How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks (2024)

Exploring Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is an adventure that promises vast, open spaces, fewer crowds, and the freedom to roam and camp almost anywhere. However, this freedom also comes with the challenge of staying clean and refreshed during your outdoor excursions. In this blog, we'll explore how to shower on BLM land, ensuring you stay fresh and comfortable while respecting the environment.

Embracing the Freedom of BLM Land

BLM land offers some of the most diverse and pristine landscapes in the United States. From the arid deserts of the Southwest to the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, these lands provide countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and off-roading. One of the biggest perks of BLM land is the ability to engage in dispersed camping, which allows you to set up camp virtually anywhere, away from developed campgrounds and facilities. This freedom, while exhilarating, requires a bit of extra preparation, especially when it comes to maintaining personal hygiene.

The Importance of Staying Clean in the Outdoors

Maintaining personal hygiene is crucial, not just for your comfort, but also for your health and well-being. Regular cleaning helps prevent skin irritations, infections, and other health issues that can arise from prolonged exposure to dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Additionally, staying clean can make your outdoor experience more enjoyable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature without the distraction of feeling dirty or uncomfortable.

Tips for Showering on BLM Land

Showering on BLM land may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a straightforward and even enjoyable part of your outdoor adventure. Here are some tips to help you stay fresh and clean:

  1. Bring Enough Water: Water is a precious resource when camping on BLM land, especially in arid regions where natural water sources may be scarce. Make sure to bring enough water not only for drinking and cooking but also for personal hygiene. Depending on your duration of stay and level of activity, plan for a few extra gallons of water solely for washing.
  2. Camp Near a Water Source: If possible, set up camp near a natural water source such as a river, stream, or lake. This allows you to use the water for bathing (if permitted) and reduces the amount of water you need to carry with you. Always check local regulations regarding the use of natural water sources for bathing.
  3. Use Biodegradable Soap: Protect the environment by using biodegradable soap for all your washing needs. Regular soap can harm the ecosystem, especially when used near water sources. Biodegradable soap breaks down naturally and reduces the impact on the environment.
  4. Consider Solar Showers: Solar showers are an excellent option for showering on BLM land. These bags are filled with water and left in the sun to heat up, providing a warm shower without the need for fuel or electricity. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be hung from a tree or vehicle for convenient showering.
  5. Create a Shower Privacy Shelter: For added comfort and privacy, consider bringing a portable shower shelter. These tents are easy to set up and provide a private space for showering, changing clothes, and even using a portable toilet.
  6. Respect Water Usage: When showering, be mindful of your water usage. Take quick, efficient showers to conserve water, and always be aware of local regulations regarding water use and disposal.
  7. Dispose of Wastewater Properly: Never dispose of soapy water directly into natural water sources. Instead, use a designated wash basin to collect wastewater and dispose of it at least 200 feet away from any water source. This helps protect the environment and keeps water sources clean.
  8. Portable Shower Solutions: Invest in a portable shower system that is easy to transport and use. Portable showers come in various designs, from simple gravity-fed bags to more advanced pressurized systems. Choose one that fits your needs and is convenient to use in remote locations.

How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks (1)

What To Look For in a Portable Shower

When choosing a portable shower for dispersed camping, several key aspects should be considered to ensure you select one that meets your needs effectively.

Pressurization Method

The method of pressurization is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a portable shower. There are several types of pressurization methods available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:

  1. Gravity-Fed Showers: These are the simplest type of portable showers. You hang the water container above your head, and gravity does the rest. While they are easy to use and do not require any power, the water pressure can be low and inconsistent.
  2. Pump Showers: These use either a foot pump or hand pump to build up pressure in the water container. They provide better water pressure compared to gravity-fed showers but require manual effort to maintain pressure.
  3. Battery-Powered Showers: These are equipped with a battery-operated pump that provides consistent and high water pressure with minimal effort. While they are more expensive and require charging, they offer superior convenience and performance.

Capacity

The water capacity of the portable shower determines how long you can shower before needing to refill. For dispersed camping, where water sources might not be readily available, having a larger capacity can be advantageous. Portable showers typically come in capacities ranging from 2 to 5 gallons:

  • 2-3 Gallons: Suitable for quick rinses or shorter showers. These are lightweight and easy to transport but might require frequent refills.
  • 4-5 Gallons: Provide enough water for a more thorough shower or multiple short uses. They are bulkier but reduce the need for frequent refilling.

Ease of Use

When you’re out in the wilderness, the last thing you want is a complicated setup process for your shower. Look for portable showers that are user-friendly and have features that make them easy to set up and operate:

  • Simple Setup: The shower should be quick to assemble and disassemble. Features like quick-connect hoses and easy-fill caps can significantly enhance usability.
  • Intuitive Controls: Controls for turning the shower on and off or adjusting the spray settings should be straightforward and easy to operate, even with wet or dirty hands.

