The best camping in Utah with horseback riding

·

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.

95% (8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Utah

1. Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

97%
(4432)
67 sites · Tents, RVs · Virgin, UT
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. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

2. Hi-Road Campground

93%
(21)
54 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Orderville, UT
Escape to Hi-Road Basecamp, your gateway to Zion National Park's eastern entrance and the ultimate wilderness experience! Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery in Mt. Carmel, Utah, discover the perfect basecamp for adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent under the stars, parking your RV, or cozying up in a mountain cabin, we have you covered. Enjoy clean, modern restrooms and showers available 24/7, plus a convenient store and café serving up delicious pizza, ice cream, sandwiches, and more. At Hi-Road Basecamp, we're dedicated to providing a friendly and relaxing atmosphere for an unforgettable stay. Our accommodations are designed to provide both comfort and privacy, allowing you to unwind in a serene environment. With easy access to nearby attractions, including breathtaking hiking trails, refreshing swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, adventure awaits just outside your door. After a day of exploration, indulge in the local dining scene, featuring delightful restaurants and charming shops that showcase the area's vibrant culture. At Hi-Road Cabins, we pride ourselves on offering a distinctive experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home. Whether you're here for relaxation or adventure, our unique setting ensures a memorable stay.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

6. Hoovers River Resort

100%
(1)
36 sites · RVs, Lodging · Marysvale, UT
Nestled at the base of the stunning Tushar Mountains, our campground offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it the perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another memorable stay, we are dedicated to ensuring your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Our friendly staff is always on hand to assist you with any inquiries or concerns you may have. They are eager to help you plan your stay, whether that involves booking exciting activities, arranging trail rides, or organizing thrilling river adventures. With seven cozy cabins and seven spacious RV sites, our campground provides a comfortable and private retreat. Located along Trail 74 of the Paiute Trail ATV trail, you’ll have direct access to some of the best outdoor activities in the area. Explore the breathtaking natural features, discover nearby swimming holes, and enjoy the local dining and shopping options that enhance your stay. Come and experience the beauty and adventure that awaits you here!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

7. Red Desert RV Park

91%
(344)
8 sites · Tents, RVs · Moab, UT
Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

10. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

15. Sunset Campground on Ruin Road

96%
(625)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Blanding, UT
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night

16. Zion Family Ranch Campground and RV

93%
(1573)
22 sites · Tents, RVs · Glendale, UT
Picturesque camping set within the protective hilltops of beautiful Lydia's Canyon. This camping destination is on private land and has long list of unique, attractive features. Conveniently located just a couple minutes off Highway 89, this is the perfect stop over 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 FREE WIFI will make your stay easy and fun! Campers will enjoy clean, HOT showers and flushable toilets. You will have access to the multi-acre campground where you can choose which tent site or RV site you prefer. We DO allow no hook-up camping vans in our tent sites. Two of our four new RV sites have full hook-ups (sites 3 & 4), the other two (sites 1 & 2) have water and power hookups only. All sites are equipped with 30 & 50 amp breakers You will have access to the large pavilion for gathering, cooking or shelter from the elements. You also have access to the clean bath house, equipped with two shower rooms (with on-demand hot water) and flushable toilets. As an added bonus, you will have access to the ponds, you may use the boat, canoe or kayaks, you can also catch and release fish if you have your own fishing equipment. (Keep a fish or accidental kill for a fee.) If interested in booking a fishing experience, please reach out to us for more details. There are seven available tent sites and four available RV sites with hookups. No beds or tents are provided. Please plan to bring your own camping supplies. Common spaces including the pavilion and bath house are shared with all campground guests. Lydia's Canyon is known for lush green fields, overflowing fresh water ponds full of native fish, Canadian geese, turkeys, exclusive bird-watching, deer, farming, cows, horses, and last but not least . . . kind, welcoming residents who are happy to help you have a memorable experience. Your super hosts, Jeremy and Betty, live nearby and are available to help when needed. Connect to the campground FREE WIFI for easy communication needs. Kindly follow our speed limits here in Lydia's Canyon, we ask that your speed not exceed 15 mph on the gravel roads. No parties, noise, or bright lights after 10 p.m.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night

