Bureau of Land Management dispersed sites around Florence offer primitive camping with varying terrain, from desert scrubland at 5,700 feet to higher canyon locations above 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F, while spring and fall camping provides more moderate conditions. The region features significant elevation changes which affect overnight temperatures throughout the year.
What to do
Trail riding: Seep Springs OHV Area offers both easier and challenging trails for off-road enthusiasts. One reviewer noted, "Seep Springs OHV is a strong choice for offroad riders who like semi-remote terrain, fewer crowds, and a mix of easier and more challenging trails, provided they go in prepared."
Creek access: Cripple Creek BLM Area sites provide water access uncommon in the high desert region. A camper mentioned, "We went on a Saturday and it wasn't crowded at all...there's a nice creek running down the whole way. Definitely check it out if you don't mind a colder night in a valley."
Fishing opportunities: Lake areas within driving distance accommodate anglers. A camper at Lake Deweese state wildlife area shared, "The reservoir is really beautiful," though they cautioned about site conditions.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Camping in canyons provides natural sound barriers. One visitor to Phantom Canyon stated, "We camped here a few times. The spot closest to the mining town has been my favorite so far! It is in a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal."
Creek-side camping: Multiple sites feature water access despite the arid climate. At Seven Lakes Road, a camper described their experience: "Came mid August. Arrived about 5pm on a Saturday and there were a handful of spots left. I was right next to the river."
Night sky viewing: The area offers minimal light pollution at higher elevations. A Lake Deweese visitor remarked, "Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way. Nice spots for fly fishing and hiking."
What you should know
Trash issues: Unfortunately, many sites suffer from previous campers' negligence. A camper at Seven Lakes noted, "Views were nice and plenty of spots but the spots are pretty close to each other and there was a decent amount of trash left behind. We picked up as much as we could."
Limited amenities: Most sites have no water sources or facilities. At Penrose BLM sites, visitors explained, "There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max."
Activity noise: OHV traffic creates significant noise in popular areas. One camper reported, "Lots of ATV and people coming up to use the trail for those purposes. Large trucks and rigs can still make it fairly far up the road."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Several water areas have restrictions. At Lake Deweese, one camper warned, "DO NOT let kids or dogs in water, as there is a level red warning for toxic algae!!"
Site selection timing: For weekend camping, arrive early. A visitor to Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed advised, "Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off 'open-area' with several fire pits to choose from."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts diverse wildlife. A camper at Cripple Creek BLM Area shared, "Beautiful area right by the creek (found natural turquoise) with plenty of wildlife like goats, deer, rabbits, and many other things."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many roads deteriorate further from main access points. A camper at Oil Well Flats cautioned, "Fairly steep and rough road up into the campground. Once your in the roads are decent."
Connectivity information: Cell service varies significantly by location. At Penrose BLM sites, a camper noted, "Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)" while Phantom Canyon offers "no cell phone signal."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be extreme. A visitor to Seven Lakes shared, "I spend 10 days and I have no complaints with temp of 65-45 it was wonderful taking off the crazy storm with having hailing one night."
Ranger
