APPENDIX D

RECREATION SETTINGS AND 

WORKSHEETS
 
September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-1

Appendix D

Recreation Settings and Recreation 

Management Area Worksheets

D.1 RECREATION SETTINGS AND DESCRIPTIONS

Setting prescriptions are a way of describing the desired conditions for recreation resources in 

an SRMA or ERMA. The LSFO has identified a spectrum of four generalized settings for this 

planning area, and uses the terms “community interface,” “passage,” “front country,” and “back 

country” to describe them. These settings are described in Table D-1, Description of 

Recreation Management Settings for Lower Sonoran Decision Area.

Each setting is defined by nine criteria: three condition classes (physical, social and operational) 

which are further broken down by three components that identify the attributes within the

classes. It is the combination of these nine criteria that are determined and prescribed for each 

RMA to achieve the desired characteristics and outcomes for each area. Management actions 

and allowable uses identified for each RMA (see below) can only be allowed if they remain 

within the criteria that have been identified for each of the three components within the 

condition classes. The settings criteria for each class and component are described in Table D2, Recreation Setting Classes Prescriptions for Lower Sonoran Decision Area.

Table D-1 

Description of Recreation Management Settings for Lower Sonoran Decision Area

Community Interface Front Country Passage Back Country

Community Interface 

represents public lands 

bordering or surrounded 

by communities and their 

associated urban 

infrastructure. This zone 

will also include lands 

projected to be influenced 

by the increasing 

urbanization of the 

planning area over the 

next 15 to 20 years.

Front Country offers the 

main setting and locations 

for intensive resourcedependent recreation uses 

and facilities. Motorized 

and mechanized vehicles 

must remain on existing 

or designated routes.

Passage setting provides a 

motorized travel corridor 

traversing the Back 

Country setting. This 

corridor is 200 feet wide 

(100 feet each side of 

centerline), centered on a 

motorized travel route 

designated for public use, 

and is available for 

management 

infrastructure in response 

to resource concerns and 

visitor demand.

Back Country areas are 

large and natural 

landscapes. Noticeable 

human-induced

modifications are 

uncommon. Designated 

motorized and 

mechanized travel routes 

entering or crossing Back 

Country settings are 

allocated to the Passage 

setting.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-2 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Table D-1 

Description of Recreation Management Settings for Lower Sonoran Decision Area

Community Interface Front Country Passage Back Country

The zone can be natural in 

appearance, but the 

landscape is subject to 

change from intensive 

recreation activities and 

other land use 

authorizations.

The lands are generally 

natural in appearance and 

may see minor to 

moderate alterations over 

the life of the LUP due to 

land use authorizations

and BLM management 

actions.

The lands are generally 

natural in appearance and 

may see minor to 

moderate alterations over 

the life of the LUP due to 

land use authorizations

and BLM management 

actions.

The landscapes are mainly 

natural in appearance.

Table D-2

Recreation Setting Classes Prescriptions for Lower Sonoran 

Community

Interface Front Country Passage Back Country

Setting Prescription Criteria

Physical Conditions

Remoteness Not remote, 

directly adjacent to 

urban and rural 

housing and

communities.

Moderately remote,

within a one to two

hour drive from

urban and rural

communities.

Remote setting,

within a several

hour drive from

communities to 

access areas.

Area is remote and

primitive.

Naturalness This zone can be

natural in 

appearance, but the 

landscape is subject 

to high evidence of 

human change.

Mostly natural

environment with

low to high evidence

of human changes at

specific attractions.

This zone is mostly

natural with low to

moderate evidence

of human induced

change.

Predominantly 

natural environment 

of moderate to large 

size. Human 

modifications

occasionally evident,

but not intrusive.

Facilities Degree of 

developed user 

facilities will be

moderate to high at 

recreation sites.

The extent of

developed user

facilities will be 

moderate to high at 

recreation sites.

The degree of

developed user

facilities will be low

to moderate at 

recreation sites.

The degree of

developed user

facilities will be low

to none.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-3

Table D-2

Recreation Setting Classes Prescriptions for Lower Sonoran 

Community

Interface Front Country Passage Back Country

Social Conditions

Contacts Generally there is 

high level of 

interaction among 

users. Visitors may 

encounter more

than 150 people per

day.

