Best Campgrounds near Castle Dale, UT

Castle Dale in central Utah provides diverse camping experiences across state parks, BLM lands, and Forest Service areas. The area features notable destinations like the Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping area and Millsite State Park Campground, offering free primitive sites and full-hookup options for RVs. Several campgrounds in the vicinity include Wedge Overlook for dispersed camping and Joe's Valley Reservoir for lakeside recreation. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, while specialized sites like Swell Retreat offer unique amenities including a pond with water activities.

Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with many sites open from spring through fall. The higher elevation sites at Joe's Valley typically operate from mid-May through late October, while lower elevation options like Huntington State Park remain accessible from April through October. Many campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, though water availability is limited at dispersed sites. Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds, especially during peak summer months. According to one visitor, "There are a fair amount of people boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking around the shoreline near the marina, but I didn't feel it was too crowded at all."

Waterfront camping proves particularly popular in this desert landscape. Millsite State Park offers lakeside sites with views of the reservoir and nearby mountains, while Joe's Valley Reservoir provides both developed campgrounds and dispersed options along the shoreline. Campers frequently mention the scenic beauty of the red and grey rock formations surrounding these water features. A reviewer noted that "The geology is beautiful. The red and grey rock mountains are indescribably peaceful." Beyond water recreation, the area attracts visitors for bouldering at New Joe's Bouldering Area, hiking in Ferron Canyon, and exploring the San Rafael Swell. Family-friendly options include Swell Retreat with its pond activities, zip line, and water park features. Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours, though some visitors report generator noise at more developed RV-focused areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Castle Dale, Utah (180)

    1. Wedge Overlook

    22 Reviews
    Castle Dale, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 636-3600

    "Closest town is Castle Dale 20 mi away. Road access is a wide graded gravel road from Castle Dale."

    "This is a free campground on public lands (BLM) in Utah’s San Rafael Swell. There is one vault toilet and a few campsites along the edge of a beautiful canyon carved by the San Rafael River."

    2. Millsite State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Ferron, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 384-2552

    $25 - $30 / night

    "They were redoing the Dam while we were there last, so we couldn’t enjoy the lake. We did, however, head up the mountain and had some good success fishing close by."

    "I selected the Millsite Campground because of its proximity to the Moore Cutoff road’s interesting geology, located a few miles away."

    3. Swell Retreat

    2 Reviews
    Castle Dale, UT
    1 mile

    $25 - $1000 / night

    "It was so nice to have access to paddle boards, kayaks, and a peddle boat. We loved evening walks to see the horses."

    4. Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Castle Dale, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 636-3600

    "We grabbed a dispersed site near the east Goldwater rim trailhead. Excellent pit toilets at the three trailheads. Bring plenty of water as there is none available. The views are unbelievable."

    "This was my favorite camp site of this Utah trip."

    5. Joes Valley Reservoir

    8 Reviews
    Orangeville, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 384-2372

    $10 - $18 / night

    "Weren’t too many campers around. Lots of trees for shade. Lake is drying up and looks a bit sad."

    "Right near the reservoir, I had a freat, secluded time, while in between bouldering seasion. Will visit again but will camp roght outside park with the other renegades"

    6. Joe’s Valley Camping

    1 Review
    Orangeville, UT
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 748-9125

    $18 - $695 / night

    7. Esquire Estates Mobile Home and RV Park

    1 Review
    Castle Dale, UT
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 749-4920

    "We love going to this Park in Castle Dale.  Castle Dale has so much to offer us because we have 3 kids and there is so much to do in the area. "

    8. New Joe's Bouldering Area Campground

    2 Reviews
    Orangeville, UT
    7 miles
    +1 (435) 636-3600

    9. Huntington State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Huntington, UT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 687-2491

    $30 - $33 / night

    "This is away from the noise of I-70; however, a train runs quite close to the campground, thus the 4 star review instead of 5.  It doesn't come by that often. "

    "Beautiful location, great facilities, superior maintenance. Ranger was friendly and efficient. Spacious campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and trees."

