate it, which is why we’ll cover some tips on visiting during the summer.

Denali National Park

16 Great Boondocking Spots For Your Denali National Park Trip

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1. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – East Fork Chulitna Wayside

Address
Cantwell, Alaska
GPS: 63.149831, -149.412007
Elevation: 1795′

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Paved. East Fork Chulitna wayside is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

2. Denali National Park Boondocking Free Campsites – Cantwell Alaska- Open Gravel Area

Address
Around Mile 208, George Park Highway (AK-3)
Cantwell, Alaska
GPS: 63.383122, -148.915787
Elevation: 2187′

Management: State Forest

The road in is Gravel and 0 miles from a paved road. Cantwell Alaska- Open Gravel Area is open. The area is very close to Denali National Park. There is a creek nearby with very clean water.

3. Denali National Park Boondocking Spots – Nenana River Bridge

Address
Cantwell, Alaska
GPS: 63.457107, -148.808467
Elevation: 2024′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel and 1/2 mile or so miles from a paved road. Nenana River Bridge is open Summer. The maximum RV length at Nenana River Bridge is unlimited. You may stay Unlimited at Nenana River Bridge.

4. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – Susitna River Bank

Address
Trapper Creek, Alaska
GPS: 62.176102, -150.179321
Elevation: 267′

Management: State Forest

Wide, flat, gravel riverbank about 11 miles south of Trapper Creek. There’s a dirt road on the west side of the Parks Highway at the north end of the bridge where it crosses the Susitna River. The road is fairly wide. Just before it opens out onto the gravel there’s a bit of a hill and dip where it goes over a spring melt stream bed. RVs with a long overhang or low ground clearance should check this spot before going farther.

5. Denali National Park Boondocking Sites – 224 George Parks Hwy Parking

Address
Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska
GPS: 63.540637, -148.806493
Elevation: 1949′

Management: Public

Beautiful view of mountains and lake with greenery. Dream location to wake up to.

6. Denali National Park Boondocking Spots – Gravel Road Off Hwy.

Address
Healy, Alaska
GPS: 63.819117, -148.980447
Elevation: 1729′]

Management: Public

There’s 2 Gravel roads right next to each other off Parks highway. On the east side of the road. Both trails take you away from the road to some secluded camp sites. Some rock firepits. Made it in with a 23ft trailer, but it was pretty tight. Nice views though and car enough from the road to feel private.

7. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – North Healy Rest Stop

Address
MM269 Parks Hwy
Healy, Alaska
GPS: 64.129429, -149.250871
Elevation: 892′

Management: Public

The road in is Paved. North Healy Rest Stop is open Summer. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. This is a little rest area just North of Healy, AK at mile marker number 269. It has a pit toilet and a large parking area. There are also some tent camping sites down the gravel road by the bridge to Bear Creek.

8. Denali National Park Boondocking Sites – Nennana Ak

Address
Nenana, Alaska
GPS: 64.56467, -149.09665
Elevation: 358′

Management: Public

South East side of the river bridge just east of the old fueling station. Full gravel room for any size RV. Room for 5 or 6 units.

9. Denali National Park Boondocking Spots – Kings River

Address
Chickaloon, Alaska
GPS: 61.732501, -148.75729
Elevation: 558′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel. Kings River is open weather permitted. The maximum RV length at Kings River is unlimited. This is a boondocking place that is focused towards ATV riders. There are spots for camping on both sides of the Kings River Bridge. Large enough most RV’s pulling ATV trailers.

10. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – Near Palmer

Address
Palmer, Alaska
GPS: 61.608021, -149.064606
Elevation: 202′

Management: National Forest Service

Near Palmer is open Year-round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is any. You may stay 7 nights at Near Palmer.

11. Denali National Park Boondocking Sites – Long Lake

Address
Chickaloon, Alaska
GPS: 61.803646, -148.237518

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Nice little fishing spot with some user made campsites.

12. Denali National Park Boondocking Spots – Lake Lorraine Campground

Address
Wasilla, Alaska
GPS: 61.2889, -149.94513
Elevation: 184′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel and at eight miles from a paved road. Lake Lorraine Campground is open summer. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Lake Lorraine Campground.

13. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – Mt. Baldy Trailhead

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 61.338, -149.512
Elevation: 1834′

Management: Public

The road in is Paved. Small parking before the trail. Or la unit flat and You Will probably not be able for an RV but it was ok for a camper van. Let’s be honest there is not much choice near Anchorage.

14. Denali National Park Boondocking Sites – South Fork Eagle River

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 61.222001, -149.439708
Elevation: 2110′

Management: Public

15. Denali National Park Boondocking Spots – Mile Post 13 Hope Rd

ddress
Hope, Alaska
GPS: 60.92955, -149.54168
Elevation: 7′

Management: Public

The road in is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Small roadside pullout with about 6 campsites. It’s free and has a porta pottie. Amazing views.

16. Denali National Park Boondocking Locations – Crow Creek Road

Address
Anchorage, Alaska
GPS: 60.995914, -149.091706
Elevation: 709′

Management: State Park

Several pullouts along a gravel road. I think it is in Chugach State Park land. Here Are My 10 Favorite Trails At the Denali National Park.

Top 10 Denali Park Hiking Trails

Denali is known for being one of the largest national parks in the country. It’s also known for its vast wilderness. Because of its wild nature, there are only 35 miles of hiking trails in Denali National Park. Theoretically, you could do them all in one visit!

I’ve had the pleasure of hiking each trail multiple times. Here’s a complete list of Denali National Park hikes, ranked from best to… still really great. There’s no such thing as a bad trail in Denali! Keep reading for the best hikes in Denali National Park.

Be prepared for wildlife encounters. Moose and bears frequent the trails in Denali National Park. Always carry bear spray and be sure to read about bear safety before you go. Remember to never run away from bears or any other predators. If you see a moose, especially one with calves, you should run to safety. The same goes for other non-predatory species.

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #1. Savage Alpine Trail

1 Denali National Park

This trail starts near “Glitter Gulch” on the road leading towards McKinley. It’s about 9 miles long and climbs 1400 feet. The trail offers incredible views of Mt. McKinley (the highest mountain in North America., tundra-covered slopes, alpine ponds, meadows carpeted with wildflowers, and taiga forest areas with red spruce and paper birch.

Length: 4.1 mi
Elevation gain: 1,414 ft
Route type: Point to point

Hiking, Forest, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #2. Talkeetna Lake Trail

2. Talkeetna Lake Trail Denali National Park

The best hike to do in summer, this trail starts at around 500 ft above the valley floor and climbs up to 1000 ft over a 3.7 miles trail. It passes through dense taiga forest and offers wildlife sightings of caribou, moose, Dall sheep, grizzly bears, and, if you’re lucky, a wolf or two.

Length: 3.7 mi
Elevation gain: 410 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Snow

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #3. Curry Ridge Trail

3. Curry Ridge Trail

This one is another easy hike that is about 6.5 miles long. If you visit during wintertime, there might be a chance that you can see some wolf tracks here. During summertime, it’s great for birdwatching as many sandpipers come here to feed on insects. The view here is also very nice, overlooking the Igloo Mountains.

Length: 6.5 mi
Elevation gain: 1,023 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Walking, Forest, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Snow, Fee

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #4. Mount Healy Overlook Trail

4. Mount Healy Overlook Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Locations

This trail starts near “Glitter Gulch” on the road leading towards McKinley. It climbs up to 2100 m over 6.9 miles. There are chances of spotting some grizzly bears along this route, and it offers spectacular views of Mt. Foraker (a dormant volcano.

Length: 6.9 mi
Elevation gain: 2,483 ft
Route type: Out & back

Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #5. Horseshoe Lake Trail

5. Horseshoe Lake Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Free Campsites

It’s a 4.2 mile round trip hike; however, if you want to go further up and see gorgeous McKinley from close, add on another two miles for that one. This location provides some wonderful photo opportunities as there’s a wide-angle view of the mountains and great scenery in the background.

Length: 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: 393 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #6. Triple Lakes Trail

6. Triple Lakes Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Free Campsites

This is a great hike if you like wildlife encounters and landscapes. It’s about 18.5 miles round-trip, so it might take four or five hours to finish. You’ll have the chance of seeing caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, black bears, moose, foxes, marmots, pikas, ptarmigan, golden eagles, swans, terns, and gulls along this trail.

Length: 18.5 mi
Elevation gain: 3,690 ft
Route type: Out & back

Fishing, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Running, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #7. Rock Creek Trail

7. Rock Creek Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Spots

This is another easy-to-moderate hike that has less traffic than most trails in Denali Park. There are views of Mt. Foraker here and some wildlife such as the grizzly bear, moose, and birds. Also, there are different kinds of wildflowers found along this trail. Trail is 5.1 miles long.

Length: 5.1 mi
Elevation gain: 1,000 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #8. Moose Flats Loop Trail

8. Moose Flats Loop Trail Denali National Park Boondocking Spots

This is a short trail with some beautiful views of Mt. McKinley and Cathedral Mountain. During summertime, it’s great for birdwatching as many sandpipers come here to feed on insects. The moose often come near this pond so that you might see one here.

Length: 0.6 mi
Elevation gain: 39 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Forest, Views, Wildlife

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #9. Bison Gulch

9. Bison Gulch Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail

This trail offers spectacular views and passes through an open valley and dense taiga forest to the Eielson Visitor Center. There’s also a chance that you can spot wolves or wolverines along this trail if you visit during wintertime. The trail is 7 miles long with a 3800 feet gain in elevation.

Length: 7.0 mi
Elevation gain: 3,868 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Forest, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Off trail, Fee, No dogs

Denali National Park Hiking Trail #10. Taiga Loop and Horseshoe Lake Trail

10. Taiga Loop and Horseshoe Lake Trail

Length: 3.0 mi
Elevation gain: 521 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Fee, No dogs

This 3 mile round trip hike is perfect for backpackers who want to spend more days in the park. It’s steep with some long uphill climbs, but it passes through alpine areas, tundra meadows, and taiga forest on the way up. Mt. Foraker is visible from here as well as moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, black bears, pika s, ptarmigan, golden eagles, swans, terns and gulls along the route.

Suppose you are interested in something more challenging then Denali National Park is not only a fascinating and beautiful place to visit, but it also provides an important function in preserving the environment for future generations.

Places and Things to Do and See in Denali National Park

My visit to Denali National Park was one of the greatest experiences of my life. The breathtaking views, fascinating animals, and beautiful scenery made it a vacation I will never forget.

The park is massive, and there is a lot to see everywhere you look, so if visiting, allow yourself at least a week for this place to go on a hike or have a picnic or just enjoy being outside instead of going into any buildings. I tell you there many things you can enjoy in this park which include:

1. Visit Wonder Lake

As you drive towards Denali National Park on your way to visit this majestic site, you will be surrounded by beautiful panoramas of mountains and forests before entering a spectacular alpine valley (known as “Wonder Lake”). This lake has some wonderful hiking trails coming off its shores, allowing visitors to take their time exploring the area both on foot and in kayaks.

2. See the Denali Mountain

The high point in North America is Mount McKinley, which stands tall at 20,310ft. Visitors to the park will see the pure white glacier that covers about ten percent of its mountainside.

3. Check out the Animal Wildlife in the park

Many types of wildlife live within Denali National Park, including brown bears, moose, wolves, and caribou. It is estimated there are about 150 different species of birds in this same area, with many migrating from as far as South America during wintertime. Two rare types of owl called the Spruce Grouse and Saw-Whet Owl also resides here. If you are lucky, you might spot one of Denali park’s famous bushtits or be able to catch a glimpse of caribou traveling in herds.

4. Stop at the Park Entrance Gates

The entrance gates within this national park are known as Eielson Visitors Center, and it is here that visitors can stop by and get information about the area they plan on exploring once inside. This place will also give tourists some helpful hints for staying safe while enjoying everything Denali offers, such as what to wear during different seasons and how to travel safely around the area.

5. Go River Rafting by Excursion

Denali National Park offers many exciting expeditions along its rivers of varying difficulties which will suit any budget. For visitors looking to get more active on their trip, this will be an experience that no one should miss out on.

6. Go for a Hike along the Park Trails

There are many different trails in Denali National Park that hikers can choose from to safely explore the mountains and forests while being supervised by local rangers. These ranger-led activities include walks up onto the alpine tundra. You will have great views of Mount McKinley or bear patrols that allow people easy access to bear watching opportunities without traveling far from the main road.

7. Visit the Eielson Visitor Center

After driving through some magnificent alpine scenery, visitors will arrive at the Eielson Visitor Center, as this is the main hub for information about Denali National Park. Visitors can pick up a park map and other essential tips here while watching a movie about how Denali first became a national park.

8. Travel into the wilderness

Suppose you are looking for a more wild experience while visiting Denali. In that case, it is possible to go on an overnight camping trip with trained rangers who will be there to make sure your stay is safe and enjoyable by showing you all of the best places along the way to pitch your tent or set up camp.

9. Go Wildlife Watching

The spectacular wildlife in this area includes brown bears, moose, caribou, and wolves, which roam free in this beautiful national park. It is possible to catch sight of grizzly bears fishing for gold salmon during the spring season, which can be seen spawning around this time.

