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Best Tent Camping near Big Water, UT

986 Reviews

Public lands surrounding Big Water, Utah offer tent campers access to some of the Southwest's most dramatic landscapes. The Paria Canyon Wilderness area provides several backcountry tent campsites including The Hole Backcountry Campsite and the Final Designated Campsite Before Lee's Ferry, both requiring permits and substantial hiking to access. Buckskin Gulch Dispersed camping area, located near Kanab, offers drive-in tent camping with basic amenities and serves as a gateway to slot canyon hiking. Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument provides tent-only sites with panoramic desert views approximately 45 miles northeast of Big Water.

Most tent campgrounds in this region require self-sufficiency and preparation. Backcountry tent sites in Paria Canyon demand permits and pack-out of all waste, with no facilities available. Campers must carry sufficient water, as natural sources are unreliable and may require filtering. Dispersed tent camping areas like Rock Springs Bench and Pump Canyon Springs feature sandy tent pads with minimal improvements. Roads to primitive tent campsites can become impassable during rain, with clay surfaces turning slick and dangerous. Fire restrictions are common throughout summer months, and high winds frequently affect exposed campsites, particularly those on ridgelines or plateau edges.

In early spring and fall, tent campers experience more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds at walk-in tent sites. According to reviews, Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping offers exceptional stargazing opportunities from tent sites positioned along cliff edges. One camper noted, "We found a beautiful spot overlooking the canyon with soft sand that made a nice base for our tent." For backcountry tent camping in Paria Canyon, visitors report challenging but rewarding experiences. A hiker at The Hole Backcountry Campsite described finding "flat sand very close to water" that provided an ideal tent location after a long day of hiking. Buckskin Gulch visitors appreciate the proximity to climbing areas and hiking trails, with one reviewer noting the area remains "quite quiet with not much traffic through the night or day."

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Paria Station Camping

Paria Station Camping

12 min away

Horseshoe Bend 6 Mile Campsite — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Horseshoe Bend 6 Mile Campsite — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

1 hr 7 min away

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Best Tent Sites Near Big Water, Utah (17)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Big Water, UT

16 Photos of 17 Big Water Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Big Water, UT

986 Reviews of 17 Big Water Campgrounds

  • E
    Apr. 17, 2019

    Canyons of Escalante RV Park

    Beautiful backpacking trip

    Did an awesome 3 day hike of the hurricane wash. Hiked in, set up camp, explored further, slept first night. Left our tents and gear and did a day pack hike totalling 16 miles down and back up the canyon. Third day was back out. It was amazing...other than the extreme leave no trace rules (ALL waste carried out).

  • Jacob W.
    Sep. 2, 2018

    Lees Ferry Campground — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Must See but little Shade

    Fantastic campground if you’re on your way to Grand Canyon, Antelope, or Southern Utah.

    This campground sits on a hill overlooking the majestic Colorado River. Lee’s Ferry is the primary take-off Point for rafting the mighty Colorado.

    This is a typical fee campground, yet can be quite popular so Rangers frequent the area often. Camp grounds and decently spaced, and come with grill, picnic table, and a little Ramada. BEWARE, Ramada and camp ground area offer MINIMAL shade, so bring an extra tarp or shade set up.

    About a quarter mile hike from the camp ground is a beautiful beach area, with sand and all. It is the Colorado, so know the water temp stays low and cold even when it’s 115 degrees out! Swimming is an absolute, but other caution is force of the water, so watch the little ones!

    There are also endless hikes in the surrounding slot canyons. Lee’s Ferry is very dog and kid friendly, but keep your pup on leash as those Park Rangers are always out (yes I felt need for second warning)

    I have always encountered extra friendly campers here, and there are pit toilets.

  • Kelsey L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2018

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Dispersed National Forest camping

    Dispersed camping is allowed in the nearby Kaibab National Forest. Some existing sites are present but you can pretty much pull off and camp anywhere (following Leave No Trace principles, of course). Cooler temperatures because of the elevation made this a fantastic place to camp.

  • Meggy B.
    Apr. 23, 2023

    Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Beach Camping

    Not sure if it’s the time of year or what but there were no entry or camping fees!

    This place is beautiful with tons of room for campers, trailers, tents, ORV’s, and you name it! Driving on the sand was a breeze and only had to use 4WD getting down to the water. Lots of clean private vault toilets.

    We scoped it out during the day and then arrived to set up at night- highly recommend getting to your spot before dark because it was pitch black out there.

    A bit windy at night but quiet and peaceful! Would definitely return!