Durability

Durability is essential when selecting a portable shower for camping. The unit must be able to withstand rough handling and various environmental conditions:

  • Materials: High-quality materials like UV-protected high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or military-grade materials ensure the shower can handle the rigors of outdoor use.
  • Build Quality: Look for reinforced seams, sturdy hoses, and robust connectors that can endure repeated use and transport without breaking down.

Portability

Given that you’ll need to transport your portable shower to your camping site, portability is another important factor:

  • Weight: Ensure the shower is lightweight enough to carry, especially when filled with water. Some showers are designed to be compact and come with carrying handles or straps for easier transport.
  • Size: The dimensions of the shower should be compact enough to fit in your camping gear without taking up too much space.

Heating Capability

Having warm water can make your showering experience much more pleasant, especially in colder climates. Some portable showers come with heating options:

  • Solar Heating: Some models use solar energy to heat the water in the tank. This method is environmentally friendly but dependent on sunlight and can be slow.
  • Electric or Propane Heaters: More advanced showers might come with built-in or compatible heaters that can quickly heat the water. These provide instant hot water but require a power source or propane.

How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks (2)

Why RinseKit is the Ultimate Choice

When it comes to choosing a portable shower for using on dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, RinseKit stands out as the superior choice, offering a range of features and benefits that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s delve into how RinseKit excels in each of the key aspects to consider when choosing a portable shower.

Pressurization Method

RinseKit models are equipped with advanced battery-powered pressurization systems, providing a consistent and strong water pressure at the push of a button. Unlike gravity-fed or manual pump showers, RinseKit’s battery-operated pump ensures a steady flow of water without the need for manual effort. This means you can enjoy a powerful and refreshing shower even in the remotest locations.

  • Battery Powered Pressurization: RinseKit’s battery-powered system offers up to 50 PSI of continuous pressure, far surpassing the capabilities of gravity-fed or hand-pumped showers. This feature is particularly beneficial when you need to wash off dirt and grime effectively after a day of hiking or other outdoor activities.

Capacity

RinseKit offers models with varying capacities to suit different needs:

  • RinseKit PRO: This model has a 3.5-gallon capacity, providing up to 7.5 minutes of continuous spray. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a portable shower with ample water storage without being overly bulky.
  • RinseKit Cube: With a 4-gallon capacity, the Cube offers up to 8 minutes of spray time, making it perfect for longer showers or multiple uses before needing a refill.
  • RinseKit Rack Shower: Boasting a 5-gallon capacity, this model is ideal for extended trips or group camping, ensuring you have plenty of water for all your hygiene needs.

Ease of Use

RinseKit is designed with user convenience in mind, ensuring a hassle-free experience even in the wilderness:

  • Simple Setup: All RinseKit models feature an easy-fill top cap, allowing you to quickly and efficiently fill the tank from any water source. The intuitive controls and push-button operation make it simple to use, even when your hands are dirty or wet.
  • Quick Assembly: There’s no complex assembly required. Just fill, press the power button, and start showering.

Durability

Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, RinseKit showers are constructed with high-quality, durable materials:

  • Military-Grade Materials: The RinseKit Cube and Rack Shower are made from military-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ensuring they can handle rough handling and extreme conditions.
  • Sturdy Build: With features like stainless steel tie-downs and UV-protected materials, RinseKit showers are built to last, providing reliable performance on all your camping adventures.

Portability

RinseKit showers are designed to be portable and easy to carry, making them perfect for dispersed camping:

  • Compact and Lightweight: Despite their robust construction and large capacities, RinseKit showers are surprisingly compact and easy to transport. The RinseKit Cube, for instance, weighs just 15 pounds when empty and has convenient carrying handles.
  • Ergonomic Design: The design of RinseKit models ensures they are easy to store and carry, fitting neatly into your camping gear without taking up excessive space.

Heating Capability

RinseKit offers several options for heating water, ensuring you can enjoy a warm shower no matter where you are:

  • Solar Heating: While RinseKit units do not have built-in solar heating, the black HDPE material absorbs heat from sunlight, gradually warming the water.
  • Portable Heaters: For instant hot water, RinseKit offers accessories like the HyperHeater, which can heat water up to 110°F in less than 30 seconds using propane, and the PRO Immersion Heater, which heats water using a vehicle’s power source.

How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks (3)

Additional Features

RinseKit showers come with a range of features that enhance their functionality and convenience:

  • Multiple Spray Settings: The 5-setting spray nozzle allows you to adjust the water flow to your preference, whether you need a gentle mist or a powerful jet.
  • On-The-Go Power: RinseKit models include USB and 12-volt ports, enabling you to charge your devices while on the go.
  • Water Filtration: While RinseKit doesn’t come with built-in water filters, the easy-fill cap allows you to use filtered water if needed, ensuring clean and safe water for your showers.

In conclusion, RinseKit’s innovative features and robust design make it the superior choice for dispersed camping. Its powerful battery-powered pressurization, large capacity, ease of use, and durability set it apart from other portable showers, ensuring you have the best possible experience in the great outdoors.

