Did you know you can camp for free on public land? That’s right—no fees, no reservations, just wide-open skies and the freedom to explore. Thanks to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), millions of acres across the U.S. are yours to enjoy.

What Is BLM Camping?

BLM stands for Bureau of Land Management, and they oversee public lands across the country, especially in the western states. These lands are open for hiking, fishing, off-roading and camping.
There are two main ways to camp on BLM land:

• Dispersed camping: Free, primitive camping with no amenities.
• Developed campgrounds: Some have restrooms, picnic tables and a small fee.

How Free Camping Works

Dispersed camping is the budget-friendly way to go. You can stay up to 14 days within a 28-day period—no registration required. Just pick a spot (preferably one that’s been used before), set up camp and enjoy the view.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Bring your own water, food and supplies.
• Carry out all trash to leave no trace.
• Check for fire restrictions before lighting a campfire.
• Don’t leave gear unattended for more than 10 days.

Where to Find BLM Land

Most BLM land is in the western U.S., including states like Arizona, Utah, Colorado and California. You can use BLM.gov to find camping spots and check local rules.

Why Camp on BLM Land?

• It’s free: Save your money for snacks and gas.
• It’s beautiful: Think desert sunsets, mountain views and starry skies.
• It’s flexible: No reservations needed.

What to Pack

BLM camping is DIY, so come prepared:

• Water and food
• Trash bags
• Portable stove (especially during fire bans)
• Offline maps (cell service can be spotty)

Want to Stay Longer?

If you’re heading to Arizona or California, check out Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs). You can camp for up to seven months with a permit.

Ready to Go?

BLM camping is one of the best ways to enjoy nature without spending a dime. So keep your money in your Consumers account and hit the road.

 

Federally insured by the NCUA