Moderate to high

level of interaction

(average 25-75 

individuals singly or

in groups per day

with the occasional 

group nearing 150 

individuals.).

Generally the level

of interaction among

visitors is low (up to 

25 individuals per

day) but occasionally

up to 150 individuals

singly or in groups 

per day.

The level of 

interaction among 

visitors is low. 

Visitors encounter 

up to 25 individuals 

singly or in groups 

per day on 

designated trails or 

near Community

Interface, Front

Country, or Passage

settings and 10 or

fewer individuals

singly or in groups 

per day in more 

remote off-trail 

settings.

Group Size Generally the

maximum group size

would be up to 75 

individuals but 

groups of up to 400 

may be encountered 

under permit at 

recreation sites 

designed for such 

use. On average 

group size would be 

12-25.

Generally the

maximum group size 

would be up to 75 

individuals, but

groups of up to 200

may be encountered

under permit. On

average, group size 

would be 8-20 

individuals.

Generally up to 25-

50 individuals with 

the occasional group

size reaching 200

individuals. On 

average group size 

would be 4-15 

individuals.

Generally a 

maximum group size 

up to 50 individuals

with the occasional 

group size reaching 

75 individuals.. On 

average groups size 

would be 2-8 

individuals.

Evidence of Use In local areas (1-5 

acres or less)

moderate impacts to

soil and vegetation

persist from year to

year.

In local areas (1 acre

or less) minor 

impacts to soil and 

vegetation persist 

from year to year.

In local areas (1 acre

or less) minor 

impacts to soil and 

vegetation persist 

from year to year.

Impacts to soil and

vegetation recover

yearly or are 

negligible in extent 

(.1 acre).
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-4 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Table D-2

Recreation Setting Classes Prescriptions for Lower Sonoran 

Community

Interface Front Country Passage Back Country

Operational Conditions

Mechanized Use Motorized and

mechanized use on

designated routes.

Motorized and

mechanized use on

designated routes.

Motorized and

mechanized on

designated routes.

Motorized use is not

allowed. Mechanized

use is allowed on

designated trails.

Management 

Controls

Potentially high 

management

presence with 

increased staffing of 

park rangers, 

campground hosts 

and law 

enforcement.

Increase in 

regulatory 

restrictions and 

signing likely.

Moderate to high

management

presence with 

increased staffing of 

park rangers, 

campground hosts 

and law 

enforcement.

Increase in 

regulatory 

restrictions and 

signing possible.

Low to moderate

management

presence. The 

occasional park 

ranger and law 

enforcement may be 

present. Limited 

regulatory

restrictions and 

signing.

Low management

presence from 

staffing however 

regulatory 

restrictions and 

signing likely at 

access points.

Visitor Services Visitor information

provision levels are

high. On-site 

assistance at 

developed 

recreation sites 

likely year round.

Visitor information

levels are moderate 

to high. On-site 

assistance at 

developed 

recreation sites 

likely during 

seasonal use 

periods.

Visitor information

levels are low to

moderate.

Visitor information

levels are low.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-5

D.2 SPECIAL AND EXTENSIVE RECREATION MANAGEMENT AREA 

WORKSHEETS

Recreation Management Area (RMA) worksheets are used to develop and document the objective(s), 

targeted opportunities and outcomes, prescribed setting character, and activity planning framework for 

designated RMAs. The worksheets are concise outlines of management direction intended for a 

particular area, as well as the proposed prescribed management actions and uses necessary to achieve

those objective(s). Following are the RMA worksheets for the five Special Recreation Management Areas 

(SRMAs) and six Extensive Recreation Management Areas (ERMAs), along with their associated 

recreation management zones where applicable, for the Lower Sonoran Decision Area.

