Core BLM Dispersed Camping Rules (The 14-Day Cycle)

Most BLM dispersed camping areas use a 14 days within any 28 consecutive day period rule. In many BLM offices, the “same area” is commonly defined as within a 25-mile radius. After you reach 14 days, you typically must move outside that area for the remainder of the 28-day period. Limits can vary by district and site-specific supplementary rules.

The 25-Mile Relocation Requirement

In many BLM-managed areas, the relocation standard is 25 miles (often described as “25 miles as the crow flies” or “outside a 25-mile radius”). Example state guidance pages:

• BLM Nevada camping guidance (mentions 25 miles)
• BLM New Mexico camping guidance (mentions 25 miles)

Because some areas use different boundaries or different limits, confirm the local rule set for your target area by calling the relevant field office or checking posted orders and supplementary rules.

The 28-Day Cycle Explained

The practical version: during any rolling 28-day window, you typically cannot exceed 14 days camping in the same area (as defined locally, often within a 25-mile radius). If you camp 7 days at Location A and then move outside the defined area, those 7 days still count toward the 14-day maximum for that area within the same 28-day period. The clock and the “area” definition are what matter.

Personal Property Rules

BLM’s rules of conduct prohibit leaving personal property unattended longer than 10 days on public lands (12 months in Alaska) unless otherwise authorized.

Source: 43 CFR 8365.1-2 (eCFR)

Note: Some specific areas have stricter standards. For example, LTVA supplementary rules include separate requirements for unoccupied units.

LTVA Exception

Long-Term Visitor Areas operate under different rules. During the permit season (September 15 through April 15), LTVA permit holders may stay within designated LTVA areas without the dispersed “14 days within 28” rotation used outside LTVAs. For complete LTVA guidance, see our comprehensive LTVA camping guide.

LTVA Permits: Fees, Season, and How They Work

Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) are designated Bureau of Land Management zones in Arizona and California that allow extended winter camping from September 15 through April 15. A long-term season permit is listed at $180, and a short-visit permit is listed at $40.

BLM currently lists 7 LTVAs (official BLM LTVA list): Imperial Dam, La Posa, Hot Springs, Midland, Pilot Knob, Tamarisk, and Mule Mountain. La Posa is commonly discussed as multiple camping areas under the La Posa umbrella.

Season Dates and Off-Season Rules

The LTVA season runs from September 15 through April 15.

Outside the permit season (April 16 through September 14), sites revert to non-season rules, and some areas may shift to day-use or overnight fee structures depending on the site. For example, La Posa lists off-season day-use and overnight fees and an annual pass option for that area.

Fee Structure and What’s Included

LTVA permits generally provide access across LTVAs during the season, with BLM listing permits as valid at all LTVAs.

Short-visit permits can be renewed. The LTVA supplementary rules and LTVA guidance indicate you may purchase additional short-visit permits, and the short-visit option is not capped at a single purchase.

Pro tip: America the Beautiful passes and similar federal lands passes do not apply to LTVA permit fees. (BLM LTVA Fee Policy)

Background on the 2024 draft fee discussion: BLM published a draft LTVA business plan in September 2024 that included a proposed higher fee structure. Draft plans do not equal adopted fee changes, and as of February 6, 2026, the published LTVA fee tables still list $180 and $40.

Where to Purchase Permits

LTVA permits may be purchased online (where offered) and in person through local field offices or on-site options depending on the area. Recreation.gov lists an LTVA pass for the BLM Yuma Field Office.

BLM field offices in Yuma (928-317-3200) and El Centro (760-337-4400) are primary contacts for the AZ/CA LTVA region.

LTVA vs. Dispersed Camping Comparison

Worked math check: $180 over a 7-month season averages about $25.71 per month. (This is simple arithmetic, not a BLM claim.)

State-by-State Equipment Requirements (Comparison Table)

Equipment requirements for BLM camping are set by federal conduct rules, local supplementary rules, and temporary fire orders. Requirements can vary significantly by location and season.

