Tent camping near Monticello, Utah offers diverse terrain and elevation options, with campgrounds ranging from 4,500 to 8,700 feet above sea level. The region features stark contrasts in camping environments, from high mountain settings with cooler temperatures to desert landscapes with panoramic canyon views. Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F at lower elevations while dropping below 40°F at night in higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at Monticello Lake: The 5-acre lake located off Forest Highway 49 Loop is stocked with Rainbow and Tiger Trout by Utah's Department of Wildlife Resources. According to Daniel S., "This was an awesome site above the heat of the valleys. Quiet other than several fishers."
Hiking to Chesler Park: This backcountry experience requires a 4.4-mile hike from Elephant Hill Trailhead. A visitor noted, "From the Chesler Park area there are a few day hikes that become much more attainable because you are closer. For instance the joint trail." Permits required.
Sunrise photography: The unique rock formations and clear skies create exceptional photography conditions. At Chesler Park 2, one camper described the setting as "Literally right in between 2 giant boulders looking out over a large plain after hiking the longest 4 miles through canyons and needles. Breathtaking."
Rock climbing: The varied terrain offers climbing opportunities for different skill levels. Jeff N. mentioned that at Yellow Circle Road, there's "Awesome stuff to climb here. ATV here."
What campers like
Star viewing: The remote locations provide minimal light pollution. Rachel T. described Elephant Canyon 3 as having "a clear night, and the starriest sky I've ever seen!"
Privacy options: Multiple campgrounds offer secluded spots away from other campers. Sarah and James H. found at Behind the Rocks "The best spot backed right up to the rocks and was cozy and very private. Views were beautiful in every direction."
Elevation escape: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. At Monticello Lake, Greg L. noted it sits at "8700 ft elevation, oak trees around the area."
Easy site availability: Despite popularity, most dispersed areas have ample space. Ryan L. reported that at Yellow Circle Road, "We arrived to this area quite at night. There was TONS of space for everyone to comfortably fit. We passed probably 20-30 vehicles camped throughout before we found space for ourselves."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require careful driving on unmaintained roads. At Behind the Rocks, Jared C. advises, "This is an amazing place to come and get away from all the people in Moab!" but notes roads can be challenging.
Water planning: No drinking water is available at dispersed sites. For Chesler Park, Dave E. warns, "There is NO water, so pack it in. They recommend a gallon a day. That's a lot of weight, but you will use most if not all of it, depending on weather and activity level."
Permit requirements: Backcountry sites in Canyonlands require advance permits. Laura M. explains, "Overnight permit required, and heads up that the reservation is not the permit. Permit is $36 for up to 7 people, and there is a $5 per person camp fee."
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from none to moderate. Ronan G. reported that at Behind the Rocks, "Verizon had 2-3 bars" in one location but "only one bar" in another nearby spot.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with bathroom access: Few dispersed areas have facilities. Monticello Lake has "a single vault toilet is by hwy pull off," according to Greg L., making it more suitable for families with younger children.
Choose weather-appropriate elevations: Plan camping elevations based on season. Dave E. notes that in fall months, temperatures are "perfect during the day (high 60s to high 70s) and falls to 30s at night (occasionally 20s)."
Avoid crowded weekends: For tent camping with children, timing matters. Jeff K. observed that Yellow Circle Road "has potential to fill quickly as it's pretty close to town," making weekdays preferable for family trips.
Prepare for exposure: Most tent camping near Monticello lacks natural shade. Paige M. described Behind the Rocks Road Dispersed as having "360 panorama views mountain ranges desert and red rocks" but with minimal shade coverage.
Tips from RVers
Scout entrance options: Different access points may be better for larger vehicles. Allan C. suggests, "Use the Northwest entrance! I took the Northwest entrance initially and had no problem getting to the campsite. Just a few bumps."
Watch overhead clearance: Low-hanging branches can damage taller vehicles. Nathan L. noted about Yellow Circle Road, "It's a rough road in, the higher up you go on the road, the rougher. We took our travel trailer(22' total) up, just have to be careful."
Minimize generator use: Noise carries in the desert environment. Lindsey J. mentioned, "The site had a fire pit, a view of the mountain, and lots of place to park. The road clearly states where camping is permitted."
