Devils Canyon Campground provides dispersed camping options just outside the main campground area. Located in the Manti-La Sal National Forest near Monticello, Utah, this area sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby Moab. The campground features both established sites with amenities and more remote dispersed camping for those seeking solitude.
What to do
Explore ATV trails: Devils Canyon serves as an excellent base for ATV enthusiasts. "If you're looking for tons of ATV trails this is a great spot," notes Alison C. from Devils Canyon Campground. The area offers numerous off-road routes through forest and canyon terrain.
Hike to archaeological sites: The region surrounding Canyonlands Needles Outpost Campground provides access to ancient cultural sites. "The sites were in the middle of the red rocks. It was a site you can only find in this area," explains Danielle R. The campground sits near the entrance to the Needles district, where numerous trails lead to archaeological features.
Stargaze from elevated viewpoints: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Abner H. from Devils Canyon Campground remarks, "Some sites have shade and tree cover others have a nice clear view of the sky. We had one with a clear view of the sky and used Starlink for great connectivity."
What campers like
Shelter structures: Many area campgrounds feature covered areas to protect from sun and wind. At Wingate Campground, "the camp shelter in each site was a life saver," according to Lacey O. "The bathrooms were very clean and the dish washing station was a huge perk."
Secluded camping spots: Campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites. Robert G. notes about Devils Canyon Campground: "It was so quiet and peaceful. Stayed pasted the main camp grounds and found a nice spot." These areas provide more isolation than the established campgrounds.
Strategic location: Monticello RV Campground serves as a central point for regional exploration. "We were here for the harvest moon and the park hosted a guided moon lit hike," shares one camper about a nearby state park. Monticello sits approximately one hour from multiple national parks and monuments.
What you should know
Weather variations: The high desert climate brings significant temperature swings. At Wingate Campground, one reviewer cautions, "It was very windy while we were here" and "be prepared for it to be cold and windy." Pack layers regardless of season.
Water availability limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted or no water access. Pat Y. from Devils Canyon Campground notes, "Unfortunately the water was not working and is not drinkable." Bring sufficient water supplies, especially for dispersed camping.
Road conditions: Access to some areas requires appropriate vehicles. Regarding Box Elder Campground, Luna L. advises, "To drive up the road along the river you do need a high-clearance 4x4 (or awd if you know what you're doing) and it should be a vehicle that you don't mind getting scratched up by the oaks."
Tips for camping with families
Seek shaded sites: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F. Greg L. from Devils Canyon Campground recommends, "North loop has larger pine trees" which provide better shade than other areas. These sites fill quickly during peak season.
Choose campgrounds with amenities: For family comfort, select locations with essential facilities. Fredrick C. describes Monticello RV Campground as having "some of, if not the cleanest restroom/showers I have ever been to. And that is saying a lot. Plus they have free Wifi."
Look for natural play areas: Kids enjoy exploring the rock formations found throughout the region. Adam W. shares that at Canyonlands Needles Outpost Campground, "Campground was clean when we got there and there was plenty of wood around the campsite for two nights of fires."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer power connections for RVs. Crystal B. from Old West RV Park reports, "It's got full hookups for a super reasonable price (we paid $35 on Labor Day weekend for a full hookup)." The park accommodates various RV sizes year-round.
Water pressure considerations: Be prepared to manage high water pressure at hookup sites. Antony V. notes about Old West RV Park, "The water pressure is quite high. They will lend you a pressure regulator for free or they will sell you one for $15."
Designated parking areas: Some campgrounds have specific RV parking layouts. About Devils Canyon Campground, Abner H. explains, "The sites on the south loop are paved, and the fire pit and picnic tables are also on pavement. Water stations are nearby for easy filling of your own containers."
