McInnis Canyons river camping permits now online

Organization:

BLM

Media Contact:

Chris Joyner, Public Affairs Specialist

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – Reservations for McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area riverfront camping will be available online beginning March 1 for the popular Ruby-Horsethief section of the Colorado River.

The online reservation system should provide greater flexibility to users looking to make a reservation.

The BLM began requiring permits for camping in the Ruby-Horsethief section of the Colorado River in 2012 to organize and improve camping opportunities.  Fees were implemented in 2013 with generated revenue returning to improving user experience on that section of the river.  

"I think this new system will be much more user friendly,” said River Ranger Shaun Ray. Ray believes the 24/7 access to both reserve and make changes to permits will benefit everyone.  “We are always looking to improve user experience and increase access and opportunities.”

The number of people camping on the river has steadily increased each year since the permit system was instituted.  More than 14,000 river runners camped along the Ruby-Horsethief section of the Colorado River in 2015. Those visits generated approximately $90,000 in revenue that the BLM is using for boat launch and campsite improvements, permit administration, and river ranger patrols.  

For more information and to make reservations, find us online at:www.recreation.gov. 


The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.