BLM land is federal public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management — roughly 245 million acres, most of it across the Western United States, and the single largest source of free dispersed camping in the country. That is why it leads our map as the gold base color. But 'generally allowed up to 14 days' is not 'allowed everywhere': individual field offices close high-use corridors to dispersed use, post fire restrictions, and designate day-use-only areas. So the gold tells you it's BLM and that BLM usually allows dispersed camping; the field office tells you the rule for the specific spot.

Common questions

Can you camp for free on BLM land?

Yes, generally — dispersed (undeveloped, no-fee) camping is allowed on most open BLM land, typically up to a 14-day limit. Watch for posted closures, fire restrictions, and designated day-use areas, and check the local BLM field office before you rely on a spot.

How long can you camp on BLM land?

The standard limit is 14 days within a 28-day period, after which you must move out of the area. Some specific BLM areas post shorter limits — verify on site or with the managing field office.

Do you need a permit to dispersed camp on BLM land?

No permit or fee is needed for dispersed camping on open BLM land; it's free. Developed BLM campgrounds charge a fee, and a few special areas (such as some desert Long-Term Visitor Areas) require a separate seasonal permit. Always check for fire restrictions before any campfire.

Sources — verify before you camp

• Camping on public lands — Bureau of Land Management (blm.gov). The dispersed-camping rule-of-thumb and the 14-day limit. As accessed 2026-06.

This page aggregates public data; the linked official pages are authoritative — verify before you camp. The color on our map is the disclaimer, never a permit.