State Comparison Table

Note: Swipe left/right on mobile to view the full table. Data verified for 2026 camping season.

Portable Toilet and Sanitation Requirements

Sanitation requirements depend on the specific area and facility type. LTVAs are managed with their own supplementary rules and site-specific requirements. For example, Midland LTVA is listed as “self-contained only.” Always verify with the relevant LTVA page or the field office before assuming a portable toilet is required or optional in a specific zone.

Fire Equipment Specifications

Fire equipment requirements (such as carrying a shovel and a fire extinguisher) are commonly imposed through local fire restriction orders and closure/restriction notices. Requirements can change rapidly with conditions. Check BLM fire restriction updates for your area.

Source: Example BLM fire restriction announcement (Arizona)

The recommended specification remains a 2.5+ pound ABC-type fire extinguisher kept accessible near cooking/heating equipment.

Note: Fire equipment requirements vary by season and are imposed through temporary fire restriction orders that can change rapidly based on conditions. The table above reflects common patterns observed during 2024-2026 fire seasons, but always verify current orders with your local BLM field office before departure.

Grey Water and Waste Container Requirements

Do not dump wastewater in LTVAs or where local supplementary rules prohibit it. LTVA supplementary rules include explicit restrictions on dumping sewage and petroleum products and include enforcement authority.

Waste containers for trash are required in practice because Leave No Trace standards require packing out all trash. Always secure trash against wind and wildlife.

Enforcement Level Explanation

Enforcement varies by district, season, staffing, and complaint volume. High-use winter regions (for example, the Quartzsite and Yuma area) typically see more patrol activity than remote basins. Use this section as planning guidance, not as permission to ignore rules.

The Hidden Costs of “Free” BLM Camping

Dispersed BLM camping requires no permits but isn’t actually free. Hidden costs include fuel to reach remote sites ($15-40 per trip), water refills ($5-15), dump station fees ($8-20), and equipment purchases ($60-300 one-time). A typical 14-day trip costs $59-127, averaging $4.21-9.07 per day.

I tracked these expenses across 89 days of documented camping from March through May 2024. The data reveals patterns that help campers budget accurately. Understanding real expenses transforms “free camping” from marketing slogan to realistic financial planning.

Fuel Costs: $15-40 Per Trip

Dispersed BLM camping sites typically sit 50-100 miles from population centers, requiring round-trip travel of 100-200 miles. RVs average approximately $0.15 per mile for fuel (2024-2026 observed averages), varying by vehicle size, fuel prices, and terrain. Class B vans achieve better fuel economy ($0.12-0.15/mile) while large Class A motorhomes may reach $0.20-0.25 per mile on steep desert roads.

Calculate fuel costs using this formula: Distance × 2 (round trip) × $0.15/mile. For example, an 80-mile trip from Yuma to a dispersed site equals 160 miles total × $0.15 = $24 fuel cost. Remote Nevada locations 100+ miles from services can push fuel costs to $35-40 per trip.

Water Refills: $5-15 Per Trip (2024-2026 Range)

RV water tanks range from 30-100 gallons capacity. A typical 14-day trip requires 1-2 refills depending on usage and tank size. Some BLM field offices provide free water filling stations during business hours. Commercial options include truck stops charging $0.25-0.50 per gallon and RV parks offering water for $10-15 per fill.

Water costs average $10 per 14-day trip for most campers. Those with larger tanks (80-100 gallons) and conservative usage can complete 14-day trips without refills, reducing costs to zero. Conversely, Class A motorhomes with showers, dishwashers, and higher occupancy may require 2-3 refills at $10-15 each.

Dump Station Fees: $8-20 Per Visit (Early 2026 Pricing)

Most 14-day trips require one dump station visit for black water (sewage) and grey water (sinks/showers) tank disposal. Pricing varies significantly by location. Truck stops like Pilot and Flying J charge $8-12 for dump access. RV parks allowing dump-only visits charge $10-20, with higher prices near popular camping areas.

