Devils Canyon Campground offers dispersed camping options near Blanding, Utah, 3.5 miles from Highway 191 along Forest Road 088. Located at 7,800 feet elevation in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, the campground provides seasonal access from early April through late September, with sites arranged in north and south loops offering varying levels of shade and open sky views.
What to do
Explore canyon walls: Devils Canyon Campground serves as a convenient base for outdoor activities. "If you're looking for tons of ATV trails this is a great spot," notes Alison C., highlighting the recreational opportunities directly from camp.
Backcountry hiking: Elephant Canyon 3 provides access to premier hiking within Canyonlands National Park. "It was a 2 mile hike to Druid Arch from this site. No service and no water so plan accordingly," advises Angee D., emphasizing the site's strategic location for exploring deeper into the park.
Night sky viewing: Several campgrounds offer excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "We had a clear night, and the starriest sky I've ever seen!" reports Rachel T. about her experience at Elephant Canyon, noting how elevated sites provide optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Devils Canyon Campground features well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "Quiet spot. Plenty of spots on a Saturday afternoon. Metal picnic tables, fire pits, paved parking spots," Jessica C. mentions, highlighting the campground's infrastructure.
Access to red rock landscapes: Needles Outpost Campground provides direct access to unique geological features. "Each site was pretty far away from each other which was nice," notes Danielle R., adding "The sites were in the middle of the red rocks. It was a site you can only find in this area."
Peaceful environment: The remote setting creates a quiet camping experience. "It was so quiet and peaceful. Stayed pasted the main camp grounds and found a nice spot," Robert G. shares about dispersed camping options at Devils Canyon, pointing to opportunities beyond designated sites.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Water availability varies by location and season. "Unfortunately the water was not working and is not drinkable. Other than that pretty nice campground," Pat Y. notes about Devils Canyon Campground, emphasizing the need to bring supplies.
Weather preparation: The high desert climate means significant temperature fluctuations. "Gets very cold at night since it's in a river canyon," Josh K. reports about Box Elder, a nearby camping area across the Colorado border.
Road conditions: Many sites require appropriate vehicles for access. "You have to have high clearance to get through the bumpy, rocky road leading to the camp," Josh K. continues, adding that "it took me 20 minutes of driving on rough dirt road" to return from camp.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for climbers: Many campgrounds offer natural climbing opportunities for kids. "Our large group loved that. There is no water in the area and the only shade was the shelter so it was hot. Its in a canyon area and gave the children alot of area to run and climb," Hilary B. notes about the group site near Hamburger Rock.
Connectivity options: Some locations offer surprising internet access. "We had one with a clear view of the sky and used Starlink for great connectivity (198.25 Mbps download) the entire stay," reports Abner H. from Coral Sands RV Park, describing how strategic site selection can maintain connection during remote camping experiences.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife observation possibilities. "A gaggle of mountain sheep hang around the boat launch area," Luna L. mentions about Box Elder, providing insight into possible animal sightings for nature-oriented families.
Tips from RVers
Site variations: Monticello RV Campground offers a range of accommodations beyond traditional glamping in Blanding, Utah. "Great open spaces. Neat and tidy," notes Sue S., adding that during her visit, "Bathrooms and showers not open due to COVID-19."
Navigation challenges: High clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas. "When returning from the camp it took me 20 minutes of driving on rough dirt road, a lot longer when I came in, at night, going downhill. So don't believe maps when it tells you you're 5 minutes away," warns Josh K.
Service options: Several locations offer full hookups and facilities. "Very nice great condition. Paved road in and loops all paved. 41 sites in two loops," Greg L. explains about Devils Canyon, adding "Several vault toilets and a water spigot at each vault toilet location."
