The best camping in Utah

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With a wide variety of terrains ranging from dense forest to arid plateaus, Utah has been attracting campers, backpackers, and hikers for generations. It's home to five national parks, plus dozens of state parks and national forests and monuments (not to mention plenty of BLM land), making it easy to find a Utah camping experience that suits you best. While the southern and eastern parts of the state attract lovers of the great outdoors with their massive rock formations and abundance of recreation activities, you’ll also find plenty to do up in the north, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to getting out on one of the region’s many lakes and reservoirs come summer.

94% (16.1K) • 16,616 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Utah

Arrowhead Campground

1. Arrowhead Campground

96%
(1397)
Monument Valley, UT · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Greetings! Welcome to Arrowhead Campground! Arrowhead Campground is roughly 5 acres of land, sitting right in Monument Valley, Utah. Come stay with us to experience one of the most amazing views in the world! You'll get to experience a full 360 degree view of all the towering red sandstone buttes and mesas. This is great for capturing the best views in the area. You'll experience breathtaking sunsets and sunrises right from your campsite. Great for pictures and photoshoots. The campground offers one of the largest shade structures in the area, with durable white picnic tables. We do allow campfires, so there is a fire-pit for that. The campground is only 2 1/2 miles away from the tribal park and 1 1/4 miles from the nearest highway. It's tucked away and secluded from noise and light pollution. The stars at night are bright and shinny, so you can pitch your tent right underneath them. With that said, Arrowhead Campground will be one of the best campgrounds you'll ever stay at. If you have any other questions feel free to message me with any of your questions. Note: This is a dry campsite. Although, we do offer potable water to fill any water containers up to 10 gallons.
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Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

2. Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

97%
(4737)
Virgin, UT · 60 sites · Tents, RVs
Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter of Zion National Park and it's surrounding area. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.
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Sunset Campground on Ruin Road

3. Sunset Campground on Ruin Road

96%
(494)
Blanding, UT · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Watch the sun come up over the Sleeping Ute Mountain in Colorado and enjoy a gorgeous sunset as the sun sets over the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah. We are off the grid and have no electricity or water. Our graveled camping sites are easy to access. We are located next to a paved road. You do not need high clearance vehicles or 4-wheel drive. Camp in a natural high desert environment consisting of cedar and pinion trees, Brigham tea, sagebrush, etc. Great views of the night sky. An ancient Indian mound is on site. The Five Kiva Ruin and Nations Natural Bridge are within hiking distance. Minutes away is the town of Blanding with restaurants, hospital, gas stations and a dump station. Its only a short drive to five different National Monuments: Bears Ears, Natural Bridges, Rainbow Bridge, Hovenweep, and Canyon of The Ancients. Take a scenic drive over the Blue Mountain and Elk Ridge. Southeastern Utah is full of archeology history to hike and explore.
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Picnic table
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

4. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

91%
(96)
National forest in Utah · 2666 sites
2.1 million acres of unique wilderness scenery just begging to be explored.
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Electrical hookup
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Ashley National Forest

5. Ashley National Forest

89%
(14)
National forest in Utah · 1000 sites
Choose some majestic highlights in this mountainous national forest.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kolob Campground

6. Kolob Campground

90%
(1407)
Virgin, UT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
The perfect way to escape the heat of summer, and the crowds of Zion National Park. Kolob Campground, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Reservoir is a quiet location nestled between the main canyons of Zion National Park and the remote Kolob Finger Canyons Complex at Zion National Park, about 40 minutes from Virgin Utah. With quick access to West Rim Trail, Subway Canyon, Hop Valley Trail, and Wildcat Canyon Trail, this area of Greater Zion is not to be missed. Located in a private gated area on the shores of Kolob Reservoir, Kolob Campground is the premiere location for camping on Kolob Mountain in the Greater Zion National Park area. Kolob Campground is located adjacent to the Kolob Reservoir boat ramp and dock, including four acres of private shoreline. Just a few feet from the paved road, nestled in tall aspen, oak, and pine trees. Access to potable water is available adjacent to camp, and public restrooms (vault toilets) are only a short walk from camp. WiFi access is available nearby at Kolob Adventure Rentals/Adventure Beach (3 minute walk). WiFi location and password provided by host upon request. This is an exclusive benefit available to our guests, and the only WiFi available to campers in the area. Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals, snacks and beverages are also located nearby. LP(propane) fires are allowed and LP fire bowls can be provided through the camp host. LP fuel is also available for purchase. Wood burning, charcoal, and smoking currently not allowed due to area restriction.
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Thousand Lakes RV Park

