H
Hannah B.
Scout
ScoutMountain Valley RV Resort
Feb Ski Trip
Loved this spot! Very affordable, great amenities.
Top 10+ Utah Campgrounds
Utah's camping landscape stretches from developed RV parks to remote backcountry sites, encompassing destinations like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and Arches. Major campgrounds such as Watchman, South, and Devils Garden provide established camping with varying amenity levels, while dispersed options like Tom Best Spring Road in Dixie National Forest offer free, primitive alternatives. The region includes both tent and RV sites, with some locations featuring cabin accommodations and glamping options. National park campgrounds typically provide toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables, while national forest dispersed camping offers solitude with minimal amenities.
Road conditions across Utah camping areas vary significantly by location and season, with some dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles for access. Campgrounds like those in Zion National Park operate year-round, while Devils Garden in Arches closes seasonally from November through February. Many national park campgrounds require reservations months in advance, particularly during the peak summer season. Elevation differences create varied climate conditions, with higher-elevation sites experiencing cooler temperatures even in summer. Flash flooding can impact low-lying areas and wash out access roads unexpectedly. "The area is absolutely beautiful but we drive a ford escape and couldn't get very far on the road as it was very eroded! Lucky if you have a higher clearance vehicle," noted one camper about Henrieville Creek in Grand Staircase.
Campers report varying experiences with privacy and solitude depending on location choice. Dispersed sites generally offer more seclusion, while established campgrounds provide consistent amenities but less isolation. National park campgrounds fill quickly during peak season, with visitors recommending early reservations. One visitor described their experience at a Forest Service dispersed site: "Great off grid spot, nice tracks off the main gravel road you can park up at. Clear spots with plenty of pine cones and firewood lying around." Cell service remains spotty throughout much of Utah's backcountry, with better coverage near towns and highways. Mixed-use campgrounds offering both RV hookups and tent sites present compromise options between amenities and natural setting, particularly along major travel corridors near national parks.
Best Camping Sites in Utah (1,697)
1. Watchman Campground — Zion National Park
248 ReviewsSpringdale, UTWebsite+1 (435) 772-3837$35 - $130 / night
"Sites were typical National Park, small and close together but well positioned. We had close access to a modern restroom that was clean and well maintained. "
"Watchman is conveniently located within walking distance of the Zion National Park south entrance. The camp sites are shaded with trees and red gravel/sand ground structure."
2. Devils Garden Campground — Arches National Park
96 ReviewsMoab, UTWebsite+1 (435) 719-2299$25 - $250 / night
"This campground is surrounded by tall majestic rocks high in the Utah desert. Well located to visit several National parks. Toilets and water scattered around this large site."
"Depending on how far you want to walk, there is access to several of the park's arches right from the campsite. Beware of Ravens!"
3. Fruita Campground — Capitol Reef National Park
89 ReviewsTorrey, UTWebsite+1 (435) 425-4172$25 / night
"One of our favorite campgrounds in southern Utah nestled in the Capitol Reef National Park."
"There are lots of trees and shade and after driving through the desert it’s crazy to find this oasis tucked back behind these big beautiful rocks 🏜. The sites are a good size and comfortable."
4. South Campground — Zion National Park
91 ReviewsSpringdale, UTWebsite+1 (435) 772-3256$35 - $50 / night
"Perfect location just a short walk away from the visitors center where you catch the shuttle into the park, or exit to catch the shuttle to Springdale. Clean bathrooms. No shade at site 125."
"The drive in from the Eastern entrance is simply incredible and full of epic photo ops. Zion reminds me of Yosemite Valley in some ways."
5. Zion Canyon Campground
91 ReviewsSpringdale, UTWebsite+1 (435) 772-3237"Lovely spot with a river running along one side, but only people with river spots have access to it! Conveniently within the nice town of Springdale and very close to park entrance."
"The location is definitely a highlight, it’s just a short walk to the park entrance, which made getting in and out of Zion really convenient. "
6. North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park
82 ReviewsTropic, UTWebsite+1 (435) 834-5322$30 / night
"The sites are tucked into cozy piney woods that belies the massive red, rocky hoodoos just a few yards away in the amphitheater. "
"I was only able to spend a short time here on my Utah National Park road trip this year but I really fell in love with this place."
7. Rubys Inn RV Park and Campground
79 ReviewsFern Ridge Lake, ORWebsite+1 (435) 834-5341"Campground Review Ruby’s Inn RV Park and Campground Definitely the closest campground outside of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah with all the amenities (absolutely positively everything) and even"
"Our camper was nestled in the trees with a hill behind the camper, where we could also explore."
8. Zion River Resort
76 ReviewsVirgin, UTWebsite+1 (888) 822-8594"At the site we were on there was a creek behind us which we loved and so did our dogs! Friendly neighbors! Beautiful place. Located close to Zion park. A lot of off road adventures near by"
"The park is 10minutes away from Zion National Park and about 2hrs from Bryce Canyon. The park is adjacent to the Virgin River. Walking path to the river is great for kids."
9. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest
71 ReviewsTropic, UTWebsite+1 (435) 865-3700"Lots of great trails close by and super close to the park entrance - all for FREE! Couldn’t ask for more!"
"Physically cooler than other Utah spots due to the trees. Could even set up a hammock if you wanted. Wifi (Verizon) was decent. Easy road in."
10. Utahraptor State Park Campground
69 ReviewsMoab, UTWebsite+1 (435) 259-3770$15 - $50 / night
"Lots of room for over 100 rigs, tents, vans, though some are in close proximity to each other."
"My class b van handled the road well. 15 dollars paid through the Utah park ap."
Recent Camping Photos in Utah
2509 Photos of 1697 Utah Campgrounds
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Te-ah
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Spencer L.
Wall Lake Dispersed Campground
Recent Reviews in Utah
9611 Reviews of 1697 Utah Campgrounds
- SSarah V.Scout
Hidden Springs Rv Resort
Wholesome, gorgeous with RV sites, tiny homes and suites
Loved our stay with Hidden Springs RV Resort in Ivins, UT. My parents drive an RV so we like to try to find places that accommodate them but also allow us to visit in the same campus but without a rig. We stayed in a suite and a tiny home over the course of our stay. Both were very nice but the tiny home was extra magical for my 7 year old daughter. We loved the pool, hot tub, fire pit, and all the thoughtful details that made life a little bit easier. The suite and the tiny home were both well appointed and had everything you could need. It was also great that we could get pizza delivered. Convenient to Snow Canyon State Park. Also, I was traveling with just my daughter and I felt very safe, this is a family-friendly, family-focused RV park. Their showers and laundry room are very nice. It's an elevated, luxurious experience in many ways. If we are ever back in Ivins, we will stay here again. Thank you!
Michael K.ScoutBLM Navajo Rd Dispersed
Hidden Gem!
My wife and I arrived to the St. George area late night (past midnight), looking for a place to stop, with plans to hit up the Green Valley mountain biking trails the next morning. We saw there was BLM land nearby, so decided to check it out. You head out of town through a quiet neighborhood on the southwest side of town via Navajo Dr, which becomes Apex Mine Rd as the pavement ends. The road takes you right past the New Bearclaw Poppy Navajo trailhead (quite a mouthful!), but then you have to keep going about 3 miles before you hit BLM land, which is clearly posted as you cross into it.
We found a nice flat spot maybe another half-mile in, and woke up to a stunning panoramic vista with not a soul in site. It was a Thursday morning, so maybe not surprising. I believe there are a lot of ATV trails in this area, so might be different on weekend.
- JJerry S.Scout
Manti - La Sal KOA
Feels like your camping in the deep woods!
Not too far off the highway and I felt like I was up deep in the mountains. This park is beyond pretty. Staff was great. All around great visit.
Cable A.
RangerWatchman Campground — Zion National Park
Nice national park campground
The campground is half open, it’s February currently. During Presidents Day weekend, the campground was sold out. During the week, the sites without electricity are nearly empty. The sites with electricity are busier with the larger RVs. The bathroom buildings are clean and the is a dishwashing sink as well as a water fill. There is a dump station for your tanks too.
- EElise F.
TravelerSalt Lake City KOA
Winter camping in Salt Lake City
We winter camped here so we could ski. It’s a great location about 40-50 minutes to 6 resorts. It is in the city so not in the wilderness but all the sites have one tree and a patch of grass and a picnic table. There is a small off leash dog pen and a self dog wash. Also hot tub, showers, toilets that were clean. We did not use the hot tub or the laundry. The campground is well maintained. Our first site was slightly unleveled so we asked to switch and they accommodated that request. We did have to pay a little extra for that site. We stayed a total of 3 nights. We were going to stay longer but learned that you can’t have dogs in Cottonwood Canyon which meant we couldn’t ski at those resorts so we asked to get out of our reservation early and the KOA accommodated that as well.
- SSandraTraveler
Pine Creek Campground — Wasatch Mountain State Park
Stayed in yurt
The yurt was a great experience during the winter. The entire campground was closed, except for the yurt and the couple cabins on site. It was super quiet. It had 2 electric fireplaces which kept the yurt nice and toasty. It has a bunk bed with queen size mattresses which were comfy. There was a refrigerator and microwave. There is access to potable water right outside the yurt. You do have to walk about 500 yards to the yurt from the parking space, but the privacy is worth it. Rate was $75 per night during the week and $100 per night during the weekend. I will definitely be returning.
Angela M.
GuideHurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #39
Dispersed camping
Bumpy road getting to the primitive road turnoff where the designated campsites are. Packed dirt road where sites 40-48 are, but difficult to find a spot where vehicle is if you’re staying in a rv/van. Road washed out in some places. Fire pits at spaces. Must camp in a designated campsite here. Right next to the JEM trail for mountain biking. Lots of bikers. Easy access from site.
