Red Desert BLM Land wilderness guide
Bureau of Land Management Land · WY

Red Desert BLM Land

The Red Desert BLM Land is a sprawling, captivating region in Wyoming known for its stunning landscapes and wide-open spaces, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife and offering unique opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bureau of Land Management Land9,320,0002+ Trails
DesignationBureau of Land Management Land
Total Wilderness Area9,320,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Red Desert BLM Land

The Red Desert BLM Land is a sprawling, captivating region in Wyoming known for its stunning landscapes and wide-open spaces, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife and offering unique opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Red Desert in Wyoming spans nearly 10,000 square miles and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It's a mix of high-altitude desert, expansive sand dunes, colorful badlands, and alpine lakes. The region is home to some of the largest sand dunes in North America, such as the Killpecker Sand Dunes. It is a critical wildlife corridor that supports species like pronghorn, wild horses, and sage grouse. Historically, it has been vital to indigenous tribes and was a significant route during the Oregon and Mormon Trails. The area offers a wide spectrum of recreational activities, from trekking across its secluded trails to wildlife viewing and photography. Its vastness offers a solitude rare in today's world, with breathtaking sunsets and starry skies enhancing its appeal.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Desert BLM Land

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Killpecker Sand Dunes✦ Expansive pronghorn migration✦ Historic remnants of Oregon and Mormon Trails✦ Greater sage-grouse lekking grounds
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Desert BLM Land

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Desert BLM Land.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access is free, no permits required for general entry.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Desert BLM Land

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bison Basin

Located near a historic trail corridor, offering seclusion and a true wilderness experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Desert BLM Land

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Rock Springs, Wyoming
⌖ 53.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wyoming

Rock Springs in Wyoming draws outdoor adventurers with its vast open spaces, diverse terrain, and unique wildlife. Enjoy hiking, biking, camping, or fishing in this wild and scenic region.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Riverton, Wyoming
⌖ 57.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverton, Wyoming

Riverton, WY, offers outdoorsy souls a chance to hike, fish, and ride through the scenic Wind River Basin. Experience the authentic American West amidst stunning landscapes, wildlife, and exciting paths.

Summer to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Desert BLM Land

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Snowshoes - Kids
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Snowshoes - Kids

Discover family-friendly snowshoeing adventures in Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains with Wild Iris Mountain Sports. Perfect for kids, these guided trips introduce young explorers to winter’s wonders in a safe and engaging way.

Guided Tour1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Climbing Shoes
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
ClimbingADV Bookable

Climbing Shoes

Gear up for Wyoming’s legendary climbs with expert gear and advice from Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander. Discover what makes this shop a climbing haven in the Wind River Mountains.

Climbing1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Stick Clip
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Stick Clip

Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander offers expert climbing gear, apparel, and local insights—your gateway to the Wind River Mountains' rugged beauty. Discover top-quality equipment and community support for your Wyoming adventure.

Guided Tour1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Snowshoes - Adult
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
HikingADV Bookable

Snowshoes - Adult

Discover winter magic with snowshoeing adventures in the Wind River Mountains, guided by Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander, WY. Rugged terrain and expert gear make this a must-try season for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Trekking Poles
ADVEXPEDITION
Lander, Wyoming
HikingADV Bookable

Trekking Poles

Wild Iris Mountain Sports in Lander, Wyoming, equips hikers and trekkers for the rugged Wind River Mountains with expert guidance and top-tier gear. Discover how their trekking poles and clothing help you tackle this dynamic alpine terrain safely and confidently.

Hiking1, 3, and 7 Day Options • Under 18 Must Provide Guardian Waiver • Prepare Ahead, Let Us Help!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Fossil Lake Safari • Two Hours
ADVEXPEDITION
Kemmerer, Wyoming
Guided TourADV Bookable

Fossil Lake Safari • Two Hours

Discover Wyoming's ancient past with the Fossil Lake Safari in Kemmerer. This guided two-hour tour unveils fossils and natural wonders, perfect for explorers of all ages. Keep reading to learn more about this unforgettable adventure!

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Child's Helmet - Small
ADVEXPEDITION
Rock Springs, Wyoming
RentalsADV Bookable

Child's Helmet - Small

Introduce young adventurers to outdoor fun with the Child's Helmet Small UTV Rental in Rock Springs. Perfect for families, this experience offers a safe and thrilling way to explore Wyoming's scenic trails. Keep reading to discover more about this exciting outdoor activity!

RentalsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip