Camping in Utah

From lakes to mountains to desert plateaus, Utah’s great outdoors comes in many flavors.

93% (15070 reviews)
93% (15070 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Utah

Top-rated campgrounds

Setting up our camp fire in the nice, established pit.

1. Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

97%
(4318)
67 sites · RVs, Tents · 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
Bear Lake Aquatics Base

2. Bear Lake Aquatics Base

91%
(757)
33 sites · Tents · Laketown, UT
Bear Lake Aquatics Base is owned and operated by the Crossroads of the West Council, Scouting America. It is used for Scout events and campsite rentals during the summer season. There aren’t many places inland that you can say you really feel like you’re at the ocean. Bear Lake just happens to be one of them! With one mile of beach-front property, you will enjoy a beach-front camp like you’ve never dreamed of! All campsites are located between the highway and Bear Lake. Each campsite is located near potable water, has a picnic table, and restrooms/showers are only a short walk away. No alcohol, drugs, pets or fireworks on property per Scouting America policies. Bear Lake Aquatics Base is conveniently located north of Laketown and nearby many local attractions - Bear Lake State Park, Logan Canyon, Minnetonka Cave and the National Oregon Trail Museum. Explore neighboring Laketown to experience the local flavor, maybe even a raspberry shake.
Potable water
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from 
$60
 / night
Kolob Campground

3. Kolob Campground

91%
(1885)
23 sites · RVs, Tents · Virgin, UT
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. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Escalante Grand Resort

4. Escalante Grand Resort

96%
(25)
157 sites · RVs · Escalante, UT
Welcome to Escalante Grand Resort! We offer RV sites, tent camping, even vacation home rentals all with stunning 360 degree red rock views. The cabins & vacation rentals feature full, attached, private bathrooms. We are proud to offer an on-site coffee shop and spa. Our spa features an infrared sauna and foot baths for relaxing after a long day of adventure. Our clubhouse provides check in services, a small gift store, game room, and a laundromat. Free WiFi and TV signal are standard for all guests. We are located right across the highway from the Escalante Visitor Center making Escalante Cabins & RV Park your gateway to adventure and fun as you cruise stunning Highway 12 into the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Hole-in-the-Rock Road, Dixie National Forest, Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park and so much more. Come explore and enjoy this beautiful part of the country with us. See you soon!
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Arrowhead Campground

5. Arrowhead Campground

96%
(986)
7 sites · RVs, Tents · Monument Valley, UT
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
The Needles Outpost Campground

8. The Needles Outpost Campground

94%
(1497)
55 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Monticello , UT
This Outpost and campground is located on 300 acres of private property surrounded by park and public land. It has been here for over 30 years in some form or another. We are Caleb & Amber who enjoyed managing this little oasis in the middle of the desert from March to June of 2017 when we decided to purchase the business & make it our own. This is a dry, rugged campground with a bathhouse that provides coin operated showers and flush toilets. In addition there is little old rustic camp store placed in the middle of nowhere where we provide fuel, snacks, firewood, ice, showers, cold drinks & more. If you are looking for a more private site with lots of space and shade, book our Small Group at the Rocks. For a warmer stay during the cooler months book one of our Glamping Tents listed. We have the larger, and spacious tent in the grove of the Juniper Trees (which is also amazing in the warmer season) and rent a heater from us inside the general/camp store. Please check with us on fire restrictions, hipcamp is often wrong on their assumptions, we rarely have fire restrictions. BE SURE TO GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME TO CHECK IN NO LATER THAN 5PM. THANK YOU!! DON'T FORGET TO TAKE A SCREEN SHOT OF THE DIRECTIONS HERE, YOU WILL LOSE SERVICE ON YOUR WAY.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Mexican Hat Rocks