7. Thousand Lakes RV Park

98%
(147)
Torrey, UT · 79 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
At Thousand Lakes RV Park, you will enjoy views of red rock mountains and sagebrush-covered plateaus from every site. Just 6 miles from Capitol Reef National Park, we are convenient to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, spectacular National Scenic Byway 12, Goblin Valley, and Bryce Canyon. Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, 4-wheel-drive back road excursions, and leisurely drives are just minutes away. Because our area is not as well known as other Southern Utah destinations, you won’t find crowds, even in peak season. Thousand Lakes RV Park offers a full range of accommodations, including a full-service RV park with 65-foot pull-thru spaces, shaded tent sites, and deluxe cabins large enough to sleep 6. Groups appreciate our covered pavilion with picnic tables. Everyone enjoys our chargrilled, scratch-made BBQ dinners, fresh morning muffins, clean facilities, pool, playground, basketball court, satellite hook-up, and outstanding views. Our RV Park Jeep Rentals are available from Capital Reef Jeep Rentals conveniently located on our premises. Stop by our office for our personal recommendations to help you enjoy your visit. Unforgettable scenery, endless outdoor activities, a full array of services, and no crowds.
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Full hookups
Up The Creek Campground

8. Up The Creek Campground

89%
(81)
Moab, UT · 4 sites
Your quest to find a tent only Moab Campground can stop. Base all of your adventures and exploring in Arches & Canyonlands National Parks from Moab's best, Up the Creek Campground. Just two blocks from Main Street, Up The Creek is a cozy, urban campground - an oasis of peace and relaxation in the heart of Moab. Our 16 site, tent-only, park &; walk to your site campground is nestled within a grove of large shade trees next to a cooling perennial stream. We are located off the beaten path, yet a just a short walk to Moab's many restaurants and shops. Our close proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks as well as the World Famous Slick Rock Bike Trail gives you easy access to any adventure you choose! Pricing is as follows: $/night for 1 person; each additional person in a site is $7 Friday and Saturday is $3 for 1 plus $9/person additional Below (at the bottom of this email and copied from the website) is the checklist of items guests must acknowledge before booking on our site. In addition, we have the following Disclaimer & Etiquette items: Disclaimer We are a tiny, cozy Urban Campground located right in the bustling town of Moab next to the newly constructed middle school. We are nestled within a grove of large shade trees, and beautiful landscaping, and next to a cool perennial stream. (Please keep in mind that if you are coming in the early spring, there will not be foliage or flowers yet and camp will look more bare than the website photos! Also, note that the creek's flow is variable throughout the year) We are just 2 blocks off of the Main street, close to shopping, restaurants and the bike/walking path. We are a self check-in, (no onsite office), tent-only, walk-in only (park and walk in), campground. (No cars in camp, no camping in parking lot allowed.) Sites are primarily on sand. There is no on-site office. We are in camp 3+ times a day to check, clean, mow, etc. If you don't see us, but you need something...call and leave a message at 435-248-2001 or email. We have clean bathhouses with hot showers (closed daily from 11-1) and an outdoor sink for dishes. There is a picnic table at each site, and 3 communal propane BBQ grills. Sorry, but no campfires, propane fire rings or open flame allowed. Camp stoves are fine! Sorry, no dogs. We have two site types, Small Tent Sites and Large Tent Sites. Small Tent sites can accommodate one larger tent or two smaller tents with a maximum capacity of four people. Large Tent Sites can accommodate 2 larger tents or three to four smaller tents with a maximum capacity of 6 people. Due to our small size, this camp is not recommend for children under 3. Etiquette: Check-in/Quiet hrs: Check-in is after 12:00 noon and Check-out is 11:00 am. The bath house is closed for cleaning from 11:00am to 1:00pm. Please plan accordingly! Quiet hours in camp are from 10:00pm to 6:00am. Consider the many nearby places you can go if you want to stay up late, as a courtesy to your neighbors. ‍ About Us: We are an Urban Camp! Local noise includes but is not limited to; trucks, cars, motorcycles, 4X4’s, school bells, marching bands and perhaps even a parade! We are self-check in (no onsite office or staff), walk in and tent only. We are in camp 3+ times a day to check, clean, mow, etc. If you don't see us, but you need something or have a problem, call and leave a message or email. Campsite: Your tent and equipment must fit and be set up between the camp dividers and cannot be over the “No Camping Beyond This Point”. Please do not overflow into the neighboring campsites. Camp Tables and Site Use: Do not move the picnic tables, as they are chained down. Each camp table is numbered for that site. No cleaning, repairing or working on bicycles and/or motors on the picnic tables. No Motorcycles are allowed in the camp area for any reason. All motor vehicles and trailers must be in parking lot. No exceptions! Nature and The Environment: This is the desert! We have rocks, sand, dirt, sun, heat, cold, rain, wind, etc. Most campgrounds in the city area of Moab have the same desert aspects as we do; the difference is our close proximity to downtown. You are camping! Be prepared for bugs, insects, ants, spiders, Cottonwood beetles, caterpillars, lizards, deer, cotton from the trees, etc. Leaving food out or unsecured, attracts bugs and Ravens. Ravens are smart, they will wait until you leave and will get into everything except zippered tents, closed coolers, and locked cars, (at least thus far)! Plan accordingly. No dogs are allowed in the camp or parking lot. Before Booking Acknowledgement: Tent Only: No RVs, trailers, campers, or vehicles in camp. Park in the parking lot and use our handy carts to get your gear to your site. Sleeping in vehicles and in the parking lot is not allowed. Urban Campground: Our campground is right in the middle of beautiful downtown Moab. No Dogs: We love dogs, however, we don't allow them at our campground. 3 Years + We don't recommend our campground for kids under 3. No Camp Fires We do not allow campfires. Personal propane camp stoves are how most people prepare their meals. The campground has a few propane barbecue grills available for use.
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Where The Wild Things Camp

