The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) states it purpose clearly in its mission statement: “To sustain the health, productivity, and diversity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.”
The BLM’s mission is not simply to preserve the land, but to preserve it specifically for public use. It is not only legal to camp on BLM land, it’s inexpensive! Even better, it can even be free and easily accessible to the public! Approximately one-eighth of the land in the US is under the jurisdiction of the BLM. All of this land is located in the western half of the country. As a general rule, if you’re west of the Rockies, you’re likely not far from BLM land.
It should be noted however, that while many areas allow for camping, some are fairly primitive. Many, such as the Carrizo Plain in California, ask that visitors follow a “Leave No Trace” policy. This policy is in an attempt to preserve the natural beauty and health of the land. This means you should be prepared to pack out whatever you pack in. An acceptable alternative is to use the developed camp sites that already exist. It’s also important to remember the guidelines for disposing of human waste (hint: bring a small shovel).
These guidlines are the reason that BLM lands stay beautiful for generation after generation to enjoy. They also keep the maintenance costs of BLM trails, camp sites, national monuments, and waterways low. With low costs, millions of families are able to enjoy affordable vacations every year. If fees are involved they’re in the form of a mere $5-10 donation made at the park entrance.
While the BLM may have once served the purpose of land disposal to farmers, ranchers, and miners, it has been more focused on conservation in the last half-century, and it shows. For anyone interested in camping, BLM land is a great affordable way to do it!
Related article: The Difference Between National Monuments and National Parks
Featured Image from shubham waghulde/Unsplash