Manuel R.GuideAlstrom Point
Amazing views
Alstrom point is worth the drive, most of the trail can be done no problem in a small crossover. But there’s a point that gets really rocky and you’ll certainly want a taller vehicle. ( I’ve seen Subaru outbacks up here )
The road does turn into clay if it rains and it’s not drivable. be warned.
Guide to Utah
Camping in Utah offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're into dispersed camping or prefer established campgrounds, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Explore the Outdoors: Utah is known for its breathtaking scenery. At Wedge Overlook, one reviewer said, “The views are breathtaking and we enjoyed a site right on the canyon edge.”
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Payson Lakes, are great for fishing. A visitor noted, “It is a fantastic place to bring your kids for fishing.”
- Hiking: Trails abound in Utah. One camper at Diamond Fork mentioned, “There are plenty of areas to do dispersed camping up diamond fork. With a bonus of being able to hike to some of the better hot springs close to salt lake.”
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A review for Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area highlighted, “There are some pretty mountain views.”
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of room. One camper at Castle Gate RV Park said, “Large sites with plenty of room between sites.”
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds like Fillmore KOA have great facilities. A visitor shared, “The pool and jacuzzi, little bit of shade. The grass is nice and well maintained.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wedge Overlook, have minimal facilities. One reviewer pointed out, “No developed fee CG, NO WATER, no dumpsters.”
- Crowds: Popular spots can get busy. A camper at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area noted, “The dispersed camping area pretty much fills up overnight.”
- Road Conditions: Access can be tricky. A visitor at Diamond Fork mentioned, “High clearance with all wheel or 4-wheel drive recommended until the snow melts.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities. One parent at Castle Gate RV Park said, “Our kids enjoyed their time at the playground and splash pad.”
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have fishing gear or hiking plans. A camper at Payson Lakes said, “It’s a beautiful spot with lots of hiking and shade.”
- Check Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather. A family at Yuba Campground mentioned, “We arrived during a snow storm, off season camping was first come first serve.”
Tips from RVers
- Look for Big Rig Friendly Spots: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A reviewer at Castle Gate RV Park noted, “This RV park was such a great stop along our road trip.”
- Check for Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. One RV traveler at Mystic Hot Springs appreciated, “Full hookup for EV charge was great!”
- Be Mindful of Road Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Richfield KOA mentioned, “I-15 noise. Tent campers a good set of noise canceling ear buds will take care of it.”
Camping in Utah can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Utah for scenic views?
What are the best campgrounds in Utah for scenic views?
Utah offers spectacular scenic camping experiences throughout the state. Goblin Valley State Park Campground provides access to a bizarre landscape of unique rock formations resembling goblins, perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Kodachrome Basin State Park features campsites surrounded by stunning red rock cliffs and colorful mountains, with easy access to Bryce Canyon National Park. Other notable options include Devil's Garden in Arches National Park for stargazing and rock formations, Capitol Reef's Fruita Campground for fruit orchards against red rock backdrops, and Monument Valley KOA for iconic desert vistas. The best scenic campgrounds typically require reservations well in advance during peak season (April-October).
When is the ideal time to go camping in Utah based on weather and crowds?
When is the ideal time to go camping in Utah based on weather and crowds?
The ideal camping season in Utah runs from late spring (May) to early fall (October), with specific timing depending on your destination's elevation. Oasis Campground — Yuba State Park offers excellent early season camping when state parks open in spring, with beautiful lake views and fewer crowds. For summer camping, higher elevation sites like Navajo Lake Campground in Dixie National Forest provide cooler temperatures. Southern Utah desert regions are best in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate. Northern Utah mountain campgrounds typically open later (June) and close earlier (September) due to snow. To avoid crowds, consider weekday visits and shoulder seasons, especially around popular national parks where summer crowds can be intense.
Where can I find free dispersed camping areas in Utah?
Where can I find free dispersed camping areas in Utah?
Utah offers abundant free dispersed camping opportunities on public lands. Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry provides free dispersed camping with no amenities near Utah Lake. This area is popular for off-road vehicles with established fire rings in common camping spots. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 in Dixie National Forest offers free dispersed camping with big-rig access. Additional dispersed camping can be found throughout Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands near Moab, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and surrounding national forests. Remember to pack out all trash, bring sufficient water, and follow fire regulations. Most dispersed sites require self-containment with no facilities, and camping is typically limited to 14 days in the same location.
Do I need permits for camping in Utah's national parks and public lands?
Do I need permits for camping in Utah's national parks and public lands?
Permit requirements vary across Utah's public lands. At national parks like Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park, developed campgrounds require reservations which effectively serve as your permit. Most can be booked through recreation.gov up to six months in advance. Backcountry camping in national parks always requires wilderness permits, which have limited availability and should be reserved early. For state parks like Pine Creek Campground — Wasatch Mountain State Park, reservations are typically required and serve as your permit. BLM and Forest Service dispersed camping generally doesn't require permits, but specific high-use areas may have registration systems. Always check official websites before your trip, as permit systems change seasonally and may have different requirements during fire restrictions.
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