9. Where The Wild Things Camp

96%
(276)
La Sal, UT · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Come camp Where The Wild Things Camp! Let the awe-inspiring views of the majestic slick rock, sage and juniper surround you in the peace and quiet of this beautifully secluded desert space. Centrally located to the best Canyonlands has to offer, our camp is located on 25 acres less than half a mile from Looking Glass Arch, a popular rock climbing destination which got its name from the conquistadors who would climb to the top and look through a “looking glass” for landmarks that would lead them back to Santa Fe.  Moab is 25 miles to our North, about a 30 minute drive. The nearest convenience store/gas station is in the tiny town of La Sal, 12 miles NE of us. Although the Lasal Jct. now has burger truck, showers, ice and snacks. The nearby La Sal mountains rise to over 12,000 in elevation and is a great place to get out of the heat and enjoy lakes surrounded by beautiful pine and aspen forests. As the name suggests, Where The Wild Things Camp truly is wild and not for everyone. We are off grid, meaning there is NO electricity, no drinking water, and only "spotty" cell phone service is best just anywhere before bathrooms. Make sure to check the weather forecast before coming out and be prepared for anything as the weather here in the desert can be unpredictable and ALWAYS stake down your tents! Porta-Potty's available. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PRACTICE PACK-IT-IN AND PACK-IT-OUT. Trash service not available. NON-AGGRESSIVE dogs are always welcome, however please keep in mind that a lot of our wild friends also live here, such as coyotes, rattlesnakes, deer and antelope. We wouldn’t want your pets or our friends harmed in any way! From Moab: Drive south on Hwy 191 for approximately 23 miles and turn right (east) onto Looking Glass Rd/Co. Rd. 131 (It will be the first right after La Sal Junction) Continue on this road for 1.4 miles until you see a wide gravel road branching off to the left. Turn left, this road will branch again in .03 miles, turn to the right and continue straight (another .5 mile to WHERE THE WILD THINGS CAMP!! From Monticello: Drive north on Hwy 191 for approximately 31 miles and turn left onto Looking Glass Rd/Co. Rd 131 (It will be the first left after Wilson Arch). https://earth.google.com/earth... Moab: 25 miles Canyon Rims Recreation Area: 12 miles La Sal: 12 miles Monticello: 33 miles Blanding: 54 miles Bluff: 79 miles Mexican Hat: 104 miles Monument Valley: 126 miles
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Moab Field Office