17. The Rockin Robbins Ranch

97%
(125)
12 sites · RVs, Lodging · Santaquin, UT
Our beautiful ranch is a Family Farm started by Grandpa Dar. We continue to honor the old ways of caring for free roaming chickens, growing food without chemicals, honey bee shelters, sharing our Hearth and Home with family and friends. Our rose gardens are delightful, and full of birds.. enjoy... We have been planting Hazelnut Trees, Chestnut Trees, Peach Trees, and a grove of old Oak Trees, old apple tree varieties, and of course our Mulberry trees... We have expanded our ranch to a few more acres for our cows to be able to have more room. Our Fire Pit is open to all guests. The wood for all designated fire areas is provided. There are BBQ Grills, Dutch Ovens, etc so you can cook out doors. The Outdoor hot water shower offers a place to cool down in summer heat... Water is always hot with our tankless water heater... We plant and tend vegetable gardens for our guests to share in the harvest. We plant Huggle Mounds in the spring... as well as grapes and assorted fruit trees... You are welcome to walk our Custom Labyrinth. You are free to wander the fields, gardens and orchards. When the garden is in bloom, help yourself... Most sites have air conditions or fans, as well as heaters in season. 110 power is at each site... We have a Grumpy Dragon Cafe outside with a help yourself breakfast bar. Picnic tables are provided at tent sites and at the Grumpy Dragon. WIFI is available at the Grumpy Dragon as well as at your camp site... Help your self to muffins, breakfast bars, beverages and fresh fruit. A refrigerator is outside for cold water and frozen water bottles. Coffee, tea and Hot chocolate is always available. WIFI is available at the for an outdoor Cafe... Your devices should be able to pick up a strong signal. 5 G and 2.4...( 2 different pass words are provided) Our Farmhouse on the Ranch has been a Bed and Breakfast since 1991 You can book a guest room inside the Farmhouse...A 5th wheel trailer, our B and B. Country Traveler RV... these are stationary and do not leave the property or our outdoor camp sites. Guest parking areas are provided... Area adventures: Santaquin Canyon, Nebo Loop, Young Living Farm, The Red Barn, Hiking trails. Welcome... Host... Lynnellen
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

19. Zion Glamping Adventures

87%
(72)
17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hurricane, UT
Located in a spectacular spot in Hildale, Utah, just an hour drive from Zion National Park. Escape the crowds and indulge in this extraordinary retreat!​ Accommodations > 20 units of Glamping Tents > 2 units of Rock Cave > 7 sites for the RV Park The campsite has five fully operational bathrooms equipped with running water, hot showers, and flush toilets. Basic toiletries are provided for your convenience. There is a common kitchen area where you'll find a fridge, microwave and propane grills. Every morning, our host expertly prepares a delectable breakfast consisting of steaming cups of coffee and mouthwatering pancakes, ensuring that all guests can savor a delightful start to their day. In the evening, the host creates a spacious campfire that invites all guests to gather together and forge connections. It's an opportunity to engage with fellow campers, share captivating tales, and indulge in the delightful combination of s'mores. Make sure not to overlook our highly sought-after array of activities, including exhilarating side by side tours, captivating guided hikes, memorable horseback rides, scenic wagon rides, creative paint and wine sessions, and rejuvenating yoga classes!​
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

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.

95% (8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Utah

1. Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

97%
(4432)
67 sites · Tents, RVs · Virgin, UT
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. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

2. Hi-Road Campground

93%
(21)
54 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Orderville, UT
Escape to Hi-Road Basecamp, your gateway to Zion National Park's eastern entrance and the ultimate wilderness experience! Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery in Mt. Carmel, Utah, discover the perfect basecamp for adventure. Whether you prefer pitching a tent under the stars, parking your RV, or cozying up in a mountain cabin, we have you covered. Enjoy clean, modern restrooms and showers available 24/7, plus a convenient store and café serving up delicious pizza, ice cream, sandwiches, and more. At Hi-Road Basecamp, we're dedicated to providing a friendly and relaxing atmosphere for an unforgettable stay. Our accommodations are designed to provide both comfort and privacy, allowing you to unwind in a serene environment. With easy access to nearby attractions, including breathtaking hiking trails, refreshing swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities, adventure awaits just outside your door. After a day of exploration, indulge in the local dining scene, featuring delightful restaurants and charming shops that showcase the area's vibrant culture. At Hi-Road Cabins, we pride ourselves on offering a distinctive experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home. Whether you're here for relaxation or adventure, our unique setting ensures a memorable stay.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

6. Hoovers River Resort

100%
(1)
36 sites · RVs, Lodging · Marysvale, UT
Nestled at the base of the stunning Tushar Mountains, our campground offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it the perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another memorable stay, we are dedicated to ensuring your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Our friendly staff is always on hand to assist you with any inquiries or concerns you may have. They are eager to help you plan your stay, whether that involves booking exciting activities, arranging trail rides, or organizing thrilling river adventures. With seven cozy cabins and seven spacious RV sites, our campground provides a comfortable and private retreat. Located along Trail 74 of the Paiute Trail ATV trail, you’ll have direct access to some of the best outdoor activities in the area. Explore the breathtaking natural features, discover nearby swimming holes, and enjoy the local dining and shopping options that enhance your stay. Come and experience the beauty and adventure that awaits you here!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

7. Red Desert RV Park

91%
(344)
8 sites · Tents, RVs · Moab, UT
Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

10. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

15. Sunset Campground on Ruin Road

96%
(625)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Blanding, UT
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.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night

