10 Epic Adventures You Can Have on Public Land

Bretton Lakes
May 28
4 min read

Epic Public Land Adventures

From towering mountain peaks to endless desert canyons, the United States is home to over 640 million acres of public land, a sprawling outdoor playground open to all. Managed by agencies like the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and state governments, these lands offer something truly unique: limitless adventure at your own pace.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson or just getting started, here are 10 epic adventures you can experience on public land—no private access, permits (in many cases), or crowds required.

Campfire burning on a rocky forested lakeshore at sunset, surrounded by woods and calm water. Peaceful, natural setting.

1. Backcountry Camping in a National Forest

If sleeping under the stars away from busy campgrounds sounds appealing, national forests are your go-to. Unlike national parks, many U.S. Forest Service lands allow dispersed camping for free—no reservation required. Popular spots include:

Pisgah National Forest, NC – Perfect for remote sites tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Bridger-Teton National Forest, WY – Offers secluded campsites with Grand Teton views.

Pack in your gear, follow Leave No Trace principles, and reconnect with wild solitude.

2. Summiting a Fourteener on BLM Land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees vast areas of mountainous terrain, especially in the West. Some of the best hiking and climbing experiences—including many of Colorado’s famed “fourteeners” (14,000+ ft. peaks)—sit on public land.

Mount Elbert (14,440 ft), Colorado’s highest peak, is accessible via BLM trails and open land.
Mount Shasta, CA, managed partly by the Forest Service and BLM, offers alpine climbs for the bold.

With no entry fees and open access, these peaks invite do-it-yourself adventure.

Group rafting in an orange boat on rapids, all wearing blue helmets and life vests, paddling energetically. Water splashes around them.

3. Whitewater Rafting Through National Rivers

America’s public lands protect some of the most thrilling rivers in the world. Whether it’s a half-day paddle or a multi-day whitewater trip, you’ll find options for every skill level:

Salmon River (ID) – Nicknamed “The River of No Return,” this wild and scenic river cuts through BLM wilderness.
New River Gorge (WV) – Now a national park, this Appalachian whitewater classic has rapids ranging from Class II to V.

From spring runoff to late-summer flows, public rivers mean free-flowing fun.

4. Overlanding in America’s Wildest Spaces

Overlanding—vehicle-based exploration in remote areas—has exploded in popularity, and public lands are ideal for it. Hundreds of thousands of miles of forest service and BLM roads allow for epic off-grid travel, especially in the West.

Mojave Road (CA) – A historic desert route managed by the BLM with old forts, lava tubes, and ghost towns.
Alpine Loop (CO) – This rugged high-country loop winds through old mining towns and 12,000-ft. passes.

Camp out of your rig, explore forgotten places, and enjoy a true sense of freedom.

A person fly-fishing in a river surrounded by trees. They are wearing an olive jacket and cap, casting a line in a tranquil forest setting.

5. Fly Fishing in Remote Wilderness

Anglers seeking solitude will find endless opportunities on public land streams, rivers, and alpine lakes. From native trout in mountain creeks to monster pike in northern lakes, the diversity is staggering.

Bob Marshall Wilderness, MT – One of the largest roadless areas in the lower 48, loaded with fishable streams.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, MN – Remote canoe-in fishing for walleye, bass, and lake trout.

All you need is a rod, a license, and the willingness to follow the water where it leads.

6. Backpacking Through Iconic Wilderness Areas

Some of the best long-distance hikes in the U.S. run almost entirely on public land. Trails like the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail are iconic, but smaller wilderness routes offer deep solitude and life-changing treks.

The Wind River High Route, WY – A mostly off-trail alpine route through stunning public land peaks.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, CO – Features the famous Four Pass Loop, one of the most scenic 3–4 day treks in the Rockies.

You don’t need a permit for many wilderness areas—just a map, bear bag, and the spirit to go deep.

7. Rock Climbing on Public Crags

Climbing gyms are great, but nothing compares to placing your hand on real granite or sandstone. Public land is the backbone of American climbing culture, offering legendary routes and room to explore.

Joshua Tree National Park, CA – Thousands of routes on BLM and NPS land, from boulders to trad climbs.
Red River Gorge, KY – Climb limestone overhangs and sandstone faces in this climber’s paradise managed by the Forest Service.

Public land lets climbers test their limits while protecting access for future generations.

8. Wildlife Watching in National Wildlife Refuges

Public lands aren’t just for adrenaline—sometimes the best moments come in quiet observation. National Wildlife Refuges across the U.S. protect habitats for birds, mammals, and rare species.

Bosque del Apache, NM – Famous for its massive sandhill crane migrations in winter.
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, AK – Spot moose, bears, eagles, and spawning salmon in stunning terrain.

Many refuges have boardwalks, trails, or scenic drives—perfect for ethical, accessible wildlife experiences.

9. Canoe Camping on Inland Lakes

Not all adventures require elevation—paddle-in camping offers peace and remoteness without the climb. Many national forests and state lands surround lake chains and slow rivers perfect for multi-day trips.

Adirondack Park, NY – A mix of public and private land, with designated canoe routes through pristine lakes.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways, MO – Float the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers past springs and caves.

Set up camp on sandbars or islands and fall asleep to the sound of flowing water and forest wildlife.

Snow-covered boots wearing red snowshoes rest on snowy ground, overlooking a snowy mountain landscape and a lake under a cloudy sky.

10. Snowshoeing and Ski Touring in Winter Wilderness

Public lands are a four-season gift. In winter, many trails and fire roads become perfect routes for snowshoeing or backcountry ski touring.

Mount Hood National Forest, OR – Endless snow-covered routes for skiing and snowshoeing with Cascade views.
White Mountain National Forest, NH – Classic East Coast snow adventures in rugged alpine terrain.

Public land access means you can get outside even when the snow flies—without lift lines or resort fees.

Final Thoughts: Public Land Is Your Land

One of the most powerful ideas in America is that of shared ownership. Public lands belong to all of us—not just a wealthy few, not just for industry, but for everyone. Whether you're climbing granite spires, paddling into the fog, or simply watching a moose walk by, these places allow us to feel part of something bigger.

So grab your boots, board, paddle, or pack—the wild is open, and it’s calling.