Wide Hollow Campground at Escalante State Park offers both developed camping and glamping accommodations near a scenic reservoir. The campground provides free 8-minute showers, clean restroom facilities, and access to hiking trails through a petrified forest. Sites vary in shade coverage and layout. The newer section added in 2024 has less tree coverage than the original camping areas. Summer water levels in the reservoir fluctuate, which may impact water recreation options.
What to do
Explore petrified forests: Visit the trails at Wide Hollow Campground to see ancient petrified wood. "Trails through petrified forest were interesting especially trails of sleeping rainbows although there were a couple short strenuous spots," notes Jen B. The petrified landscape contains colorful minerals that resemble gemstones.
Watch for wildlife: The area around Escalante provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially at dawn and dusk. At Lower Bowns, campers can fish at the reservoir. "The lake is easy to fish with lots of hungry trout. The camp site is clean and the mountain air is amazing," says Brad B., who recommends bringing a pontoon boat for fishing access.
Take advantage of water recreation: Kayak rentals are available at Wide Hollow Reservoir during appropriate seasons. "The reservoir was looking low but still beautiful. You can rent kayaks there," mentions Jen B. Water levels may vary throughout summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campsites near Escalante maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Pleasant Creek Campground, campers appreciate the maintenance standards. "Very clean bathrooms and showers. Campground is peaceful with a nice view of the reservoir. Friendly staff," writes Mery M. about her experience at a nearby location.
Tent-friendly yurt options: Yurt camping near Escalante, Utah provides a middle ground between tents and cabins. The Bryce Canyon RV Resort by Rjourney offers yurt accommodations along with traditional camping options. "Nice park..clean restrooms, conveniently located to visit Bryce canyon NP and Kodachrome state park...pull thru sites, level," writes Chuck T.
Natural soundscapes: Campers often note the peaceful ambient sounds at many Escalante area campsites. "We were by the creek so we were able to listen to it which was awesome," shares Allie S. about Pleasant Creek Campground, where running water adds a relaxing background noise to the camping experience.
What you should know
Dirt access roads require caution: Some camping areas have rough approach roads. At Lower Bowns, Justin A. advises: "The long road down isn't easy with heavy loads, the road is narrow. We thought it was wise to put it in 4WD high but transmission in low, to grind out of the washboard roads and steep grades."
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds allow walk-ups, popular sites fill quickly. "We were at a walk in site in Loop A and it was beautiful. It's first come first served which makes getting a site very difficult on weekends," explains Samantha R. about Fruita Campground.
Site descriptions may not match reality: Always have a backup plan if your reserved site isn't as expected. "I reserved site 16... The site was nothing as described. They have clearly been upgrading the service road that borders the site and the construction has had a major impact," reports Meghan M. about her disappointing experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer special features for children. At Wide Hollow, Ashlee W. notes: "The showers were clean and large. It was a very nice amenity for our toddler. The shower room is big with an area to hang clothes and another area to shower. This was very helpful with a three year old."
Choose sites with natural boundaries: When camping with kids, look for locations with natural site separation. "The sites were very close together, but to make up for it, trails, petrified forest and, showers for free," explains a camper named J about their experience at Wide Hollow Campground.
Consider temperature variations: Escalante's elevation means significant temperature drops after sunset, even in summer. "We stayed in September and by the middle of the night it was about 20 degrees so bundle up!!" warns Emily about her stay at Rubys Inn RV Park and Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites vary widely in size and layout. "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," cautions Jen B.
Water access requires planning: RV hookups may not be conveniently located at all sites. Mark M. observes at Wide Hollow Campground: "Water taps are not easy to spot and basically require a lengthy hose or to park in a neighbor's spot to avail, but we did this stealth and no one was inconvenienced."
Consider seasonality for yurt camping: Yurt camping near Escalante, Utah provides better insulation than tents during temperature swings. "Bryce Canyon is COLD this time of year, so the ground was covered with snow, but we expected this and packed accordingly," notes Dani S. about her experience at Bryce Canyon Pines Campground.
