Best Tent Camping near Blanding, UT
Tent campsites in the Blanding, Utah region range from primitive dispersed sites to backcountry locations requiring permits. Picket Road BLM offers free tent camping with minimal amenities and stunning views, while Monticello Lake provides a small mountain setting for tent campers about 30 miles north of Blanding. For experienced backpackers, the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park contains numerous designated backcountry tent sites including Elephant Canyon and Chesler Park campsites, accessible via hiking trails.
Most dispersed tent camping areas near Blanding lack basic facilities, requiring campers to pack in all water and supplies. The terrain varies significantly, with high-elevation sites often situated on uneven ground among oak trees and lower desert locations on sandy or rocky surfaces. A camper noted that "the road gets a little washed out the further you drive in. High clearance and 4x4 recommended especially when it's raining." Fire regulations change seasonally, with restrictions common during summer months. At Monticello Lake, a single vault toilet is available near the highway pullout, but no designated fire rings, picnic tables, or potable water sources exist.
Areas farther from Blanding typically offer more seclusion but require additional preparation. Tent campers at higher elevations like Monticello Lake (8,700 feet) experience cooler temperatures even during summer months. A review mentioned that sites at Monticello Lake are "small, rough and not good for trailers," making them more suitable for tent campers seeking a remote experience. Backcountry tent sites in Canyonlands National Park require permits and adherence to strict Leave No Trace principles, including carrying WAG bags for human waste. These sites provide exceptional star-gazing opportunities and access to hiking trails through unique desert terrain. Most backcountry tent areas are accessible only by foot, with some requiring hikes of 2-5 miles from the nearest trailhead, ensuring solitude but demanding proper planning and sufficient water supplies.
