BLM LAND

What is BLM land?

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands are considered public lands. Collectively, they comprise 247.3 million acres and are located primarily in western states.

closest and most actionable federal lands include:

1. Sam Houston National Forest [1]

• Distance & Drive Time: ~150 miles (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours east of Austin near New Waverly, TX)
• Free Land Features: This 163,000-acre forest allows free dispersed camping anywhere on national forest land, as long as you are at least 1/4 mile away from developed recreation sites, trailheads, and the Lone Star Hiking Trail. [1, 2, 3, 4]

2. Davy Crockett National Forest [1]

• Distance & Drive Time: ~170 miles (approx. 3.5 hours northeast of Austin near Kennard, TX)
• Free Land Features: Covers 160,000+ acres and offers similar dispersed camping rules. You can set up primitive camps for free in the general forest area, making it a great spot for "dirtbagging" or backpacking. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

3. Caddo and Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) National Grasslands [1]

• Distance & Drive Time: ~230 miles (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours north of Austin, near Decatur and Honey Grove, TX)
• Free Land Features: Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, these 17,000-acre grasslands offer quiet backcountry exploration. Primitive camping is generally allowed for free across the sprawling grasslands, provided you follow the 1/4-mile distance rules from established roads and sites. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Essential Resources for Visiting:

• Pre-Planning: Always stop by the local US Forest Service Ranger District Office or consult their Interactive Visitor Map to confirm current fire restrictions and verify exact dispersed camping boundaries. [1, 2]
• Additional Mapping: You can also cross-reference public hunting boundaries and land access with the onX Maps BLM Land & Public Access Finder or check for Public Hunting in Texas to see if certain wildlife management areas (WMAs) require specific permits. [1, 2]

See our BLM land maps for Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Zion National Park.

How do I report issues or concerns about BLM land?

Call the Bureau of Land Management’s Law Enforcement Dispatch at (800) 637-9152. The number is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can be used for reporting issues and natural resources crimes.

Are there restricted areas within BLM lands?

There are land-use restrictions in some areas.