Discover the Best Camping Utah Has to Offer

Want to explore otherworldly landscapes, hike through towering sandstone arches, and sleep under a blanket of a million stars?

If the answer is a resounding yes, then you're gonna love camping in Utah! The state boasts 44 state parks and 5 national parks, affectionately known as the "Mighty 5," offering a diverse range of camping experiences.

Let's take a look at the best campgrounds in Utah, complete with insider tips and activity ideas for when you get there!

Why Camping in Utah is an Experience You'll Never Forget

• Unparalleled Scenery: Utah's landscapes are simply mind-blowing. From towering sandstone cliffs and delicate arches to slot canyons and vast deserts, every corner of the state offers a new and awe-inspiring vista.
• Dark Sky Paradise: Utah is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a stargazer's dream. Many of the state's parks and campgrounds are designated International Dark Sky Places, offering excellent views of the Milky Way and constellations.
• Outdoor Adventure: Whether you're into hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, or off-roading, Utah has you covered.
• Unique Geological Formations: You can explore ancient rock layers, marvel at the forces of erosion, and discover fossils that tell the story of times long past.
• Solitude and Serenity: While some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season, it's still easy to find your own little slice of solitude in Utah's vast wilderness.

Top Campgrounds in Utah

For the Iconic Red Rock Experience:

1. Devils Garden Campground (Arches National Park)

Camp among the arches and fins.

• Why it's great: This campground is located in the heart of Arches National Park, surrounded by stunning sandstone formations. It offers 51 individual sites and can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
• What to do: Hike to Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, or Balanced Rock. Explore the Fiery Furnace (permit required). Take a ranger-led program to learn more about the park's geology and history.
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot.
• Booking information: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
• Tip: Book your campsite as early as possible, as this campground fills up quickly.

2. Watchman Campground (Zion National Park)

Camp along the Virgin River in Zion Canyon.

• Why it's great: This campground is located near the south entrance of Zion National Park, offering easy access to the park's shuttle system and many popular hiking trails. It offers 176 regular sites, and electric hookups are available at 69 sites.
• What to do: Hike to Angels Landing (permit required), The Narrows, or Emerald Pools. Take a scenic drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures. Summer can be very hot, and flash floods are possible.
• Booking information: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
• Note: Zion is a very popular park. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.

For the Secluded Desert Oasis Experience:

1. Fruita Campground (Capitol Reef National Park)

Camp in a historic orchard.

• Why it's great: This campground is located in the Fruita Historic District of Capitol Reef National Park, surrounded by historic orchards where you can pick fruit when in season. It has 71 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring, but no individual water or sewage hookups.
• What to do: Hike to Hickman Bridge or Cassidy Arch. Explore the petroglyphs along the scenic drive. Pick fruit in the historic orchards (when in season and for a fee).
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures. Summer can be hot.
• Booking information: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov from March 1st to October 31st. From November 1st to February 28th, the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Fun fact: The Fruita orchards were planted by Mormon pioneers in the late 1800s.

2. Sunset Campground (Bryce Canyon National Park)

Camp near the rim of Bryce Canyon's amphitheater.

• Why it's great: This campground offers easy access to some of Bryce Canyon's most iconic viewpoints and hiking trails. It has 99 sites and can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
• What to do: Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail, watch the sunrise over the hoodoos, or take a ranger-led astronomy program.
• Best time to visit: May through September for the best weather.
• Booking information: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
• Tip: The higher elevation of Bryce Canyon means cooler temperatures, even in the summer.

For the Water Lovers:

1. Sand Hollow State Park

Camp near a reservoir with red rock views.

• Why it's great: This state park offers a unique combination of red rock scenery and water recreation. The park has two campgrounds: Sandpit Campground which has 52 sites with power and water hookups and Westside Campground which has 43 sites, including full, partial, and no hookups.
• What to do: Swim, boat, or fish in Sand Hollow Reservoir. Rent an ATV and explore the dunes.
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures. Summer can be very hot.
• Booking information: Reservations can be made up to four months in advance through Reserve America.
• Fun fact: Sand Hollow is a popular spot for cliff jumping (at your own risk, of course).

2. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Camp near a sea of pink sand.

• Why it's great: This state park is home to a vast expanse of coral-colored sand dunes, perfect for ATV riding, sandboarding, and hiking. The park has 34 campsites, including 22 standard sites and 12 pull-through sites, all equipped with water and electricity.
• What to do: Rent an ATV or sandboard, hike among the dunes, or simply relax and enjoy the unique scenery.
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot.
• Booking information: Reservations can be made up to four months in advance through Reserve America.
• Insider tip: The sand can get very hot during the day, so plan your activities for the early morning or late afternoon.

Essential Tips for Planning Your Camping Adventure in Utah

To make the most of your Utah camping trip, here are a few essential tips:

• Book in Advance: Reserve your campsite well in advance, especially if you're planning to visit any of the national parks during peak season.
• Pack for All Weather: Utah's weather can be unpredictable, even in the desert. Be prepared for hot days, cool nights, and the possibility of rain or even snow, depending on the season and elevation.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a serious concern in the desert. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Sun Protection: The Utah sun is intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn.
• Altitude Awareness: Many of Utah's campgrounds are at high elevation. Take it easy on your first day and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Ready to Experience the Magic of Utah's Desert?

From the iconic red rock landscapes of the national parks to the hidden oases of the state parks, there's a perfect campsite out there waiting for you. Start planning your adventure today, and make reservations well in advance. You can use apps like Campsite Tonight if you're making late plans to find any last-minute cancellations.

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