April 2023

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for managing millions of acres of public lands across the United States. From sprawling desert landscapes to lush forests and mountain ranges, these lands offer some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. This blog highlights some of the best BLM land in the eastern half of the United States.

What is BLM Land?

Before diving into the best BLM land in the eastern United States, it’s important to understand what BLM land is. BLM land is land that is owned by the federal government. It is open to the public for various uses, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The BLM manages these lands to ensure that they are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

The Best BLM Land in the Eastern Half of the United States

1. Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky, the Red River Gorge is a popular destination for rock climbing, hiking, and camping. The area is home to some of the most stunning natural arches and rock formations in the eastern United States. Visitors can explore the 29,000-acre geological wonderland by hiking along the numerous trails that wind through the gorge.

2. Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, Wisconsin

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a 240,000-acre protected area along the Mississippi River. It offers some of the best opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hunting in the eastern United States. Visitors can explore the refuge by boat or by hiking along one of the many trails that wind through the area.

3. Caney Creek Wilderness, Arkansas

The Caney Creek Wilderness is a 14,460-acre wilderness area in Arkansas that offers some of the best opportunities for hiking and camping in the eastern United States. The area is known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic vistas. Visitors can explore the wilderness by hiking along one of the many trails that wind through the area.

4. Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland

Located in the Appalachian Mountains in Maryland, Catoctin Mountain Park is a 5,810-acre park that offers some of the best opportunities for hiking and camping in the eastern United States. The park is home to numerous trails that wind through the rugged terrain of the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

5. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Florida

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a 2,900-square-nautical-mile protected area that surrounds the Florida Keys. The sanctuary is home to some of the most diverse and abundant marine life in the United States. Visitors can explore the sanctuary by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters that surround the islands.

Conclusion

The BLM land in the eastern half of the United States offers some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. From the stunning rock formations of the Red River Gorge in Kentucky to the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, these areas offer something for everyone. So, whether you’re an avid hiker, a birdwatcher, or a fishing enthusiast, be sure to add these BLM lands to your bucket list.

Are you planning a trip and looking for a guide to discovering hiking and biking trails to explore? Luckily, there are plenty of resources available to help you find the perfect trail, no matter where you’re headed. From online maps to guidebooks, here are some of the best resources for finding hiking and biking trails on your trips.

AllTrails

AllTrails is a popular online resource for finding hiking and biking trails. With over 100,000 trails in its database, it’s easy to find a trail near your destination. You can search by location, trail length, difficulty level, and more. The site also has reviews and photos from other users, making it easy to get a sense of what to expect on the trail.

Trailforks

Trailforks is a similar resource, but focused specifically on mountain biking trails. The site has over 200,000 trails in its database, with detailed maps and descriptions of each trail. You can search by location, difficulty level, and more. The site also has user reviews and photos, making it easy to find the perfect trail for your skill level.

National Park Service

If you’re visiting a national park, the National Park Service website is a great resource for finding hiking and biking trails. The site has detailed trail maps and descriptions, as well as information on trail length and difficulty level. You can also find information on ranger-led hikes and other guided tours.

Guidebooks

Guidebooks are a great resource for finding hiking and biking trails in a specific area. There are guidebooks available for almost every destination, from national parks to local trails. Look for guidebooks with detailed trail maps and descriptions, as well as information on the surrounding area.

Local Visitor Centers

When you arrive at your destination, stop by the local visitor center for information on hiking and biking trails. They will have maps and brochures with detailed information on the best trails in the area. You can also ask for recommendations based on your skill level and interests.

Hit The Trails

With these resources, you can easily find the perfect hiking and biking trails for your next trip. From online resources like AllTrails and Trailforks to guidebooks and local visitor centers, there are plenty of options available. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker or biker, these resources will help you find the perfect trail for your skill level and interests. So start planning your next adventure today!

A campervan is a great tool for exploring nature. Vandoit makes and adventure vehicle that give you everything you need for getting to places you normally would not be able to access. One of the great things our country has to offer is BLM camping, which is often accessible with a campervan.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and explore some of America’s most stunning natural landscapes, BLM camping might just be the perfect option for you. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about BLM camping, including what it is, the benefits and downsides, guidelines to follow, where to find BLM camping sites, and the gear you’ll need for your trip.

What is BLM Camping?

BLM camping refers to camping on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which oversees more than 245 million acres of public lands across the United States. These lands offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, and more. BLM lands are often located in remote areas, which makes them ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and experience the great outdoors in its purest form.

Benefits of BLM Camping

There are many benefits to camping on BLM lands. One of the biggest advantages is that it is usually free or very low cost, which makes it an affordable option for those on a tight budget. Additionally, BLM lands offer a variety of camping options, including established campgrounds, dispersed camping, and backcountry camping. This gives you the freedom to choose the type of camping experience that best suits your needs.

Another benefit of BLM camping is the stunning natural scenery. BLM lands offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States, including deserts, mountains, forests, and more. This makes it an ideal option for those who want to explore the great outdoors and take in the beauty of nature.

Disadvantages of BLM Camping

While there are many benefits to BLM camping, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the lack of amenities. Unlike private campgrounds, BLM lands do not offer showers, electrical hookups, or flush toilets. This means you’ll need to be self-sufficient and bring your own water, food, and other supplies.

Another downside is the limited availability of medical care or emergency services. BLM lands are often located in remote areas, which can make it difficult to access medical care or emergency services in case of an accident or injury.

Guidelines for BLM Camping

When camping on BLM lands, it is important to follow guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Camp only in designated areas or if dispersed camping, avoid sensitive areas such as wetlands and riparian areas.
• Respect wildlife and their habitats. Keep a safe distance and do not feed them.
• Practice fire safety. Only build fires in designated fire rings or use portable stoves.
• Pack out what you pack in. Leave no trace behind.
• Observe all rules and regulations related to hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Where to Find Camping Sites

BLM lands are located throughout the western United States, with the largest concentration in Utah, Nevada, and Alaska. To find BLM camping sites, visit the Bureau of Land Management website and search for recreation areas by state or region. You can also visit local BLM offices or ranger stations for information about camping and other recreational opportunities.

Gear You’ll Need

When camping on BLM lands, you’ll need to bring all the necessary gear and supplies with you. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Campervan, shelter, or tent
• Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, or bedding for your campervan
• Camp stove and fuel
• Cooler and food supplies
• Water containers and filtration system
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Maps and compass or GPS device
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain