Camping options near Gunlock, Utah range from designated campgrounds to remote dispersed sites at elevations between 3,800 and 5,500 feet. The region experiences hot summer days that often exceed 100°F while nights cool considerably, especially in spring and fall when temperature swings of 30-40 degrees are common. Many campgrounds in the area remain open year-round due to the mild winter climate, with seasonal closures primarily affecting higher-elevation sites.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: For equestrians seeking trails beyond Pine Valley, several options exist within 45 minutes of Gunlock. Zion Wright Family Ranch connects to riding trails that offer views across the canyon. One visitor noted, "We were able to take a 2 hour horse back ride around the ranch which is a must! The ranch is huge and you can pick and chose which ever spot you like."
Explore volcanic landscapes: The region around Gunlock features distinctive volcanic formations and desert ecosystems. Snow Canyon State Park Campground offers access to unique geological features. A camper remarked, "Great red rock/lava flow hiking trail options, most are easy/moderate, nice loop through Snow Canyon and around on mesa and back for road cycling."
Swimming and cooling off: During summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, water access becomes essential. Toquerville Falls Primitive provides natural swimming opportunities. A visitor shared, "Beautiful waterfalls that fall into a crater like pool. The water continues to flow down for miles. It is very peaceful at night especially hearing the water fall flow."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures at higher elevations: The varied terrain around Gunlock creates microclimates where campers can escape summer heat. Pine Valley Equestrian Campground sits at higher elevation, providing relief from valley temperatures. A camper noted, "Gets cooler at night, great for the fire and sleeping. A nice break from the heat of the Valley."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote locations and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor to County Hwy 5/BLM 1069 Dispersed described the experience: "If you want wilderness this is the place. Get out into the parashant and it's all yours. There's nothing there but what God put there and a few people left behind."
Privacy at dispersed sites: Many campers appreciate the solitude available at dispersed sites across BLM land. One camper at Pine Valley Equestrian Campground mentioned, "Very quiet campground and felt like we were alone. Can't see other sites. Horse stables away from tents and didn't smell at all."
What you should know
Road conditions and access: Many equestrian-friendly sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Toquerville Falls Primitive, a reviewer warned, "This trail has 3 major obstacles. Rough most of the way, 2 big rock bumps and a rock bed that are unavoidable. Got it done in my stock 2020 Ford Ranger no scrapes. Defiantly NOT for Beginners."
Permits required at some sites: Always check permit requirements before camping. At Mount Trumbull Loop Dispersed camping area, visitors noted, "Said permit may be required on sign. Even with rain roads were ok."
Weather considerations: Flash flooding poses real danger during rainy periods. A camper at Toquerville Falls advised, "If it is even hinting of rain I personally would find another place to go. Not just for the unpredictable road conditions, but flash flooding is a real danger."
Tips for camping with families
Seek out water features: Children particularly enjoy camping near water during hot months. A visitor to Snow Canyon State Park Campground recommended, "I'd recommend this as an early spring camp outing. The temps climb quickly in Southern Utah in late spring. My kids had a blast in the sand dune area."
Consider equestrian campgrounds for children: Horse-friendly camping creates memorable experiences for families. Pine Valley Equestrian Campground provides opportunities for children to experience horses in a camping environment without the common issues associated with livestock proximity.
Look for recreation amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities for children. A camper at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort shared, "Lots of fun for kids. Horseback riding, putt putt golf, pad boards, cabins, tents and Rv sites."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at horse campgrounds: Many equestrian-focused sites have limited space for larger RVs. One visitor at Snow Canyon State Park observed, "The non-hookup sites are MUCH better than the ones with hookups. The hookup sites are VERY narrow (some as little as 10 feet wide) and difficult to pull into."
Elevation affects temperature: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat but require better insulation during spring and fall. At Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, an RVer noted, "We woke up the next morning to a light dusting of snow, but were not cold during the night."
Prepare for self-sufficiency: Horse campgrounds near Gunlock often have limited amenities. A camper at Paiute Wilderness Area advised, "BE SURE YOU'RE PREPARED! Stayed a few days in this general area. It's as remote a place as I've found to camp without going deeper into GC Parashant."
