Utah is home to some of the best camping destinations in the world. The diverse landscapes and topography of Utah make this place perfect for camping. Nearly 75% of the public land is used as free campsites. From exploring the canyons to experiencing the sweeping deserts, hiking to mountaineering, or simply sitting back and enjoying the breathtaking views, one is sure to find their ultimate camping experience here. Camping in Utah is like a dream for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. With over 7000 campgrounds in Utah, camping can be as colorful as the terrain they’re set in. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best camping options for an unforgettable camping experience.
Best Places To Go Camping In Utah
Consider camping in Utah state parks, national parks or public campgrounds. Here we have listed some of the most beautiful and scenic places to go on a camping trip.
Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell
This stunning place just twelve miles north of Page, Arizona is one of the best places to go camping in Utah. The highlight of this place is that one can drive straight to the water’s edge and pitch your tent or pick a spot to park and sleep in the car. Enjoy some fiery sunsets and beautiful sunrises over the red rock canyons from the Lone Rock Beach in Lake Powell. Besides enjoying the beautiful warm water, Lone Rock Beach can also be used for kayaking, jogging, swimming, fishing and sunbathing.
Lava Point, Zion National Park
There are three campgrounds in Zion: South, Watchman, and Lava Point. South and Watchman are inside of Zion Canyon but Lava Point Campground is located an hour and twenty minutes drive away from the entrance to Zion. If you prefer a remote camping experience then this is the right place to pitch your tent as it’s known for its remoteness and sheer beauty. This lesser-visited destination is open from May through September. Undoubtedly one of the best spots to watch a sunset!
Kayenta Campground, Dead Horse Point State Park
Two campgrounds at the Dead Horse Point State Park are Wingate Campground and Kayenta Campground. The view from atop the mesa, 2,000 feet above the Colorado River is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Waking up to a killer sunrise view from here is the highlight of this place. Apart from tent camping, RV camping and staying in a yurt, it also provides easy access to hiking and biking trails. For its scenic beauty and comfortable camping options, camping in Moab Utah can be easily labelled as one of the best campgrounds in Utah.
Spruces Campground, Big Cottonwood Canyon
The Spruces Campground is nestled in a forest at an elevation of 7,500 feet. Tons of shady spruce and aspen trees give respite from the hot temperatures. If you are looking for a wide variety of outdoor recreation close to Salt Lake City, then this is the place for you. Convenient access to hiking, climbing, fishing and biking makes this place a popular spot for camping in Utah. A trail to one of the area’s most popular hikes, the hike to Donut Falls, begins right here. The very minute you step your foot here, it makes you feel like you entered another world. A perfect camping place for nature lovers and folks who want some quiet time with nature!
Devils Garden Campground, Arches National Park
Devils Garden Campground is located 18 miles from the Arches National park entrance. It has 51 campsites which are at an elevation of approximately 5200 ft. The spectacular sandstone arches make this place even more special. Since Devils Garden Campground is the only campground at Arches National Park, reserve campsites well in advance to avoid disappointments. Rafting, kayaking, ATV, mountain biking, bird watching, climbing, stargazing and wildlife viewing are few of the many things you can do here. This campsite is good for both RV and tent camping.
Follow These Golden Rules While Camping In Utah
– Do not camp in the same spot for more than 14 consecutive days. To stay longer, one needs to obtain a right of entry permit or else just move to a new spot.
– Large groups with over 75 people need to acquire a permit from the local district office.
– Keep away from wet areas; a distance of 150 to 200 feet has to be maintained from any stream or water source.
– Camp at existing campsites to avoid creating any new disturbances to the land.
– Be prepared for all seasons regardless of the time of year. It can get boiling during the day and very cold during the night.
– Respect nature by leaving things undisturbed and try making it a better place.
– Generally before 7:00 am and after 10:00 pm are considered quiet time at a campground in Utah.
– Follow the simple rule of the pack it in, pack it out as there is no garbage collection provided.
– Make sure to bury solid human waste 6-8 inches deep at camping grounds that do not have toilet facilities.
– Check out for fire restrictions, never leave a fire unattended, and make sure the fire ring is completely out before leaving.
What To Pack For Camping In Utah
When in Utah be prepared to experience all kinds of weather. Based on when, where and the style of camping, your inventory may vary. However, we have listed out a list of camping essentials for a safe and fun-filled experience.
Food: Plenty of water, ready-to-cook food, salt, pepper and spices, stove and fuel, cooking and eating utensils.
Clothing: Short and long sleeve shirts, water repellent jacket, sweatshirt, sweatpants, hiking shoes, water shoes, swimwear, raincoat, hat and gloves.
Shelter: Lightweight tent, sleeping bag, camping mat, camping pillows.
Others: Sunscreen, chapstick, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, flashlight, extra batteries, map or guidebook, lighter or matchbox, pencil/notebook, first aid kit and trash bags.
Also Read: Why Not Try Backyard Camping For A Change Of Pace?
Various camping options like tents, cabins, teepees, boats, yurts, trailer or RV camping give campers a different kind of camping experience. Setting these up at Utah’s amazing camping spots is sure to take your Utah adventure vacations to the next level. Do drop your pick of the best campgrounds in Utah in the comment box below.
Fortunately, most of the camping grounds are safe, but it’s always recommended to practice safe security habits.
Basic camping permit is required and these permits are easily available at all monument visitors centres.
Most of the public lands are open to dispersed camping. However watch out for signboards like, “closed for camping,” or spaces which will adversely affect wildlife species or natural resources.
Any dispersed camping site allows one to sleep in the car.void public streets or parking lots.
Most BLM camping grounds charge for using their campground. This fee is used to maintain the facilities.
Drinking is legal at campgrounds and in public-use areas for adults ages 21 and up, but do watch out for any specific rules against alcohol in locations where you are camping. Make sure to pack out any remaining bottles or cans from your campsite once done.