Plan dump visits strategically. Clustering them with fuel stops or water refills saves separate trips. Some dispersed campers extend stays by minimizing water usage, allowing them to skip dump visits entirely and drive to home base with full tanks for free dumping. For more options, see our guide to interstate rest areas with RV facilities.

Equipment Purchases: $60-300 One-Time (Early 2026 Pricing)

First-time dispersed campers face initial equipment costs. Portable toilets range from budget models at $60-100 to premium units with flush systems at $200-300 (early 2026 pricing). Fire extinguishers (2.5+ pound ABC type) cost $20-40. Waste containers and heavy-duty trash bags add $15-40.

These costs amortize over multiple trips. A $200 equipment investment spread across 10 trips equals $20 per trip, dropping to $10 per trip after 20 uses. Experienced campers own equipment for years, making subsequent trips genuinely inexpensive once initial purchases complete.

LTVA Permits: $0-180 Depending on Choice

LTVA permits are listed at $180 for the long-term season permit or $40 for a short-visit permit, with the season running September 15 through April 15. Dispersed camping outside LTVA zones requires no permit. The cost calculation depends on trip duration and amenity preferences.

Worked Examples: Real Trip Costs

Example 1: 14-Day Arizona Dispersed Trip
Fuel (80 miles × 2 × $0.15): $24
Water refills (2 × $10): $20
Dump station (1 visit): $15
Equipment: $0 (already owned)
Permit: $0 (dispersed, no permit required)
TOTAL: $59 ($4.21/day)

Example 2: First Trip With Equipment Purchase
Fuel: $24
Water: $20
Dump: $15
Equipment: $200 (portable toilet + fire extinguisher + supplies)
Permit: $0
TOTAL: $259 first trip ($18.50/day), then $59 subsequent trips

Example 3: 7-Month LTVA Season
Permit: $180
Fuel (4 resupply trips × $30): $120
Water (8 refills × $10): $80
Dump (4 visits × $15): $60
Equipment: $0 (already owned)
TOTAL: $440 for 210 days ($2.10/day)

Regional Cost Variations

Arizona dispersed camping typically costs more due to higher dump station fees ($15-20 average) and premium positioning near popular winter destinations. Nevada requires longer fuel distances, with many quality sites 80-100 miles from services, pushing fuel costs to $30-40 per trip. California charges higher water refill rates ($0.50/gallon common) at commercial facilities, though free BLM office water remains available during business hours.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Extended stays dramatically reduce per-day costs through amortization. Use BLM field offices for free water when available (call ahead for hours and restrictions). Cluster dump visits with fuel stops to avoid separate trips. Buy equipment during off-season sales at RV shows or Black Friday promotions.

For cost comparison, the $59 typical 14-day dispersed trip equals $4.21 per day—significantly less than commercial campgrounds charging $30-70 per night. Even with equipment purchases, dispersed camping costs remain a fraction of developed campground fees, making BLM lands an exceptional value for budget-conscious travelers.

Enforcement Patterns: Where and When Rangers Actually Patrol

BLM enforcement varies by location, season, staffing, and complaint volume. High-use winter regions (for example, Quartzsite and Yuma in Arizona) commonly have more visible patrol activity than remote areas with lower visitation. Use this section to understand real-world variability, not to rationalize non-compliance.

Note: The specific numeric enforcement metrics referenced in earlier drafts of this post were based on the author’s FOIA requests and field notes and are not published as a consolidated public dataset by BLM nationwide. The practical takeaway is still valid: enforcement intensity clusters in high-use corridors and peak seasons.

High Enforcement Zones

Arizona: Quartzsite and Yuma Areas
Peak season runs December through March, coinciding with snowbird migration to warm desert regions. Enforcement focus in high-use areas typically prioritizes waste issues, unsafe behavior, and obvious overstays.

Utah: Moab Corridor
Peak enforcement often occurs during tourist season. Rangers commonly prioritize resource damage, route compliance, and high-impact use areas.

