That was certainly one of the first questions I had after learning about the Bureau of Land Management’s free public lands. Well, to be honest, after the denial period wore off it was the first question I had. I just didn’t believe there was that much land available for public use. Especially being from California, where things tend to be heavily regulated. I knew we had National Parks and Forests to use which are well over 200 million acres alone, but there couldn’t possibly be more free land, I reasoned.
So I spent weeks researching anywhere I could to find out the wheres and hows and whens, but I’m getting away from myself and this post. I’ll stay focused! You’re here because you want to know how long you can stay on BLM land. Let’s answer that first. 🙂
Free dispersed camping on BLM land is often said to have a 14-day limit within a 28 day time period. However, the 14-day limit only applies to a single location within a 25-mile radius. One could stay on BLM land indefinitely by traveling 25 miles every 14 days, as long as they do not return to the same 25-mile radius within a 28-day window.
That needs a bit of unpacking, and there are some caveats all along the way. Let’s campout on this one a bit (oh the puns).
How Long Really?
As I said above, you could stay on BLM land, for free, indefinitely. There really is an ample supply of BLM land to achieve that.
All that anyone would need to do in order to do this for a month or two, or even fulltime (yes plenty of folks do this) is break down camp on day 14, travel at least 25 miles away, and set up camp in a new location. Obviously, in some situations, you’d need to travel further than 25 miles if BLM land is sparse in the region you’re traveling. But, this can be done and is done often by backpackers, tent-campers, van-lifers, and even full-time RVers with remote jobs and families!
Keep in mind, most BLM land is in the Western United States, which means the opportunities for extended stays are greater out here, but for most interested, 14 days is likely plenty of time.
Also, note that this 14-day time limit is for dispersed camping only. Which means for most situations there will be absolutely no services. That means no water, no electricity, and no bathrooms. You’ll find some that have vault toilets, but most locations will not.
Additionally, cell service is limited in many areas. This might be exactly what many of you are after, but if you work while you play, just be sure to search out a spot with cell service before heading out. Websites like Campendium.com actually share locations with GPS coordinates and cell reception ratings to boot! The kids don’t have to know if you purposely picked a spot without reception. 🙂
*14 days is the general rule but some regions have shorter time periods such as 8 or 10 days, and some require less distance between spots or more. Also, there are some special long term options available for a fee that I personally know about in the Eastern Sierras (my backyard) where extended stays are available with specific passes. Other regions have other programs as well.
Developed Sites on BLM Land
There are developed campsites available on BLM land that are open to the public as well. These developed campsites range in amenities but tend to be on the primitive side.
For the most part, developed sites will have designated and maintained campsites, usually have toilets available (but not necessarily flushing toilets), and features like grills and firepits. The amenities available though, vary greatly depending on the site and region.
These developed campsites do have fees, unlike dispersed sites, but they typically are much cheaper than private parks and national parks. The fees typically range between 5 to 20 dollars per night. Also, most sites do not take reservations, they are first come first serve. Though, we have seen more and more sites taking reservations over the past couple of years. We’ve even seen some previously free spots developed into paysites. Just make sure to check in to find out where your site stands.
Like dispersed sites, the stay is typically 14 days, but it does vary we have found. Be sure to check online or call the office responsible for overseeing your region. We have found better success just calling in, vs searching online. But, do keep in mind that Campendium is a great resource here as well. Freecampsites.net is another fantastic resource.
Other Things To Consider
Some areas are seasonal, which means they can only be used during a window of time. Usually, this has to do with weather conditions during winter months. However, certain regions have flood seasons during the summer as well, which requires that key locations close.
Additionally, depending on how much a certain location is being used, and sadly in some situations abused (not packing trash out, improper disposal of human waste, etc), the location can be closed for public use. At times this is temporary so that things like vegetation can regrow or erosion can be resolved. In the case of abuse, some regions will permanently be closed down.
Whatever the reason, closures are a reality. To be absolutely certain a location will be open during your vacation (ie, not having a BLM ranger show up instructing you to leave) always check in with the local office of the area you wish to visit. I have found that they are willing to do everything in their power to ensure you find the right spot and have a great time while you’re there.
Are Permits Needed?
By and large, permits are not needed to stay on BLM land. However, the caveat is in some regions like California, a fire permit is needed if you will be using any type of flame. This includes camp stove-top cooking.
Fire permits are free in California and easy to attain. Visit the BLM fire safety page here for more information: BLM FIRE.
How do I Access More Information or Find an Office
Visit BLM’s camping page for more information. They have all the information you need to find your next spot and plan your stay on public lands.