Dispersed camping in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers primitive tent campsites near Escalante, Utah at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F in lower areas, while higher elevations remain 10-15 degrees cooler. The region consists primarily of sandstone formations with limited natural shade, making campsite selection particularly important during hot months.
What to do
Explore slot canyons: Multiple trailheads near Little Spencer Flat provide access to the area's famous slot canyons. "Short drive to Escalante, and reasonable drive to various hikes in the park," notes one camper, highlighting the convenient location for day hiking.
Wildlife viewing at higher elevations: The cooler temperatures at Hells Backbone camping areas make them ideal for wildlife spotting. "Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night. It's very clean with a few fire pits and is a great temperature in early August," reports a visitor who appreciated the moderate climate.
Visit Kodachrome Basin: Camp at Rock Springs Bench for easy access to this less-crowded state park. A camper shares, "We came here on a Friday night in mid-June before exploring Kodachrome Basin State Park. I could not believe how close we were to the state park without having any other people around."
What campers like
Seasonal temperature variations: While Escalante valley can be extremely hot, the dispersed camping spots at Burr Trail Rd offer climate options. "Love this area in Oct. heading back this year. Found a great spot with a bit of a trail right from our site. Pack it out. No services," mentions one reviewer who enjoyed the fall weather.
Solitude and distance between sites: Many tent campsites maintain privacy even during busy periods. "We chose one on the cliff edge, and had no one else in site... Great stars! Short drive to Escalante, and reasonable drive to various hikes in the park," says a camper at Little Spencer Flat.
Winter camping options: The region offers year-round tent camping with specific benefits during colder months. "In the beginning of March during the week I was the only one around. I would agree that there aren't many spots available on this road; I counted like 6-8ish spots," reports a winter camper who enjoyed the solitude.
What you should know
Animal encounters are common: Prepare for wildlife visits at tent sites throughout the area. At Durffey Mesa, campers found "a nice spot on right side, end of a big gravel looking parking lot. Just below two big rock formations and beside a dry creek bed." Be aware that wildlife may visit your site overnight.
Sand can be problematic: The sandy soil affects both driving and camping comfort. "Although the sand wasn't a surprise, i was shocked at how much it stuck to everything LOL! But the site had lots of dedicated spots for camping and went on the quite a few miles," notes a camper who found tracks near their vehicle overnight.
Road conditions vary: Access to many camping areas requires careful driving. "The road in isn't very rough, just lots of sand and small bumps," reports one camper, while others note some roads can become impassable when wet, particularly at Rock Springs Bench where "dirt access road can get impassable when it rains (and believe them when they say impassable!)."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for amenities: Families may appreciate Escalante Outfitters for its basic services. "The showers had plenty of HOT water, which after four days without a shower, was like heaven to us," shares a visitor who appreciated the facilities after several days of primitive camping.
Consider higher elevations in summer: Families with children will find more comfortable temperatures at higher-elevation tent sites. "Coming from Escalante, this site was one of the first high up the mountain that offered a long line of site. We pulled our van right in. There's plenty of space and nice trees. Even though Escalante was hot, it was nice up here," reports a camper at Hells Backbone.
Plan for wind exposure: Many ridge campsites experience significant wind that can affect tent stability and comfort. "It was pretty windy when I was here in April," notes one camper about the exposed sites at Little Spencer Flat, suggesting families consider more sheltered locations.
Tips from RVers
Check site accessibility: While many dispersed camping areas accept RVs, road conditions can limit access. "40+ foot 5th wheel, 4x4 Ram. After a conversation with the Info center in Cannonville, we chose to drive through Long Canyon, past the Long Canyon overlook to Wolverine Loop Road. It was a 50-55 minute drive from Boulder," shares an RVer who successfully navigated to a remote site.
Limited amenities require preparation: Most dispersed sites near Escalante lack basic services. "Approx 30 to 45 min from Boulder. There are various sites scattered around. Some have fire pits that previous users have built. There are absolutely no services or amenities here," notes a camper at Burr Trail Rd who recommends proper preparation.
