Camping options near Hanksville, Utah range from primitive desert sites to established campgrounds. The region sits at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Flash floods frequently impact roads leading to dispersed camping areas during monsoon season, requiring campers to check weather forecasts before venturing into remote locations.
What to do
Slot canyon hiking: Little Wild Horse Canyon offers a non-technical slot canyon experience about 20 miles from Hanksville. "We did some fun hikes and close to some really amazing slot canyons. Goblin valley is amazing. They have nice bathrooms and tables and big campsites for either tents or RV," notes a visitor at Goblin Valley State Park Campground.
Visit Capitol Reef National Park: Located approximately 50 miles northwest of Hanksville, the park features hiking trails, petroglyphs, and historic orchards. "We used it as a base camp for hiking in the national park," reports one camper who stayed at Thousand Lakes RV Park outside Torrey.
Dispersed camping exploration: Numerous free camping options exist on BLM land surrounding Hanksville. "We took a 4x4 road and drove up for about 15 minutes to the top of a ridge line at dusk until we found a flat spot to pitch our tent and an existing fire ring. When we woke up we were astounded by the magnificent views," shared a visitor describing camping on public lands outside Goblin Valley.
What campers like
Dramatic desert landscape: The red rock formations create distinctive camping environments. "The sites are nice and big, close to the trails in Goblin Valley State Park. The showers were clean and there is potable water and a dump station," notes a visitor to Goblin Valley State Park Campground.
Riverside camping spots: Some campgrounds offer access to water features. "We were by the creek so we were able to listen to it which was awesome," notes a camper who stayed at Lower Pleasant Creek Campground.
Dark skies: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. One camper at Sunglow Campground shares: "We caught a beautiful sunset against the red cliffs as we set up camp. Our tent was close to a little stream that was really pleasant to listen to as we fell asleep."
What you should know
Limited services: Hanksville has minimal facilities. "This was my final full amenities stop before heading into full dry camping with few towns anywhere near me," notes a camper who stayed at Duke's Slickrock Campground & RV Park.
Extreme weather considerations: Summer heat requires adequate shade and water. "Very hot & windy when we were there in June. Dark skies offer amazing star gazing," shares a visitor about Goblin Valley State Park.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Only 24 sites makes this one of the hardest campgrounds in Utah to book," notes a camper at Goblin Valley State Park.
Mosquito preparation: Certain areas experience significant insect activity. "The place is true to its name and is surrounded by fiery sunset reflections on the red rocks. Had a nice stay but was swarmed by mosquitos (mid June) so come ready," warns a visitor to Sunglow Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Orchards at Fruita: The historic orchards provide educational opportunities. "Our tent is currently surrounded by red rock structures on 3 sides, along with a horse stable, and a fruit orchard. This venue is surreal," shares a visitor to Fruita Campground in Capitol Reef.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife sightings. "There were abundant mule deer that walked through the campsite," notes a Fruita Campground visitor.
Swimming opportunities: Some locations provide cooling options during hot months. "The small swimming pool was loved by the kids. The grassy park area was nice," reports a family who stayed at Thousand Lakes RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Diverse site sizes: RV parks in the area offer varying capacities. "I have been full-timing in a 42' Class A for about 6 months. This CG has the largest sites I've come across yet. In most, you can barely get your awning out without hitting the neighbors rig. Here, I'm guesstimating 30' to the next rig," notes an RVer at Duke's Slickrock Campground & RV Park.
Glamping near Hanksville, Utah: For those seeking luxury camping experiences, new options have emerged. "Everything is new. They still building the office/common room. The private bathrooms and showers are great. Everything is spotless clean," shares a visitor describing the glamping accommodations at Capitol Reef RV Park and Glamping.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. "We had to back out of the 'pull through' site because there wasn't clearance to pull forward with our 30ft 5th wheel," warns an RVer at Duke's Slickrock Campground & RV Park.
Weather impacts: Seasonal storms affect campground conditions. "Looks like a muddy flood hit the nearby area a couple weeks ago. Mostly recovered, but nearby gas station and motel shut down. A bit rutted in the cg still from the flooding," notes a Duke's Slickrock visitor.
