Tent camping near Bluff, Utah offers options on both eastern and western sides of the region. BLM dispersed camping predominates, with most sites positioned between 4,500-6,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F June through August, while spring and fall provide milder conditions. Access roads to many sites deteriorate significantly after monsoon rains, which typically occur July through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Monticello Lake, anglers can fish the 5-acre lake stocked with Rainbow and Tiger Trout by Utah's Department of Wildlife Resources. The lake sits at 8,700 feet elevation, making it a prime spot for summer fishing when lower elevations become uncomfortably hot.
Explore ancient history: Sand Canyon Road in Canyons of the Ancients offers access to Pueblo ruins and archaeological sites. A camper reports, "We did a 13 mile hike of Pueblo ruins. My partner and I looked for arrowheads all over."
Night sky viewing: Remote locations like Cannonball Mesa provide exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. According to one visitor: "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."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites like Monticello Lake offer relief from summer heat. One camper noted, "This was an awesome site above the heat of the valleys. Quiet other than several fishers."
Privacy and seclusion: Sand Canyon provides numerous secluded spots along a rough access road. A visitor shared: "When coming from the north, turn left at the sign for canyons of the ancient national monument. The road is ROUGH. Driving a Nissan Rogue we only wanted to go the the first spot on the road, it was very bumpy and rocky. However, there were lots of spots and not very many people."
Dramatic views: Many dispersed sites feature panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. At Picket Road BLM, a camper described it as "A big rig friendly place with space for several cars. The road get a little washed out the further you drive in. High clearance and 4x4 recommended especially when it's raining. Stunning view."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas require complete self-sufficiency. Monticello Lake has "No picnic tables, no fire-rings, no dumpsters, no potable water.. however a single vault toilet is by hwy pull off is present. Sites are small, rough and not good for trailers."
Road conditions: Access to prime camping spots often requires appropriate vehicles. At Sand Canyon Road, a visitor advised: "The road is VERY ROUGH. Driving a Nissan Rogue we only wanted to go to the first spot on the road, it was very bumpy and rocky."
Wildlife encounters: Some areas have unusual features that may affect camping experience. One camper at Canyons of the Ancients reported: "There were skeletons and bones everywhere. Very creepy." Another noted: "There was a deer skeleton hung from a tree which is why this review isn't a five."
Tips for camping with families
Weather protection: Sites at higher elevations can experience extreme wind. At Sand Canyon, a camper suggested: "It was VERY windy the night we stayed, so tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection."
Comfortable setup options: For families seeking more amenities, Rent A Tent Monument Valley offers pre-set accommodations. A visitor described: "Fully set up Springbar Tent with a full sized bed, linens, blankets and pillows. Includes a fire-pit & grill."
Hammock opportunities: Some sites provide good tree coverage for hammock camping. A visitor to Sand Canyon noted: "Good hammock in areas, lots of fire pits and hidden places to do your business (responsibly of course)."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed areas have significant restrictions for larger vehicles. At Monticello Lake, a camper advised: "Sites are small, rough and not good for trailers imo."
Road access challenges: Road conditions often determine accessibility for RVs. One visitor to Sand Canyon shared: "Fairly good access road, although we did not venture far as it was only an overnight stop. Would advise caution as a high clearance/4x4 was definitely an advantage once we left the main access road."
Distance considerations: Some of the most scenic sites require planning for isolation. A camper at Sand Canyon noted: "I really wish I could live here but it takes a minute to civilization. Even better."
