Looking for the best campgrounds near Hanksville, UT? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Hanksville. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
The campground at Goblin Valley State Park consists of 25 sites and two yurts. Goblin Valley camping is divided into ten walk-in tent pads, fourteen RV spaces, and one group site able to accommodate up to 35 people. Showers and flush toilets, as well as a communal water and dump station are all available free of charge. All sites contain a picnic table, metal fire ring, and shade shelter. Cowboys searching for cattle first discovered secluded Goblin Valley. Then in the late 1920s, Arthur Chaffin, owner/operator of the Hite ferry, and two companions were searching for an alternative route between Green River and Caineville. They came to a vantage point about a mile west of Goblin Valley and were awed by what they saw, five buttes and a valley of strange-shaped rock formations surrounded by a wall of eroded cliffs. In 1949, Chaffin returned to the area he called Mushroom Valley. He spent several days exploring the mysterious valley and photographing its scores of intricately eroded creatures. The area was acquired by the state of Utah and in 1964 was officially designated a state park. Goblin Valley State Park is a showcase of geologic history. Exposed cliffs reveal parallel layers of rock bared by erosion. Because of the uneven hardness of sandstone, some patches resist erosion much better than others. The softer material is removed by wind and water, leaving thousands of unique, geologic goblins. Water erosion and the smoothing action of windblown dust work together to shape the goblins. Bedrock is exposed because of the thin soil and lack of vegetation. When rain does fall, there are few plant roots and little soil to capture and hold the water, which quickly disappears, in muddy streams without penetrating the bedrock.
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles (160 km). The Fruita Campground has 71 sites. 65 sites are reservable year round. Sites 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are used as administrative sites. Sites 14, 24, and 63 are accessible sites with electrical hookups. While Loop C is closed in the winter season, generators are allowed in Loops A & B, 8 am-10 am and 5 pm-7 pm. The rest of the year, generators are only allowed in Loop C. There are no first come first serve sites during peak season.
Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge. Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut. Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and museum.
The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and is often described as an oasis within the desert. Fruita Campground is a semi-shaded, grassy campground and is located in the Fruita Historic District of the park.
For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.
The Fruita campground is adjacent to the Fremont River and is a short walk from the group site, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.
$25 / night
The San Rafael Swell is a land of canyons, striking sandstone formations and breathtaking panoramas. An area covering 2000 square miles, it is located in southern Utah and is divided by I-70. In a part of the country with many National Parks and Monuments, the little known San Rafael Swell area rivals them all in beautiful scenery.
"Temple Mountain east Campground also known as the ___People Pasture___ is located just west of the turnoff to Goblin Valley State Park. This campground has multiple parking areas for large recreational vehicles, fire rings, pit toilets and kiosk with map information. This is a first come first serve campground that currently has no fees for use. Please recreate responsible and stay on designated routes. ."
Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Brand new RV Park in Caineville, Utah with large full service pull thru sites. Close to Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, Swingarm City OHV Recreation area, and more. Ride directly from your site to nearby trails!
Very large sites at least 100' ft long including pull thru and some back in with at least 65' between sites. Natural stone firepits at each site and plenty of free firewood available for gathering on property.
32 sites on 110 acres of land wit 1/4 mile of Fremont River running thru the property. Serene desert environment with full hookups at each site water, sewer, and 20/30/50 amp service. Dark sky viewing.
$59 / night
The campground at Goblin Valley State Park consists of 25 sites and two yurts. Goblin Valley camping is divided into ten walk-in tent pads, fourteen RV spaces, and one group site able to accommodate up to 35 people. Showers and flush toilets, as well as a communal water and dump station are all available free of charge. All sites contain a picnic table, metal fire ring, and shade shelter. Cowboys searching for cattle first discovered secluded Goblin Valley. Then in the late 1920s, Arthur Chaffin, owner/operator of the Hite ferry, and two companions were searching for an alternative route between Green River and Caineville. They came to a vantage point about a mile west of Goblin Valley and were awed by what they saw, five buttes and a valley of strange-shaped rock formations surrounded by a wall of eroded cliffs. In 1949, Chaffin returned to the area he called Mushroom Valley. He spent several days exploring the mysterious valley and photographing its scores of intricately eroded creatures. The area was acquired by the state of Utah and in 1964 was officially designated a state park. Goblin Valley State Park is a showcase of geologic history. Exposed cliffs reveal parallel layers of rock bared by erosion. Because of the uneven hardness of sandstone, some patches resist erosion much better than others. The softer material is removed by wind and water, leaving thousands of unique, geologic goblins. Water erosion and the smoothing action of windblown dust work together to shape the goblins. Bedrock is exposed because of the thin soil and lack of vegetation. When rain does fall, there are few plant roots and little soil to capture and hold the water, which quickly disappears, in muddy streams without penetrating the bedrock.
