Get to Know Your National Conservation Lands

Did you know? The Bureau of Land Management manages more than 38 million acres of National Conservation Lands, spanning coast to coast! National Conservation Lands are designated by Congress or the President and include national monuments, national conservation areas, wilderness areas, wilderness study areas, wild and scenic rivers, and national scenic and historic trails. In 2025, BLM is celebrating 25 years of these special places, and we’ve rounded up trip planning tips, inspiring articles, and interactive resources to help you get ready to explore!

Join the BLM in celebrating 25 years of National Conservation Lands!

For nearly 80 years, the Bureau of Land Management has worked to conserve, protect, and restore a variety of public lands with specific natural, cultural, or scientific values. On July 12, 2000, a number of these unique areas came to be collectively managed as the National Landscape Conservation System – which would eventually become known as the National Conservation Lands.

While National Conservation Lands are managed for many uses, you’re probably most familiar with the incredible recreation opportunities they provide – from camping, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing to hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting.

Check out this interactive Story Map to start exploring these special places and their natural and cultural wonders, including National Conservation Lands near you!

Beartrap Canyon Wilderness (Bob Wick, Bureau of Land Management)

With over 900 National Conservation Lands units across the country, where should you begin? Camping, tours, and permits for hiking, backpacking, boating, rafting, and more are all just a click away on Recreation.gov. Please be aware that many National Conservation Lands sites are in very remote areas with few amenities, limited cell service, and rugged terrain. So be ready! Visit the Conservation Lands Foundation’s Respect. Connect. Protect. campaign for more information on how to safely enjoy these amazing places.

Once you’ve got your spot picked out, be sure to check for activities and events at the location! Visit the National Conservation Lands 25th Anniversary webpage to see a list of upcoming events and find a unique opportunity to celebrate and explore National Conservation Lands near you. Want to give back to the lands you love? Join the BLM on National Public Lands Day, held annually on the fourth Saturday in September, for a fun-filled day of service!

For the parents of Junior Rangers, be sure to check out the new Junior Ranger mission with Agents of Discovery! Download the app before you leave home so your kids can join Agent Seymour on an interactive virtual adventure with 14 challenges to keep them engaged with their public lands. You can also explore the BLM’s Junior Ranger program, including on-site activities, events, and downloadable activity books for kids to learn more about the places you visit.

Explore Related Trips

• Plan Ahead and Play It Safe for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
• Helpful Tips for Planning an Overnight Backpacking Trip
• Top Locations to Stargaze on Public Lands

Bring Home a Story

• Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive Timed Entry Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada
• San Juan River Permit Lottery And Reservations Bears Ears National Monument, Utah
• Loon Lake Recreation Site Loon Lake Recreation Site, Oregon
• Holter Lake Campground Chain of Lakes Recreation Site, Montana
• Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument Ticketed Entry Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, New Mexico