Dispersed camping opportunities near Gunlock, Utah provide alternatives to established campgrounds in the high desert region. The area sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation and experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer highs frequently reaching 100°F during daytime hours and dropping to the 60s at night. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures and limited access to certain undeveloped areas.
What to do
Lakeside fishing access: At Quail Creek State Park Campground, campers enjoy diverse fishing opportunities. "All camp sites overlook the lake. There are flush toilets and outdoor coin showers. If the camp ground fills, they allow primitive camping in the parking lot for a minimal fee," reports stephanie.
Petroglyphs exploration: Venture through slot canyons at Red Cliffs Campground to discover ancient rock art. "Apparently, you can hike through the slots to see petroglyphs and even dinosaur tracks," notes Lynna C. The well-maintained BLM campground serves as an excellent base for archaeological exploration.
Mountain biking: The St. George region offers technical trails for experienced riders. Baker Dam Recreation Area provides access to quieter routes. "This place gets hot during the summer but in the fall and spring it is a great getaway. Fishing is decent at the lake and camp host as well as bathrooms in campground," says Jake C.
What campers like
Clean modern facilities: The newly constructed Gunlock State Park Campground receives high praise for maintenance. "The construction is new. Sites (mostly drive through but a few back-in) have a table, fire ring, power and water. The bathrooms are very clean with heaters. The toilets are normal flush style toilets," explains Michael G.
Reliable water recreation: Despite seasonal fluctuations, Sand Hollow offers consistent water levels. "Sand Hollow has great large mouth bass fishing and beautiful red rock scenery," reports Charles W. Water activities remain accessible year-round at most reservoir locations.
Wildlife encounters: Crackfoot Campground in Dixie National Forest provides natural sightings. "Cows and deer walk through the sites, it was really cool. They have vault toilets, no sinks but a water filling station. Also sell firewood at the site for $6 a bundle," shares Marisa P.
What you should know
Limited off-season facilities: Many campgrounds reduce services during winter months. At Baker Dam Recreation Area, "There is no water or dump here. Vault toilets clean, and were cleaned every couple of days with TONS of toilet paper (no stink at all on those days), sites fairly level and most were very wide," reports Mark M.
Algae concerns: Water quality monitoring affects fishing access. "Information posted said there was 'bad algae' in the reservoir, so do NOT fish or drink (including dogs!)," warns one Baker Dam visitor in October.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs dramatically between campgrounds. Red Cliffs Campground offers inconsistent signals: "Verizon is nowhere to be found, but T-Mobile has a full-bars 5G connection," according to Lynna C.
Tips for camping with families
Educational hiking: Snow Canyon State Park Campground offers geology-focused trails. "The park is beautiful and the location of the campground was as well. Great red rock/lava flow hiking trail options, most are easy/moderate," notes Mark M.
Sand play areas: Dedicated sand zones provide natural playgrounds. "My kids had a blast in the sand dune area," reports Jake C. about Snow Canyon, offering a natural alternative to constructed playgrounds.
Swimming alternatives: During hot summer months, consider campsites with pool access. At McArthur's Temple View RV Resort, "The pool and hot tub were nice after several days of boondocking at Lake Mead," mentions Ray & Terri F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At McArthur's Temple View RV Resort, preparation matters. "Nice sized sites. We had a pull through. After check in we were escorted to our site and given information about the park. The strange was it wasn't clear on where to park the tow vehicle, although you will have plenty of room once you figure it out," advises Patrick J.
Leveling requirements: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Gunlock require equipment for proper RV positioning. "We were in a 24ft van and were able to be level without blocks by entering from the wrong way. Larger rigs would have had difficulty because of the slope. Many sites were sloped quite a bit so choose your site accordingly," cautions Lisa at Gunlock State Park.
Power reliability: Electrical service fluctuates at certain locations. "Unreliable electricity or something, though, because the lights turned off in the showers, restrooms, and also at the sites during our stay," reports Meghan B. about Gunlock State Park.