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles (160 km). The Fruita Campground has 71 sites. 65 sites are reservable year round. Sites 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are used as administrative sites. Sites 14, 24, and 63 are accessible sites with electrical hookups. While Loop C is closed in the winter season, generators are allowed in Loops A & B, 8 am-10 am and 5 pm-7 pm. The rest of the year, generators are only allowed in Loop C. There are no first come first serve sites during peak season.
Walk to historic inscriptions on the Capitol Gorge Trail and stroll the Goosenecks Trail or longer trails such as Cohab Canyon, Chimney Rock, and Cassidy Arch. Check out our Trail Guide to explore your options.Enjoy the geology and view the Fremont Culture Petroglyphs along Hwy 24. In addition, the Scenic Drive will introduce you to the fascinating cultural and geological history of Capitol Reef National Park. The drive includes a portion of the original road through the Waterpocket Fold. The road passes through parts of the Fruita Historic District and follows the western faces of the Waterpocket Fold, and spur roads allow exploration into beautiful Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge. Check at the Visitor Center for a current schedule of interpretive programs, which may include geology talks, Fremont culture talks, evening programs, star gazing, moonwalks, and geology hikes. Stop in at Ripple Rock Nature Center to experience interactive exhibits, games, activities, and free educational programs. Wander through the historic Fruita Orchards and pick fresh fruit when in season. The orchards contain approximately 3,100 trees including cherry, apricot, peach, pear, apple, plum, mulberry, almond, and walnut. Discover Mormon pioneer history at the historic Gifford Homestead store and museum.
The Fruita Campground area is located one mile south of the visitor center and is often described as an oasis within the desert. Fruita Campground is a semi-shaded, grassy campground and is located in the Fruita Historic District of the park.
For facility specific information, please call (435) 425-3791.
The Fruita campground is adjacent to the Fremont River and is a short walk from the group site, amphitheater, picnic areas, hiking trails, the historic Gifford house and orchards.
$25 / night
The San Rafael Swell is a land of canyons, striking sandstone formations and breathtaking panoramas. An area covering 2000 square miles, it is located in southern Utah and is divided by I-70. In a part of the country with many National Parks and Monuments, the little known San Rafael Swell area rivals them all in beautiful scenery.
Guide
It was quite a drive in, we just got parked on the edge of the campsite as the smaller roads leading into the campsite looked a bit uneven for our campervan. You do drive passed a paid campsite initially, keep on driving. We had the place to ourselves.
Guide
A large space, though uneven in parts. We pulled in later so there were a few folks already parked up for the night. A quiet nights sleep.
Traveler
This is another one of the reviews that I'm just now getting around to now that cooler weather has set in. I was here in September last year while on my annual naked road trip, and this area is one of my favorites. This is one of the most perfect places to camp naked, to relax and enjoy nature. There was hardly anyone here (it was hot), and it seemed as if no one cares if you're nude or not. There was plenty of space between the few campers that were here, so you can have as much privacy as you want. Several people who were camped nearby were nude for the entire time as I was, and some were clothed, but I don't think anyone cared. You do have to search a bit to find a level spot there, but you don't have to search far. The lake level has really gone down low throughout the area, so it was a nice hike to get to the water, but there's nothing wrong with a nice nude hike to a cool swim in the lake. Another perfect naked campout location and I'll definitely be back soon.
Traveler
This is one of the reviews that I'm just now getting around to now that cooler weather has set in. I was here in September last year while on my annual naked road trip, and this area is one of my favorites. It's the perfect place to camp, relax and enjoy nature. Not crowded, lots of space, no one cares if you're nude or not. There was plenty of space between campers so you can have as much privacy as you want. Several people were camped naked here same as me, some were not. No one cared. The lake level has really gone down low, so it's a hike to get to the water, but there's nothing wrong with a nice nude hike with a day in the water at the end. Perfect naked campout location and I'll definitely be back.
Scout
Fit my 22' TT without issue. Road is a bit rocky to get into the better sites, but there is a spot right off the turnoff that would accommodate bigger rigs. Woke up to a herd of Elk grazing outside the camper and a gorgeous sunrise. Will definitely stop here again when I'm coming through
ScoutSolid dispersed camp with room for 2 or more campers. Requires solid 4x4 to get to but not technical driving to get there.
There are one or two spots to park in the final 3/4 mile descent to the trailhead offer even more amazing views (they were occupied when we arrived)
Guide
Well spaced, paved camping sites in a shaded campground. Fruit orchards all around with the Fremont River flowing nearby. Heated bathrooms that are spotless. Stop by the Gifford house for fresh baked pies. As of October 2024, the visitor center parking lot is still under construction, and the scenic drive is closed for the same. Also. Make a campsite reservation before you arrive as there are no payment stations in the campground. If you don't the visitor center has Wi-Fi as there is no cell service in the park. Oh. And loop C is the only campground that allows generators. Enjoy Capitol Reef.
