SWANSEA WILDERNESS

Location and Description
The 16,400 acre Swansea Wilderness is about 25 miles northeast of Parker, Arizona, in La Paz and Mohave counties.

The wilderness includes the eastern end of the Buckskin Mountains, the Black mesa extension to the north, and six miles of the Bill Williams River. The northern portion is a series of eroded volcanic dikes and plugs with precipitous cliffs. The Buckskin Mountains portion is a more subtle and rounded topography with a complex drainage system leading to the river.

Recreation such as sightseeing, backpacking, day hiking, horseback riding wildlife viewing, rock climbing, and photography are enhanced by the varying topography and the riparian corridor along the Bill Williams River.

 

Access
From Phoenix, travel west on interstate 10 to Vicksburg exit. Travel North to Vicksburg, then turn northwest on State Route 72 to proceed to Bouse. At Bouse take the Swansea Road north, through Midway to the Swansea ghost town. Roads near the wilderness include pipeline and power line maintenance roads on the east and north, and the Rankin - Lincoln Ranch road on the south. High - clearance or four - wheel - drive vehicles are recommended doe access to the wilderness boundary.

 

Nonferderal Lands
Some lands around and within the wilderness are not federally administered. Please respect the property rights of the owners and do not cross or use these lands without their permission.

 

Leave No Trace
Leave the area as you would like to find it. Pack out all trash; do not bury it, as animals will dig it up after you leave. Dogs disturb wildlife and other visitors; if you bring a dog, keep it under control at all times. If you need a fire, keep it small and away from rock outcrops. If you build a fire ring, please dismantle it when you're through and bury the ashes before leaving the area. Cigarette butts, pull - tabs, orange peels, etc. Are all liter. PACK IT IN - PACK IT OUT.

 

Safety
As with other types of outdoor activities, wilderness travel poses some potential hazards. You may encounter flashfloods, poisonous snakes and insects, poisonous plants, or lighting storms. Be aware of your exposure to heat or cold. Don't panic if you get lost. Carry an ample supply of water with you since many areas may not have adequate or uncontaminated water sources.

 

For more information contact
Bureau of Land Management
Havasu Resource Area
3189 Sweetwater Avenue
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
(520) 855-8017




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