Taking you from the Greater Phoenix Area BLM land all the way down to my first steps in Tuscon, AZ! I also stayed on some State Trust land, more info on that below. If you're near Apache Junction or Gold Canyon, make sure to check out the dispersed camping on Peralta Rd. It's on State Trust land, so you'll need a permit, see info below. It's PHENOMENAL! Sooo pretty out there!
The Phoenix District Office of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages about 3.1 million acres of public land in central Arizona. The district includes the Hassayampa and Lower Sonoran field offices.
Some BLM land areas in Arizona include:
Harquahala Mountain Back Country Byway (OHV)
Agua Fria National Monument
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness
Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area
You can view BLM land on Google Maps by tapping the BLM land layer. You can also search for BLM land by location, activity, or keyword on the BLM website.
Camping is free on BLM land, but some recreational activities require fees and permits. For example, Aravaipa Canyon, Paria Canyon, and Coyote Buttes require permits to preserve the area's ecosystem.
Arizona State Land Trust info:
What is State Trust Land?
State Trust Land is not Public Land. Trust land is different from public land such as parks or National Forests, in that Trust Lands are managed by the Land Department to generate revenue for 13 specific beneficiaries. Today the Trust manages 9.3 million acres of land, and approximately 90 percent of the revenue generated from sales or leased supports the K-12 Education.
You must obtain a permit from the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) to be on State Trust lands. For current fees visit their website. Stay connected with the ASLD by following them on Twitter or Facebook. Their Twitter ID is AZStateLand.
Partnering Managing Agencies
For Bureau of Land Management Related concerns visit: blm.gov/arizona
For United States Forest Service related concerns visit: fs.fed.us
For Arizona Game and Fish Department concerns visit: azgfd.com
For Arizona State Trust Land Permits visit: land.az.gov/natural-resources/recreational-permits
For OHV registration concerns visit: servicearizona.com
For Arizona Wildfire Information visit: azfireinfo.az.gov
Leave No Trace Principles of Off-Grid Camping: A Guide to Responsible Wilderness Exploration
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:
Before embarking on your off-grid adventure, meticulously plan your trip. Research the area's regulations, weather conditions, and potential hazards. Equip yourself with appropriate gear, including navigation tools, sufficient food and water, and weather-appropriate clothing. By preparing adequately, you reduce the risk of emergencies and ensure a smoother, safer camping experience.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:
Minimize your impact by sticking to established trails and campsites whenever possible. Avoid trampling on fragile vegetation, particularly in sensitive ecosystems like alpine or desert environments. When selecting a campsite, opt for durable surfaces such as rock, gravel, or dry grass to minimize soil erosion and preserve the natural landscape.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly:
Off-grid camping necessitates a commitment to responsible waste management. Pack out all trash, including food scraps, and dispose of it properly upon returning to civilization. Practice Leave No Trace toileting by digging a small cathole at least 200 feet away from water sources and campsites for human waste disposal. Carry biodegradable soap and use it sparingly, ensuring that all wastewater is dispersed away from water bodies.
4. Leave What You Find:
Resist the temptation to collect souvenirs or disturb natural artifacts. Leave rocks, plants, and historical artifacts untouched, preserving the integrity of the ecosystem and cultural heritage. Take photographs and memories, leaving nature's treasures for others to discover and appreciate.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts:
While campfires can enhance the camping experience, they also pose risks to the environment if not managed responsibly. Whenever possible, utilize established fire rings or portable stoves to minimize the impact on the surrounding vegetation. Use only dead and downed wood for fuel, and ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the campsite.
6. Respect Wildlife:
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and observe them from afar. Avoid feeding animals, as it disrupts their natural behaviors and can lead to dependence on human food sources. Store food securely to prevent wildlife encounters, minimizing the risk of conflicts and preserving the animals' wildness.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors:
Keep noise levels to a minimum, particularly during quiet hours, to preserve the tranquility of the wilderness. Yield to others on trails, and avoid overcrowding at popular destinations, allowing everyone to enjoy the serenity of nature.
28 авг 2024