How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks (2024)

FAQs

How to Shower on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land: Tips and Tricks? ›

Consider Solar Showers: Solar showers are an excellent option for showering on BLM land. These bags are filled with water and left in the sun to heat up, providing a warm shower without the need for fuel or electricity. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be hung from a tree or vehicle for convenient showering.

Can you shower on BLM land? ›

Free camping options on BLM land

In other words, don't expect much — if anything — with respect to amenities. There are usually no restrooms, showers, potable water, electrical hookups, picnic areas, or garbage cans. Of course, that means you'll have to arrive prepared and bring absolutely everything you need.

How to take a shower while camping? ›

Find a Camp Shower Near You

Some sites come with showers and bathrooms, while others are situated near recreation centers that allow you to shower for free (or with a reasonable daily fee). If you do opt for rinsing off in a nearby lake or river, be sure to bring along biodegradable soaps and shampoos.

How to shower in the wilderness? ›

Just rinsing off in fresh water will remove excess dirt and oils. If that's not your thing or there is no water, bring extra water and biodegradable soap in order to bathe yourself. Just strip down at least 200 feet away from your campsite and 200 feet away from any water source that may exist.

What can you do in BLM land? ›

Public lands in California offer a variety of recreational opportunities; hunting, fishing, hiking, OHV use, mountain biking, horseback riding, boating and backcountry exploring. The BLM fire program carries out a broad range of actions to protect communities, recreation areas, wildlife habitat and other resources.

Can you shower outside at a campground? ›

At many campgrounds, you can take a shower outside. Some require you to collect your waste water and dump it in specific places, while others don't. The best setup is an Outdoor camping Shower for privacy and a portable camping shower.

How long can you live on BLM land? ›

Most BLM sites are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. area for up to 14 days before having to move at least 25 miles from your original spot. You may not return to that area for 28 consecutive days. Choose sites that are already established.

How do you shower without access to a shower? ›

Bathing Without Water

You can use scented moist towelettes or baby wipes, it's up to you. Use the wipes to thoroughly wipe down your armpits, privates and feet, as these are the areas most prone to bad odor. Then, use additional wipes to clean the rest of your body. Use separate facial wipes to quickly clean your face.

How do you shower while Boondocking? ›

Ensure the area is clean and free from debris. Conserving Water during Showering: Wet yourself down, then turn off the water while you lather up with biodegradable soap. Use a washcloth or sponge to minimize water usage. Turn on the water briefly to rinse off.

How do you use the bathroom when dispersed camping? ›

Use a trowel, stick, rock or boot heel to make a hole about 4 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches deep. If the ground is too hard or rocky to dig, try lifting a rock and use that spot. Replace the rock when you're done. Or carry your waste out in a bag.

How do you take a sacred shower? ›

Spend the first few minutes just feeling the water on your skin and taking a few deep breaths. Bring your intention to mind and allow yourself some time to think, pray or simply listen for any messages. As you begin to wash your body, imagine that you're cleansing away any negative emotions you'd like to release.

How do you shower at a camping festival? ›

Shower tents are also available at camping stores or on Amazon. These look like tall skinny tents. They have no bottom and have a hook to hang a camping shower on so that you can get undressed and take the closest thing to a “normal” shower.

How do I make my shower a sanctuary? ›

Your home sanctuary: relaxing bathroom ideas
  1. Go wild. ...
  2. Go neutral. ...
  3. Paint your walls white. ...
  4. Bring in nature and natural light. ...
  5. Brighten your room with reflective surfaces. ...
  6. Upgrade your shower for an at home spa experience. ...
  7. Create a scent experience with essential oils and botanicals.

Can you live off grid on BLM land? ›

Land managed by the BLM is any adventuresome soul's dream. Folks in search of an off-grid experience without the hassle of permits or fees will be thrilled to know that the BLM administers more than 247.3 million acres of public land in the U.S. which constitutes nearly one-eighth of the country's landmass.

Which state has the most BLM land? ›

The state with the highest percentage of federal land is Nevada, of which 80.1%, or 56,262,610 acres of its total landmass is federally managed.

Is BLM private property? ›

A: The Bureau of Land Management is a division of the U.S. Department of Interior that oversees more than 245 million acres of public lands – more land than any other government agency.

Can I bushcraft on BLM land? ›

Absolutely. With a little bit of knowledge and planning, it'll be just you, whomever came with you and all of the splendor of the great outdoors. If lack of bushcraft is standing in your way – have no fear, we've got you covered.

What is BLM land mostly used for? ›

Multiple uses under BLM management include renewable energy development (solar, wind, other); conventional energy development (oil and gas, coal); livestock grazing; hardrock mining (gold, silver, other), timber harvesting; and outdoor recreation (such as camping, hunting, rafting, and off-highway vehicle driving).

Can people build on BLM land? ›

The BLM has discretion to grant a ROW when doing so is in the public interest. You need a ROW whenever you wish to build on public land or conduct any activity that would involve appreciable disturbance, alteration or damage to public lands.

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