D.2.1 LOWER SONORAN DECISION AREA SPECIAL RECREATION 

MANAGEMENT AREA WORKSHEETS

Buckeye Hills East Trails Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA)

Rationale: The Buckeye Hills East SRMA (25, 800 acres), has been established to promote motorized and nonmotorized recreational opportunities, emphasizing single-track trails. The Buckeye Hills East area is located 

directly south of the town of Buckeye across the Gila River with scattered private and state land parcels directly 

to the north and east. The granitic hills have been popular for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, predominately 

motorcycles, for the past 40 years providing local visitors natural open spaces close to town for recreational 

activities including OHV driving, hiking, equestrian, picnicking, camping, photography, target shooting and 

sightseeing. The area is within a PM10 nonattainment area which will require mitigation measures to be considered 

and designed into travel management planning, proposed actions and facility development. 

Management

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

To provide recreational opportunities for local residents seeking primarily motorized trail 

experiences for a range of skill levels and distances in natural open spaces adjacent to the 

communities of Buckeye, Goodyear and Avondale. Single track trails would be maintained with 

developed loop opportunities where appropriate.

Objective 

Statement

Through the life of the plan, 85% of sampled visitors will respond to a visitor survey that they 

were satisfied with a recreational use activity in which they were able to participate.

Activities OHV driving, hiking, equestrian, picnicking, dispersed camping, photography, target shooting and 

sightseeing.

Experiences Enjoy the natural open space; learn how to use and appreciate natural resources; ability to take 

moderate risks.

Benefits

Enhanced awareness and understanding of nature. Community and social exposure of outdoor 

lifestyles. Greater community ownership and stewardship of natural resources. Increased local 

tourism revenue.

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 100% Community Interface
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-6 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Buckeye Hills East Trails Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) Physical

Remoteness

Naturalness

Facilities

Directly adjacent to communities. In the north-end, landscape may have high evidence of 

human change, with mostly natural appearance in the south-end. Facilities mostly small parking

areas and interpretive sites with potential for large staging areas.

Social

Contacts

Group Size

Evidence of 

Use

Potential for high level of interaction among users (average 50-100 individuals singly or in 

groups per day). Visitors may encounter more than 150 people per day during high use 

season (October through April) but not often. In local areas (1-5 acres or less) moderate 

impacts to soil and vegetation.

Operational

Mechanized 

Use

Management 

Controls

Visitor 

Services

Motorized and some mechanized use. Potential for high management presence with volunteer 

park rangers, campground host and/or law enforcement. Increase in regulatory restrictions 

and signing likely. Possible on-site assistance at developed recreation sites during seasonal use 

periods.

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Mostly Class IV

All Minerals 

Activities Open

Lands Actions Avoidance for all LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs

Travel 

Management

Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized uses 

but emphasizing motorized trail opportunities. 

Road Maintenance Majority of roads maintained at levels 1 to 3 with access roads maintained at level 5.

Camping Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated sites if established in subsequent activity planning. Dispersed primitive camping.

Length of Stay Standard 14-day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits allowed 

if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people requires permit. 

Competitive motorized and non-motorized speed events, including motorcycle enduros or 

equestrian endurance rides, would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Firewood Collection Reasonable amounts of dead and down wood with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 

mile of developed recreation sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Up to six staging, parking and/or training areas may be developed with standard and expanded 

amenity facilities. One large staging area could be developed not to exceed 10 acres.

Fees The RMZ or specific sites would potentially be established as fee sites in accordance with 

FLREA.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-7

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, interested user 

groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include the 

towns of Buckeye, Goodyear and Avondale, Maricopa County, Arizona Game and Fish Department and the 

Arizona OHV Coalition, Arizona Horseman’s Association and local OHV and equestrian clubs.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-8 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Gunsight Wash Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA)

Rationale: The Gunsight Wash area south of the town of Ajo (T14S, R5W, Sections 2-4 and 9-11; approximately 

2,500 acres) has been a popular overnight camping spot for national and international winter visitors since the 

1980s. The adjacent area is Sonoran pronghorn habitat with the Organ Pipe National Monument and CabezaPrieta Wildlife Preserve nearby as well. BLM proposes management actions to be responsive to the continued 

demand for this experience in an area where the surrounding landscapes need to be retained and wildlife 

protected.

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

To provide structured, managed camping where there is a high demand from long distance 

winter visitors seeking a remote, primitive winter camping experience and access to adjacent 

public lands.