10. Moab Field Office

94%
(173)
Park in Utah · 572 sites
There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve heard about Moab, one of Utah’s most happening recreation spots. This gorgeous place gets packed, so do your homework beforehand so you know where to go! The Moab Field Office, administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), takes up 1.8 million acres of gorgeous canyon-riddled lands. Spend your days hunting for natural arches and bridges, exploring mesas, and contemplating how the heck rocks can look so crazy. BLM lands are also fantastic base camps for forays into nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There are 26 campgrounds, and you can usually find something even on the busiest of weekends (but, if you can swing it, it’s always best to arrive early). River recreation on the Colorado and Green Rivers is another major draw. However you spend your time in Moab, you’ll fall in love with the impressive red rock formations, the deep canyons, and surprising amount of plant life.
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Capitol Reef National Park

11. Capitol Reef National Park

99%
(61)
National park in Utah · 82 sites
Marvel at natural wonders while camping at Capitol Reef National Park.
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Campfires
Dinosaur National Monument

12. Dinosaur National Monument

100%
(12)
National park in Utah · 84 sites
Jurassic Park lovers, rejoice! Some of the best dinosaur tracks in the world are found here.
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Canyonlands National Park

13. Canyonlands National Park

100%
(79)
National park in Utah · 38 sites
Explore a vast desert, from the river valley below to the red buttes and night skies above.
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Campfires
East Zion Basecamp

14. East Zion Basecamp

100%
(13)
Glendale, UT · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Picturesque camping in the protected hilltops of beautiful Lydia’s Canyon. This camping destination is located on private land and offers a long list of unique and attractive features. Conveniently located just a couple of minutes off Highway 89, it’s the perfect stopover between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Special features, including private fishing ponds, a large pavilion equipped with tables and chairs, fire pits, kayaks, and Wi-Fi, make your stay easy and enjoyable. Campers can also enjoy clean, hot showers and flushing toilets. You will have access to the multi-acre campground, where you can choose your preferred tent or RV site. We DO allow camping vans without hookups in our tent sites. Two of our four new RV sites have full hookups (Sites 3 & 4), while the other two (Sites 1 & 2) have water and electrical hookups only. All RV sites are equipped with 30- and 50-amp service. You will also have access to the large pavilion for gathering, cooking, or shelter from the elements. The clean bathhouse features two shower rooms with on-demand hot water and flushing toilets. As an added bonus, guests have access to the ponds and may use the boat, canoe, or kayaks. Catch-and-release fishing is also permitted if you bring your own fishing equipment. Keeping a fish, including one that is accidentally killed, requires an additional fee. If you are interested in booking a fishing experience, please reach out to us for more details. There are seven available tent sites and four RV sites with hookups. No beds or tents are provided, so please bring your own camping supplies. Common areas, including the pavilion and bathhouse, are shared with all campground guests. Lydia’s Canyon is known for its lush green fields, overflowing freshwater ponds filled with native fish, Canada geese, turkeys, excellent birdwatching, deer, farmland, cows, horses, and, last but not least, kind and welcoming residents who are happy to help make your stay memorable. Wi-Fi is currently unavailable but is expected to be available before September. Please follow the posted speed limit in Lydia’s Canyon. We ask that you do not exceed 15 mph on the gravel roads. No parties, excessive noise, or bright lights are permitted after 10 p.m.
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Full hookups
Paria River Ranch

15. Paria River Ranch

96%
(157)
Kanab, UT · 22 sites · Tents, RVs
Paria River Ranch is a working ranch that offers access to world class trails and some of the most unique riding in the Paria Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. We offer a limited number of 30 AMP Hookups and have an RV dump. Please come visit us at this magical place. Check out our other site accommodations to find the best stay for what you are looking for! We offer dry camping and also RV camping options. Look for our other sites to book! Bring your horses and mules and enjoy the beautiful trails. We offer 12x12 pipe corrals and have some larger corrals for 2 or 3 horses/mules. You provide everything. We will pick up manure outside of your corral once a day. *Horses and Mules have an additional charge of $15 per animal*
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Desert Bloom Campground