    10. Buckhorn RV Park and Resort

    1 Review
    Huntington, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 557-0527

    $24 - $148 / night

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Recent Reviews near Castle Dale, UT

543 Reviews of 180 Castle Dale Campgrounds


  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Fish Lake National Forest

    Great spot just off the HWY

    Pulled about 3/4 mile back from the coordinates, into the trees. Quiet and beautiful

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Buckhorn Draw Wickiup Site Dispersed Camp

    Amazing Features and Easy Navigation

    I loved everything about this app, and the way it’s organized. You are able to find all of the free dispersed camping sites that this app gives you with everyone reviews that are so helpful.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Green River State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    We have been to a lot of campgrounds in the past 30 years if camping and this campground is amazing. It's absolutely beautiful. One of my favorite so far.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    West Temple Road in Goblin Valley

    Elevated spots with great views

    Parking lot and a dirt road with isolated spots on a hilltop with great views of rocks and distant buttes.

  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Rochester Rock Camping

    Great Spot with Big Views

    A handful of spots, some with fire rings. Easy in/out. Camping is only 5 mins down the dirt road that is very good for 2WD. So the hike to the petroglyphs, it’s 1 mile RT.

  • Patrick M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Goblin Valley Rd BLM

    Simple dispersed camping site

    Got it at 9PM night, pitch black outside but we were able to quickly get a place to camp. Setup was super quick, almost completely level.

  • Cindy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Rock Reservoir

    Okay for night stay

    Found level spot just off the road. Not gorgeous, but nice distant views. Perfect for overnight.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Manti - La Sal KOA

    Perfect Location to jump on the Arapeen trail

    This KOA is daily straight forward. Has everything you will need. Laundry only had on machine working but I was able to get all mine done while we were here. Has a game room with a family room area and a large TV. We were able to ride our side by side from this location right onto the Arapeen trail. The main office will give you a simple map on how to get there and they also sell the trail maps for $10.50. Wanted to use the pool but it was closed for the season.


Guide to Castle Dale

Camping near Castle Dale, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Explore local attractions: The charming town of Helper is just a short walk from Castle Gate RV Park. Visitors can enjoy museums, restaurants, and art galleries. One reviewer mentioned, "You can take off straight from your campsite!" highlighting the convenience of nearby hiking trails.
  • Hit the trails: There are numerous hiking and OHV trails around the area. One camper noted, "The views are breathtaking and we enjoyed a site right on the canyon edge," which speaks to the stunning scenery you can find while exploring.
  • Enjoy water activities: Millsite State Park Campground is perfect for fishing and boating. A visitor shared, "Plenty of fish to catch off the shore or in a boat," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One review for Castle Gate RV Park stated, "Bathroom and showers were immaculate and such a nice bonus."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites with plenty of room. A camper at Wedge Overlook mentioned, "Large sites with plenty of room between sites," making it comfortable for families and groups.
  • Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. A review for Blue Cut RV Park noted, "Michelle and her husband are very friendly and easy to talk with," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or trains. A visitor at Castle Gate RV Park mentioned, "Only con was road and train noise," so be prepared if you're sensitive to sound.
  • Limited amenities at dispersed sites: If you choose to camp at places like Wedge Overlook, keep in mind that there are no developed facilities. One camper pointed out, "No developed fee CG, NO WATER, no dumpsters," so plan accordingly.
  • Pack out what you bring: Many dispersed camping areas, such as Exit 131 Dispersed Camping, require you to take your trash with you. A reviewer noted, "You are required to pack everything out," so be prepared to manage your waste.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and splash pads. A family at Castle Gate RV Park enjoyed the "playground and splash pad while I knocked out some laundry."
  • Choose spacious sites: Opt for campgrounds that offer larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Wedge Overlook appreciated the "large sites with plenty of room between sites."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of nearby attractions and activities. One visitor mentioned, "There are hiking trails galore nearby," which is great for keeping kids entertained.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Millsite State Park Campground offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A reviewer said, "Easy pull through sites in the electric and water hookup area."
  • Be mindful of space: Some RV parks have smaller sites. A camper at Blue Cut RV Park noted, "Spots are small," so check the site dimensions before booking.
  • Prepare for noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds away from highways or train tracks. A visitor at Castle Gate RV Park mentioned the noise from the road and train, which could be a factor for light sleepers.

Camping near Castle Dale, Utah, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Castle Dale, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Castle Dale, UT offers a wide range of camping options, with 180 campgrounds and RV parks near Castle Dale, UT and 63 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Castle Dale, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Castle Dale, UT is Wedge Overlook with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Castle Dale, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 63 free dispersed camping spots near Castle Dale, UT.