Objective 

Statement

Through the life of the plan, 90% of sampled visitors report satisfaction with their camping 

experience

Activities RV and primitive camping, social gathering and hiking with sightseeing/touring, photography 

and wildlife viewing on the adjacent BLM and other federal lands.

Experiences Enjoy having easy access to natural landscapes, exploring, and participating in group outdoor 

activities.

Benefits Greater freedom from urban living. Enhanced ability for visitors to find areas providing

recreational experiences. 

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings Front Country (100%) Physical

Remoteness

Naturalness

Facilities

Moderately remote setting and moderately natural in appearance with portions of the 

landscape is subject to high evidence of human change. Provide developed extended stay 

RV and primitive camping area while maintaining the natural environment at the site. 

Developed facilities would be moderate.

Social

Contacts

Group Size

Evidence of Use

During the use season (October to April) there is a moderate level of interaction 

averaging 25-50/day with group sizes 8 to 12. Almost none in the off season. Level of 

interaction and group size may increase slightly with the addition of amenities. Encounters 

could reach 75 with group sizes up to 20 during busiest time of use season (December to 

April).

Operational

Mechanized 

Use

Management 

Controls

Visitor Services

Motorized and mechanized use on existing and/or designated routes. Moderate 

management presence with campground host through most of year. Moderate to high 

level of visitor services.

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Class III

Locatable Minerals 

Activities Proposed to withdraw to exploration and development.

Leasable Minerals Closed to leasable minerals and seismic exploration.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-9

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

Mineral Materials Closed to mineral material disposals.

Lands Actions Exclusion for utility-scale renewable energy and major linear LUAs; Avoidance minor 

linear and non-linear LUAs.

Travel Management Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized 

uses. Predominately roads suitable for 2WD access for RVs.

Road Maintenance Approximately 40% of roads maintained at levels 3 to 5

Camping

Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated individual and group sites when established in subsequent activity planning. 

Dispersed primitive camping.

Length of Stay 14 day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. No competitive motorized or non-motorized speed events. 

Firewood Collection No collection within 1⁄4 mile of signed developed site. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets 

prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard and Expanded; May install amenities such as restroom, ramada area, picnic 

tables, individual campsites and improved roads.

Fees Potentially establish the campground as a recreation fee site in accordance with FLREA to 

allow for the collection of use fees. 

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with adjacent communities, interested agencies, Native American Tribes, 

interested user groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners 

include the towns of Why and Ajo, Pima County, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe National 

Park Service, the Tohono O’odham Nation, and the International Sonoran Desert Alliance.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-10 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Painted Rock Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA)

Description: The 300 acre Painted Rock Petroglyph Site and Campground has been established for the past 25 

years as an interpretive and campground site for national and international winter visitors. The site, approximately 

90 miles southwest of Phoenix, Arizona, provides visitors the opportunity to view an ancient archaeological site 

containing hundreds of symbolic and artistic rock etchings, or "petroglyphs," produced centuries ago by prehistoric 

peoples. There are also inscriptions made by people who passed through during historic times. Many well-known 

events in Arizona history occurred near the petroglyph site, including the expedition of Juan Bautista de Anza that 

founded San Francisco, the Mormon Battalion and the Butterfield Overland Mail. Formerly a unit of the Arizona 

State Parks system, jurisdiction of Painted Rock Petroglyph Site reverted to the Bureau of Land Management in 

1989. The surrounding 9,500 acre area is a large wildlife habitat viewing area as well as a popular recreational area 

offering hunting opportunities with cultural and historical values as well. BLM proposes management actions to be 

responsive to the continued demand for this experience in an area where the surrounding landscapes need to be 

retained and recreational values protected.

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

To provide structured, managed camping where there is a high demand from national and 

international winter visitors seeking a remote, primitive winter camping experience near an 

adjacent petroglyph site day use area and access to adjacent public lands which provide 

cultural and historic attractions of regional, national and international interest.

Objective 

Statement

Through the life of the plan, 85% of sampled visitors report satisfaction with their camping 

experience

Activities RV and primitive camping, social gathering, cultural and historic site viewing, interpretive 

exhibit viewing, picnicking and hiking 

Experiences Enjoy having easy access to natural landscapes, exploring, and participating in group outdoor 

activities.

