Angel Peak Scenic Area
Angel Peak Scenic Area, located about 30 miles southeast of Farmington, offers more than 10,000 acres of rugged terrain recognized for its scenic and scientific wonders. The nearly 7,000-foot Angel Peak, a landmark composed of river deposited sandstone from the San Jose Formation, is visible for miles in any direction. However, the banded colors of the badlands and the deep sculpted fingers of the canyon at the base of Angel Peak are only fully revealed to those who make the short journey along the rim.
Remnants of mammal fossils, as well as wood petrified over the ages, can be found eroding out of the sandstone, siltstone, and mudstone visible in the canyon today. Collection and study of these important fossils by permitted paleontologists helps document the evolution of many mammal species and contributes to our knowledge of the earth's history.
Three picnic areas and a campground are located along the canyon rim overlooking Angel Peak and the Kutz Canyon badlands. Three picnic areas (Sage, Castle Rock, and Cliffs), containing seven developed sites, are located along the rim road. Each site has a shelter, tables on a concrete underfoot, a gravel pathway, and a fire grate. Trash cans are located in all three picnic areas. Accessible vault toilets are available at both Sage and Cliffs picnic areas.
Angel Peak Campground has nine sites available for tent camping; each with picnic tables on a concrete underfoot, gravel pathways, and fire grates. Picnic shelters are located at three campsites; two with single shelters and one with a double shelter suitable for larger groups. Two accessible vault toilets and trash receptacles are conveniently located in the campground. A short nature trail winds among the plants that have found a niche along the desolate rim and leads to an overlook of the canyon where a bench is provided for relaxing and enjoying the view.
No electrical hookups or water is available.
SAFETY
The area is subject to seasonal extremes and visitors should be prepared for changing weather. Always plan ahead, be prepared for weather changes and carry plenty of water.
The stark, barren landscape at Angel Peak provides the perfect home for a variety of desert inhabitants including rattlesnakes. Be aware of your surroundings and watch where you walk; both you and the snakes will benefit!
Active gas wells exist in the Angel Peak Scenic Area. Be safe and stay away from well pads, pipelines, and other oilfield equipment. Watch for traffic and heavy trucks.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Fees
- None, no permit required.
- Developed campsites are first-come, first-served. Reservations are not permitted. If campsites are full, dispersed camping is permitted on BLM lands. Permits are not required for dispersed camping within the Farmington Field Office except within the Glade Run Recreation area.
- Nearby, Glade Run Recreation Area also offers first-come, first-served developed sites requiring a free permit.
Season/Hours
- Open year-round
Special Rules
- All motorized vehicles and mountain bikes are required to stay on maintained roads.
- Trees in the area are scarce and firewood gathering is prohibited. Please bring your own wood if you plan on having a fire.
- Shooting is prohibited.
- Collection of vertebrate fossils is prohibited except for scientific studies under permit by the BLM.
- Permits are required for commercial, competitive and organized group events.
FACILITIES
Three picnic areas and a campground are located along the canyon rim overlooking Angel Peak and the Kutz Canyon badlands. Three picnic areas (Sage, Castle Rock, and Cliffs), containing seven developed sites, are located along the rim road. Each site has a shelter, tables on a concrete underfoot, a gravel pathway, and a fire grate. Trash cans are located in all three picnic areas. Accessible vault toilets are available at both Sage and Cliffs picnic areas.
Angel Peak Campground has nine sites available for tent camping; each with picnic tables on a concrete underfoot, gravel pathways, and fire grates. Picnic shelters are located at three campsites; two with single shelters and one with a double shelter suitable for larger groups. Two accessible vault toilets and trash receptacles are conveniently located in the campground. A short nature trail winds among the plants that have found a niche along the desolate rim and leads to an overlook of the canyon where a bench is provided for relaxing and enjoying the view.
No electrical hookups or water is available.
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Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Access to the Angel Peak Scenic Area is off of US Highway 550, 15 miles south of Bloomfield on County Road 7175. Follow the gravel road along the canyon rim for approximately six miles to reach the campground, or stop at one of three developed picnic areas along the way.