Boulder, Utah camping sites range from established campgrounds to dispersed options in areas with elevations between 6,700 and 11,000 feet. Summer temperatures remain mild due to the higher elevation, with typical daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. Boulder Mountain provides multiple camping environments, from desert landscapes to alpine settings.
What to do
Explore petrified forests: Wide Hollow Campground at Escalante State Park offers access to unique geological formations. "The petrified forest trail was nice and we did it early in the am, so no one on the trail until we ended and the sun was just on the rise," notes one visitor. The campground connects directly to hiking trails featuring ancient petrified wood.
Fish local reservoirs: Lower Bowns Reservoir provides productive trout fishing opportunities directly adjacent to the campground. "The lake is easy to fish with lots of hungry trout. The camp site is clean and the mountain air is amazing. Make sure you pack a pontoon boat with you. There is really good fishing only steps away from the campsite," reports a regular visitor.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Several waterfalls accessible from Boulder camping areas require moderate hikes. Calf Creek Falls, a 6-mile round trip hike, delivers access to a 126-foot waterfall. "Calf Creek is close," mentions a camper staying at Lower Bowns Campground. For families seeking easier waterfall access, shorter options include Pleasant Creek Falls.
What campers like
Desert-mountain contrast: The unique juxtaposition of red rock formations against mountain backdrops creates distinctive camping environments. At Sunglow Campground, campers appreciate this natural setting. "The place is true to its name and is surrounded by fiery sunset reflections on the red rocks," notes one visitor who stayed in June.
Night sky viewing: Boulder's location in dark sky territory provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. One camper at Fruita Campground mentioned that "stargazing was incredible!" The limited light pollution makes this area ideal for amateur astronomers and photographers.
Seasonal fruit picking: Several campgrounds near Boulder offer access to historic orchards. Fruita Campground connects directly to fruit trees. According to one visitor, "The campground also backs up to an orchard with a brook running through it. Lots to do in walking distance." Campers can harvest seasonal fruits when available, typically from June through October.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: The Boulder area experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. "We stayed in September and by the middle of the night it was about 20 degrees so bundle up!!" reports a camper who stayed at Ruby's Inn RV Park. Even summer nights can drop below 50°F.
Road access limitations: Several campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. Lower Bowns access involves careful navigation. "The long road down isn't easy with heavy loads, the road is narrow. We had our daughter ride a bike ahead of us before we pulled out of ravine to hold off or warn oncoming traffic," explains one visitor. High-clearance vehicles recommended for some locations.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain seasons. One Sunglow camper advised to "be ready for bugs" explaining they were "swarmed by mosquitos (mid June) so come ready." Water sources around campgrounds contribute to insect populations during warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated play spaces: Some Boulder area campgrounds include designated recreation areas. Thousand Lakes RV Park has "a large park area in the center with a playground and volleyball court. Super kid friendly," according to visitors.
Consider yurt camping: Yurt camping near Boulder, Utah provides families a comfortable alternative to tent camping. Lower Pleasant Creek Campground offers more sheltered accommodations with yurts that include sleeping platforms. The yurts provide sturdy protection from temperature fluctuations common at these elevations.
Select campgrounds with bathroom facilities: When camping with children, established bathrooms improve comfort. Wide Hollow Campground offers "clean bathrooms and showers. Friendly staff. Definitely recommend staying here," according to a visitor. Many established campgrounds in the area maintain flush toilets.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications carefully: RV sites vary significantly between campgrounds. "I originally booked spot 12, which was listed as not suitable for larger RVs. I have a 18' travel trailer and assumed we could fit but I misunderstood the description. It's really only suitable for very small travel trailers (like 8' long) or vans," explains a camper from Wide Hollow.
Reserve utility hookup sites early: Limited full-hookup sites fill quickly during peak season. "Sites are very close together, but to make up for it, trails, petrified forest and, showers for free," notes a visitor to Wide Hollow Campground. Electrical capacity can vary between sites, particularly during high-demand periods.
Consider wind exposure: Many RV sites in this region experience significant wind. Sand Creek RV Park visitors reported: "The site had nice views but is very exposed and very very windy which means we kept time outside of the van to a minimum as it wasn't very relaxing." Some campgrounds provide wind breaks for tent sites.
