CAMEL BACK WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The Camel Back WSA is characterized by a series of deep canyons and extensive mesas, sculptured by perennial and intermittent streams. These streams, which are oriented in a predominantly north-to-south direction, cut canyons with massive cliffs, amphitheaters, and talus slopes, and isolated numerous highlands as mesas and buttes. The area's geologic structure is of mesozoic sandstones raised by the Uncompahgre Uplift, which created the Uncompahgre Plateau. The WSA is in a transition zone between two ecosystems and two associated vegetation types: the Colorado Plateau Province and the Rocky Mountain Forest Province. Vegetation consists mainly of pinyon-juniper, saltbush/greasewood, spineless hedgehog cactus, Uinta Basin hookless cactus, cottonwood, and willows. Fauna includes deer, elk, coyote, raccoon, mountain lion, rabbit, desert bighorn sheep, and various non-game birds. Within the canyons, vegetative and topographic screening produce strong feelings of solitude. Activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, horseback riding, hunting, and photography.

Visitation Information

The Camel Back WSA is located in Montrose County, approximately nine miles southwest of Delta and 20 miles northwest of Montrose.

Visitor Advisory

Total Area: 10,735 acres

Elevation Range: ~5,200 to ~7,100 feet

BLM Field Office: Uncompahgre

Designated: 1980 (Wilderness Study Area)