16. Desert Bloom Campground

97%
(62)
Kanab, UT · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the New Desert Bloom Campground – A Hidden Gem Location of Southern Utah. Right off Highway 89, and only 2 miles from the wonderful downtown Kanab. Perfect middle ground between Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon North Rim. We have full hookups for RVs, pull through and back in spots, car camping spots, glamping vans, Geodesic Domes, and more unique accommodations! All on-site: We offer a bathhouse with 4 shower rooms, an on-site cafe serving delicious pastries, coffee and breakfast, hiking trails, art, and community spaces! Desert Bloom aims to bring travelers together while still providing the privacy of individual RV sites and other unique accommodations. Home to the Dinosaur Tracks Trail, a unique public hiking experience located directly on the property. All campground guests get 20% Desert Bloom cafe, just let us know at the register you are staying. Our campground is close to world-famous destinations like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, plus hidden local gems like Coral Pink Sand Dunes and Buckskin Gulch. Discover a unique desert escape at Desert Bloom Campground, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Southern Utah’s canyon country. Whether you’re parking your own RV, or booking one of our unique stays like domes, buses, or tiny homes, our property is designed for travelers who crave both the outdoors and convenience. What We Offer: • RV sites with full hookups • Unique stays like domes, buses, and more • On-site café & lounge area • Clean restrooms and hot showers • Easy parking and wide-open desert views Desert Bloom is a community-driven space, perfect for solo travelers, couples, digital nomads, and families. Whether you’re here for an overnight stop or a month-long basecamp, you’ll enjoy our laid-back, welcoming vibe and easy access to all that Kanab has to offer.
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Full hookups
South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

17. South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

99%
(250)
La Sal, UT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The South-40@LaSal Is: quiet, spacious, secluded, secure, and natural! We are located 26 miles southeast of Moab Utah. (about a 30 minute drive from Moab and 40 minutes from Arches national Park). The property is 40 acres of undeveloped ranchland That borders the remote community of La Sal, Utah. We are pet friendly with plenty of room to exercise your pets. We irrigate a small pasture exclusively for wildlife. Deer, rabbits, and foxes Frequent visitors and you may hear our local "Song Dogs" (coyotes) "whooping it up" in the evening hours. We currently offer four (4) RV spots and several opportunities for tent camping. The RV spots include: Electric hook ups with (50amp, 30 amp, & 20 amp) water hydrants, Wi-Fi Internet, gray water disposal system, and solar powered sanitary vault toilet. There is no full sewer hook-up but we have an off-site dump station available about 1/4 mile away. See more pictures and videos on FB at South-40 at La Sal
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Desert Moon Campground and RV Park

18. Desert Moon Campground and RV Park

85%
(707)
Thompson Springs , UT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Setup your tent and enjoy some respite before and after exploring the beautiful canyons and desert landscapes that surround the Desert Moon and beyond. We have 2 showers, bathrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and wifi on site. There is also a covered seating area for guest use by our Inn. There are 5 campsites total. Please note, the Union Pacific Railroad is right across the street, with trains passing by multiple times a day and night. There will be noise at night. Campsites are relatively close together so you will likely see other campers during your stay. Also, there is not a lot of shade on the property so be prepared. Thompson Springs began as a railroad stop on the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in the mid to late 1800's. It soon became a shipping point and community center for local farmers, cattle ranchers and sheepherders. It is now a ghost-town with a population of 50 people. The Desert Moon has a true wild western past. The old dancehall on the property, The Cactus Caberet, once served as the town bar and brothel. We are currently in the process renovating the dancehall into a venue for live music and retreats. There are 8-12 staff members living on site in their personal RV's at all times. We are a small community of artists, builders, and adventurers. We are constantly working to improve this property that came under our ownership in July of 2020. Feel free to come say hello and ask us about what we are building here! Thompson Springs is a true "ghost town" with no retail or restaurants except a 7-11 off the I-70 exit. The towns of Moab and Green River are only a half hour drive away and are full of regional and eclectic restaurants and shops. The Desert Moon is located just four miles from the Sego Canyon Rock Art in the Bookcliffs featuring pictograph and petroglyph panels from three different Native American cultures: Barrier, Fremont, and Ute. Be sure to check them out! There are miles of off-road trails accessible from our property. Some require a 4x4 vehicle or dirtbike, but many are well maintained enough for almost any vehicle.
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Wildland Gardens

