Midland LTVA Dispersed

Midland LTVA (Long Term Visitor Area) is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) dispersed camping area located approximately 9 miles north of Blythe, California. This LTVA is accessible via paved roads, making it relatively easy to reach for most vehicles. The area is very large and open with minimal shade, providing ample space for camping. Midland is one of several designated LTVAs in California and Arizona managed by the BLM for extended-stay camping.

Midland LTVA operates seasonally from September through April. Visitors can choose between two stay options: a two-week permit or a seasonal pass. The seasonal pass allows camping throughout the entire operational period (September-April). This seasonal timeframe aligns with desert camping patterns, offering pleasant winter camping while avoiding the extreme summer heat of the region. The seasonal pass is transferable to other designated LTVAs in the BLM system across California and Arizona during this same period.

Camping at Midland LTVA requires either a short-term or seasonal permit. The two-week permit costs $40, while a season pass is $180. The seasonal pass can be used at various other BLM long-term visitor areas in California and Arizona. Permits can be purchased on-site from the camp host, who can be identified by the American flag at their site. Payment is accepted by cash or check, which goes into a locked iron ranger box.

Midland LTVA offers basic amenities for long-term visitors. Facilities include a dump station for RVs and dumpsters for trash disposal. There is a camp host on-site to assist visitors. The area does not provide water or bathroom facilities, so campers must be self-sufficient with their water supply and sanitation needs. Cell service is limited, with spotty coverage reported for T-Mobile users. The area is quite open with little natural shade, so prepare accordingly for sun exposure.