Traveler
Excellent boondock site. I had no problem with my thirty foot travel trailer. Excellent AT&T coverage
GuideGreat place to stay close to Torrey, Utah, and Capitol Reef NP. There are lots of places to choose from with some spots with make shift fire rings. Great views of the Boulder Mountains, Thousands Lake Mountains, and Capitol Reef in the distance. There are no restrooms, water or electricity. Close to Torrey where you can find the essentials.
TravelerIf you have a 4x4, we recommend pulling back slightly to the right as far as you can. We went back and got tucked into a more secluded nook with a good fire ring. It looks bumpy and uneven, but it’s possible to level a vehicle that’s 21 feet and under.
The hike up above the site is really beautiful. The trail took us up above the cliff edge that borders the site. From there you have sweeping views of the valley and out to the mountains in both directions.
Important to note:
Traveler
Used this app to find this place. There are multiple sites across the dry river bed but you can’t cross the dry river bed without a Hardy vehicle. There’s one main site before the river bed where we camped. So great to have all that room to yourself.
Guide
This spot was about 13 miles in from the main road, Island in the Sky rd. Parking lot for overlook with Pit toilet. Passed many sites along the way, however, van got stuck in deep sand off the side of the road. View of canyon is incredible.
Scout
Up on a mesa (not super high that it’s a tough climb), on Notom road which is paved, then turn on dirt road not far from Hwy 24 (maybe 1/4-1/2 mile). Only two other campers about a football field apart from me. Amazing view of Henry mountains and sunrise!! Made it slowly in my front wheel drive van over the rocks that stick up. No problem. Just slow.
Legend
Smooth gravel road in. I would not drive in without 4wd. Gorgeous views. Next to NPS boundary pin. Cliff edge fire ring. Nobody around. 5274 feet elevation. No cellular service.
Legend
Panoramic views of mountains and terrain. Room for several rigs. Clean site. Nicely spaced trees. No cell service. 5530 ft elevation
Legend
Beautiful mountain view, open location a couple of miles off the Notom Bullfrog road. Didn't see a soul. Road is easy going. Near to Pleasant Creek. Rock fire ring. Other sites are dispersed around. Very close to the Capitol Reef National park boundary. 5535 feet elevation. No cell service.
LegendThis area is close to the summit elevation of Boulder Mt at 9550 elv. A rough rocky road leaves a scenic pull off all g hwy #12 and heads to some Aspen stands and a corral. The best sites are in the vicinity of the corral. Good cell signal, but no water, no dumpsters, however the views are great. In the fall season, the yellow aspens are spectacular.
Legend
This is a small CG and limited to TT or RVs under 20 ft; however, there seems to be an overfull area just outside the CG gate that is for bigger TTs and RVs. Unclear if the CG fee applies. Vault toilets. No cell signal.
Legend
Good all season gravel road into the CG. Only 4 sites but nice tables and fire rings. One vault toilet. This is a fee CG, $20/$10 senior. No water or trash at CG but just before the main Hwy there is a pullout with potable water spigot and a small dumpster. Water was shut off Sept 28 on my visit. No cell signal though.
Traveler
Up the canyon road, past the south campgrounds. BLM site and fees required. We paid $15 for 1 night. Quite and great views of Temple mountain.
Traveler
Many spots to select from. The road is a little rough in spots, so slow is good. Great views
Scout
Tranquil, don’t make the mistake of reaching over the fence to take a picture and accidentally touching the electric wire. It was literally the shock of my life lol.
GuideThis spot is up on a hill top. Plenty of spots to camp. Nice views, good fall breeze. There are 2 Porta potty on site. The only issue I didn't like was right at the entrance for the first 75 feet there were a lot of rocks sticking up out of the ground. Made it very uneven. Had my wife get out to make sure I didn't rip anything off the RV. We run a 36' Solitude. Only 7 miles to Capitol Reef visitor center.
Ranger
We needed a place for the night after leaving the crazy busy area of Moab and this was the perfect spot. We will absolutely return again but with the ATVs.
There were several people camping and riding their ATVs and SXSs but when the sun went down it was quiet and so dark. The night sky is beautiful.
Pack it in and out but a perfect place for us. It had rained the day we arrived and it was not muddy and no problem getting in and out.
The road getting in has a bit of wash board so just take it slow.
TravelerLiterally first road outside of West entrance to CRNP. It’s pretty rocky, would come during daylight to setup. Portapotties on site.
Legend
Two picnic tables. Shady trees. No cell signal. Some odd garbage left near the site such as a wheelbarrow, two water tanks and a cut up water calvert. No other garbage on the site.
Legend
Close to Road. LTE service. Nice view of mountains.. near Halls Creek trailhead
Camping near Hanksville, Utah, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Hanksville, Utah, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique conditions of the area!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hanksville, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hanksville, UT offers a wide range of camping options, with 164 campgrounds and RV parks near Hanksville, UT and 83 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Hanksville, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hanksville, UT is Goblin Valley State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 58 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hanksville, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 83 free dispersed camping spots near Hanksville, UT.
What parks are near Hanksville, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Hanksville, UT that allow camping, notably Capitol Reef National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