Benefits Greater freedom from urban living. Enhanced ability for visitors to find areas providing 

recreational experiences. Environmental education

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings Front Country (100%) Physical

Remoteness

Naturalness

Facilities

Provide developed extended stay RV and primitive camping area while maintaining the 

natural environment at the site. Facilities include restrooms, ramada areas, individual 

campsites with picnic tables and grills, and improved roads

Social

Contacts

Group Size

Evidence of Use

During the use season (October to April) there is a moderate level of interaction 

averaging 25-50/day with group sizes 8 to 12. Almost none in the off season. Level of 

interaction and group size may increase slightly with the addition of amenities such as a 

dump station, potential water hookups, and electricity for the additional host site. 

Encounters could reach 75 with group sizes up to 200 during busiest time of use season 

(December to April).

Operational

Mechanized 

Use

Management 

Controls

Visitor Services

Motorized and mechanized use on existing routes within campground area. Adjacent area 

limited to designated and/or signed open routes. At least one campground host 

throughout most of year, sometimes two hosts during busiest time of January to March. 

High level of visitor services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-11

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Class III

Locatable Minerals 

Activities

The day use area and campground areas would be recommended for withdrawal to 

locatable minerals exploration and development (300 acres). The remaining area would 

be open (9,500 acres). 

Leasable Minerals in 

Campground and 

Adjacent Area

The day use area and campground areas would be closed to leasable minerals exploration 

and development (300 acres). Selected public lands adjacent to the campground would be 

open to leasables with No Surface Occupancy and closed to seismic exploration (6,100 

acres). The remaining lands in the SRMA would be open (3,400 acres).

Mineral Materials

The campground area and selected lands adjacent to the campground would be closed to 

mineral material disposals (6,400 acres). The remaining lands in the SRMA would be open 

(3,400 acres).

Lands Actions

The day use and campground area (300 acres) would be excluded from utility-scale 

renewable energy and major linear LUAs; and avoidance areas for minor linear and nonlinear LUAs. The remaining portion of the SRMA would be open to all.

Travel Management Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized 

uses. Predominately roads suitable for 2WD access for RVs.

Travel in Adjacent Area

On the approximate 9,800 acres of public lands adjacent to the campground and 

petroglyph day use area, motorized use would be limited to signed open and/or 

designated roads, primitive roads and trails.

Road Maintenance 90% of roads maintained at levels 3 to 5.

Campground Camping 60 individual and 2 group use designated sites for all alternatives; no plans to increase # of 

sites although there is room for expansion. 

Length of Stay 90 day limit year round

Camping in Adjacent 

Area

The public lands adjacent to the campground and petroglyph day use area would remain 

closed to vehicle-based camping. 

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. No motorized or non-motorized competitive speed events. 

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of signed camping area. 

Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Target Shooting

Prohibited within the signed developed area, within 1⁄4 mile of an occupied structure, and 

across roads and primitive roads and trails in accordance with state and federal 

regulations.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard and Expanded amenities; may install more amenities such as a second restroom, 

additional ramada areas, picnic tables, individual campsites and improved roads.

Fees The campground was established as a recreation fee site in September 14, 2005 in 

accordance with FLREA. A business plan for the site has been approved and is in effect.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-12 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Administrative Actions

Coordinate on-the-ground management actions or changes to the existing Painted Rock Petroglyph Site and 

Campground Recreation Management Plan, and establish partnerships as needed with interested communities, 

agencies and other organizations as needed. Potential cooperative parties include the Native American Tribes, 

National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Arizona Game and Fish Department, town of Gila Bend and Arizona 

Anza NHT Coalition.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-13

Saddle Mountain Special Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Rationale: The Saddle Mountain ERMA (47,500 acres) has been established to promote non-motorized 

recreational opportunities, provide geologic, cultural, and wildlife interpretive sites, and protect the recreational 

values associated with the area’s scenic landscapes and vistas. The Saddle Mountain area, approximately 60 miles 

west of Phoenix, Arizona, provides visitors the opportunity to view outstanding landscapes and recreate in an area 

that has cultural and wildlife values. The core area is large wildlife habitat area as well as a popular recreational 

area with cultural and some historical values. BLM proposes management actions to be responsive to the 

continued demand for this experience in an area where the surrounding landscapes need to be retained and 

recreational values protected.