Medium Enforcement Zones

California desert regions including Mojave and areas surrounding Anza-Borrego State Park often maintain moderate enforcement. Rangers patrol and respond to complaints but resources vary by district and season.

Low Enforcement Zones

Remote areas can see minimal ranger presence. Low enforcement does not indicate permission to violate regulations. Complaints still trigger ranger response, and serious violations can result in citations regardless of location remoteness.

Primary Enforcement Triggers

Waste Violations (Highest Priority): Improper disposal (trash, sewage, wastewater) and wildlife attractants commonly generate the fastest enforcement response.

Stay Limit Violations (Common Trigger): Overstays and repeated occupancy in the same area often generate complaints in high-use zones.

Fire Restriction Violations (High Risk): Fire restriction orders can carry serious penalties and change quickly with conditions.

Complaint-Driven Enforcement Reality

In many areas, enforcement is complaint-driven. Visible, disruptive, or high-impact behavior is more likely to draw attention. Quiet, compliant camping reduces both conflict and risk.

Violation Penalties: What Happens If You Break the Rules

Federal regulation authorizes penalties up to $1,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment for violations of BLM visitor services regulations and authorized supplementary rules.

Source: 43 CFR 8360.0-7 (Penalties)

Real-world citation amounts vary by district, violation type, and circumstances. Use the tier examples below as general guidance, not as guaranteed fine schedules.

Tier 1: Common First-Time or Lower-Impact Issues

First-time overstays and minor rule violations may result in warnings or citations depending on local policy, resource impact, and cooperation. If contacted, depart promptly, show documentation, and correct issues immediately.

Tier 2: Waste and Environmental Violations

Waste-related violations are commonly treated seriously due to environmental and public health impacts. LTVA and other high-use areas may have explicit supplementary rules restricting sewage and wastewater dumping.

Tier 3: Serious or Repeat Violations

Repeat offenses, significant environmental damage, or fire restriction violations during high-risk periods can escalate penalties. Temporary closure and fire restriction orders frequently reference 43 CFR 8360.0-7 penalty authority.

Citation Process and Appeals

Citations include violation description, fine amount, and instructions. Follow the instructions on the citation itself. Do not ignore federal citations.

Compliance vs. Citation Avoidance Mindset

Focus compliance efforts on doing what’s right for the land and other campers, not on calculating citation probability. Rangers appreciate visible good-faith efforts to comply: equipment readily accessible, sites kept clean, documentation of arrival dates, polite cooperation when contacted.

November 2025 Updates

Effective November 1, 2025, Mittry Lake Wildlife Area near Yuma, Arizona changed camping rules from 10 days per calendar year to 14 days within 28-day period, aligning with standard BLM guidance used in that region.

Mittry Lake Rule Change Details

Mittry Lake Wildlife Area sits in the Yuma area adjacent to Imperial Dam LTVA. Before November 1, 2025, camping was restricted to 10 days per calendar year—a unique limitation different from surrounding BLM lands.

The new rule, announced September 26, 2025 and effective November 1, 2025, changes Mittry Lake to match standard BLM guidance: 14 days maximum within any 28-day period, and a move-outside-the-area requirement that is often described as outside a 25-mile radius in that district.

BLM & Federal Fee-Free Days 2026

The 2026 schedule has shifted significantly toward patriotic and historic observances. Note that fee waivers now apply to U.S. Residents only; international visitors are typically required to pay standard fees.

• Feb 16: Presidents Day
• May 25: Memorial Day
• June 14: Flag Day / President Trump’s Birthday
• July 3–5: Independence Day Weekend
• Aug 25: 110th Birthday of the NPS
• Sept 17: Constitution Day
• Oct 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
• Nov 11: Veterans Day

Note: LTVA permits are still required during the season (Sept 15 – April 15) even on fee-free days.

Monitoring Future Changes

BLM regulations, fees, and policies change periodically. Always verify current rules before each camping trip rather than relying on information from previous seasons. Fire restrictions change quickly during fire season, with updates posted to BLM pages and through field office phone calls.

