Discover BLM-managed public lands in Arizona on a fee-free day

Every year, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) designates several fee-free days to invite the public to enjoy America’s treasures. These special days are a perfect opportunity to explore BLM-managed public lands without paying standard amenity or day-use fees.

In 2026, fee-free days on BLM-managed public lands across Arizona and the United States include May 25, June 14, July 3-5, July 16, September 17, October 27, and November 11. These upcoming patriotic fee-free days from Memorial Day to Veterans Day are great ways to celebrate 250 years of American independence. There was also a fee-free day on President’s Day in February. Mark your calendar and take advantage of these opportunities to connect with the landscapes and heritage that make Arizona and our country so unique.

On fee-free days, the waiver applies to standard amenity and day-use fees at BLM sites. These include some picnic areas, day-use facilities, visitor centers, and National Conservation Lands units. In Arizona, BLM-managed recreation sites waiving standard amenity and day-use fees include:

• Bullfrog Day Use Area
• Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area
• Painted Rock Petroglyph Site
• Senator Wash Boat Launch
• Shoreline Sites at Lake Havasu
• Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Arizona has no shortage of cool places to visit, and each BLM site offers its own unique experience. This list is perfect to choose from for a day out with family, friends, or a solo adventure.

Near Gila Bend, the Painted Rock Petroglyph Site offers a chance to see thousands of ancient rock carvings that highlight the history of central Arizona. While overnight use at the site's campground, enjoy day use at this site on an upcoming fee-free day by exploring the interpretive trail or enjoying a picnic at one of the many picnic tables. Get more information about the Painted Rock Petroglyph Site from the Lower Sonoran Field Office in the BLM's Phoenix District.

At the Bullfrog Day Use Area near Lake Havasu City, you can enjoy relaxation and scenic views along the California side of the lower Colorado River. Have fun at the swimming beach, shaded picnic areas, and open green space on a fee-free day during day use. Get more information about the Bullfrog Day Use Area from the Lake Havasu Field Office in the BLM's Colorado River District.

Visitors to the Shoreline Sites at Lake Havasu in the western part of the state can enjoy swimming and picnicking. While camping still requires a fee, you can enjoy free day use. Many of these sites you must boat into, making it a fun adventure to get to them. Get more information about the Shoreline Sites at Lake Havasu from the Lake Havasu Field Office in the BLM's Colorado River District.

The Senator Wash Boat Launch Day Use Area near Yuma makes access easy for boaters, anglers, and birders. There is parking and a boat launch along a water storage reservoir near Imperial Dam in California. You can explore this area for day use on a fee-free day. Get more information about the Senator Wash Boat Launch Day Use Area from the Yuma Field Office in the BLM's Colorado River District.

In the northwest corner of the state, the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife viewing with easy access right off Interstate 15. While camping in this recreation area still requires a fee, you can enjoy day use at the trails and picnic tables during any of the fee-free days. Get more information about the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area from the Arizona Strip Field Office in the BLM's Arizona Strip District.

In southeastern Arizona, the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area provides a combination of sand dunes and hot springs ideal for OHV recreation or a rejuvenating soak. While camping still requires a fee, you can explore the area or enjoy the hot tubs for free during day use on a fee-free day. Keep in mind when you visit that there may be some construction because the BLM is improving recreation amenities and access in the area through the Great American Outdoors Act. Get more information from the Safford Field Office in the BLM's Gila District.

When you visit public lands on a fee-free day, keep in mind that expanded amenity fees (such as fees for developed camping, cabin rentals, group day-use areas, and special recreation permits) still apply. Learn more about how to take advantage of the BLM's fee-free days on our website. Many other BLM-managed lands in Arizona are always free to visit, making it easy to plan an adventure that fits every budget.

For a safe and fun time on public lands, remember to prepare ahead and follow outdoor ethics.

Whether you're discovering a new recreation site or returning to a favorite spot, your next great Arizona adventure is just a fee-free day away! Find more recreation opportunities on BLM-managed public lands in Arizona.