19. Wildland Gardens

98%
(561)
Joseph, UT · 7 sites
This space is an ever evolving labor of love, designed as a cozy retreat for family, friends. volunteers and guests. We are a burgeoning co-op farm and native plant nursery. Our 10 acre property is conveniently located just off of I-70 in the beautiful Sevier Valley. Our comfy accommodations are cozy year round. Each spot has a fire pit and picnic table. Our silo restroom/kitchenette is a shared space and located mid camp. Monroe hot springs are nearby,. Bryce canyon and Capital Reef are less than an hour away! There are several local hikes and and world class bike and ATV trails. We offer f
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Slackline Moab

20. Slackline Moab

92%
(250)
Moab, UT · 5 sites
Van life spot at adventure hotel 20ft long with 120 volt - 110 standard outlet free washer/dryer showers year-round heated pool, hot tub fire pit cafe/general store Home of Arches and Canyonlands, Moab has long been a destination for travelers of all kinds. Slackline Moab is the ideal location for any adventure, offering a range of accommodations – rooms for two to eight guests, spots for van lifers – paired with our Snackline Coffee + Kitchen. Grab a mountain bike from our partners and explore the rocky terrain, or opt to raft down the iconic Colorado River. Park your home in one of our Van Life posts and enjoy all of the amenities Slackline has to offer. With 120 volt - 110 standard outlet power on paved parking space and communal space available to spread out, you’re welcome to stay and enjoy a hot shower, take a dip in the pool, or just relax with a beverage after a long day of driving. Each Van Life reservation comes with access to our showers, Wi-Fi, communal areas, guiding services, and rentals. Our van life spots are parking spots that are 20ft long with 120 volt - 110 standard outlet. These spots are only designed for vans and van like vehicles (no stand alone tents). Please check in with Guest Experiences before parking your vehicle.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Utah camping guide

Where to go

Northwest Utah

Northern Utah is where you'll find some of the state's lushest areas, with plenty of lakes and mountains, a stark contrast to the rockier, arid regions to the south. Salt Lake City is one of the region's biggest draws, and its easy access to outdoor recreation areas, such as Antelope Island State Park on the Great Salt Lake, makes it a reasonable base for those wanting to explore the region. Camping areas abound in this region—the tent-only Cottonwood Campground at Bear Lake State Park is a particularly good choice.

Eastern Utah

Eastern Utah offers some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation in the state, and that's not just because two of Utah’s five national parks—Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park—are here, a short drive from Moab. Spots worth visiting include Dead Horse Point State Park (popular for mountain biking) and Natural Bridges National Monument, where you’ll see three natural bridge formations carved from the earth millennia ago. This area is also great for archaeology fans. Hovenweep National Monument is a great place to check out the ruins of 13th-century pueblos, while Bear Ears National Monument is full of beautifully preserved ancient cave art.

South-Central and Southern Utah

South Central Utah offers a mix of high desert and dense forest, with plenty of spots to go out and play. You can hike through the slot canyons of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, explore the fairytale-like hoodoos at Goblin Valley State Park, or try your hand at canyoning at Capitol Reef National Park. This region is also home to Lake Powell, on the Colorado River, right on the border with Arizona.

Southwest Utah

Home to both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, southwest Utah offers fantastic hiking and camping options, with a mix of beautiful rock formations, vast forests, and desert sand dunes. While the national parks are the main draw, this region offers plenty to do, from ATV/OHV riding on the massive golden dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park to checking out the red rock formations at Kodachrome Basin State Park. You'll find some of Utah's best camping spots and hiking trails all through the region, and the lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for stargazing under the night skies. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can camp on BLM land in Utah, where 42% of the state is considered BLM land (some 22.9 million acres). Most developed BLM campgrounds in the state require a fee, while dispersed campsites on Utah BLM land are more often free. Popular spots include the Silver Island Mountains Backcountry Byway (BCB) outside the Bonneville Salt Flats, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest outside Gunnison, and Ashley National Forest.

