Tent camping near Blanding, Utah offers diverse high-altitude experiences spanning from 5,000 to nearly 9,000 feet elevation. The surrounding Bears Ears National Monument and Manti-La Sal National Forest provide tent campers with desert plateaus transitioning to pine forests across dramatic sandstone landscapes. Seasonal temperatures fluctuate significantly, with summer daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F while dropping below 50°F at night.
What to do
Explore ancient petroglyphs: Visit the Newspaper Rock Campground area to examine one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in the region, with rock art dating back over 2,000 years.
Hike slot canyons: From Elephant Canyon 3 campsites, access remarkable hiking opportunities. "This is a backcountry campsite reachable by a 2.5 mile hike from the Elephant Hill Trailhead in The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park," notes Troy W., who adds that "a quarter mile away the trail splits between the trail to Chesler Park and Druid Arch."
Fish at mountain lakes: Monticello Lake offers tent campers fishing opportunities at 8,700 feet. Daniel S. describes it as "an awesome site above the heat of the valleys. Quiet other than several fishers."
What campers like
Solitude in remote settings: Cannonball Mesa campsites provide exceptional solitude. One camper notes, "Very remote area. Beautiful night sky and peace. The entrance is a gate in a private land, drive about 1 mile to BLM land, mostly dirt roads."
Rock formation camping: Chesler Park 2 offers unique tent sites positioned among massive rock formations. ZachTruthNow describes it as "Literally right in between 2 giant boulders looking out over a large plain after hiking the longest 4 miles through canyons and needles. Breathtaking."
Cool temperatures at elevation: Monticello Lake provides relief from summer heat at its 8,700-foot elevation, making it particularly appealing during hot months. Greg L. notes the campground features "a network of vehicle tracks around the lake for dispersed camping" with "oak trees around the area."
What you should know
High-clearance vehicles required: Many dispersed tent sites near Blanding require capable vehicles. At Canyons of the Ancients, Quinn S. reports, "Road is a little rocky once you get off the gravel road but totally worth it." Linda Y. adds, "Would advise caution as a high clearance/4x4 was definitely an advantage once we left the main access road."
No potable water: Nearly all tent camping sites require bringing sufficient water supplies. At Elephant Canyon 3, Troy W. advises, "Carry in any water that you might need because water is scarce or non-existant."
Extreme wind exposure: Several campsites experience significant wind. Linda Y. warns about Canyons of the Ancients, "It was VERY windy the night we stayed, so tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection."
Tips for camping with families
Stargazing opportunities: Clear, dark skies make for excellent astronomy activities. Rachel T. from Elephant Canyon 3 reports, "We had a clear night, and the starriest sky I've ever seen!"
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. ZachTruthNow from Elephant Canyon 3 had an unexpected encounter, reporting they were "Growled at by mountain Lion 100 meters from climb up to campsite."
Nearby archaeological sites: Chesler Park offers educational exploration opportunities for families. Hannah H. notes, "From the Chesler Park area there are a few day hikes that become much more attainable because you are closer. For instance the joint trail."
Tips from RVers
Limited trailer access: Most dispersed sites accommodate small vehicles and tents only. Greg L. observed that Monticello Lake sites are "small, rough and not good for trailers."
Rougher roads further in: Road conditions typically deteriorate the further you travel from main roads. Jennifer from Canyons of the Ancients reports, "When coming from the north, turn left at the sign for canyons of the ancient national monument. The road is ROUGH."
Fire restriction awareness: Check current fire restrictions before bringing cooking equipment. Abigail notes some Canyons of the Ancients sites have established fire pits, mentioning, "We stopped at the overlook and stayed there it had a fire pit and really cool views."
