Dispersed camping around Escalante, Utah offers easy access to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 7,000 feet. This high desert region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Most dispersed sites feature sandy terrain with juniper and pinyon pine providing limited natural shade.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: The 6-mile round trip hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls starts directly from Calf Creek Campground and rewards with a 126-foot waterfall. "Lower Calf Creek hike is located in Grand Staircase Escalante, 5 hours away from Las Vegas, Nevada. The hike itself is 6 miles round trip with beautiful scenery and a beautiful waterfall at the end. Go during the summer time when the water is warmer so you take a dip in the waterfall," suggests Alex B.
Visit petrified wood formations: The Petrified Forest Trail at Lake View Campground — Escalante State Park offers unique geological formations. "The rainbow loop is a little tough but well worth it," notes Doris D. The trail showcases colorful petrified wood specimens throughout a moderate hiking loop.
Explore slot canyons: Access several narrow slot canyons from the dispersed camping areas along Hole in the Rock Road. "We did Zebra Canyon. Hole in the rock road gives access to several slot canyons," shares a camper named Sar. Bring plenty of water and check weather conditions before entering any slot canyon.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Canyons of Escalante RV Park offers thoughtfully designed site separation. "Each site has a dividing fence with plenty of room in between. The owners know how bad RV parks could be. Never seen cleaner facilities with a spacious laundry room, showers, etc," reports Chuck H.
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "We were able to get DISH coverage on all three western satellites at our site. There were also 37 OTA channels to be had with our fixed omni antenna," mentions Ray & Terri F. about their stay at Haycock Ranch Road BLM.
Reservoir access: Wide Hollow Campground — Escalante State Park provides water recreation opportunities. "The reservoir was looking low but still beautiful. You can rent kayaks there," notes Jen B. The reservoir offers a welcome respite from summer heat.
What you should know
Dust and wind challenges: Sandy soil throughout the region creates dust issues, particularly at dispersed sites. "I had to abandon my campsite because the dirt blowing around was so bad that I couldn't prevent it from getting in my tent. I would not recommend tent camping here," warns Scott about Haycock Ranch Road BLM.
Limited shade options: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal natural shade. "Spencer Flat Rd well marked. You may need to drive two or three miles down the dirt road to find an open site, but keep going there are some nice sites further in," advises Brendan B.
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires driving on unpaved roads. "The road is quite horrendous, but the camping is great. Good cell service. Dumpsters near the entrance," notes Meghan B. regarding Hole in the Rock Road dispersed camping.
Tips for camping with families
Best shower facilities: When camping with kids, clean facilities matter. "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," shares Ashlee W. about Wide Hollow Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. "We were visited at night by a baby owl and in the morning we were visited by some yellow birds. Dark enough to see a show of shooting stars," describes Geraldine G. about her experience at Calf Creek Campground.
Pet-friendly hiking options: For families with dogs, Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping provides excellent pet-friendly trails. "Loved camping here in our van. Quiet and beautiful views," notes Courtney S. The wide open terrain gives pets room to explore while staying under control.
Tips from RVers
RV site spacing: RVers appreciate well-designed parks with adequate space. "Sites are all dirt and gravel (which I'm fine with) however they are so tight if you have a slide out your awning is in your neighbors area. They are all full hookups that's a plus," explains Matthew S. about Canyons of Escalante RV Park.
Best big rig access: Larger RVs need specific dispersed camping areas. "Super convenient with easy access off Route 12. Lots of level, open spaces short distance from entrance. Great basic dispersed camping in a 34 ft Class A motorhome with towed vehicle," recommends Tim H. about pet-friendly camping near Escalante, Utah at Hole in the Rock Road.
Water connection planning: Given the region's temperature fluctuations, RVers should prepare accordingly. "We were here for 7 nights mid-November. It was very cold so we had to disconnect water at night but hook-ups were easy to use and worked well. Sites are gravel, fairly level and very large," advises Marianne G.