10. Explore the Park on Foot

Many hiking trails leading from lakes and rivers will take you into Denali National Park’s pristine wilderness, allowing you to explore different terrain while supervised by local rangers who know the area well.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

Travel Arizona National Monument Boondocking

15 Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking in Jan 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

I would definitely recommend to add a day or two and visit the Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument. If you every become fortunate enough to go to the Grand Canyon North Rim don’t miss it. Whether you go alone, with friends, or take the whole family I can assure you it is a once in a life time experience that you will never forget.

The scenery is unmatched no matter where you explore and the people are hospitable and friendly. The Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument is one of the most traveled to places in the entire United States. It’s beauty leaves you in awe. The memories you make there will be cherished forever.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Arizona?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

The Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument is located on the North rim of the Grand Canyon. It is a 1,014,000 acre area in north western Arizona. It is believed that the Grand Canyon itself was formed five to six million years ago when the Colorado River cut it’s way through the area forming the mile deep canyon. It is thought that humans have inhibited the area since the Ice Age.
Ruins and artifacts dating back nearly 12,000 years have been discovered by archeologists. The Grand Caynon achieved national park status in 1919. It wasn’t long the creation of the national park service. Since then the area has become widely known as a travel destination. It has become populated, explored, and adored by all who visit. There is no other place on Earth quite like it. The canyon itself is one mile deep, and 18 miles wide and over 270 miles long.

Many tribes once inhabited the area including the Pueblo. The Paiute people, the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes also all once lived in and around the canyon. Tribal history states that the Havasupai lived in the area for well over 800 years. Pictures, drawings and sketches of animals have been found inside the caves that are within the walls of the canyon. They are thought to be part of a ritual that was done to ensure successful hunting.

The first more modern day explorer of the Grand Canyon was Joseph Christmas Ives. He and a fellow named John Newberry explored the canyon is 1858 while on an expedition along the Colorado River. Newberry is known as the first geologist the study the area.

In 1903 our late great president Theodore Roosevelt visited the Grand Canyon. He adored it so much that he felt the need to protect it for future use and exploration. He declared that certain areas become protected as wildlife and game reserves. These areas later became known as the Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument.

Grand Canyon Parshant (30)

15 Best Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations

check out our video

1. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument Pakoon Springs

Address
Pakoon Springs Road
Littlefield, Arizona
GPS: 36.418255, -113.960678
Elevation: 2288′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt. You may stay two weeks (14 days) at Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument Pakoon Springs.

Best Review:

There are no developed campsites with facilities within the national monument. Visitors can pick their own campsite, but please camp at least 200 feet from water sources and use biodegradable soap. Camping is permitted for up to 14 days. See the map linked to the right for monument boundaries.

2. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Spots – Whitney Pockets

Address
Arizona Road
Bunkerville, Nevada
GPS: 36.524198, -114.133117
Elevation: 3144′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Gravel. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. Free boondocking on BLM owned desert land. Flat and open at the base of beautiful red rock. Dry camping in the middle of the desert. No facilities or utilities. No reservations taken.

Best Review:

Absolutely stunning. Let’s be clear about this road…it’s 20 miles of gravel/pothole/rock disaster but MAN IS IT WORTH IT. Its an exquisite drive through the desert mountains. Cacti, Joshua Trees, and beautiful red rocks. Just make sure you’ve got a full tank and everything you need. This is the most magnificent view of Nevada ever, and so close to the Arizona/Utah border.

3. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Campsites – Virgin Mountains

Address
Lime Kiln Canyon Road
Littlefield, Arizona
GPS: 36.689193, -114.019015
Elevation: 3166′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management Arizona Strip District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt.

Best Review:

None

4. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Spots – South Cove

Address
GPS: 36.088919, -114.105943

Management: Public

Follow pierce ferry road north of Meadview, Az. Go to the south cove boat drop off. Right before the lake, turn left on to a dirt road. Drive 5 minutes and camp on the shore where there are fire rings. The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Dirt.

Best Review:

Beautiful place to stay – lake and mountain views, rock formations overlooking the lake shore, gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. Not really very level but manageable. Stayed here in a 26′ class A and a tent, January 2nd and 3rd 2020. Close enough to Grand Canyon West for a daytrip.

5. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Fire Cove

Address
Park Road 106
Overton, Nevada
GPS: 36.403654, -114.401166
Elevation: 1306′

Management: National Park Service

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt 4×4. Fire Cove is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 15 days at Fire Cove.

Best Review:

Free dispersed camping in Lake Mead National Park. A fun little ride in your high clearance vehicle. You may camp anywhere along this road. The end is little more than a brushy, large, flat area in a wash. We didn’t see another person here and we only saw two sets of tire tracks. That’s probably because there is no real access to the water. You could probably walk there, but it’s about a mile away. ATT G and Verizon 3G but neither were usable.

6. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Stewart’s Point – Lake Mead NRA

Address
Overton, Nevada
GPS: 36.378967, -114.401642
Elevation: 1233′

Management: National Park Service

Stewart’s Point – Lake Mead NRA is open Year Round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. You may stay 15 days at Stewart’s Point – Lake Mead NRA. The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Dirt.

Best Review:

None

7. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Spots – Overton Wildlife Management Area

Address
Nevada
GPS: 36.5165, -114.4241
Elevation: 1243′

Management: State Park

Overton Wildlife Management Area is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 8 days at Overton Wildlife Management Area. Overton Wildlife Management Area located 2 miles S of town. Unlimited RV size, 8-day limit. This area is managed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. GPS approximate. The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt.

Best Review:

I found this a fairly nice place to stay in March 2019. Don’t count on finding a free spot here. Five large sites with trees for privacy. I didn’t find it too noisy. The two vault toilets are inside the WMA fencing… one not far from the registration kiosk. Dumpster. You can go inside the gate and walk everywhere but not in hunting season. There are lots of dirt roads not walkable after rain. Some of the roads lead to pretty ponds.

8. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Campsites – Virgin River-Littlefield, AZ

Address
Littlefield, Arizona
GPS: 36.82445, -113.99497
Elevation: 1814′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Gravel and 1/2 miles from a paved road. Virgin River-Littlefield, AZ is open All year. You may stay 14 days at Virgin River-Littlefield, AZ. Quiet and flat campsites with views of the Virgin River and Arizona Mountains. 14 days limit camping. Cellphone service available. Close to the freeway I-15 and the old highway.

Best Review:

Easy to find, but its filthy. broken glass EVERYWHERE! but its a good alternative if you’re traveling South on I15 since apparently there’s no more rest stops after Kanarraville Utah. If I was driving North I’d just go to Kanarraville Rest Stop. There was more people than I anticipated, but was still able to find a spot to park and get some sleep. And I felt comfortable and safe.

9. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Free camping at Walmart

Address
Mesquite, Nevada
GPS: 36.805627, -114.105522
Elevation: 1657′

Management: Retail Store

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is paved.

Best Review:

None

10. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Spots – Free spot close to Valley of Fire & Lake Mead

Address
Moapa Valley, Nevada
GPS: 36.441255, -114.439055
Elevation: 1624′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Dirt. You may stay 14 days at Free spot close to Valley of Fire & Lake Mead. Dirt road to many potential spots. Careful, sandy spots could be tricky. Got stuck with my 21ft RV, with a hitch tray. Had to remove generator and hitch tray off the back to be able to get out of a sandy ditch. Didn’t look soft on foot.

Best Review:

None

11. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Sand Mine Road

Address
Sand Mine Road
Overton, Nevada
GPS: 36.471602, -114.440813
Elevation: 1604′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt. The maximum RV length at Sand Mine Road is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Sand Mine Road. Dispersed camping on BLM land near Valley of Fire State Park and Lake Mead. Level, quiet, and wide open. Full sun. Services and a dump station are 7 miles away in Overton. The road in is in great shape for the first few miles.

Best Review:

Loved it. Great views, weather, walking. Extremely peaceful. Only downside is the spiney plants if you go beyond campsite perimeter. Stayed 2 wéeks because it was perfect for me.

12. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Spots – Snowbird Mesa aka Poverty Flats

Address
Sandmine Road (unmarked)
Overton, Nevada
GPS: 36.48497, -114.444626
Elevation: 1592′

Management: Bureau of Reclamation

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road.

Best Review:

According to the “residents” of the mesa it is free camping from October to June and managed by the bureau of reclamation. I found only 1 reference at the listed website (scroll down to Overton section). It listed no max stay. There were about 40 campers, some in boats, tents, truck toppers big rigs. Water is available and dump down the road about 10 – 15 miles to Echo Bay.

13. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Campsites – Echo Wash

Address
Echo Wash Road
Overton, Nevada
GPS: 36.308955, -114.445626
Elevation: 1247′

Management: National Park Service

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is 4×4. Echo Wash is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 15 days at Echo Wash. This dispersed camping area is just south of Echo Bay Road and down a wash. The wash can get sandy so 4×4 is recommended. High clearance is also good. To get there exit at Bitter Springs Road and go back under the bridge.

Best Review:

None

14. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Locations – Meadview Overlook

Address
Meadview, Arizona
GPS: 35.939639, -113.976044
Elevation: 5528′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant free campsite area is Dirt. You may stay 14 days at Meadview Overlook.

Best Review:

Camp near the edge of the mesa and overlook Meadview and Lake Mead. At night you’ll see the glow of Vegas to the west. Take the road toward the Grand Canyon Skywalk then turn left(north) when you’re near the top. There’s a big gravel pile and a sign for the Skywalk and you’ll go over a cattle guard. It’s a slow 7.5 miles over a dirt road that I would not recommend for a regular car.

15. Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument – Logandale Trails System

Address
Nevada
GPS: 36.593724, -114.526805
Elevation: 1811′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Grand Canyon Parshant boondocking area is Dirt. Logandale Trails System is open Year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

The Logandale Trails System (LTS) contains over 200 miles of trails, suitable for a variety of OHV types, as well as hiking and horseback riding. Be sure to respect the land and its resources during your visit. Otherwise, the LTS will lose what makes it a fantastic place for recreation.

Places To Go and Things To Do At the Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument

There are many places to visit in the Grand Canyon area. I was amazed by Hells Hole. How breathtakingly beautiful and natural it is. The Tassi and Waring ranches are also definitely awesome to check out. The Grand Canyon is an excellent place to ATV, walk, run, hike, ride horses, take photos, and observe nature. Many visitors enjoy the South rim of the Grand Canyon the most. Don’t forget to check out Grand Gulch mine, and Havasu Falls as well if you have the time!

5 Most Popular Trails At Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument

Anyone who’s stood at a Grand Canyon National Park overlook knows this natural wonder can appear inconceivably huge. But from the remote wilderness perch where I’m sitting, it’s even bigger.

High atop 7,866-foot Mt. Logan in northwestern Arizona, I lean back on my elbows and gaze at the most spectacular Grand Canyon panorama I’ve ever seen. Spreading out before me in kaleidoscopic relief is not only the massive canyon, but also its sister region, the Shivwits Plateau, a place 19th-century cowboys called the “high, wide, and lonesome” country.

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail #1. Bright Angel Point Trail

1. Bright Angel Point Trail - Grand Caynon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail

The Bright Angel Point hiking trail is one of the shorter, easier hiking trails. It takes about a half an hour to complete and is absolutely invigorating to hike. It is a more family oriented trail and is much safer than some of the others. It is less than a mile long and heavily used. The Bright Angel Point trail is located near North Rim, Arizona. The wildlife is amazing and the views are just absolutely breathtaking. If you’ve never hiked in the Grand Canyon before the Bright Angel Point trail is an excellent place to start.

Length: 0.9 mi
Elevation gain: 144 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Partially paved, Views, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail #2. Uncle Jim’s Trail

2. Uncle Jim's Trail - Grand Caynon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail

The Uncle Jim Trail is another of the easier trails, but is a little longer. The Uncle Jim Trail is 4.7 miles long and is moderately trafficked. The Uncle Jim Trail is located near North Rim, Arizona and is best for use from May through October. I found that this trail is great for riding horses on. It is so peaceful and relaxing. Here you can enjoy all nature has to offer as the forest is just full of plant and wildlife. I totally loved watching birds on this trail as there is such a vast variety to observe.

Length: 4.7 mi
Elevation gain: 731 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Horseback riding, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest,
Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No dogs

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail #3. The North Kaibab Trail

3. The North Kaibab Trail - Grand Caynon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail

The North Kaibab Trail is an exquisite journey down to the Colorado River. This 28.0 mile long trail is full of adventure and excitement as it enters the Grand Canyon from the North Rim. I was so impressed by this trail for two reasons. The first, the Supai Tunnel, and the second, Roaring Springs. I highly recommend it!

Length: 28.0 mi
Elevation gain: 6,866 ft
Route type: Out & back

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Running, Cave, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers,
Wildlife, Rocky, No shade, Historic site, Fee, No dogs

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail #4. The Monument Canyon Trail

4. The Monument Canyon Trail - Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Boondocking Campsites

The Monument Canyon Trail is moderate in difficulty. It isn’t one of the hardest trails, but it isn’t one of the easiest either. The Monument Canyon Trail is 11.6 miles long. It is one of the more well used trails. The Monument Canyon Trail is located near Grand Junction, Colorado. It is known for several varieties of beautiful wild flowers which seem to grow abundantly. This trail is accessible all year for runners, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. It is a great work out and will get your soul in touch with nature. I found it to be Heaven on Earth as did many of those I encountered while hiking it. What an experience!

