Places to Camp near Escalante, UT
Camping near Escalante, Utah
Escalante, Utah, is a hidden gem for camping enthusiasts, offering a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options. Nestled in the heart of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, this area is perfect for those looking to explore stunning landscapes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, there's a spot for everyone.
From the well-equipped Escalante Cabins & R.V. Park to the more rustic Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping, you'll find a variety of camping experiences. This guide will help you navigate the best spots, what to do, and what to expect when camping near Escalante.
What to do
Escalante offers a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to all types of adventurers. From hiking and fishing to simply soaking in the stunning views, there's something for everyone.
- Hiking: The area is renowned for its hiking trails. The Calf Creek Campground is a great base for exploring the Lower Calf Creek Falls trail. As Sophie noted, "The campground is tucked away at the bottom of the canyon which protects it well from the wind. Site #2 is the best kept secret of this place."
- Fishing and Boating: If you're into fishing or boating, Pine Lake Campground is a fantastic choice. Greg S. mentioned, "Although not in the park, there is a lake good for kayaking and fishing."
- Scenic Drives: The Hole in the Rock Road offers a scenic drive with plenty of dispersed camping spots along the way. Geoff M. shared, "Sites were great and very secluded. They are situated far enough off the road that traffic trailheads further down the road was unnoticeable."
What campers like
Campers love the variety and beauty of the campgrounds around Escalante. From well-maintained facilities to stunning natural settings, there's a lot to appreciate.
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. For instance, Chuck H. praised Canyons of Escalante RV Park, saying, "Never seen cleaner facilities with a spacious laundry room, showers, etc."
- Friendly Staff: The staff at these campgrounds often receive high marks for their friendliness and helpfulness. Kelly L. noted about Lake View Campground — Escalante State Park, "The staff at the gate were funny and nice."
- Beautiful Views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. Amy R. mentioned, "We had a beautiful view from our site on top of the hill" at Escalante Cabins & R.V. Park.
What you should know
Before you head out, there are a few things you should be aware of to make your camping experience as smooth as possible.
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, especially dispersed ones like Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping, have limited amenities. Kaden W. pointed out, "Great spot, no fires allowed, & lots of wind but very pretty & quiet."
- Crowded Spots: Popular areas can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Barbara L. mentioned about Haycock Ranch Road BLM, "This area is right off the highway and had 25 or more campers there."
- Road Conditions: Some roads can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Geoff M. shared, "The road off the highway was extremely bumpy but can be managed with a low clearance vehicle."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Escalante. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable.
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. Marc N. highlighted Lake View Campground — Escalante State Park as a great option, saying, "Amazing little gem, lots of activities for kids."
- Plan for Convenience: Opt for campgrounds with good facilities. Amy B. mentioned Pine Lake Campground, saying, "We had a great time and the restrooms were clean."
- Engage in Activities: Make sure to engage in activities that the whole family can enjoy. Paulina P. shared her experience at Lake View Campground — Escalante State Park, "The lake view is stunning, toilets and showers are super clean and staff is really nice and friendly."
Tips from RVers
If you're traveling in an RV, there are some specific tips that can help you make the most of your trip.
- Look for RV-Friendly Spots: Not all campgrounds are suitable for big rigs. However, Canyons of Escalante RV Park is a great option. Chuck H. noted, "Each site has a dividing fence with plenty of room in between."
- Check for Hookups: Make sure the campground offers the hookups you need. Roger M. mentioned, "Pleasant RV park with nicely spaced pads. Friendly staff, and very clean amenities" at Canyons of Escalante RV Park.
- Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some dispersed camping areas may not offer the amenities you need. Mark K. shared about Haycock Ranch Road BLM, "No water, toilets etc... good Verizon cell service."
Camping near Escalante, Utah, offers a diverse range of experiences, from well-equipped RV parks to secluded dispersed camping spots. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, stunning natural beauty, or a quiet retreat, you'll find it here. Happy camping!