11. Mexican Hat Rocks

95%
(330)
4 sites · RVs, Tents · Mexican Hat, UT
No need to reserve ahead of time! Camp spots are not marked but are obvious, choose site when you arrive, refer to map. Please respect No Trespassing signs! There is NO GATE CODE at this time. Two (2) miles north of Mexican Hat, UT on Hwy 163, turn East, find your spot! Bigger Rigs: Keep to the right at the 'Y' as the road to the San Juan River is steep and a little bumpy! Next to the Bears Ears National Monument, between Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley along the San Juan River is Mexican Hat where you can camp on private property...as this is NOT on the Navajo Reservation, alcohol is allowed. So many things to see! Goosenecks State Park, Natural Bridges, Moki Dugway, Cedar Mesa! Camp on this private estate that was founded in the 1890's by gold and oil prospectors and where John Wayne later crossed the river in several western movies! The night skies are unbeatable as is the quiet solitude that is sadly disappearing in other areas. Mexican Hat Rock and this portion of the San Juan River are accessible only through this estate that is open for your enjoyment, however, if you wish to camp we now ask for a small fee so we can keep it clean, maintain roads and continue our conservation efforts so all can enjoy it forever! Portable toilets are required!!! And please pick up after yourself, dogs and horses. Pack it in, pack it out. Respect your fellow campers and stay on obvious trails and roads, do know that part of this property is marked as 'No Trespassing', please respect signage. No fee is required for day trips to 'The Hat'.
Pets
from 
$18
 / night
Glamping Canyonlands

12. Glamping Canyonlands

100%
(165)
18 sites · Lodging · Monticello, UT
We are a husband-and-wife team that purchased raw land in 2020 and have been building Glamping Canyonlands ever since. We privately own and operate a sustainable off grid property. We proudly run our business off solar power. We have a recycling and compost program along with happy pasture raised chickens and free range kittens. We work to reduce waste by supporting businesses that focus on the environment, health and using non-plastic products where we can. We use simple, clean, natural cleaning products. We do not use single use plastic and provide washable cotton paper towels and hand towels. We work with locals to bring you tours, pastries, breads and hand crafted souvenirs for you to remember your trip. We have a mix of different unique units so there is something for everyone. 3 bell tents, 1 stargazing lotus tent, 1 safari tent, cedar pod, moon stargazing barrel, solar powered casita and an unfurnished high rise tent. We have 22 acres and we are currently using around 5 acres. We like to space out our units so there is privacy at every units. We have a communal kitchen that is equipped to make some gourmet meals. Flat top grill, BBQ Box, pizza oven and a stove. Communal modern bathrooms with hand towels and bath supplies are available. Sauna is available to our guests along with coffee and breakfast delivery. Late check-ins are available. Located on private and rural land 40 mins South of Moab and 40 mins from the entrance of The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park (the hikers paradise park!) Our land borders Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and State Trust Lands which means you have a panoramic view of the desert landscape and dark skies. We are surrounded by Dark Sky National Parks, State Park, Monuments and communities. Because of this, light population is almost non-existent. We built this place to be an escape or a place to unwind from our busy and loud daily lives. Embrace the break from the daily grind and find space here on the open desert. We opened to our first guests in October 2020 with only 3 bell tents, 1 bathroom and a kitchen inside a tent. Even though we have grown and improved the facilities, we are still a small husband and wife owned and run business. You will see us working and cleaning.
Potable water
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from 
$60
 / night
Cedar Canyon RV Retreat