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, can be safe in Utah as long as you follow some basic guidelines and precautions. Here are some tips to ensure a safe boondocking experience:

  1. Choose a well-established and legal dispersed camping area on BLM or National Forest land. Check the regulations and restrictions for the area you plan to camp in.
  2. Bring sufficient water, food, and supplies, as there may not be any amenities or services nearby.
  3. Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions and temperature fluctuations, especially in the desert.
  4. Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
  5. Be aware of potential wildlife encounters and know how to respond appropriately.
  6. Let someone know your travel plans and expected return date.
  7. Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and bring a spare tire, tools, and extra fuel if needed.
  8. Have a map, GPS, or navigation app to help you find your way and avoid getting lost.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and memorable boondocking experience in Utah.

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Utah. Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds or specific areas on public land, such as national forests, BLM land, and state parks. Dispersed camping is permitted in some areas, but it's essential to follow local regulations and guidelines, including Leave No Trace principles. Always check with the land management agency responsible for the area where you plan to camp for specific rules and restrictions. To find camping options in Utah, you can explore Hipcamp's directory of campgrounds and private land options.

The Great Salt Lake itself is not closed, as it is a large body of water in Utah. However, the facilities and recreational areas around the lake may have varying hours and accessibility depending on the season, weather, and local regulations. Antelope Island State Park, a popular destination on the Great Salt Lake, is open for day-use and camping. For more information on camping near the Great Salt Lake, you can visit Hipcamp.

Utah is an excellent destination for camping, with its diverse landscapes, national parks, state parks, and public lands offering a wide variety of camping experiences. From the red rock formations of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park to the lush forests of Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Utah offers a range of scenic camping options. In addition to the popular national parks, Utah has 43 state parks, many of which offer camping facilities. Some notable state parks include Dead Horse Point State Park, which offers stunning views of the Colorado River, and Goblin Valley State Park, known for its unique sandstone formations. Utah's camping opportunities cater to a variety of preferences, from primitive campsites and dispersed camping on BLM land to developed campgrounds with amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas. Whether you're interested in tent camping, RV camping, or even staying in a yurt or cabin, Utah has something to offer every camper.

Before camping in Utah, it's essential to be prepared and aware of the following information:

  1. Weather: Utah's climate can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from very hot during the day to cold at night. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack appropriate clothing and gear.
  2. Altitude: Utah has a high average elevation, with many camping areas located above 6,000 feet. Be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and give yourself time to acclimate.
  3. Wildlife: Be aware of the local wildlife, including bears, snakes, and insects. Store your food and trash properly, and be cautious when exploring the wilderness.
  4. Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and leave natural and cultural features undisturbed.
  5. Fire Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the current fire restrictions in the area you plan to camp. Always adhere to posted regulations and never leave a fire unattended.
  6. Water: Carry enough water for your needs, as water sources may be scarce or unreliable in the desert. When relying on natural water sources, always treat the water before consuming it.
  7. Permits and Reservations: Some campgrounds and parks require permits or reservations in advance. Research the specific area you plan to visit and secure any necessary permits or reservations ahead of time.
  8. Dispersed Camping: If you plan to camp on BLM or National Forest land outside of developed campgrounds, be aware of the rules and regulations for dispersed camping and follow them accordingly.
  9. Road Conditions: Many camping areas in Utah are accessed via dirt or gravel roads, which can be rough and may require a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle. Check road conditions before heading out.

By keeping these points in mind, you'll be better prepared for a safe and enjoyable camping experience in Utah.

Whether you need a permit to camp in Utah depends on the location and type of camping. In most cases, you do not need a permit for dispersed camping on BLM lands and national forests. However, for developed campgrounds, fees and reservations may be required. In some popular and sensitive areas, such as backcountry camping in certain national parks, permits may be necessary to manage the impact on the environment and maintain visitor safety. Always check the specific regulations and requirements for the area you plan to camp in before your trip.

Yes, boondocking is allowed in Utah, particularly on BLM lands and National Forests. Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is popular among RVers and campers who prefer a more remote and off-the-grid experience. It's important to practice Leave No Trace principles and follow any posted regulations or restrictions when boondocking. Keep in mind that amenities like water, restrooms, and trash disposal are typically not available at these sites. You can find some boondocking spots on websites or apps such as freecampsites.net, Campendium, or iOverlander.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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