Length: 11.6 mi
Elevation gain: 1,873 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Rock climbing, Running, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail #5. The South Kaibab Trail

5. The South Kaibab Trail Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument Hiking Trail

The South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge is another moderate trail. I found this trail to be closer to a hard trail and I suggest you are physically fit or really determined to hike it. However the views here are simply stunning as is the scenery. The South Kaibab trail is an incredible 2.8 miles long. It’s exhilarating to say the least! Make sure to bring your camera as you’ll likely see some amazing things you’ll never see again!

Length: 2.8 mi
Elevation gain: 1,102 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Cave, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

Things To Remember While Visiting the Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument

The Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument is incredible, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure to learn about the trails you choose before embarking on your journey. Also be sure to have plenty of water, and to avoid times of high heat. Always have a map and compass if you do not have a guide. It is easy to get lost in the vast terrain. If you really plan to do some deep exploring let someone know your intentions so if you do happen to get lost someone will come try to find you. With that said I hope you enjoy this amazing area as much as I did. I will cherish the memories I made there for life and maybe beyond! Be sure to bring a camera! There are so many things to see you’ll certainly want to capture them all!

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

top of post - 18 Prime Congaree National Park Boondocking Spots

National Park Boondocking Travel South Carolina Boondocking

18 Congaree National Park Boondocking in Jan 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

I experienced an unbelievable adventure into Congaree National Park, and encountered some incredible stuff. Some of America’s ancient oaks can be spotted there, sheltered, and preserved. Beautiful old pine trees that are taller and wider than you can conceive sleep calmly in the woods and swamp. Congaree respects these extraordinary inhabitants in great reverence and ensures their safety.

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There are so many fantastic things to see and do in the National Park, and this article will make sure you are aware of all that awaits you inside. It is a habitat of great biodiversity and the biggest undisturbed area of ancient shallow root hardwood woodland existing in the Southeastern United States.

This is sufficient to make you want to go to the park and see the beautiful scenery for yourself. Whereas the area is navigable throughout the year, I recommend visiting in the fall and spring when conditions are at their best and insects are often absent. It is vital to come equipped with appropriate apparel and shoes when touring the park.

History of the Congaree National Park

Congaree began life as a historical site, gaining that classification in October 1976, and was later named an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization in 1983. Congaree was designated as a federal park on November 10, 2003, earning it the 57th state park in the United States.

Despite being one of the most cramped national parks in terms of area, Congaree contains a wealth of human and environmental antiquity. Before European adventurers emerged on the continent, the valley was inhabited by the Congaree Indians.

Congaree National Park Camping

18 Prime Boondocking Spots Near The Congaree National Park

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1. Congaree National Park Boondocking Locations – Cracker Barrel Orangeburg

Address
Orangeburg, South Carolina
GPS: 33.555615, -80.823508
Elevation: 322′

Management: Retail Business

Typical Cracker Barrel parking lot. Plenty of room for our rig on the back edge of the parking lot. Was able to put out the slides and run our inverter generator all night. It is pretty noisy since it is right beside the interstate and the roads near the lot are pretty busy at night. Be aware that they empty the dumpsters at about 3am in the morning and that large bang can scare you! We ate breakfast inside and the service was slow as they are understaffed. They are also still using the limited COVID menu. Our biscuits were very stale/hard. The phone was just constantly ringing and nobody was answering it. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is paved.

Best Review:

None

2. Congaree National Park Boondocking Sites – Walmart Orangeburg

Address
2795 North Rd
Orangeburg, South Carolina
GPS: 33.52496, -80.88996
Elevation: 200′

Management: Retail Business

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Paved. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Asked inside, permission granted, after considerable discussion, by a delightfully ragtag group of cashiers who eventually decided I should park “out by the gas station”, which I did. Entire lot very well lit and reasonably quiet. No security seen, no one moving about lot that I saw, and no sweeper.

3. Congaree National Park Boondocking Spots – Walmart Supercenter #4379

Address
Columbia, South Carolina
GPS: 34.030131, -81.107781
Elevation: 213′

Management: Retail Business

The road in is Paved. Walmart Supercenter #4379 is open year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Walmart Supercenter #4379. Walmart Supercenter.

Best Review:

Trucks and RVs regularly overnight here. This particular store is currently conducting a “Going out of Business” sale (everything is 50% off as of 04 FEB 21), so uncertain what will become of the property when the store finally closes. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is paved.

4. Congaree National Park Free Campsites – Walmart

Address
2010 Paxville Hwy
Manning, South Carolina
GPS: 33.700019, -80.22707
Elevation: 125′

Management: Retail Business

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is paved.

Best Review:

None

5. Congaree National Park Boondocking Locations – Bob Cat Boat Landing

Address
Bamberg, South Carolina
GPS: 33.336903, -81.020401
Elevation: 142′

Management: State Forest

The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is paved.

Best Review:

Stayed here in October of 2021 ..nice level parking lot. A lot of locals come through here but they dont seem to bother much. I have had a few stop and talk but mostly they just pull in and out. Cops do cruise the area once or twice daily but did not stop to speak with me. Town a few miles a way. No bathrooms or water for drinking. Be a nice swimming place as there are swings and a ladder doing up a tree I assume to jump into the water. If you like in city camping it would be a good spot.

6. Congaree National Park Boondocking Sites – Palmetto Trail – Alston

Address
Alston Road
Peak, South Carolina
GPS: 34.24324, -81.316734
Elevation: 238′

Management: County Park

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Tent site has level gravel smooth pad with brick fire pit, completely wooded, but you must park out front and walk into the campground which isn’t bad, very nice and right next to the trailhead to mountain bike.

7. Congaree National Park Boondocking Spots – Palmetto trail (hike-in)

Address
Little Mountain, South Carolina
GPS: 34.241688, -81.332267

Management: State Forest

Free boondocking -> no reservations. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is dirt.

Best Review:

I stayed at the head of the trail my first night. But this spot is definitely better. I was truck camping but a small RV might fit. Picnic tables and some benches, probably room for 3 cars. There is one private driveway nearby, make sure you don’t park in front of it. Entrance isn’t marked and kind of hard to find, lookup on a map beforehand. Also it is a good hiking trail. GPS Coordinates I used are N34degrees14’28.6″ W081degrees19’58.2″

8. Congaree National Park Free Campsites – SCE&G Boat Ramp #4

Address
Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina
GPS: 34.0801, -81.52065
Elevation: 417′

Management: Public Boat Ramp

Free camping by tent allowed here for 7 days before having to move as posted. The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is paved.

Best Review:

Not sure how welcoming they are for RV’s. You can not put up a tent within 50 feet of the boat ramp, in fact recommended to pitch away from it as the sounds of boats being launched can be loud. Quite a large area to put a tent by the water with plenty of areas and if you willing to walk a few 100 feet, you can be away from the parking lot and boat ramp. Services including a 24/7 bathroom. No drinkable water here so bring in your own. Area sometimes can be busy from cars and boats and occasional loud parties from houses across the lake. Excellent place to view a sunset or sunrise. Ants can be a nuisance as well as no see ums here. There are no fees of any kind here.

9. Congaree National Park Boondocking Locations – Florence Walmart/Sams

Address
Florence, South Carolina
GPS: 34.19283, -79.82174
Elevation: 135′

Management: Retail Business

Basic Walmart layout, get permission.

Best Review:

Stayed one night. Came in around 10pm. Huge parking lot. There were about 7 to 8 semi trucks parked for the night In the back. Just your standard night at Walmart. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is paved.

10. Congaree National Park Boondocking Sites – Rest area I-77

Address
Lando, South Carolina
GPS: 34.7639, -81.03535
Elevation: 528′

Management: Rest Area

The road in is The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Paved. Rest area I-77 is open All year. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 1 night at Rest area I-77. Rest areas on both north and south bound sides of I-77 Not much listed in this area, it’s okay for a rest area.

Best Review:

None

11. Congaree National Park Boondocking Spots – Marsh Wildlife Management Area

Address
Murray Road
Gresham, South Carolina
GPS: 33.983033, -79.4709
Elevation: 47′

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is Dirt and 3.65 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 4 days at Marsh Wildlife Management Area.

Best Review:

This place is awesome! We’re the only ones here, no hook ups of any kind but since we’re all alone we hooked up the generator for the evening. 2 Best Things: Seclusion and Open space for kids to play. 2 Negatives: Road coming in was all dirt and some nifty potholes, there is a minimal amount of garbage in old campfire spots. Biggest surprise was the stack of free firewood by each of the fire pits.

12. Congaree National Park Free Campsites – Clinton Pilot Station

Address
12818 Highway 56 North
Clinton, South Carolina
GPS: 34.50859, -81.8578
Elevation: 630′

Management: Truck Stop

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Paved. Clinton Pilot Station is open all year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

Best Review:

You may stay a few hours at Clinton Pilot Station. Overnight RVparking at a truck stop. There is a parking lot on the south side where you can take up two spaces if needed. There is a small road system off of the parking lot where you can walk a pet, but it is heavily littered.

13. Congaree National Park Boondocking Locations – Wambaw ORV Area / Campsite

Address
Shulerville, South Carolina
GPS: 33.13913, -79.63445
Elevation: 49′

Management: National Forest servcie

Wambaw ORV Area / Campsite is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 days at Wambaw ORV Area / Campsite. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is dirt.

Best Review:

Friendly host. Camping is free. Several campsites with room for trailers. Campsites are pretty well furnished with a table and benches. Has pit toilets. Pack your trash out. It is an OHV facility with very limited camping for riders. People ride the trails 24/7 and camp spaces are next to the trail so not camper friendly, for those seeking a campground.

14. Congaree National Park Boondocking Sites – Oaks at South Point Parking Lot

Address
Yemassee, South Carolina
GPS: 32.630097, -80.879363
Elevation: 16′

Management: Public

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Paved. The maximum RV length at Oaks at south point parking lot is unlimited. Easy to find, right off highway 17.

Best Review:

Wendy’s, McDonalds, subway, waffle house all close by. Some highway noise and sirens throughout the night. One other RV was there when we got there but plenty of room for multiple rigs. It’s nothing fancy but it works for a quick overnight and back on the highway in the morning.

15. Congaree National Park Boondocking Spots – Halfway Creek Trail Camp

Address
Halfway Creek Road
Huger, South Carolina
GPS: 33.056686, -79.696588
Elevation: 46′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at Halfway Creek Trail Camp.

Best Review:

Very nice, very quiet, other campers were friendly and polite, very nice trail system, very nice sites that are flat, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

16. Congaree National Park Free Campsites – Honey Hill Campground

Address
Jamestown, South Carolina
GPS: 33.174488, -79.561241
Elevation: 33′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Gravel and 1/4 miles from a paved road. Honey Hill Campground is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 Days at Honey Hill Campground.

Best Review:

Stayed in 38′ class A motorhome. No problem getting in or out. Was pretty quiet, but I suppose it depends on other people that are there. Sherriff drove by everyday.

17. Congaree National Park Boondocking Locations – Woodbury WMA

Address
Woodbury Road
Gresham, South Carolina
GPS: 33.85934, -79.332878
Elevation: 23′

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 4 days at Woodbury WMA. The road into this Congaree National Park free campsite area is dirt.

Best Review:

Primitive camping is available at boat ramps located within the property’s boundaries. These include Sampson Landing, Sanders Landing and Parker Landing located on the tributaries of the Little Pee Dee River and Tanyard Landing located on the Great Pee Dee River. No facilities. Nothing other than space is provided. Pack it in, pack it out. When it comes to poo: Bury it, or carry it out when you leave.

18. Congaree National Park Boondocking Sites – Elmwood Recreation Area

Address
McClellanville, South Carolina
GPS: 33.198958, -79.470065
Elevation: 71′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Congaree National Park boondocking area is Paved. Elmwood Recreation Area is open Year Round. You may stay 14 Days at Elmwood Recreation Area. There is a vault toilet and water to use.

Best Review:

The camp spots are along a cul-de-sac and there is a police officer that drove through once a day. We loved this place not just for the campsite but for the activity around it. About two miles down the road is a little place called BJ’s. Ben and Shirley are the owners and the place was amazing. Also about a mile past that is an old plantation house that was a complete surprise. It was amazing to see all of the history this place had. George Washington even visited while touring the south. All in all it was a great place to camp close enough to my. Pleasant and Charleston. We would highly recommend!

9 Great Congaree National Park Hiking Trails

Congaree National Park has eight great hiking routes (and one for kayaking) to choose from. The park is open for you and maintains its attractiveness throughout the year. Make a point of going, getting outside, and absorbing as much outdoors as you possibly can.

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #1 – Oak Ridge Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #1 - Oak Ridge Trail

One of the greatest spots to see animals in the area is on the 6.3 mile Oak Ridge Trail. Because it is a less frequently traveled track, you are more likely to have the location to yourself. Such a beautiful and interesting hike! The oak ridge (and most hikes) begin along the boardwalk, which is 2 miles long and fascinating.

