Alabama Hills Camping Closures | Special Onsite Report
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
- The camping closures I encountered at the Alabama Hills BLM today were so onerous I recorded this special onsite report. During my onsite visit to the Alabama Hills Recreation and National Scenic Area today we encountered a near total ban on the free dispersed camping that previously existed. In this video, I show you the areas I encountered where camping is no longer allowed. As of October 1, 2021 the west side of Movie Road in the Movie Flat area and any area marked with a no camping sign will be day use only areas. Our search for a free dispersed campsite within the Alabama Hills BLM that would accommodate our fifth wheel RV met with negative results, so we camped at the Tuttle Creek BLM campground instead. Beware of the new restrictions on dispersed camping within the Alabama Hills BLM. The next day, I did find a big rig friendly campsite within the Alabama Hills dispersed camping area. Here are the grid coordinates for the campsite: 36.612888, -118.117863
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Our first trip to Alabama Hills was in April but we stayed at Boulder Creek RV because we work remote. The hills were so packed that we couldn’t access any hiking or rock formations without walking thru someone’s camp which we did. Most didn’t mind but we did have people ask us to park elsewhere as to not block their view. The trash was overflowing. It was insanely packed. I do think they need to better manage it and we talked to a ranger who said big changes were coming. If people just picked up after themselves and used the proper way to dispose of human waste then it wouldn’t be like this.
That breaks my heart. I literally feel like crying. Thank you for sharing. Thank you for keeping your videos real.
Thanks for watching! Lou
This is very good news. The last thing people visiting the classic movie location used since the early silent picture days is a ragtag camper vehicle mucking up the natural beauty of the Alabama Hills.
Can't wait for all these people that never cared about the outdoors to go back to the bars, or whatever they did before "lockdown" got them bored enough to start camping on land they don't respect or appreciate.
Living within 4 miles of the Alabama Hills,closures the BEST thing to ever happen...the last 2 years,the tsunami of tourists leaving their trash and poop,thinking they could do as they pleased,it was destroying the area.They off-roaded in closed areas off trails,started campfires during fire closures,speeding the dirt roads,making the area a out-of-control little Los Angeles...
Thanks for adding some context from a local resident's perspective. Lou
I understand the frustration of local residents when campers are so inconsiderate. I am frustrated when I am camping and the people are like this.
I'm a Boondocker myself, but what annoys me more and more is how campers, ATV riders and shooters deface nature and throw their trash everywhere
What a shame! I wish the BLM would charge a small fee for a permit to camp. It would provide some money to provide for some oversight and some accountability. If someone has to provide their identification they may behave a little better.
This was a truly epic free boondocking location. Yes - it is a shame. I believe the BLM plans on making this area camp by free permit only. Lou
Alabama Hills is internationally famous. Most people drive or bike through to see the unique rock formations. RVs with cooking gear, ORVs, music, drinking ruined the hills for most visitors. Besides that, locals complain of drivers running over plants that take centuries to reestablish.
This UA-cam author got it right. Places usually get closed because too many people abuse the land.
This area is very heavily traveled. The highest peak in the lowest 48. There's a western movie festival in the fall that spends a lot of time in the hills recalling the movies made in places there. It's not typical BLM land. And the local economy depends on tourism.
The portable toilets are no doubt because people climb among the rocks to relieve themselves.
That's too bad. They certainly don't have the staff to police such a wide area. So, the only alternative is to close the door. Too bad. Again, there are always those who will take advantage of every situation. It's much like being in grammar school - a few misbehave and no one gets to play outside. It's unfortunate for all those who act responsibly and are adult enough to pick up after themselves. It's public land, but not controlled by the public. It's clear, how quickly things can change with just the stroke of a pen.
Just a few diligent federal law enforcement officers writing citations when warranted could keep these lands open for public use. But yes, the easy way out is to just shut it down.
@@LivingOurDreamNow
why don't you quit going on UA-cam and shown everyone all the free camping spots you think that doesn't create all the congestion stop advertising all the free spots you ruin everything for everyone
I think a lot of the dispersed camping areas closing is ultimately a good thing for the environment. Its so delicate out there and could take decades to recuperate lost brush and vegetation. I think in the future they definitely will be requiring permits. Its gotten out of hand out there with the trash. I went rock climbing back in the Feb. 2022 and there was trash in the deepest mini slot canyons and broken beer bottles. It was sad.
We found this special place negatively changed as well! This is a staple place used by so many to enjoy the outdoors and it's now been designated by no camping and day use signs. This place has educated generations of folks about the enjoyment and ease of camping in the outdoors. So sad....
We agree!
.Too many people, many apparently lazy and arrogant spoil it for everyone else, Also, the abundant youtube videos showing people where to go when in the past one had to do a bit of research and effort to find these spots. I for one have been camping the eastern sierra for more than forty years and I ain't telling anybody any of my spots. Go find them yourself!