Future fee changes typically involve formal public processes and publication. Monitor the Federal Register for proposed BLM rules and notices.

Compliance Strategies for First-Time and Experienced Campers

Successful BLM camping compliance requires three stages: before you go (verify current rules, download maps, check fire restrictions), at the campsite (document arrival, maintain Leave No Trace standards), and managing the 14-day cycle (set reminders, mark GPS locations, document departure). Good-faith compliance efforts typically result in fewer problems when first-time mistakes happen.

Before You Go: Preparation Checklist

Verify Current Rules: Call your local BLM field office before departing. Find contact numbers at BLM.gov under your state’s page, then navigate to Contact Us. Confirm the area you plan to visit is open—seasonal closures for wildlife protection, fire danger, or weather can restrict access without advance warning posted online.

Download BLM Travel Management Maps: BLM uses travel management designations and maps to show legal routes and access. The national travel and transportation page is here: BLM Travel and Transportation. Not all BLM land allows cross-country travel or camping access—route compliance matters.

Check Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions can change quickly during fire season. Check BLM updates for your state/field office and confirm before you arrive.

Plan Fuel, Water, and Dump Locations: Map the nearest services before arriving at remote sites. Typical dispersed sites sit 50-100 miles from services, making supply runs time-consuming and fuel-expensive.

Equipment Verification: Confirm you have required and recommended equipment before departing. Fire extinguisher, shovel (especially during restriction periods), waste containers, and trash bags are essential. For LTVAs, verify sanitation requirements from the specific LTVA page.

At the Campsite: Daily Compliance Practices

Document Arrival Date: Take a photo with your phone showing the date and time immediately upon arrival. Include your RV or a recognizable campsite feature in the photo.

Keep Permits and Documents Accessible: Store LTVA permits (if applicable) in an easily accessible location inside your vehicle.

Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Pack out 100% of your trash. Use existing fire rings rather than creating new ones.

Wastewater Management: Follow local supplementary rules and LTVA rules for sewage and wastewater. Do not dump where prohibited and use authorized disposal.

Managing the 14-Day Cycle

Set Phone Reminder for Day 12-13: Configure a reminder so you do not accidentally exceed local stay limits.

Mark Site on GPS: Record your campsite coordinates so you can verify relocation requirements (often tied to a 25-mile radius, depending on the field office).

Document Departure with Clean Site Photo: Photograph your campsite showing it cleaned.

If Rangers Contact You

Be courteous and cooperative. Show permits and documentation if requested. Ask questions if you’re uncertain about requirements.

Good-Faith Compliance Philosophy

Rangers appreciate visible effort to comply with regulations. Perfection isn’t expected—mistakes happen. What matters is demonstrating respect for the rules and genuine effort to follow them.

Resources and Official Contacts

Official BLM Resources

• BLM Camping Information – National camping regulations and guidance
• Recreation.gov LTVA Pass Listing – Online pass purchase option
• BLM Travel and Transportation – Travel management and route info
• BLM Fee-Free Days – Fee-free day listings (latest published)

Key Field Office Contacts

• Yuma Field Office (Arizona): 928-317-3200 – Covers Quartzsite area, La Posa LTVAs, and surrounding dispersed sites
• El Centro Field Office (California): 760-337-4400 – Manages California LTVAs including Midland and Imperial Dam
• Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office (California): 760-833-7100 – Southern California desert regions

FAQ: Your BLM Camping Questions Answered

Conclusion: Camping Responsibly on Your Public Lands

BLM lands represent a massive public resource. The BLM states it manages about 245 million acres of public land.

LTVA permit pricing is still listed at $180 (season permit) and $40 (short-visit) on official pages as of February 6, 2026. Standard dispersed camping commonly uses a 14-days-within-28-days limit, often paired with a 25-mile area standard depending on the field office.

Always verify current rules at BLM.gov or through field office contact before trips.

Last Updated: February 6, 2026

For ongoing updates and detailed boondocking guidance, visit BoondockOrBust.com.