Length: 6.3 mi
Elevation gain: 19 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Wildlife, Over grown

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #2 – Kingsnake Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #2 - Kingsnake Trail

An 7.8 mile Kingsnake track is Congaree National Park’s largest hiking path. It starts about 6 miles as from park entrance, at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch park lot. The track is the finest for birdwatching in the national park due to the lack of regular trekkers and bushes in this area. It is one of the park’s most tranquil hikes.

Length: 7.8 mi
Elevation gain: 22 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Wildlife

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #3 – Boardwalk Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #3 - Boardwalk Trail

This 2 mile Boardwalk track is Congaree National Park’s best beautiful and attractive hiking path. It starts on an overhead stretch before splitting. All along, there are seats every several 100 feet. This trail is raised nearly 6 feet above the forest floor, the elevated boardwalk winds through a diverse old-growth forest. Use the self-guided brochure and listen for woodpeckers hammering away in the tall trees above.

Length: 2.0 mi
Elevation gain: 9 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Camping, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Paved, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #4 – Sims Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #4 - Sims Trail

The simplest trekking route in Congaree National Park is this 2.4 mile hike. The walk is wide and flat since it parallels an old dirt road, albeit the gravel driveways have long ago disappeared.

Length: 2.4 mi
Elevation gain: 9 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Bugs

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #5 – Bluff Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #5 - Bluff Trail

The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is surrounded by the 2.1 mile Bluff trail. It starts at the visitor center’s rear, traverses the park entrance road, leads to the Bluff Campground, and then returns along a small stretch of the elevated Boardwalk trail. When you are looking for a short and simple hike in the national park, this is the place to go.

Length: 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: 19 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #6 – Weston Lake Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #6 - Weston Lake Trail

The 4.6 mile trail starts and terminates at the Boardwalk trail’s opposite ends. On this trail, I have met a lot of trekkers and photographers. It is also said to be a good path to trek if you are preparing for a 10 km since it is 6.3 miles long when you include the Bluff trail it adds up to 10 kilometers.

Length: 4.6 mi
Elevation gain: 16 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #7 – River Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #7 - River Trail

The River route starts at Cedar Creek on the Weston Lake trail and meanders through the ancient forest eventually branching into a curve and ultimately reaching the Congaree River. The path then returns to Cedar Creek, where it began. River Trail is a 9.9 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near St. Matthews, South Carolina that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round.

Length: 9.9 mi
Elevation gain: 52 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Nature trips, Running, Forest, River, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Blowdown,
Bugs, Muddy

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #8 – Bates Ferry Trail

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #8 - Bates Ferry Trail

This 2.3 mile circuit hike traces a historic path that formerly led to a Congaree River ferry connection. It is the simplest hike in the park. The tourist center is around 15 kilometers from the car park, which is located on Highway 601.

Length: 2.3 mi
Elevation gain: 6 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Over grown

Congaree National Park Hiking Trail #9 – Congaree River Blue Trail

This is a long distance kayaking route, not a hiking trail. This 46.8 mile lightly trafficked point-to-point trail located near Columbia, South Carolina that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for fishing. Users may encounter rattle snakes and wild-boar in this area.

Length: 46.8 mi
Elevation gain: 6 ft
Route type: Point to point

Fishing, Paddle sports, Beach, Forest, River, Views

Places to See and Things to Do in Congaree National Park

● The Weston Lake Loop is a great place to start. This circular place is around 5 miles in length and is among the most frequented sites in the park. That is the ideal entrance to the park’s enormous trees, streams, and an opportunity to see and enjoy a few of the park’s famed flooding, natural vegetation, and some wildlife.

● It offers a spectacular view of synchronized fireflies and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Throughout the breeding season, these fireflies will glow in tandem. It only happens from May through June, so prepare your plans accordingly.

● Kayaking is a great way to get a more in-depth look at the park. One can view so much of the park this way than you would on foot. There are miles of waterways to tour, and you will have the opportunity to view turtles, otters, crocodiles, and uncommon aquatic birds along the way.

● Make a point of stopping by the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, which is chock-full of information, instructional materials, and movies, as well as a tribute to the person that made it all conceivable.

● Trek the Boardwalk trail, which is the most favorite trek. Its 2.1 mile length includes several of the park’s best notable features, such as magnificent trees, spectacular plants, and far more.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

Travel Arizona Boondocking National Monument Boondocking

18 Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking in Jan 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 23, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

If you have not heard about or visited the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument boondocking locations, you need to do so. The Monument sits in northern Arizona as well as the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness that stretches up and over the southern border of Utah. It is located a short distance from the Arches, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Lake Forest, and Petrified National Forest. The views are all incredible, but the Cliffs offer visitors the feeling that they have been swept into a Dr. Seuss illustration. Three dinosaur tracks and also available.

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The Vermilion Cliffs are reputed for their white and red swirls of intricately layered Navajo sandstone from the Jurassic period. It obtains its distinct aesthetic for the iron-rich oxide colors within the rocks. Over time, the rocks have been exposed by dinosaurs and erosion. The monument appears Mars-like and is accessorized with endangered California condors. The Cliffs have breathtaking vistas although it has not benefited much from a public reputation as its neighbors.

How to visit Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is one of our most often asked questions. The answer is quite simple, there is free camping in and around the monument, the roads at the monument are easy to navigate and can be done in any vehicle. Just be sure and visit in a month that offers cooler temps. Hiking or visiting in the late spring through early fall are hot and not the optimal time for most visitors.

The Bureaus of Land Management (BLM) oversees the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, which sprawl across 280,000 acres in the Colorado Plateau at the Utah-Arizona border. The wave unfurls inside a striated mix of gold, rust, and red across the desert floor. The most popular activity is hiking, but people visiting the area also enjoy photography, camping, and wildlife viewing.

History of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

People started settling in the region beginning 12,000 years ago and hundreds of Native American pueblos are spread across the monument. The remains of the native’; villages with granaries, homes, and associated homes are found there. The monument also has a large number of rock art sites in the nationally protected area.

People believe that most petroglyphs are the oldest in the U.S.A. Spanish missionaries and explorers from the Dominguez-Escalante expedition that happened in 1776 were the first people to explore the region. Later, Mormon explorers searched the region during the 1860s and some of them settled on the land, which is now inside the monument. In 1871, the explorers built one of the initial ferry crossings on the Colorado River. In that year, John Wesley Powell ventured through the region during the scientific operations of the Colorado River plateau. The same year, John Wesley Powell ventured through the region during the scientific explorations of Colorado’s River plateau.

Beneath the Vermilion cliff, there is a historic Honeymoon Trail. It is a wagon route for Mormons who visited the area to get their marriages sealed inside the temple at St. George, Utah, and then to return. The area that surrounds the monument is generally unspoiled with virtually zero permanent residents remaining and few roads.

The national monument was founded in the year 2000 and it covers 1,186 square kilometers (458) square miles. It has range elevations of 3,100 to 7,100 feet.

Vermilion Cliffs

18 Great Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Locations

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1. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Monument Boondocking Locations – White Pocket Campground

Address
Marble Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 36.954567, -111.893695
Elevation: 5679′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

White Pocket Campground is open All year. Extremely hard-to-reach primitive campsite which requires 4WD and an hour of driving through deep sand. If wet, road is impassable. Campfire is allowed. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt

Best Reviews:

None

2. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – Burma Creek Road

Address
North Rim, Arizona
GPS: 36.709911, -112.101284
Elevation: 6617′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt and 3 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 at Burma Creek Road.

Best Reviews:

Large designated BLM campsites with spectacular views off Burma Creek Road. Each site is large. I found multiple fire rings at the site I picked. The sites are in a burn area, so there is lots of standing firewood. No services. Pack in pack out.

Dirt service road, that requires high clearance and 4×4 once beyond a few hundred yards from the paved highway. Larger rigs can stay in the area immediately off the paved highway, but shouldn’t proceed beyond that. I would only go further in a truck camper with high clearance, 4×4, and dry road conditions. No cell coverage with Verizon or TMobiles, even with a booster.

3. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – Stateline BLM CG

Address
House Rock Valley Rd
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.001373, -112.035271
Elevation: 4994′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt and 9 miles from a paved road. Stateline BLM CG is open Year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. From Page, AZ, drive west on Highway 89 for 34 miles (55 kilometers).

Best Reviews:

Drive past the BLM Contact Station and the road to the White House trailhead. Turn left onto House Rock Valley Road. This road is compacted dirt. The Stateline Campground is 9.3 miles (14.9 kilometers) down this dirt road, which can be impassable when wet. It is one mile south of the Wire pass Trailhead.

4. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Locations – Wire Pass TH

Address
House Rock Valley Road
Kanab, Utah
GPS:37.019219, -112.025083
Elevation: 4875′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

None

5. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – Kaibab Forest

Address
Forest Service Road 225, Kaibab National Forest, AZ
Kaibab National Forest, Arizona
GPS: 36.726663, -112.174015
Elevation: 7725′

Management: State Forest

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt and 2 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. Unofficial sites, found several of them, fireplaces etc. so i guess camping is tolerated. Hidden from the main road, but close and very good dirt road.

Best Reviews:

Great site. Packed dirt road made for easy access in our truck. 4×4 not needed. Nice open area camp sites with fire pits. Very peaceful. Tall pines make for plenty of shade. Also believe we passed another 4 or 5 blm roads that would have lead to spots just as nice in either direction.

6. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – FSR 258A

Address
Jacob Lake, Arizona
GPS: 36.731555, -112.181293
Elevation: 7653′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

The road in is Paved. ET Highway Rest Area is open year round. The maximum RV length at ET Highway Rest Area is unlimited. You may stay overnight at ET Highway Rest Area. 2.5 mi. east of Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center on Hwy 89A. On right hand side. A pull off and unmarked forest service road.

Best Reviews:

None

7. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Locations – NF Road 482 Jacob Lake, AZ

Address
Arizona
GPS: 36.734933, -112.199533
Elevation: 7694′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. NF Road 482 Jacob Lake, AZ is open All Year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at NF Road 482 Jacob Lake, AZ.

Best Reviews:

Great place to boon dock in the National Forest only 1 hour from the North Rim of Grand Canyon. The Jacob Lake Inn is very helpful and can both accept trash and supply water for a fee you decide yourself. The Kaibab Camper Village have a dump site for $12.

8. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – Vermilion Cliffs /Soap Creek

Address
Marble Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 36.75014, -111.71654
Elevation: 4052′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt and .5 miles from a paved road. Unmarked dirt road into BLM land just east of where Hwy 89-Alt crosses Soap Creek. The gate is not locked but there are cattle in the area so keep it closed. The dirt road forks south of the gate… left is 4WD, right is 2WD.

Best Reviews:

Stayed in October 20 , the only sketchy spot is just inside the gate 1000 ft or so . Walk around the bend before comitting. May not be passable if it has rained recently. I filled a couple of putts with local rocks and made it with 24ft Leisure Van , 12,000lbs without 4WD . the rest wasn’t problematic at all , solid and amazing. Stay right and follow the wild horse path all the way to the Canyon. beautiful , clean , private plenty of room , flat.

9. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – Buckskin Gulch Trailhead

Address
House Rock Valley Road
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.067022, -112.000565
Elevation: 4846′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management Kanab District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

None

10. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Locations – Jacob Lake Dispersed Camping

Address
Forest Service Road 461, Arizona
Fredonia, Arizona
GPS: 36.708215, -112.236567
Elevation: 7936′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Best Reviews:

We were recommended by some rangers in the Forest Service Office to some dispersed campsites just southwest of Jacob Lake in the Kaibab National Forest. Go South out of Jacob Lake along 67 and turn right (West) on 461, following signs for the “Kaibab Camp R Village.” Go past the RV village and into the Forest Land, and look for open, flat campsites with rock fire rings.

11. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – Badger Creek Campground

Address
Marble Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 36.77642, -111.659206
Elevation: 3886′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt 4×4 and 3 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Primitive Campsite overlooking Badger Creek Rapids on the Colorado River. Free, unmaintained.

Best Reviews:

This campsite is seriously amazing. I drove here in a Ford Fusion and made it all of the way to the end so don’t worry about your car not being able to make it. I camped at the end but walked along near all of the other sites and you can’t go wrong wherever you want to go. Incredible views, feels remote and overall great experience. Cell service was also perfect for AT&T users.

12. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – Paria River off HWY 89

Address
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.105995, -111.903359
Elevation: 4389′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free BLM camping in large gravel pit overlooking Paria River. No facilities. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. The maximum RV length at Paria River off HWY 89 is any. You may stay 14 Nights at Paria River off HWY 89.

Best Reviews:

Awesome site! Camped here mid June,2021. Huge gravel lot with maybe 4 or 5 fairly level spots but plenty if room for any size rig. Stayed here 11 days. Page is 30 miles, anything you need is there. Don’t miss Horseshoe Bend and the Toadstools trail. Many other trails in the area too, ask at the BLM office. A trail a local told me about is a must see and not far from camp.

13. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Monument Boondocking Locations – FR 212 Dispersed

Address
Unnamed Road
Fredonia, Arizona
GPS: 36.617361, -112.245416
Elevation: 8248′

Management: National Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Kaibab National Forest’s North Kaibab Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. This is a high elevation location. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

Lots of space and was fairly quiet while we were there, and that was over Memorial Day Weekend.

14. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – FSR 241 Kaibab National Forest

Address
North Rim, Arizona
GPS: 36.556214, -112.145452
Elevation: 8559′

Management: National Forest Service

Free campsites all along the forest service roads of the Kaibab National Forest- not just road 241. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

Stop by the Forest Service visitor center at Jacob Lake to get a free paper map of the Forest Service roads. The road in is Dirt and varies miles from a paved road. FSR 241 Kaibab National Forest is open Highway 67 (paved) is closed in winter (Nov-May 15). There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay unknown at FSR 241 Kaibab National Forest.

15. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – Waterline Rd.

Address
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.09795, -112.18751
Elevation: 5778′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Primitive spots, no amenities, flat and spacious. Great cell service. A couple of miles of easy dirt road away from the highway. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

Great camp among ancient cedars, fabulous views all around. I would not attempt the road in wet conditions.

16. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Locations – Grand Staircase Escalante NM – Kitchen Corral Wash

Address
508
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.140144, -112.091635
Elevation: 5358′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

This place is awesome. Very exposed, but the wide open space is beautiful. Gazing up at the stars while playing my guitar was just what I needed! Very level ground. My sons were able to ride bikes and fly the drone.

17. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Sites – Glen Canyon NRA West AZ (MUST CAMP 300 FEET FROM CORALS OR YOU WILL BE EVICTED)

Address
Page, Arizona
GPS: 36.994201, -111.60102
Elevation: 4176′

Management: National Park Service

The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument free campsite area is dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. A couple of free, dispersed campsites along a dirt road on Glen Canyon National Recreation land just west of Lake Powell. No facilities provided nor reservations accepted.

Best Reviews:

This site is 10 miles from Page, AZ and has easy access. Room for about 6 rigs in the main area. There are more spots for tents or vans. This site has some awesome views and areas to hike and explore. Cell service very bad unless you have a booster and then still is not very good. The site we were in had broken glass, and some barbed wire.

18. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Boondocking Spots – Paria Townsite

Address
Paria, Utah
GPS: 37.18595, -111.99542
Elevation: 5338′

Management: National Forest Service

Hwy 89, approximately MP 30.5 Utah, North side of roadway. Large gravel parking area, fairly level. Quiet place to park overnight or leave your large RV and drive north on dirt road to townsite area for hiking or scenic photo opportunity. The road into this Vermillion Cliffs National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Reviews:

It’s pretty noisy, being so close to the highway, but it wasn’t all-night long noisy. Another car pulled next to me during the night, so it must be a well-used spot. Elk were squeaking the next morning, that was pretty cool.

The Top 7 Hiking Trails Near the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument

There are no marked trails in Vermilion Cliffs as much as the areas that hikers love, and you need a Vermilion Cliffs National Monument permit to hike in many of them. Based on where you wish to hike, you need to enter a lottery in person or online. You may also buy a permit if you scan a QR code at the trailhead. There are however a number of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument hikes that are free.

On the day you intend to hike, carry a gallon of water and ensure that every member drinks the entire gallon, even during the winter. This is a hiker’s paradise. Therefore, bring the sturdiest shoes you have since most iconic sights can only be accessed by foot. When traversing any desert plain, it is essential to carry extra food, gasoline, water, and sunscreen. The best time to visit Vermilion Cliffs National Monument are the cooler months like September, October and April and May.

If you are visiting the monument as a group, it would help if you knew the physical limits of every group member and avoid pushing them beyond what they can do. There have been reports of people dying as they hike in the Vermilion Cliffs wilderness, usually from dehydration and heat exhaustion. The top 10 trails to hike include:

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #1. Coyote Buttes North (The Wave)

1 The Wave

This is a strenuous, 6.4-mile roundtrip hike that starts at a riverbed and passes across a challenging train. Directional markers or marked trails do not exist. Therefore, it is necessary to have a compass and map to find your way. After getting to the wave, you can continue to a second wave formation, dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and natural arches.

This trail is an unmarked route in the northern Coyote Buttes and is a portion of the Paria Canyon. It is the biggest draw at the Vermilion Cliffs. The wave is small and the hike starts at a designated parking area along a rough dirt road, near Highway 89 in Utah. This trail follows an arroyo for a short distance, heading south across the colorful desert. You need a hiking permit from the Bureau of Land Management or apply for it through the lottery application.

Length: 6.7 mi
Elevation gain: 1,233 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Dog friendly, Views, Wildflowers, Rocky

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #2. Coyote Buttes South

2 Coyote Buttes South

To manage your way, you need great navigation skills to get around the area since no marked trails exist. Furthermore, you need a high clearance, 4-wheel drive car because the roads leading into the permitted area cuts through the deep sand. Each year, unprepared, inexperienced drivers become stranded on these roads.

Length: 25.0 mi:
Elevation gain: 1,384 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Hiking, OHV/Off-road driving, Wildlife, Off trail, No shade

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #3. Paria Canyon

3 Paria Canyon

Hikers need to follow the Paria River, walk on the trails along it or through the water. You may get wet even while using the trails. You may also go as far as you need. Experienced backpackers can even make a five-day trip to the Paria Canyon. You can get permits through a lottery to get an overnight stay.

Length: 14.9 mi
Elevation gain: 905 ft
Route type: Out & back

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Dog friendly, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #4 White Pocket

4 White pocket

No marked trails exist to see the whitish-grey sandstone formations. Therefore, you need sturdy wayfinding skills to get to them, and a 4-wheel drive, high clearance vehicle. Visiting this unique landscape is worth it.

Length: 1.5 mi
Elevation gain: 160 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, OHV/Off-road driving, Walking, Dog friendly, Views, Off trail, No shade

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #5 Buckskin Gulch

5 Buckskin Gulch

This is a 20-mile hike that one can complete after a few days. The trail navigates through the deepest and longest slot canyon, in the American Southwest. Be ready for obstacles, including pools, rocks, possible flash floods, and escapable quicksand. You also need to bring some ropes for some of the tricky spots.

Length: 11.2 mi
Elevation gain: 1,246 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Dog friendly, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Off trail, No shade, Fee

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #6. Coyote Wash Trail

6 Coyote Wash Trail

This is an 8.0-kilometer trail, which is lightly trafficked out and back situated close to the Marble Canyon, Arizona, featuring a river and is excellent for all skill levels. This trail is mainly used for walking, hiking, bird watching, and nature trips.

Length: 5.0 mi
Elevation gain: 426 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, River, Views, Wildlife, No shade

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail #7. Toadstool Hoodoos

7 Toadstool Hoodoos

Technically, the spot is slightly over the border close to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. However, it is there, and mentioning it is not too fun. You can tackle the hoodoos in an easy 1.5-mile hike. Throughout the Vermilion Cliffs exploration, get the joy of exploring it in a non-destructive, responsible manner. The serendipity of exploring and stumbling on things indicating evidence of past life includes small little burrows of organisms, root structures.

Length: 1.8 mi
Elevation gain: 141 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Views, Rocky, No shade

Things to Do At Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

This desolate landscape consists of steep eroded portions of sandstone, the Vermilion Cliffs, shale, and limestone. The erosion process lasts for millions of years and it reveals hundreds of colorful layers. The remote wilderness consists of steep mesas, canyons, and waves.

Apart from seeing the attractive sites, you can hike at several hiking sites. The hiking trails are undeveloped, and you should therefore be skilled in navigating them with a compass and map. During the summer, temperatures may exceed 120 degrees F, and during the winter, there usually is snow on the ground. The most appropriate months to visit include April, May, September, and October.

There are no scenic drives or visitor centers at the Vermilion Cliffs. However, the geologic chest treasures at this monument offer some of the weirdest landscapes in the world. It has swirling sandstone formations, shapes, and spectacular colors.

The other activity you can engage in at the Vermilion Cliffs is camping and or boondocking. Some of the greatest options include the various campgrounds surrounding the National Monument. On the side of the border near Arizona, you can camp in the Lees Ferry Campground that provides basic amenities such as water and toilets.

On the park’s other side, there is Condor viewing in the monument’s campground. You can camp there. The place has toilets, freshwater, and a large binocular to observe endangered California Condor, which lives inside the national monument.

Another place to camp is the Stateline Campground. This is a rudimentary free campground that has a pavilion, clean bathrooms, and picnic table across the border close to Kanab.

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July 23, 2022 0 comments

Capitol Reef Arch Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations

Travel Utah Boondocking National Park Boondocking

18 Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking in Jan 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 22, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

We had been planning for a get-together with a group of my neighborhood friends. When I visited the Capitol Reef National Park during the last fall season, I had a great time with my group of friends we visited with. I could say that the visit was worth our time for various reasons. The Capitol Reef National Park offers relatively low prices for visitors. I observed that the admission was very cheap for visitors like ourselves.

The Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the country, with beautiful scenery and plenty of activities to participate in while visiting. During our visit, I ensured that we enjoyed the visit by participating in most of the activities available at the park. Anyone visiting the park can be assured of being busy for the whole time with the beautiful scenery and landscape to explore. Besides, the park does offer not only natural scenery to explore but also a rich avenue for photographic exploration.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Utah?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

An important part of our trip was extensive hiking activities as we followed various hiking trails with varying difficulty ratings. A combination of hiking and viewing the beautiful scenery at Capitol Reef National Park complements the distinction of my trip.

The park is quite difficult to get to with difficult terrain and conditions during various times of the year. This means that fewer people make an effort to get there, hence the quiet and more serene environment that we needed to get together. The park has a simpler landscape to explore compared to other national park road trip points. Our last visit was timed to perfection because we could view the illuminating sunlight on the bright leaves while contrasting them with the orange rock faces and the brown buildings. Overall, I would recommend the Capitol Reef National Park for people interested in hiking, viewing the scenery, photography, fruit picking, among other activities.

Capitol Reef NP

Capitol Reef Free Camping and Boondocking Spots

check out our video

1. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Oak Creek Canyon Road

Address
Torrey, Utah
GPS: 38.0888, -111.106707
Elevation: 5801′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite is dirt -> no reservations.

Best Review:

I stumbled across this nice little site late a night after not finding any other spots along Bullfrog/Notom Road (south of Sheets Gulch). A sign that says “Oak Creek Canyon” on the west side of Notom road leads to a small dirt road that leads uphill for 2 miles or so.

I liked it here, and hiking in Oak Creek Canyon was spectacular. The road to Oak Creek Canyon is off Bullfrog/Notom road not far past Sheets Gulch. If you go to where the paved part of Notom Road turns to dirt, you’ve gone too far. The road to Oak Creek Canyon is signed and easy to see. Google Maps refers to it as BLM 12010. The campsite is just before the boundary to Capitol Reef National Park, so if you see those signs, you’ve gone too far. The campsite is just before a big dip in the road that I didn’t want to go down.

2. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Cedar Mesa Campground

Address
Notom-Bullfrog Road
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
GPS: 38.007356, -111.08464
Elevation: 5607′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Gravel. Cedar Mesa Campground is open year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Located within Capitol Reef National Park, this campground has 5 camp sites with picnic tables and fire pits (and grills). There is a pit toilet but no water.

Amenities:

BBQ Grill
Picnic Tables
Restrooms
Trash Cans

Best Review:

This place was pretty sweet. Pit toilet, fire rings and picnic tables… All for free! No one else was there when we were camping here. No cell service. Roads getting down here go through BLM and NPS property, and they were surprisingly good. Sign says no firewood collection, but there was tons of wood already gathered at the sites from previous campers.

3. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots – Lower Bowns Reservoir Boondock

Address
Grover, Utah
GPS: 38.104576, -111.275765
Elevation: 7415′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite is dirt -> no reservations.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

This is a really wonderful dispersed camping area right by Lower Bowns Resevoir and the Lower Bowns campground. It’s not the dispersed area that’s actually inside the campground. Turned off route 12 at the sign for lower bowns, drive four miles down the dirt road (there’s also a larger dispersed camping site along this road that seemed good for trailers). When you get to anintersection of dirt roads with the paid campground to the left, turn right into the dispersed camping area (there is a sign).

4. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Round Up Flat – Dixie NF

Address
Forest Road 180
Boulder, Utah
GPS: 38.041527, -111.323349
Elevation: 9530′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite is dirt. Free boondocking -> No Reservations

Best Review

Large open area for free, dispersed camping. Dixie National Forest. We did not camp here ourselves but did see about five large rigs camped in a cluster here among the trees. You can kind of see them in the photo below. If you look on google earth, you can see a couple of campers here, too.

5. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Lower Bowns Point Fork

Address
Forest Road 554
Boulder, Utah
GPS: 38.046104, -111.333382
Elevation: 9858′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 30′. You may stay 14 nights at Lower Bowns Point Fork.

Best Review:

There are a few other hiking trails in this area. They are not mentioned on the forestry’s website and I didn’t get their numbers. We mainly stayed on the roads. There were cows grazing in the prairie on FR 1297, the road to Deer Creek Lake.

I went for a walk with my dog down past Long Lake towards Scout Lake. When I reached the wooded area west of Long Lake, there was a sign about 40′ off the road that read “Bear Baiting Area – Caution Bears May Be Near”. That is as far as I got ;).

6. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots – Wildcat Rest Area

Address
Utah
GPS: 38.108712, -111.335071
Elevation: 8615′

Management: Rest Area

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Gravel. Free boondocking -> No Reservations

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

This rest area is in Dixie National Forest on Route 12. There is plenty of room for dispersed camping under pine trees on the other side of the highway.

7. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Grand Staircase Escalante NM – Horse Canyon

Address
Burr Trail Road
Escalante, Utah
GPS: 37.92206, -111.204335
Elevation: 5935′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. No reservations. First come, first served. The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite is dirt.

Best Review:

None

8. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Wildcat Pasture

Address
Grover, Utah
GPS: 38.114167, -111.336854
Elevation: 8714′

Management Public – Forest Service (Official)

Just off Hwy 12, dirt road about 1/2 mile from hwy. 12 lots of room, restroom available at turn off and water available at Wildcat visitors center, many other dispersed sites, elevation is 8,700′ GPS 38.114167 -111.336854 is trail head for hiking. The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Gravel.

Best Review:

None

9. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots – Boulder Mountain

Address
Grover, Utah
GPS: 38.144817, -111.329269
Elevation: 8954′

Management: National Forest Service

Several possible boondock sites along Hwy 12 between Grover and Boulder. This is national forest land. A nice group of 3-5 potential camp spots is located maybe 5 miles S. of Grover at about 8500 ft. elevation; look for a little visitor center turnoff on west side of hwy 12,

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite Dirt and 1/8 mile or less miles from a paved road. You may stay 16 Days at Boulder Mountain.

Best Review:

None

10. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Deer Creek Lake

Address
Boulder, Utah
GPS: 38.014376, -111.375742
Elevation: 9274′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Gravel and 1/4 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet.

Best Review:

Spent a night here recently and hiked the trail! Loved it!

11. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Capitol Reef BLM Back Road

Address
Torrey, Utah
GPS: 38.25632, -111.12543
Elevation: 5059′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite dirt -> no reservations Great spot for high/medium clearance. Out of view from road and private. 3 spots

Best Review:

We were going to stay at the mesa just north of here, but it was too windy. We grabbed the first spot along this road with no problem in an AWD SUV, however took a walk down the road and the sand was pretty loose further down. Site was clean, there was a small stone fire ring, and we woke up close to Capitol Reef!

12. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots – Pleasant Creek Campsite

Address
GPS: 38.257324, -111.119687
Elevation: 5052′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. Nice site on BLM land just east of Capital Reef National Park. Turn south off of highway 24 onto Bullfrog-Notom Road. Just as you pass over Pleasant Creek (guardrails on road over creek) the campsite is on your right.

Best Review:

Nice campsite right outside of Capitol Reef. The site we stayed at was located at GPS 38.2596708, -111.1182255. We saw a few other sights right off of the road on our way, but this one was a bit further down. You could still see/hear some cars driving down the road, but it was not bad at all and they were few and far between. The views of the mountains from here were really nice!

13. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Grand Staircase Escalante NM – Stud Horse Peaks

Address
Burr Trail Road
Boulder, Utah
GPS: 37.868208, -111.111686
Elevation: 6768′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. No reservations. First come, first served. The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite dirt.

Best Review:

None

14. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Fremont Granary Site

Address
Torrey, Utah
GPS: 38.27537, -111.10799
Elevation: 4882′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Paved. Fremont Granary Site is open weather permitting. East of Capitol Reef East on Notom road, on the South (eastbound side) of the road. You will see a “P” parking. The sign at the kiosk says you can camp or picnics there.

Best Review:

None

15. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots – East of Capitol Reef Boondock

Address
Hanksville, Utah
GPS: 38.277878, -111.130745
Elevation: 5171′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite Paved. You may stay 14 at East of Capitol Reef Boondock. This is a large flat spot on the top of a mesa just outside the east entrance to Capitol Reef. The view is gorgeous – 360 degrees of snow topped mountains, mesa, buttes and strange rock formations. It can be very windy especially in the evening.

Best Review:

This was a perfect, beautiful spot right outside the East entrance of the park. As someone earlier said, you will turn left at the sign that has “Ferry to Lake Powell”, the road goes uphill pretty steep but we did fine with our fifth wheel. Sharp right turn to a dirt road with several spots with great views.
We did not have any cell service here (AT&T)

16. Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations – Fremont River

Address
East Hartnet Road South
Torrey, Utah
GPS: 38.275325, -111.081501
Elevation: 4810′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Fish Creek Trail. A few campsites (with fire rings) just up the trail from the trailhead parking lot.

Best Review:

None

17. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Dixie National Forest Dispersed

Address
Boulder, Utah
GPS: 37.991682, -111.426425
Elevation: 7986′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park free campsite area is Dirt and Less than 1 miles from a paved road. Dixie National Forest Dispersed is open When Accessible. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Dixie National Forest Dispersed.

Best Review:

After visiting Lower Calf Creek Falls in Escalate Grand Staircase NM we found this spot right off the road. We got here no problem in our small sub compact FWD car. We camped no more than a 1/4 mile from the paved road itself, the dirt road goes further but looked to jenky for our little car to handle. There was plenty of fire wood around and the road noise was minimal.

18. Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites – Fish Creek Trail

Address
Teasdale, Utah
GPS: 38.193922, -111.401379
Elevation: 8698′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this free Capitol Reef National Park boondocking area is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Fish Creek Trail.

Best Review:

A few campsites (with fire rings) just up the trail from the trailhead parking lot. Trail is mostly used for ATV/OHV. 4WD car can make it up right to the campsites, but road is pretty rough. Easiest is to park at the parking lot and walk ~5-10 minutes up to the campsites.

Top 9 Trails to Hike at Capitol Reef National Park

It is a maze of cliffs and terraces… red and white domes, rock platforms gashed with profound canyons, burning plains barren even of sage – all glowing with bright colors and flooded with blazing sunlight…. It is the extreme of desolation, the blankest solitude, a superlative desert. – Clarence E. Dutton, geologist (1880)

The land that now comprises central Utah’s 378-square-mile Capitol Reef National Park is—and has been—a lot of things to a lot of people. To geologists, the park encompasses North America’s longest and most striking monocline in the Waterpocket Fold—that is, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust. To the Edward Abbeys of the world, it is an escape to peaceful desert serenity. To locals, it is (or once was) a watering hole and a source of fruit, nuts, or fresh-baked pies.

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #1. Frying Pan Trail

#1. Frying Pan Trail Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites

Length: 8.5 mi
Elevation gain: 2,618 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Rock climbing, Walking, Views, Wildflowers, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #2. Cassidy Arch Trail

2. Cassidy Arch Trail Capitol Reef National Park Free Campsites

We connected with the Cassidy arch trail from the first hike. I would say this hike was listed as strenuous for justifiable reasons. We chose it because we wanted a challenge and adventure. We had a gain of over 650 feet and hiked over 3 miles. This was my favorite trail on the entire hike.

Length: 3.1 mi
Elevation gain: 666 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Rock climbing, Views, Rocky, Scramble, No shade, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #3. Capitol Gorge Trail

3. Capitol Gorge Trail Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots

The Capitol Gorge offered an amazing drive to the trailhead before we hiked for two miles as we saw the historic inscriptions. We tried to climb up to find the water tanks but got lost and decided to embark on another trail.

Length: 2.2 mi
Elevation gain: 396 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, River, Views, Wildlife, No shade, Historic site, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #4. Hickman Bridge Trail

4. Hickman Bridge Trail

The Hickman Bridge was an easy trail as it was not as steep and vigorous as the Cassidy trail. We got a good view of the natural bridge, the Fremont River, and the pit house ruin.

Length: 1.7 mi
Elevation gain: 416 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Running, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No shade, Historic site, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #5. Grand Wash Trail

5. Grand Wash Trail Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Spots

The Grand Wash trail was also not vigorous as we walked the stretch while talking and catching up with my friends. The scenery through the narrow canyons was also epic.

Length: 5.0 mi
Elevation gain: 341 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Views, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #6. Surprise Canyon Trail

6. Surprise Canyon Trail

Surprise Canyon offers a short and easy route along the Water Pocket Fold of Capitol Reef National Park. We leisurely walked around for the two miles and were back at the starting point. We did not move higher up the route and turned around when we reached the chute.

Length: 2.2 mi
Elevation gain: 423 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Views, Wildflowers, Rocky, Scramble, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #7. Headquarters Canyon Trail

7. Headquarters Canyon Trail Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Hiking Trail

Headquarters Canyon in the Water Pocket Fold was also easy with no real obstacles and strenuous activity on the way. The trail starts with an upstream sand wash, and on its way down to the reef is a solid sandstone.

Length: 2.2 mi
Elevation gain: 406 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Views, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #8. Chimney Rock Trail

8. Chimney Rock Trail

Chimney Rock Trail was amazing because of the challenge it posed for us. We went to the top of the rock, 300 feet above the road, and across the loop trail. We had the option to move to the northwest side of the mesa and crawl 10-miles down into Spring Canyon. We decided to take the shorter route as we did not arrange for a shuttle to take us back upstream

Even though our time was up by the end of the Chimney Rock Trail hike, we had planned to go to Brimhall Natural Bridge. The trail provides a challenge for hikers with various obstacles and challenges as they traverse the Waterpocket Fold.

Length: 3.3 mi
Elevation gain: 793 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Views, Wildflowers, Fee, No dogs

Capitol Reef National Park Hiking Trail #9. Burrow Wash Trail

9. Burrow Wash Trail

The Burrow Wash was supposed to be the most strenuous hike for us among the planned visits. This trail is situated in Capitol Reef National Park’ Water Pocket Fold. This trail has a series of obstacles that require wading and swimming on some occasions. These obstacles pose a physical challenge and various gear to complete the entire trail. Some parts of this trail require experience in hiking because of the technicality of the route.

Length: 7.6 mi
Elevation gain: 994 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Views, No shade, Fee, No dogs

History of the Capitol Reef National Park

The Capitol Reef National Park has a rich history developed over the years. The park was once called home for many people before it was converted to a national park. In the 14th century, the Fremont Indians occupied the area. These Indians scratched petroglyphs and pictographs on the rocks and land near the watercourses. One Mormon settler, Franklin Richards, established Fruita, the park headquarters at the moment.

By the early 1920s, very few families had established ownership of the area, including the Fremont River plains. They were using these plains for agricultural purposes until there were efforts to make the area a monument. Ephraim Pectol made the application to create the “Wayne Wonderland National Monument.” The monument comprised the bulk of the Capitol Reef area. Pectol influenced the feasibility studies and boundary assessment to complete the necessary bureaucracies to complete its transition to a national park.

After President Roosevelt set aside part of the reef as a national monument, there were more efforts to make the monument a national park. In late 1971, Congressional action was complete, and the Capitol Reef National Park was formally recognized. This law recognized the National Park as consisting of over 250,000 acres of land. The Capitol Reef National Park was put under the national park system, which means the federal government governs it.

Places and Things to Do and See

My time at the Capitol Reef National Park was fun and interesting because of the many places to go and activities to complete while on the tour. My friends and I had agreed to take the time we needed to go through the whole visit program and visit every place around the park.

Capitol Reef Arch Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations

1. Highway 24 Scenic Drive

We started with a scenic drive on Highway 24 before we started exploring the other parts of the park. This was an eventful drive as we covered the scenic stretch, turned the road twists, and often stopped to take pictures of domes and cliffs. The views started opening up as we approached the Fruita, with historic buildings and orchards now in sight. We did this drive before paying for the entrance fee since there are no charges on merely driving on Highway 24.

2. Visit Fruits Schoolhouse

From the visitor’ center, we went to the Fruits schoolhouse, a small structure with colorful trees around it. This building holds an important place in Mormon history and is being used for education. When we got in, the schoolhouse was packed with other tourists receiving lessons from a park ranger about the history of Capitol Reef National Park.

3. Visit the Gifford House

After checking in, we went to the Gifford House. The Gifford family was the last remaining group before the area became the Capitol Reef National Park. This homestead has been maintained and currently has orchards planted in it. We reached the house in the middle of the day, and I was sure many of my friends were hungry. In the house, we bought pies, coffee, scones, and cakes. We sat outsides the homestead on picnic benches and rested ourselves while enjoying the peaceful scenery.

4. Pick Some Fresh Fruit and Visit the Fruita Barn

I had read in an online review before our trip that the Capitol Reef National Park also offers exquisite fresh fruit picking experiences. Therefore, I made sure that we picked the fruits that were ready for picking. We were aware that the fruits were available according to their seasons throughout the year. We visited during fall, so we found apples and pears ready for picking. We ate some fruits and brought some to the car when we were leaving.

The Fruita Barn was a significant stopover during the trip. The barn is unbelievably photogenic, and we took many pictures as we moved around. We were sure to include the fence, grass, and rocks in our frames.

5. The Fremont Petroglyphs

We stopped at the Fremont Petroglyphs, where we saw a huge orange face with carvings etched into the rock. I had never seen petroglyphs before, so I used this opportunity to enjoy them and took some pictures of the same.

6. Watch the Sunset from Gooseneck and Sunset Points

There was also an opportunity to watch the sunset from the Gooseneck and Sunset points. The road was very bumpy as we made our way to the top. The Gooseneck provided us a good view of the gorge, and we saw the sunset for the day before retiring to a hotel to get ready for the next day hiking.