Such a shame. My first time camping here was back in feb 2021 and I was planning to camp again this winter. We really need to work as a whole to keep this place well maintained. Well too late now.
I hear you brother. Thanks for watching! Lou
Well, something had to be done as it got so trashed.
More citations for folks that can't follow basic rules like pack it out are in order. Maybe not a total solution, but it would help.
I have seen many more reports of this not only at this location but many other BLM dispersed camping areas. It is very sad.
The campgrounds will be packed now. Sucks
GOOD! I've been there 3 times in the last 15 years. Last time was 4 years ago. we wanted to see the scenery, NOT a campsite. There were huge campers with half of their house spread out over a lot more area than they needed. Basically blocking tourists from certain areas. One guy even had a couple of big dogs that were running loose and jumping up against our vehicle in the lone ranger area. They looked like they were moving in. ASSHOLES!!!
people ruin all the best spots because of the trash and human waste they leave, it's everywhere. Fire rings are full of beer cans and trash, etc. We had a great BLM spot a few miles outside of Zion on the river for years and it got trashed out and BLM fenced off access. The crowds have ruined Wild Willys hot springs in Mammoth area, people camping with rigs right nest to no camping signs. Soon they'll shut it down too.
Oh good. Not surprised. This site got hammered by Knuckleheads for years. It's an outrage that BLM would not accommodate 5th wheel and class A's.
Wow. Sorry to hear this. It is a beautiful area. It is a shame that people that apparently can’t follow rules are ruining it for everyone else.
The lack of common sense some folks show in trashing our public lands is inexplicable.
The Owens Valley is my go to playground in the spring and summer months before I head to the desert southwest for the winter. The last three years I saw this coming it was just starting to get way overcrowded with people not caring leaving there trash behind and camping were your not supposed to...such a shame. They BLM says to keep checking there webpage for any changes to Alabama Hills camping because this is a new policy for now.
Story has it that they were sick of all the toilet paper and human waste behind every rock. People suck.
Wow! That's depressing. It looks amazing though. Love that dogs are allowed.
Looking forward to the Arch Loop Trail hike with Milo leading the way tomorrow.
I support the BLM and NFS. They are doing this for good reason.
Many of the "campers" are from the SoCal suburbs and never learned how to respect areas like this. They think that the rural area where we live is just a place to dump their trash for free.
The few ruin it for the many.
if you are brave enough you can go in further for more areas, it'll be a bit rough but there is enough for your big rig
Too bad about the westside and thanks for the good video one point is for most BLM and NFS signs they apply to what is behind them ie the no motor vehicles signs were on a trail shortcut that is being restored and at the end of the video it specifically says no camping beyond this sign so feel free to park and camp in front of it. Probably a bunch of new campers running over bushes and making new trails leading to restrictions and increased signage.
Apparently the BLM went overboard with all the restrictive signs as a temporary solution. I believe their plan is now to make Alabama Hills camp by permit only and only in designated campsites of which there will be a limited number. So yea -- dispersed camping appears to be dying a slow death at Alabama Hills. I will say the backdrop of Mt. Whitney with the unique rock formations in the foreground here is jaw-dropping gorgeous. Thanks for sharing your insight with us. Lou
That is really messed up
The locals say the place was really trashed after COVID hit.
Thank you for this update, we were planning on doing some camping here, but I guess it is on to the next one. Too bad, what a shame..
Tuttle Creek BLM Campground is nearby and is affordable. You'll have clean vault toilets and trash dumpsters there. Lou
We’ve stopped there a few times in the past few years and yes we always left our spot nice and clean. I never really saw garbage or extra fire pits when we stayed at AH.
I wouldn’t be so quick on the comments to blame the campers....locals can tear up their spots as well.
Wonder if the town of Lone Pine will miss all the money the campers bring into their little town. Seems like it depends on all the visitors that pour in. Yeah there is a few motels but not the same.
But it is California so shut downs of public lands is to be expected in that state
I’m sure it will be open to film crews from Hollywood....go figure
Hey! I wonder if we posted some of those No Camping signs here in Los Angeles it would work for our homeless population???? But seriously that's sad to hear. thanks for sharing
Go for it! LOL Lou
Haha. Good. Everyone goes there and empties the shelves in the stores and leaves nothing for the locals. It's been idiots camping where all the fires in Owens valley started.. we almost lost laws museum some years back.
Damn I was going to head other there tomorrow… I need to come up with a new plan now…
Tuttle Creek BLM Campground is nearby if you want to visit Alabama Hills.
@@LivingOurDreamNow I ended up out there last night and found a spot to sleep overnight. Got out there super late though. It was depressing seeing all the areas closed. But there were a bunch of trucks, tents and vans out there. Only a handful of travel trailers.
bunch of hipsters trying to take their IG photos mess up this place
Thanks for sharing. We have secret spots in Alabama Hills now off limits. There were days my family would hike and run into several areas used as toilets. I'm not surprised by this decision. Very disappointing.