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

To provide recreational opportunities for local visitors seeking a primarily non-motorized 

trail experience with limited motorized access to explore, discover and view the outstanding 

scenic landscapes, unique geologic features, and cultural and wildlife resources of the area.

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings

5% Community Interface;

77% Front Country; 

17% Back Country; 

< 1% Passage

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Mostly Class III with some Class II and IV

Locatable and Leasable 

Minerals Activities Open

Mineral Materials Closed

Lands Actions Avoidance for utility-scale renewable energy and major linear LUAs

Travel Management

Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized 

uses. Non-motorized routes would be developed to meet demand for hiking, equestrian

and mountain biking activities.

Road Maintenance Majority of roads maintained at level 1 with up to 10% maintained at level 3.

Camping

Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated sites when established in subsequent activity planning. Dispersed primitive 

camping allowed.

Length of Stay 14 day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. No motorized competitive speed events and motorized technical or 

specialized uses (such as rock crawling). Non-motorized competitive speed events on a 

case-by-case basis.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-14 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of designated campsites. 

Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard amenities; mostly parking areas, trailheads and interpretive signing as needed.

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, user groups and 

individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include Tonopah, Maricopa 

County, Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Friends of Saddle Mountain along with various local OHV

and non-motorized recreational organizations.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-15

Ajo Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Ajo Desert Recreation Management Zone (RMZ)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

The Ajo Desert RMZ is designated for local and regional visitors to engage in predominately 

undeveloped, primitive, and self-directed recreational experiences without provisions for 

motorized or mechanized access, except for identified routes. Activities include OHV driving, 

mountain biking, hiking and equestrian activities.

Acres 149,800

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 15% Front Country; 82% Back Country; 3% Passage

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Coffeepot-Batamote Mountains Class II and 

remainder Class III

All Minerals Activities Open

Lands Actions

Avoidance for all LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs.

Back country settings are exclusion areas for utility-scale renewable energy projects and 

major linear ROWs.

Travel Management Limited to existing or designated primitive roads and trails. Both motorized and nonmotorized uses.

Road Maintenance Majority of roads maintained at levels 1 to 3 with access roads and pullouts maintained at 

level 5.

Camping Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes. Dispersed 

primitive camping allowed.

Length of Stay 7-day limit in consecutive 28 day period

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. Competitive motorized speed events would be prohibited. Competitive 

non-motorized speed events, such as equestrian endurance rides would be considered on 

a case-by-case basis.

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of developed recreation 

sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard, primarily trailheads and interpretive signing as needed.

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with adjacent communities, interested agencies, Native American Tribes, 

interested user groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners 

include the towns of Why and Ajo, Pima County, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe National 

Park Service, the Tohono O’odham Nation and the International Sonoran Desert Alliance.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-16 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Ajo Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Ajo Gateway Recreation Management Zone (RMZ)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

The Ajo Gateway RMZ is designated for local and regional visitors to enjoy intensive 

recreational use consisting of predominately motorized activities as well as non-motorized 

opportunities on public lands bordering the Ajo community, but natural in appearance. 

Activities include motocross bike riding, mountain biking and hiking in a system of primitive 

roads and trails just outside of town. 

Acres 27,100

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 100% Community Interface

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Mostly Class IV with some Class III

All Minerals Activities Open

Lands Actions Avoidance for all LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs.

Travel Management

Limited to existing or designated primitive roads and trails. Both motorized and nonmotorized uses. The Ajo Scenic Loop road could be designated during travel management

planning to interpret and educate local and seasonal visitors on adjacent public lands.

Road Maintenance Majority of roads maintained at levels 1 to 3 with access roads and pullouts maintained at 

level 5.

Camping Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes. Dispersed 

primitive camping allowed.

Length of Stay 7-day limit in consecutive 28 day period

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of developed recreation 

sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard; primarily trailheads and interpretive signing as needed.

