A creek crossing defines the first impression at this 13-site BLM campground, where campers drive through water to reach seven of the sites on the far side. The paved ford measures about six inches deep during typical conditions, though Lee D. warns it becomes "very slick" and notes some visitors avoid the crossing entirely.
Calf Creek runs directly through the campground, creating two distinct camping zones. The first six sites sit on easily accessible ground near the parking area, while the remaining seven require the water crossing but offer closer creek access. Patrick B. describes the water-adjacent sites as "almost like having a pool in your backyard," with campers soaking their feet in the cool water after hiking. Sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs up to 25 feet, though space constraints make maneuvering tight for larger rigs.
The campground serves as the trailhead for the six-mile roundtrip hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls, generating significant foot traffic during daylight hours. This 125-foot waterfall draws hikers starting as early as possible to beat both crowds and heat. The canyon setting creates natural shade in early morning hours until sun clears the rim. Flush toilets operate near the parking area, with vault facilities distributed throughout the camping area.
Sites fill quickly even on weekdays, operating on a first-come basis despite the availability of reservations through some booking systems. Campers arriving without confirmed spots sometimes stay overnight in the day-use parking area for the same $15 fee. The location lacks cell service and trash collection, requiring visitors to pack out all waste. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore places to camp around Boulder.
Plan to arrive early in the day with a backup camping option, as the combination of limited sites and popular trail access creates high demand year-round.
Description
Calf Creek Campground is a desert oasis located within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The Recreation Area includes a 13-site campground, a day-use picnic area and a trailhead. The campground provides small sites nestled along Calf Creek on a first-come, first-served basis. Elevation 5400 ft. campsites in Grand Staircase/Escalante National Monument. Self-guided interpretive trail to Calf Creek Falls (126 feet). 6 mile round trip.
Fee Info
Calf Creek Campground provides 13 campsites. They are first-come first-serve at $15.00 per campsite per night. Interagency Senior and Access Pass Holders receive 50% off camping fees.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCalf Creek Campground is located in Utah
Directions
Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground is located 15 Miles east of Escalante UT on Highway 12. From Escalante go 15 miles east on UT 12.
Coordinates
37.79528354 N
111.41338682 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/20/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/20/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 3/20/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/20/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/20/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 3/20/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 6 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 36 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 58 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 5 hrs 29 min from Flagstaff, AZ




























