14. Cedar Canyon RV Retreat

99%
(51)
28 sites · Lodging, RVs · Cedar City, UT
Cedar Canyon Retreat is the best of both worlds! At Cedar Canyon Retreat, you can be in the mountains, surrounded by woodland, but you are only 5 minutes from the conveniences of Cedar City. We have a 5-bedroom log cabin, 26 RV sites with full hookups, and a cowboy cabin ready to serve your vacation needs! Our woodland community is especially well-suited for reunions and other groups. Come for the Shakespeare Festival, enjoy year-round outdoor adventures on the mountain, or just relax at "home." Our RV Park and Campground is nestled in the woods, a world away from the glorified parking lots you often stay at. It feels like a mountain campground, but with all the amenities you expect: 26 unique RV sites Sizes from 50ft long back-in to 65ft pull-through Full RV hookup: 50/30/20 amp power, water, and sewer Free WiFi Picnic table Fire pit Private restrooms with showers Community gathering & recreation areas Office/convenience store Our 5 Bedroom cabin sleeps 13 and has plenty of room for your family and friends, including a fully renovated kitchen with new appliances, a private yard with a grill and fire pit. Next door is a rec room with a pool table, ping pong table, and air hockey. As you would expect, we have free wi-fi and smart TVs. Our latest addition! A "cowboy cabin" is a simple cabin somewhere between camping and a hotel room. Ours has electricity, heat and AC, a bunk bed that can sleep 3, mini fridge, microwave and wall mounted TV. Like most cowboy cabins, it does not have its own plumbing, but our famously clean private restrooms with showers are just a 50ft walk. This is the perfect get a way to hold your next family reunion or special event! We welcome events on property and for a small fee can rent out our community spaces while you are a guest here. Priced about the same as our RV sites, it's a great option for campers who need a break from your tent!
Pets
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from 
$58
 / night
Up The Creek Campground

15. Up The Creek Campground

88%
(44)
9 sites · Tents · Moab, UT
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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from 
$32
 / night
Sevier River RV Park & Cabins

16. Sevier River RV Park & Cabins

94%
(27)
70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Sevier, UT
FREE BREAKFAST upon request for Cabin and RV guests! FREE HOT TUBS upon request for cabin guests! We will bring you hot, fresh breakfast right to your RV Space or Cabin. Just call or text between 7am and 10am! We are a horse and dog friendly property!! Located right on the Sevier River, our RV Park, Tent Camping and Cabins all offer an unparalleled escape into nature. All five of Utahs Might Five National Parks (Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands) are located within 2 hours of us!! Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind in a tranquil setting, at Sevier River RV Park we have something special for everyone. Free natural hot springs are only 8 miles away!! Ride UTV/ATV’s or horses right out of our property for a fun-filled day on the trails! We offer an adrenaline-pumping adventure through mild-rugged terrain where you can explore the beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the views from your spacious and level campsite or cabin! We have shady and wide open sky sites. Our park’s elevated location provides a picturesque backdrop that will leave you in awe. In Sevier, Utah, you can explore the scenic beauty of the Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge, known for its unique salt flats and bird-watching opportunities. For a more adventurous experience, try hiking or biking through the surrounding mountain trails, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Bryce Canyon Shadows Campground

19. Bryce Canyon Shadows Campground

97%
(138)
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Panguitch, UT
Stay Your Way—Just Minutes from Bryce Canyon! Whether you’re rolling in with an RV, pitching a tent, or craving a cozy glamping escape, we’ve got the perfect spot for you: • RV Sites – Spacious, full-hookup sites ready for your home-on-wheels. Pull in, plug in, and kick back under the stars. • Tent Sites – Classic camping with a view! Nestled in nature, our tent sites are perfect for stargazers and outdoor lovers. • Glamping Bunkhouses – Rustic charm meets modern comfort. These cozy cabins are perfect for families or couples who want a taste of the wild—without giving up a comfy bed. • NEW Glamping Tents – All the adventure of camping, with a luxurious twist! Sleep in style with real beds, lighting, and a touch of frontier magic. Looking for some excitement? Check out our onsite UTV guided tours. The best way to see the beautiful red rock around the Bryce Canyon area. Daily three hour tours + fun to drive machines = great memories. Cost is $100 per person. Ask about our stay and play package. Tours are filling up, book your tour At bryceutvrentals.com. All guests enjoy amazing private restrooms and showers, 24-hour laundry, and an on-site camp store stocked with everything you need for a perfect stay. Adventure, comfort, and the stunning beauty of Bryce Canyon—right at your doorstep.
Pets
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from 
$27
 / night
Ranchito Feliz