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with adjacent communities, interested agencies, Native American Tribes, 

interested user groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners 

include the towns of Why and Ajo, Pima County, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe National 

Park Service, the Tohono O’odham Nation and the International Sonoran Desert Alliance.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-17

Arlington Trails Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

Arlington Trails ERMA (60,600 acres) is designated for local and regional visitors seeking a 

dispersed or family-oriented motorized recreation experience including off-highway vehicle

driving for various vehicle types and skill levels, camping, exploring and sightseeing in a 

remote Sonoran Desert landscape.

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 100% Front Country

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Mostly Class IV

All Minerals Activities Open

Lands Actions Avoidance for all LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs.

Travel Management

Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized 

uses. Up to 25 miles of new roads may be constructed as needed to connect loop routes 

to provide opportunities for a family riding experience. Existing roads could be re-aligned 

to improve resource management or public safety.

Road Maintenance Maintain at levels 1-3 with up to 10% maintained at level 3. Up to 30% maintained level 5.

Camping

Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated sites if established in subsequent activity planning. Dispersed primitive camping 

allowed. 

Length of Stay Standard 14-day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. Competitive motorized and non-motorized speed events, including 

motorcycle enduros or equestrian endurance rides, would be considered on a case-bycase basis.

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of developed recreation 

sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard amenities as needed. Up to 2 staging areas would be developed with standard 

and expanded amenity facilities limited to a maximum of 10 acres each.

Fees The RMZ, or specific sites, could be established as fee sites as needed in accordance with 

FLREA.

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, interested user 

groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include the 

towns of Arlington, Buckeye and Tonopah, Maricopa County, Arizona Game and Fish Department, the Arizona 

OHV Coalition, and local OHV clubs.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-18 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Buckeye Hills West Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

The Buckeye Hills West ERMA (25,800 acres) would be designated for dispersed recreational 

opportunities adjacent to the Maricopa County Buckeye Recreation Area Regional Park and 

the Robbins Butte State Wildlife Area. The RMZ would be managed for motorized and nonmotorized recreational activities including off-highway vehicle (OHV) touring, hiking, 

sightseeing, wildlife viewing, photography and hunting.

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 100% Front Country

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Class III

Locatable Minerals 

Activities

Open with the exception of closed to Fred J. Weiler PLO 1015 lands, adjacent Buckeye 

Hills Maricopa County Park and Robbins Butte Wildlife Area (contain BLM subsurface 

minerals).

Leasable Minerals

Open with the exception of closed to Fred J. Weiler PLO 1015 lands, adjacent Buckeye 

Hills Maricopa County Park and Robbins Butte Wildlife Area (contain BLM subsurface 

minerals).

Mineral Materials

Open with the exception of closed to Fred J. Weiler PLO 1015 lands, adjacent Buckeye 

Hills Maricopa County Park and Robbins Butte Wildlife Area (contain BLM subsurface 

minerals).

Lands Actions Avoidance for all LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs

with exception of exclusion area in Fred J. Weiler PLO 1015 lands.

Travel Management Limited to existing or designated primitive roads and trails. Both motorized and nonmotorized uses.

Road Maintenance Majority of roads maintained at levels 1 to 3 with access roads maintained at level 5.

Camping Overnight camping prohibited unless specifically authorized

Length of Stay Standard 14-day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. Competitive motorized and non-motorized speed events, including 

motorcycle enduros or equestrian endurance rides, would be prohibited.

Firewood Collection Reasonable amounts of dead and down wood, except no collection within 1⁄4 mile of 

developed recreation sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Standard amenities as needed.

Fees The RMZ would be established as Special Management Area and potential fee sites 

established as needed in accordance with FLREA.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-19

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, interested user 

groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include the 

towns of Buckeye, Arlington and Tonopah, Maricopa County, Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Arizona 

OHV Coalition.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-20 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Gila Bend Mountains Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

The Gila Bend Mountains ERMA would be designated to provide local and regional visitors 

dispersed, self-directed recreation opportunities and experiences in a remote and 

undeveloped Sonoran Desert landscape which includes two wilderness areas. Activities 

include off-road vehicle driving, camping, hiking, hunting and sightseeing.