16. Zion Family Ranch Campground and RV

93%
(1573)
22 sites · Tents, RVs · Glendale, UT
Picturesque camping set within the protective hilltops of beautiful Lydia's Canyon. This camping destination is on private land and has long list of unique, attractive features. Conveniently located just a couple minutes off Highway 89, this is the perfect stop over 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 FREE WIFI will make your stay easy and fun! Campers will enjoy clean, HOT showers and flushable toilets. You will have access to the multi-acre campground where you can choose which tent site or RV site you prefer. We DO allow no hook-up camping vans in our tent sites. Two of our four new RV sites have full hook-ups (sites 3 & 4), the other two (sites 1 & 2) have water and power hookups only. All sites are equipped with 30 & 50 amp breakers You will have access to the large pavilion for gathering, cooking or shelter from the elements. You also have access to the clean bath house, equipped with two shower rooms (with on-demand hot water) and flushable toilets. As an added bonus, you will have access to the ponds, you may use the boat, canoe or kayaks, you can also catch and release fish if you have your own fishing equipment. (Keep a fish or accidental kill for a fee.) If interested in booking a fishing experience, please reach out to us for more details. There are seven available tent sites and four available RV sites with hookups. No beds or tents are provided. Please plan to bring your own camping supplies. Common spaces including the pavilion and bath house are shared with all campground guests. Lydia's Canyon is known for lush green fields, overflowing fresh water ponds full of native fish, Canadian geese, turkeys, exclusive bird-watching, deer, farming, cows, horses, and last but not least . . . kind, welcoming residents who are happy to help you have a memorable experience. Your super hosts, Jeremy and Betty, live nearby and are available to help when needed. Connect to the campground FREE WIFI for easy communication needs. Kindly follow our speed limits here in Lydia's Canyon, we ask that your speed not exceed 15 mph on the gravel roads. No parties, noise, or bright lights after 10 p.m.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night

17. The Rockin Robbins Ranch

97%
(125)
12 sites · RVs, Lodging · Santaquin, UT
Our beautiful ranch is a Family Farm started by Grandpa Dar. We continue to honor the old ways of caring for free roaming chickens, growing food without chemicals, honey bee shelters, sharing our Hearth and Home with family and friends. Our rose gardens are delightful, and full of birds.. enjoy... We have been planting Hazelnut Trees, Chestnut Trees, Peach Trees, and a grove of old Oak Trees, old apple tree varieties, and of course our Mulberry trees... We have expanded our ranch to a few more acres for our cows to be able to have more room. Our Fire Pit is open to all guests. The wood for all designated fire areas is provided. There are BBQ Grills, Dutch Ovens, etc so you can cook out doors. The Outdoor hot water shower offers a place to cool down in summer heat... Water is always hot with our tankless water heater... We plant and tend vegetable gardens for our guests to share in the harvest. We plant Huggle Mounds in the spring... as well as grapes and assorted fruit trees... You are welcome to walk our Custom Labyrinth. You are free to wander the fields, gardens and orchards. When the garden is in bloom, help yourself... Most sites have air conditions or fans, as well as heaters in season. 110 power is at each site... We have a Grumpy Dragon Cafe outside with a help yourself breakfast bar. Picnic tables are provided at tent sites and at the Grumpy Dragon. WIFI is available at the Grumpy Dragon as well as at your camp site... Help your self to muffins, breakfast bars, beverages and fresh fruit. A refrigerator is outside for cold water and frozen water bottles. Coffee, tea and Hot chocolate is always available. WIFI is available at the for an outdoor Cafe... Your devices should be able to pick up a strong signal. 5 G and 2.4...( 2 different pass words are provided) Our Farmhouse on the Ranch has been a Bed and Breakfast since 1991 You can book a guest room inside the Farmhouse...A 5th wheel trailer, our B and B. Country Traveler RV... these are stationary and do not leave the property or our outdoor camp sites. Guest parking areas are provided... Area adventures: Santaquin Canyon, Nebo Loop, Young Living Farm, The Red Barn, Hiking trails. Welcome... Host... Lynnellen
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

19. Zion Glamping Adventures

87%
(72)
17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hurricane, UT
Located in a spectacular spot in Hildale, Utah, just an hour drive from Zion National Park. Escape the crowds and indulge in this extraordinary retreat!​ Accommodations > 20 units of Glamping Tents > 2 units of Rock Cave > 7 sites for the RV Park The campsite has five fully operational bathrooms equipped with running water, hot showers, and flush toilets. Basic toiletries are provided for your convenience. There is a common kitchen area where you'll find a fridge, microwave and propane grills. Every morning, our host expertly prepares a delectable breakfast consisting of steaming cups of coffee and mouthwatering pancakes, ensuring that all guests can savor a delightful start to their day. In the evening, the host creates a spacious campfire that invites all guests to gather together and forge connections. It's an opportunity to engage with fellow campers, share captivating tales, and indulge in the delightful combination of s'mores. Make sure not to overlook our highly sought-after array of activities, including exhilarating side by side tours, captivating guided hikes, memorable horseback rides, scenic wagon rides, creative paint and wine sessions, and rejuvenating yoga classes!​
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

Camper favorites in Utah

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Utah with horseback riding 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. 

Top regions in and near Utah