20. Ranchito Feliz

99%
(936)
6 sites · RVs, Tents · Cannonville, UT
When booking please add in your note the type of camping you are doing, ie. tent, car, van, or larger RV and please, only texts...NO calls. In the middle of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument; adjacent to Bryce Canyon National Park; within walking distance of Kodachrome Basin State Park; and an easy drive to Zion and Capital Reef National Parks, as well as Lake Powell National Recreational Area, this unique site is an opportunity not to miss. The pet/horse friendly property (approximately 9 acres/3 ha/64 sq. m) boasts private designated single tent sites, and a mix car camping and larger RV sites, as well as paleontological, geological, biological, astronomical, and historical interests of the ranch. The equestrians will find three paddocks, a round pen, as well as beautiful places to ride from the ranch. This secluded location has a small town of about (Cannonville) three miles/5 k a Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center. And, bonus, the in town campground has: high speed internet, and cell phone service and laundry. This ranch and campground is an off the grid, passive/active solar voltaic, so no electricity, no internet and only Verizon works here. In Tropic 12 miles distant all carriers get service. Potable water, shower, dish washing station and composting toilet (This means that all campers count when booking, even the kids...their poops add up too). The views are spectacular from any site where the xeroscaped landscape uses indigenous material and plants to complement the quintessential Pinon/Juniper ecosystem the campground sits in. On three sides you are surrounded by red cliffs in the Carmel Formation which can give shelter from wind and sun, but campers can also look out over the Paria River (you can hear the river from camp as well as its amphibians) which runs south in front of the property and eventually meets the Colorado River at Lee’s Ferry where most put-in to raft the Grand Canyon. Looking north, one sees the meaning of the term “Grand Staircase” by viewing The Entrada, Tropic Shale, Straight Cliffs, Wahweap, Kaiparowits, and Pink Limestone Formations capped by late Tertiary Volcanism; or, the “steps” of Promise Rock, Sand Point, Powell Point, and the Aquarius Plateau (highest forested mesa in North America at over eleven thousand feet.). The biological diversity here is also astounding: Birds: 140 species and counting including the tiny Costa’s Humming Bird all the way up to the enormous California Condor. Plants: 2 species of Sagebrush, 4 species of trees, numerous grass species, and a plethora of beautiful wildflowers and cacti. Reptiles: Many species of snakes and lizards. Unfortunately, this includes the occasional rattlesnake. It is advised that you have your pets vaccinated. Amphibian: Toads and Salamanders Insects: There are very few mosquitos. There are a few biting Deer Flies, and worse yet, those damn gnats. These “no-see-ums” are temperature dependent so are not a bother in the shade, early mornings, late evenings and at night. It is recommended that you bring some kick ass insect repellant and a “bee hat” if you are out and about in the sun during the day between May and July. Fossils: Bivalves, snails, petrified wood (many types) and various other corals, insects and plant fossils abound and are often incorporated into the ranch infrastructure. The nearby area is considered the hottest paleontological spot on the planet. Astronomy: The area is widely considered to be under the darkest skies in the lower 49. The Milky Way and Presides are common sights without the unsightly annoyance of any neighbor’s lights. The climate is varied and interesting. All four seasons are here and occasionally all in one day. Winter snows melt quickly though temperatures can dip into the sub-zeros. The 5,900 ft./1800 m. elevation keeps the summer temps reasonable and always gives a chilly summer evening to cool things off. If you want climatic extremes, you can, within an hour or so, be at Lake Powell and its 100+ F/38+ C heat or on the Aquarius Plateau at 65 degrees F/18 C in midday June. Recreation on many levels is all within proximity. From canyoneering, “free” climbing on an established nearby crag composed of a welded tuff capping the Aquarius Plateau (see Mountain Project and “The Aquarius Plateau”) and many aid lines on Entrada Formation towers within walking distance (see Mountain Project and “The Grand Staircase”), water sports of Lake Powell and the Colorado River as well as fishing in the cool temps of Pine Lake 35 minutes distant. Then of course, there is the Monument, National Park and the State Park only a short drive away. Seclusion, security, water, and views all within a short walk or drive of exiting destinations, make this worth the stop.
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$40
 / night

Camper favorites in Utah

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Utah

Stories from the community

Star Hosts in Utah

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Camping in Utah guide

Overview

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.

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.