Capitol Reef Wall Capitol Reef National Park Boondocking Locations

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July 22, 2022 0 comments

1. Wheeler Peak Trail via Stella Lake - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

Travel Nevada Boondocking National Monument Boondocking

12 Basin & Range Monument Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 22, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations for the people tired of the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Usually all you want to do after a few days in Vegas is get away from the constant dinging of the slots.

For us we need the quiet and serenity of a good boondocking location and while Nevada has a lot of BLM land some of it is not hospitable. Enter the Basin and Range National Monument and the boondocking options it supplies.

If you’re looking for a sight to see while traveling through Nevada, the Basin and Range National Monument is the place to go. Truthfully, it is one of the most expansive and remarkable landmarks you’ll ever come across. From valleys to mountains to forests, the most beautiful of terrains you would want to see can be found all year round!

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Nevada?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

Every piece of it is completely untouched, making it so naturally beautiful. There’s also a wide range of outdoor activities to explore such as camping, hiking, boondocking, cycling and climbing. With that, there are also activities for everyone that both children and adults can enjoy. Knowing this much, the real question here is why wouldn’t you want to visit?

History of the Basin and Range National Monument

In 2015, the Basin and Range National Monument was created under proclamation, making it the second made national monument in Nevada. For years, the Basin and Range was fought to be protected for a multitude of reasons that went just beyond its natural beauty. It served as a home to wildlife that was only found to be native to the terrain.

There were also landmarks and artifacts of Native American history that were being fought to be preserved. The protection of the basin served as a huge example of protected public territory and would have an immense impact. Had it not been for the proclamation which created the national monument, it would have likely been used for controversial purposes and claimed as a means of creating a route for a nuclear waste repository. This was very likely true as it had set back these original plans.

Basin & Range National Monument (6)

12 Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations

check out our video

1. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations – Cherry Creek Campground

Address
Alamo, Nevada
GPS: 38.15349, -115.62531
Elevation: 6686′

Management: National Forest Service

Cherry Creek Campground is open end of May thru September (pending snow and accessibility). The maximum RV length at Cherry Creek Campground is 25 feet.

Best Review:

I really liked it here, It was beautiful seclusion. But …it was extremely out of the way and maybe a little dangerous. I took the road from Rachael. A strong 4×4 is required. One way steep winding hilly dirt roads (where you cannot see anyone coming) turn into rock mud and water crossings. There are also some cliffy drop offs.

2. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Sites – Pahroc Wash

Address
Little Boulder Road
Hiko, Nevada
GPS: 37.783887, -115.059307
Elevation: 4665′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The maximum RV length at Pahroc Wash is 18 feet. This free campsite is located within the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Review:

None

3. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots – Little A’Le’Inn

Address
Old Mill Street
Alamo, Nevada
GPS: 37.6463, -115.7454
Elevation: 4824′

Management: Private

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument free campsite area is Gravel and 0.1 miles miles from a paved road. Little A’Le’Inn is open Year-Round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay Few nights is fine. Ask at the Inn for more. at Little A’Le’Inn.

Best Review:

We stayed two nights in the free lot across the street from the Little Ale-Inn. The staff there was so hospitable and welcoming, the food was great, as befits the best greasy spoon diner, and they knew all the movie pop culture references we threw about. Verizon signal was ROCKING. If we were going to be there longer, we would probably purchase space in the actual RV park area. We liked it so much we might buy a house and start hunting graboids…

4. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations – Gap Mountain

Address
Unnamed Road
Ely, Nevada
GPS: 38.328073, -115.05092
Elevation: 5456′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Gap Mountain is open all year. Some wind and road noise (the highway is right there) but peaceful otherwise with miles of nothing in every direction. Perfect for an overnight with great Verizon coverage. The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Review:

Beautiful location. Was 22 degrees outside so completely secluded, no sign of humans other than dirt road and fire pit. We showed up on dry night, no snow after dark and had no issue getting into the spot off well paved dirt road. Very close to 318.

5. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Sites – Dave Deacon Campground

Address
Ely, Nevada
GPS: 38.388571, -115.13401
Elevation: 5207′

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument free campsite area is Gravel and 7 miles from a paved road. Dave Deacon Campground is open Year Round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 30+. You may stay 8 Days at Dave Deacon Campground.

Amenities:

Drinking Water
Dump Station
Fire Ring
Near Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

I go out of my way to stay here. Hot Creek, nice clean sites and vault toilets and water spigots. Coyotes calling for my dog to come out so that they could “eat” I mean play with her. Really easy to find. North entrance road was better than the south this year.

6. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots – ET Highway Rest Area

Address
Crystal Springs, Nevada
GPS: 37.529718, -115.2243
Elevation: 3822′

Management: Rest Area

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is Paved. ET Highway Rest Area is open year round. The maximum RV length at ET Highway Rest Area is unlimited. You may stay overnight at ET Highway Rest Area.

Best Review:

None

7. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations – Hopkins Rest Area

Address
Alamo, Nevada
GPS: 37.43999, -115.378423
Elevation: 5476′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument free campsite area is dirt. Free camping anytime -> no reservations.

Best Review:

Stayed with motorcycle and tent. Soft soil but doable on touring bike. Quiet. Lots of stars. Trash bins.

8. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Sites – Area 51 – BLM Land Just Outside the Unofficial Back Gate

Address
(37.594062282145764, -115.89873095741495)
Nevada
GPS: 37.594062, -115.898731
Elevation: 5089′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in isThe road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is Gravel and 10 miles from a paved road. Area 51 – BLM Land Just Outside the Unofficial Backgate is open Year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 14 days at Area 51 – BLM Land Just Outside the Unofficial Back Gate.

Best Review:

Attempted to camp here during raid area 51 2019. Sheriff asked for us to leave because they wanted to use the area for their staging area. He agreed to let us stay the night. Being it is blm land I wanted to argue the fact of first come first serve but I did not. So we stayed the night. It was eerily quiet.

9. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots – Chief Mt West

Address
Unnamed Road
Caliente, Nevada
GPS: 37.664588, -114.754044
Elevation: 4879′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This free campsite is located within the Bureau of Land Management N/A District. The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

Lots of ATV, side-by-sides and motor cycles noise and buzzing around. Gun shooting at targets. Can be loud by campers around the camp fire. Four covers over picnic tables, camp fire rings, charcoal grill.s About 4 miles off the highway on a dirt sometimes very rough road. Two pit toilets, two small trash cans. Practice track for OHV’s. Bands of mustangs.

10. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Locations – Lunar Crater

Address
Tonopah, Nevada
GPS: 38.394516, -116.070744
Elevation: 5870′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is Gravel and 9 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 at Lunar Crater.

Best Review:

We came in from the a road to the east of the “main” access road (they’re all dirt roads off the highway but some are “less bad” than others!) which went south of Lunar Lake then northwest to Lunar Crater. It was a bit long, dusty and bumpy. That said, there are plenty of places to “dispersed camp” in that area. We were able to camp right at the rim of Lunar Crater. Cool place to hike into.

11. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Sites – Stampede Campground

Address
Montgomery Cabin Road
Pioche, Nevada
GPS: 37.977598, -114.537135
Elevation: 6175′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is gravel and Two miles miles from a paved road. Stampede Campground is open All year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Stampede Campground.

Amenities:

BBQ Grill
Fire Ring
Picnic Tables

Best Review:

Great large camp ground with covered picnic areas, fire rings and expansive views! Two miles north of Pioche, turn west at Silver State ORV Trailhead. ( don’t follow other directions from Google maps, it gave us a “shorter” route but it was just a trail, not for RV’s) No services or hookups

12. Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots – Pahranagat NWR Campground

Address
Upper Lake Access Road
Alamo, Nevada
GPS: 37.298787, -115.120912
Elevation: 3373′

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

Pahranagat NWR Campground is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 30+. You may stay 14 days at Pahranagat NWR Campground. The road into this Basin and Range National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Amenities:

BBQ Grill
Near Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms
Trash Cans

Best Review:

Stopped and stayed here 1 night during Thanksgiving. My friend and I were in an SUV so it was easy getting in and out. Saw a few large rigs. It was windy during the day and cold af and windy at night. We went down by the shore and the winds stopped when we were by the reeds. Great spot.

The top 10 Hiking Trails Near the Basin and Range National Monument

With the wide variety of hiking trails at the Basin and Range, why not look at the best ones to visit? These hiking trails can range from easy to rather hard, but can still be accessible to all skill levels, beginner or pro!

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #1. Wheeler Peak Trail via Stella Lake

1. Wheeler Peak Trail via Stella Lake - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

This hike includes a lake and has a beautiful Mountain View to see. It’s also a rather difficult one as it’s 8.2 miles long, especially gearing towards the end of the trail. Around the last half mile is when it proves itself to be hardest! Regardless of this, it will still be a fun trail so long as you come prepared!

Length: 8.2 mi
Elevation gain: 2,906 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Snow, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #2. Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail

2. Bristlecone Pine Glacier trail - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

If you’re looking for an easier trail to start off with, this is also a great one to look at! It’s 4.5 miles long and has plenty of wildlife from plants to birds to see. The Bristlecone trees are a sight to see for themselves!

Length: 4.5 mi
Elevation gain: 1,059 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #3. Alpine Lake Trails

3. Alpine Lake Trails - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

A great beginner trail being about 2.7 miles long! This one is highly recommended to visit closer to winter time, as it looks beautiful when it snows! There are also lakes to see and more wildlife to come across.

Length: 16.7 mi
Elevation gain: 4,360 ft
Route type: Out & back

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Dog friendly, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #4. Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Loop

4. Bristlecone and Alpine Lakes Troop - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

This trail is also fairly easy, being about 5.7 miles. The Bristlecone Pines are also viewable on this trail hence the name! It’s amazing, isn’t it? Just imagine hiking by a 3,000 year old tree! You’ll be able to on this hiking trail. The Rock Glacier is also great to be able to see towards the end.

Length: 5.3 mi
Elevation gain: 1,020 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #5. Lehman Cave

5. Lehman Cave - Basin and Range National Monument Boondocking Spots

This trail is very easy and short only spanning 0.4 miles in comparison to the other trails on this list. The cave tours are great and offer a very nice and easy walk with beautiful formations and wild flowers to see! It’s especially fun to go on tours as you’ll get to learn a lot of new things along the way. However, it is only accessible by tours and will have to be booked in advance, though it’s definitely worth it! This one is definitely the easiest of them all if you’re looking for an easygoing yet very scenic tour!

Length: 0.4 mi
Elevation gain: 45 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Walking, Cave, Partially paved, Views, Wildflowers, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #6. Teresa Lake

6. Teresa LakeBasin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail

Also a fairly easy trail, the Teresa Lake is 1.5 miles long. The Alpine Lakes are nice and clear, and there’s been snow which is just enough to see, but still easy enough to hike through!

Length: 1.5 mi
Elevation gain: 305 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #7. Stella Lake Trail

7. Stella Lake TrailBasin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail

This trail is 2 miles in length and is a perfect trail for nature trips! The Stella and Teresa lakes are beautiful sights, as are the aspens. You’ll also be able to view the Wheeler’s Peak! There’s also a chance you could come across deer or elk!

Length: 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: 442 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #8. Wheeler Peak Trail via Alpine Lakes Trail

8. Wheeler Peak Trail via Alpine Lakes TrailBasin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail

This is another harder trail, spanning at 7.8 miles in length. It’s not so much the length that makes it so strenuous, but the winds, and protection from the cold is definitely encouraged! The meadows, pines, aspens, and the views from the summit are what make this trail much worthwhile.

Length: 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: 442 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #9. Baker Lake Johnson Lake Loop

9. Baker Lake Johnson Lake LoopBasin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail

One of the longest trails here is 12.9 miles long! It may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, can be a very fun trip! If it snows, there are chances that you’ll see different animals tracks such as bunnies, deer, or elk. At the top of Pyramid Peak, you’ll find there are great views from above!

Length: 12.9 mi
Elevation gain: 4,366 ft
Route type: Loop

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, No dogs

Basin and Range National Monument Hiking Trail #10. Lexington Arch Trail

10. Lexington Arch Trail

This one is pretty moderate, being 6.3 miles long. There are plentiful wild flowers, and also one of the most beautiful and notable sights is the Lexington Arch itself. In comparison to the other trails, this one can be quite warm, in which case, be prepared and stay hydrated!

Length: 6.3 mi
Elevation gain: 1,430 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Cave, Views, Wildflowers, Washed out, No shade

Things To See and Do At the Basin and Range National Monument

There are many activities to explore, admire, and learn from at the Basin and Range. From hiking, to camping, to taking tours, here are some of the things you can experience during your adventure at the monument.

Lehman Caves

The Lehman Caves tour is one of the most popular places to be at when visiting the Basin and range, and for good reason! These caves were formed from the formation of the mountains and waters seeping through the rocks, turning them into nature made works of art! These tours will take you through the different types of cave formations, the structures they take, and how even today they’re still slowly changing! You’ll get to learn a lot about geology while you’re there.

Astronomy

The sights and beauty don’t just stop with the earth’s crust either, you can also experience the skies and the universe around you during the nighttime! The National park of the Basin Range has also become a tourist attraction for stargazers. During the night, planets and the stars can all be visible even to the naked eye.