  • K
    Jun. 20, 2021

    North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park

    Nicely spaced

    It’s true that they are full by noon! We arrived at 2pm and the whole place was full, so we got a hotel room in town and went back at 9am the next morning and got a wonderful spot in the tent only loop. Spots are nicely spaced and you don’t feel like you eavesdropping on your neighbors conversations. Flush toilets, but no showers in this loop. Fire rings, mostly level places for tents, picnic tables that are easy to move and space to park your car.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Beehives Campground — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Small CG but close to Page

    Only 6 sites just outside of Page Az. No reservations, sites are ok for TT and larger RVs. No hookups, no water, NO TOILETS, no trash receptacles. Each site has a concrete picnic table. No fires allowed anytime. $14/$7 nite senior....3-day limit. Cell signal is good. Some hwy noise. Lots of goat head weeds around CG. Nice slick rock hiking trails out of CG.

  • Morgan Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2020

    Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Camping on La Playa

    It's hard to beat the view of the wide open "campground" that is the beach at Lone Rock. Be prepared for the crowds, fifth wheels and ATVs and generators. If you can accept that going in, this is a great space to stargaze, paddle board and enjoy a drink in the evening. Pit toilet bathrooms are available within 300 yards of the shoreline. I think they have flush toilets further up the hill. Free RV dump and potable water available. Also note, wind can really kick up the sand, which absolutely nobody loves. And that sends a lot of garbage flying. Batten down them thar hatches.

    Leave no trace.

  • Thomas B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 10, 2019

    Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    All Fun and Games until..

    The dispersed layout is awesome, but has almost zero cover for any tent campers. Especially if youd like to camp next to the lake, which is the basic appeal of being there. Also beware of sand. Saw a car up past the door in a dune, stuck.

    The views are great, the water is extremely nice, and the vault toilets are good and plenty in number.

    The weather can be unpredictable. Things were going great until 40+ mph winds came through in a snap and lasted all night. We were blasted by sand and wind, then came rain for hours, and temps dropping fast and into low 40's. Piles of sand in the tent, sleeping bags, and every orafice of our bodies. It was brutal. Sunshade poles were bent into multiple U shapes and ruined. Tent held strong, but we did not. Saw clouds building on horizon the same as it had the day prior and we decided to make our escape quickly. The weather that day had a 20% chance of precipitation and no mention of high winds. So again, beware.

    If perfect weather, things could have be totally different- But really when is that ever the case?

  • K
    Mar. 31, 2017

    White House Campground

    Amazing primitive camping spot!

    This spot is amazing if you like primitive camping! There are two pit toilets. Most campsites had their own picnic table and either a designated fire ring or grill for cooking. No water at this location, so bring your own. Also conveniently located at the trail head.

    Would definitely camp there again if in the area.

Guide to Big Water

Tent camping near Big Water, Utah offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of well-reviewed spots, campers can find the perfect place to set up their tents and explore the natural beauty of the region.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Buckskin Gulch Dispersed: This site is a great starting point for hiking adventures, with access to the breathtaking slot canyons nearby.
  • Horseshoe Bend 6 Mile Campsite: Enjoy a boat-in camping experience while taking in the stunning views and starry skies, perfect for those who love water activities.
  • Paria Canyon Wilderness - The Hole Backcountry Campsite: Ideal for those looking to hike along the river, this site offers a flat sandy area close to water, making it a great spot for a refreshing dip after a long trek.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Big Water

  • Pump Canyon Springs: This spot is perfect for small groups seeking privacy, but be cautious as the road can become impassable during rain.
  • Forest Service #225 Road Dispersed Camping: With easy access and spacious sites, this area is ideal for families or larger groups looking for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Rock Springs Bench: While the access road can be sketchy, the views of Kodachrome Basin make the effort worthwhile, especially during the shoulder seasons.

Features of the Best Tent Camping Spots

  • Horseshoe Bend 9 Mile Campsite: This site offers a unique experience with its proximity to the iconic Horseshoe Bend, allowing campers to enjoy both the beauty of the landscape and the thrill of being close to the water.
  • Paria Canyon Backcountry - Confluence Site: Known for its solitude and stunning scenery, this backcountry site requires a permit and is perfect for those seeking a more rugged camping experience.
  • Buckskin Gulch Dispersed: With no permits required and the freedom to camp in a beautiful setting, this site is a favorite among those looking for a more laid-back camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big Water, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big Water, UT is Paria Canyon Wilderness - The Hole Backcountry Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Big Water, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Big Water, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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