Oh wow! Truly a shame to loose this epic boondocking location.
It’s such a shame that irresponsible and disrespectful people have ruined it. We stayed there in January 2021. By the way, the porta-potties were at the Arch trail parking lot before.
User abuse by some is ruining access for all. It is horrible. Take care.
I was planning on heading there for the first time in 2 weeks. I don’t know what I’m going to do now. Such a gamble to drive all the way there and not find a single thing…
Tuttle Creek Campground (BLM) nearby may be a Plan B if you can't find a suitable campsite in Alabama Hills. Lou
Don't understand, we were there 10 days ago. We have spent 2 weeks there. There was a lot of place to camp free, except on the west side of movie road. There was at least 50 rigs dispersed all over.
As you can see in the video, that's not what I found yesterday. Apparently a new land management plan is being put into effect. The restrictive signage appears to be fairly new.
Thank you for the helpful information. I enjoy your videos 😎
My pleasure! Thank you for taking the time to provide this feedback Herb. Much appreciated. Lou
I visited their last year, I saw the signs and broke my heart
Does not appear the BLM will reverse course anytime soon considering they planted many now restricted areas.
That is so sad! People need to start taking care of the BLM land before it is all closed down. So where did you find close by to camp at?
Tuttle Creek BLM Campground nearby with good access to Lone Pine and there is good cell service here. Affordable too. Dry camping is $8 and $4 with a senior/access pass.
@@LivingOurDreamNow Thank you for sharing Good to know for the future. 👍🏼
But how is van camping now? Is it cool?
I’m planning on going up on Saturday to car camp did you find spots that could accommodate car camping?
There were campsites that will accommodate car or tent camping. Even more campsites if you have high clearance and 4x4.
And those are all going to be on the east side of Movie Rd?
@@MtnJnkyOutdoors did you manage to find any decent car camping spots? Was planning on taking my rav4 up here this weekend to car camp.
@@DeanM4chine I didn’t but I was looking at night. All the spots that I found that allowed camping were taken already. Seems that they closed off ALOT of areas that you could previously camp.
Get used this and more coming in the future. Oceano Dunes next. I’m sure Usal beach is on the list. I suspect poor behavior from the minority spoiled the system for the majority. I have come to the conclusion that the rest of us will have to tread lightly and leave it better than you found it, to make up for the others who don’t. It’s in my own interest to do so.
Totally agree Al. Thanks for your feedback. Lou
My dream was to boondock all over California away from rv parks and people in a small off-road trailer. The locations are disappearing…
What a shame.
What a shame.
Locals told me the BLM removed 4 tons of trash from Alabama Hills after the closures.
@@LivingOurDreamNow wow. That is disgusting. It is sad the lack of respect. We believe in leaving it better than we found it too. Wish more people did.
Any update on this? Still close?
We plan on going end of Feb 2022
Hi Brian. The closures shown in this video purportedly will remain closed. Recommend you check with the BLM prior to travel. I hear they will be moving to a designated numbered campsite system where a free permit will be required.
@@LivingOurDreamNow yes I saw the website and it will remain close, Im afraid there will be no camp site available around Movie road, People ends up at tuttle creek but its not the same camping next to boulders
Thanks for the video. So sad they had to do this but so many people don't take care of the land and clean up after themselves.
Yes, exactly. Thanks for watching! Lou
That is so sad! We love camping there! People need to follow pack out and leave no trace or more of this is coming!
Just a little active enforcement of the existing rules would go a long way. Once the word gets out that federal summons are being issued to appear before a federal magistrate, folks will think twice about abusing federal public lands.
What a shame! So sad to hear this happened. It is beautiful , and wondrous lands ! Hope you enjoy your hike's, it is still an amazing place. I cant wait to see some video's from you. vicky
Today, we are going to explore Alabama Hills more closely by both vehicle and on foot to include the Mobius Arch. Lou
I knew it will happen. And I can say we as unkind to mother nature camper, deserved it. I loved this place and even with cost of restriction I am happy to protect it. There will be designated campsites according to BLM website.
It's too bad it's been so badly abused and has been shut down. When we stayed a couple years ago it was magical; Thanks for the heads up since we had planned another visit but now going to visit Sequoia instead, before it burns down!
We really enjoyed the Lone Pine area. Thanks for watching! Lou
well, i have a secret spot, near AH in BLM allowed dispersed camping 😏
Well - no one will fault you for keeping your favorite free campsite a secret. It is just a hobby of mine to share free camping new finds when I encounter them down the road.
Many people go there to photograph the Milky Way, So As it says Day use only Is that also closed for night photography? What an abuse of power. the land is public no private. It belongs to us, the people, not them.
BLM Website: Can camp east side
Actual: No Camping
Of course there's conflicting information..it's a government operation, lOL 🤣