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 15% Front Country; 83% Back Country; 2% Passage

Acreage 259,800

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Woolsey Peak/Signal Mountain Wildernesses Class I and remainder Class II - IV

Locatable Minerals 

Activities Open except in wilderness areas which are withdrawn

Leasable Minerals and 

Mineral Materials Open except in wilderness areas which are closed

Lands Actions Exclusion in wilderness areas and back country settings. Avoidance remaining area for all 

LUAs, including utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs.

Travel Management

Limited to existing or designated primitive roads and trails outside of wilderness. Both 

motorized and non-motorized uses. Closed in wilderness to motorized and mechanized 

uses.

Road Maintenance

Maintain 90% at level 1 with up to 3% maintained at levels 3-5 to allow for two-wheel 

drive access.

Camping

Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated sites if established in subsequent activity planning. Dispersed primitive camping 

allowed. 

Length of Stay Standard 14-day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. Competitive motorized speed events, including motorcycle enduros, 

would be prohibited. Competitive non-motorized speed events such as endurance rides, 

would be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of developed recreation 

sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities

Minor investments in visitor facilities.

Standard amenities at the Sundad public use site.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-21

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, interested user 

groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include the 

towns of Buckeye, Arlington and Tonopah, Maricopa County, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and the 

Arizona OHV Coalition. The town of Agua Caliente would also be a potential partner when the historic mining 

site of Sundad is developed as a recreation/Public Use Site.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-22 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

Lower Gila Historic Trails Extensive Recreation Management Area

(ERMA)

Management 

Focus (RMZ 

Objectives)

The Lower Gila Historic Trails ERMA (42,600 acres) would be designated to provide 

recreation and educational opportunities and experiences to local, regional and national 

visitors who seek to discover, tour, and learn about the Juan Bautista de Anza NHT, the 

historic Butterfield Overland Stage Route and Mormon Battalion trails that intersect the NHT 

corridor, in addition to the area’s rich cultural and natural history and resources. 

PRESCRIBED RECREATION SETTING CHARACTERISTICS

Recreation Settings 100% Front Country

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS & ALLOWABLE USE DECISIONS

VRM Class Class III

Locatable Minerals 

Activities Recommend for withdrawal to exploration and development

Leasable Minerals Closed to geophysical exploration; Open to leasables with No Surface Occupancy.

Mineral Materials Closed

Lands Actions Exclusion for utility-scale renewable energy and major linear ROWs; Avoidance for minor 

linear and non-linear LUAs.

Travel Management Limited to existing or designated roads and trails. Both motorized and non-motorized 

uses. 

Road Maintenance Maintain at levels 1 to 3, with up to 10% of the route network maintained at level 5

Camping

Vehicle-based within 100 feet of centerline of existing or designated routes, or limited to 

designated sites if established in subsequent activity planning. Dispersed primitive camping 

allowed. 

Length of Stay Standard 14-day limit

SRPs

Authorized on a case-by-case basis in accordance with 43 CFR 2930. Vendor permits 

allowed if meets criteria established in the RMP. Organized groups over 75 people 

requires permit. Competitive motorized speed events, including motorcycle enduros, 

would be prohibited. Competitive non-motorized speed events such as endurance rides, 

would be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.

Firewood Collection Same as A with the exception of no collection within 1⁄4 mile of developed recreation 

sites. Saguaro skeletons and wood pallets prohibited.

Amenities*/Facilities Facility infrastructure modest in scope and scale, but may include expanded amenities as 

needed. Standard amenities at the Butterfield West public use site.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

September 2012 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan D-23

Administrative Actions

Coordinate and establish partnerships with communities adjacent to the area, interested agencies, interested user 

groups and individuals to produce a collaborative recreation management plan. Potential partners include Native 

American Tribes, National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Arizona Game and Fish Department, town of Gila 

Bend and Arizona Anza NHT Coalition.

*Standard recreation site amenity examples - picnic tables, trash receptacles, toilets, developed parking, interpretive signing, and security

 Expanded amenities examples: services such as hookups, dump stations, special tours, access roads or transportation systems and 

reservation services.
Appendix D. Recreation Settings and Descriptions

D-24 Lower Sonoran Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan September 2012

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