Hiking

There is a wide range of hiking trails for you to explore, and a variety of places to see depending on what you want to experience! Whether that be lakes, forests, mountains or hills, it’s practically endless what you could see on your travels!

Especially along the hiking trails, you’re very likely to find animals along the way! Bird and animal watching is a very fun activity for this national park. There are many different types of animals that you can come across such as wild turkeys, lizards, bobcats, elk, deer, rabbits, and squirrels.

Camping

With all the proper preparations and planning done, boondocking can also be a fun experience out in the Basin and Range. The roads are fairly easy to drive through and provide a scenic experience along the way. There are five different developed campgrounds within the territory, as well as two different primitive campgrounds. Just make sure that you know your entire plan before attempting!

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for someplace new, or if you’re traveling through Nevada and need to know where to visit, the Basin and Range National Monument is definitely the way to go! You’re guaranteed to learn something new, and see sights which you’ve never seen before. In which case again, the question must be asked, why wouldn’t you go to the Basin and Range National Monument?

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3. Spine Trail Loop Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

Travel Arizona Boondocking National Monument Boondocking

Casa Grande Ruins Monument Boondocking in Jan 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 22, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

While the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is probably not a place to spend more than a day it is a great place near both Phoenix and Tucson. It will give you and your children a great insight into the history of the ancients who created the site.

If you love the outdoors as I do, then you are always on the lookout for great outdoor places to visit. I can tell you without any doubt that the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking is one of them. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is a popular destination for visitors in Arizona.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Arizona?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

The park is home to the Casa Grande Ruins, some of the largest and best-preserved ancient ruins in North America. The park also offers a variety of other attractions, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center. Several options are available if you are looking for Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking sites, where you can camp for free.

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park’s visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes exhibits on the Casa Grande Ruins and the surrounding area. There is no admission fee to visit the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument; however, there is a $5 fee for parking.

History of the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

I got to learn a lot about the history of the place and will share it with you to see why it is so fascinating. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument was established on December 19, 1918. The park is home to the Casa Grande Ruins, some of the largest and best-preserved ancient ruins in North America. The Ancient Puebloans built the Casa Grande Ruins, who lived in the area from about A.D. 1100 to 1450. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966. Casa Grande means “big house” in Spanish and refers to the Casa Grande Ruins.

The Casa Grande was declared a National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt on February 19, 1907. The Casa Grande Ruins became a national park in 1918. Casa Grande National Monument was one of fifteen new national monuments designated by President Herbert Hoover on June 30, 1932. Casa Grande National Monument was transferred from the Forest Service to the National Park Service on August 10, 1933. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument became a national historic landmark in 1960.

The Ancient Puebloans constructed the Casa Grande Ruins. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument area was first occupied around A.D. 450. The Casa Grande Ruins were first built around A.D. 1100 and were used until around A.D. 1450. The Casa Grande Ruins are the largest and best-preserved ancient ruins in North America.

The Casa Grande Ruins comprises four buildings: the Great House, the East Ruin, the West Ruin, and the Hohokam Pueblo. The Casa Grande Ruins are open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year. The park’s visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes exhibits on the Casa Grande Ruins and the surrounding area. There is no admission fee to visit Casa Grande Ruins National Monument; however, there is a $5 fee for parking. Now you see why I am advocating for this place.

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument (3)

16 Casa Grande Ruins Monument Boondocking (Updated 2022)

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1. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Brady Pump Road BLM land

Address
Eloy, Arizona
GPS: 32.763259, -111.423012
Elevation: 1640′

Management Public – Bureau of Land Management (Official)

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt. Dirt and 5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Beautiful peaceful weather no amenities No trash can Must be self contained No water great cell service dogs can run around already fire ring is here no trash nor glass on the ground very clean. Absolutely fabulous! Quiet, scenic, flat, easy access. Several fire rings, but lots of space to settle on and build yourself one of your very own.

2. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites – Cottonwood Canyon Rd (Permit Required)

The price is $15/person/year or $20/family/year

Address
East Cottonwood Canyon Road
Gold Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 33.191868, -111.274602
Elevation: 2093′

Management: State Trust

Cottonwood Canyon Rd is open year round. The maximum RV length at Cottonwood Canyon Rd is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Cottonwood Canyon Rd. The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt.

Best Review:

We’ve stayed here a few times, if you have a Jeep or other off road vehicle there is a ton a desert to explore. Otherwise, it’s too dusty and busy. The road in (to the cattle guard) is well maintained but has some washboards. The biggest con is the trucking traffic. It’s constant-starting around 5 AM, and they drive really fast, make a lot of noise, and stir up a lot of dust.

3. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – E96 Ranch Road 10

A State Trust Permit Required $15 Annual and good on land all over Arizona.

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.856533, -111.225317
Elevation: 2260′

Management: State Trust

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt and 4.5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Great place about halfway between Tucson & Phoenix. I think its State or BLM land Beautiful cacti. Some 4 wheeler traffic during the day, but dead quiet at night. There’s a little bit of a litter issue, but not horrific. Please clean up after yourselves!

4. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – E96 Ranch Road 9

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.856133, -111.210133
Elevation: 2329′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. and 5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Got here after dark. Road in was dirt/sand, but was very well graded and smooth, no problem in a honda fit. There appeared to be pull offs along the road, but we didn’t stay long because we had to work the next day(remotely) and the supposedly “good” LTE signal on Verizon as stated on this page was unusable. Couldn’t even perform a speed test, even in an amplifier, so we didn’t stay. AT&T only had 4G and it wasn’t usable either

5. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites – E96 Ranch Rd 6

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.8552, -111.1939
Elevation: 2398′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt Dirt and 6 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Really liked this area, stayed several nights. Its quiet, the cactus and desert are lovely. The map shows a pond, but its dry.

6. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – E96 Ranch Road 7

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.8535, -111.193817
Elevation: 2395′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. Nice area in the desert. Wide open. Quiet.

Best Review:

None

7. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – E96 Ranch Road 8

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.850967, -111.1939
Elevation: 2395′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt and 6 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

Best Review:

None

8. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites – Mineral Mountain

Address
Gold Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 33.22795, -111.26085
Elevation: 2178′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unknown.

Best Review:

BLM and public land. The public land part there will be ATV’s and people shooting practice targets etc. But not too bad and it is dispersed. The forest part is good for campers/RV’s but the public land is only good for 4/all wheel drives overall a nice little getaway under the stars and free place away from the city.

9. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – E96 Ranch Road 9

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.856133, -111.210133
Elevation: 2329′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt and 5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

This is a nice secluded spot. I pulled my 35ft travel trailer here and stayed for a couple of days. No one came down the road and it was Thanksgiving weekend. This spot is at the end of a road.

10. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – E96 Ranch Road 7

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.8535, -111.193817
Elevation: 2395′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt and 6 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

Best Review:

None

11. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots – Superstition Mountain Area – A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.

The price is $20
Address
SUPRSTITN Mountain, Arizona
GPS: 33.250415, -111.275855
Elevation: 2113′

Management: State Trust

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt. Superstition mountain area is open Year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Superstition mountain area.

Best Review:

12. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – E96 Ranch Road 4

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.861583, -111.159617
Elevation: 2582′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unknown.

Best Review:

None

13. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites – Apache Jct. Dispersed

Address
East Hewitt Station Road
Gold Canyon, Arizona
GPS: 33.280078, -111.2681
Elevation: 2126′

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt and 6 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unknown.

Best Review:

Absolutely gorgeous desert setting in the Superstition Mt. foothills. Unfortunately many locals hunt the mountains here. They shoot at them constantly from shortly after sun up until 2-3 hours after sundown. Unless your deaf or need to play with handguns all day, this isn’t going to be a good place to camp.

14. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites – E96 Ranch Road 2

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.860019, -111.126554
Elevation: 2746′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unknown.

Best Review:

This is a nice open spot in the desert. I have pulled my 35ft travel trailer here a couple of times. My friends have stayed here when hunting as well. Road gets narrow and a little washed away about 100ft from this spot, but have never had a problem getting in or out.

15. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Locations – Hewitt Canyon

Address
Arizona
GPS: 33.311903, -111.239671

Management: National Forest Service

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument free campsites area is dirt and 10 or so miles from a paved road. Hewitt Canyon is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet.

Best Review: None

16. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Free Campsites – East Freeman Rd

Address
Florence, Arizona
GPS: 32.811765, -111.066347
Elevation: 2812′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road into this Casa Grande Ruins National Monument boondocking area is Dirt and 3.3 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. Nice open area above a wash. There are not a lot of spots before or after this for anything bigger than a truck camper or a popup trailer. This spot has a lot of room.

Best Review:

Great spot hidden off the road! There were many sites available and it was very clean! The turn in is hard to see. Especially at night. When you’re coming down Park Link Drive (following the map) it is between mile marker two and three. A little more than half a mile when she make the final curve.

Trails to Hike at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

As I have mentioned above, I love the outdoors, which is why I was eager to go trailing. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument has two open trails, Casa Grande Ruin Trail and Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson.

The trails are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Hiking Trail #1. Casa Grande Ruins

1. Casa Grande Ruins National Park Hiking Trail

It was a good educational walkabout. The hike was not strenuous, but it provided an excellent opportunity to learn about this amazing structure – a 700-year-old multistory building designed by the ancient Sonoran peoples with cosmic principles in mind. The ball court is not included in the hike, but it is well worth the extra effort to visit.

Length: 0.3 mi
Elevation gain: 0 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Walking, Views, No shade, Historic site

Casa Grande National Monument Hiking Trail #2. Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail

2. Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail

This is an easy 1.5-mile hike that we got to hike. It starts at the Casa Grande Mountain Park trailhead and ends at the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Casa Grande Mountain Park Trail is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year. Casa Grande Mountain Park is also near Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

We enjoyed our time at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking. Then next time we have time for a vacation, we will go there again. If you have some free time and love the outdoors, I recommend the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking. You will enjoy

Length: 3.8 mi
Elevation gain: 426 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Mountain biking, Running, Views, No shade

Casa Grande National Monument Hiking Trail #3. Spine Trail Loop

3. Spine Trail Loop Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Free Campsites

Simple hike, perfect for hikes and walks as well as mountain biking. The trail map at the trailhead indicated that there was a trail on the ridge itself, but I was unable to locate any trails signs or obvious way to get up there and ended up making my way up without a trail. During one of my rides, I couldn’t see anything that looked like a trail, so I ended up descending and returning to the car via one of the many clearly marked trails that I had come across.

Length: 3.2 mi
Elevation gain: 321 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Mountain biking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Views, Wildflowers, Rocky, Scramble, No shade

Casa Grande National Monument Hiking Trail #4. Spine Trail to Ridge Trail Loop

4. Spine Trail to Ridge Trail Loop Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking Spots

Excellent overall hike, made even better by the beautiful autumn weather. It was the perfect combination of sun and shade. We covered 5 miles in approximately 2.5 hours. While the trail was relatively straightforward, the trail markers were occasionally absent, necessitating the use of this app to direct us in the right direction.

Length: 7.1 mi
Elevation gain: 902 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Mountain biking, Nature trips, Running, Views, No shade

Places and Things to Do and See At Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

What made me love this place even better was that there were different activities and things to see. You will never get bored there, which is a guarantee. There are several places and things to do and see in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. The Casa Grande Ruins are the main attraction and are some of the largest and best-preserved ancient ruins in North America.

Visitor Center Museum and Bookstore

The visitor center museum and bookstore are located in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. The visitor center museum and bookstore are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year. The visitor center museum and bookstore include exhibits on the Casa Grande Ruins and the surrounding area. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

Tours

I also really loved the guided tours a lot. It is like getting to enjoy the view while at the same time someone telling you all about it. The Casa Grande Ruins are available for tours by appointment. There is a fee of $3 per person or $5 per family for Casa Grande Ruins guided tours, and the Casa Grande Ruins can be viewed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, which is about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

Picnic with Family and Friends at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

If you’re looking for a place to picnic with family and friends in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument has several picnic areas. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Visitor Center

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument visitor center is located in Casa Grande, Arizona. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument visitor center exhibits Casa Grande Ruins and the surrounding area. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument includes Casa Grande Ruins, Casa Grande East Ruin, Casa Grande West Ruin, Hohokam Pueblo, Casa Grande Parking Area, and Casa Chiquita Ruin. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

Casa Grande Parking Area

The Casa Grande Parking Area is located in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. The Casa Grande Parking Area is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year, and there is a $5 fee for parking. The Casa Grande Parking Area includes the Casa Grande Ruins, Casa Grande East Ruin, Casa Grande West Ruin, and Casa Chiquita Ruin. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson.

Casa Chiquita Ruin

The Casa Chiquita Ruin is located in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Casa Chiquita Ruin is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year, and there is no admission fee. Casa Chiquita Ruin includes the Casa Grande Ruins, Casa Grande East Ruin, Casa Grande West Ruin, and Hohokam Pueblo. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson.

If you’re looking for a place to camp in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, there are several Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boondocking sites near the Casa Grande Ruins. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is located in Casa Grande, Arizona, about 70 miles from Phoenix and 120 miles from Tucson. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is also near Casa Grande Mountain Park and Casa Buena Vista Ranch Historic District.

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July 22, 2022 0 comments

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