Swinging Bridge Equestrian Campground near Orangeville, Utah sits at the heart of the San Rafael Swell, a 75-mile anticline of sandstone, shale and limestone. Located at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, the area experiences warm days and cool nights throughout most of the camping season. The campground connects directly to a network of trail systems that extend into both Buckhorn Wash and the Little Grand Canyon area, with most trails accommodating various skill levels.
What to do
Explore the San Rafael River: The river adjacent to Swinging Bridge Equestrian Campground creates perfect recreation opportunities. "Great little area with trees near the river. Awesome hammock trees. Swimming holes in the river," notes Corey K., highlighting the river access that makes this site popular during hot summer months.
Visit nearby petroglyphs: Take a day trip to the Black Dragon Pictograph Panel area. "The hike to the pictographs is much more interesting as you enter the narrow canyon," explains Laura M. The accessible trail leads to remarkable ancient rock art within a dramatic canyon setting. Most visitors can complete the hike in under two hours round-trip.
Off-road adventures: The extensive trail networks surrounding Buckhorn Draw Wickiup Site provide endless exploration opportunities. "Great jumping off point to visit San Rafael swell," states Larry M. Trails range from beginner-friendly dirt roads to technical passages requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles.
What campers like
Quiet nighttime environment: Despite being accessible, most horse campgrounds near Orangeville maintain a peaceful atmosphere. At Buckhorn Draw, Patricia N. notes, "When the sun went down it was quiet and so dark. The night sky is beautiful." The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions throughout the region.
Spacious camping areas: The equestrian-focused campgrounds provide ample room for horse trailers and camping setups. "Six nice large sites with green steel corrals," Greg L. observes about Swinging Bridge Equestrian Campground, noting the specialized facilities that accommodate both horses and humans.
Natural swimming access: The San Rafael River creates natural recreation spots during warmer months. One camper mentions, "Swimming holes in the river," highlighting a popular activity for cooling off after trail rides or during hot summer days when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping areas near Orangeville require self-sufficiency. At Potters Pond Campground, Shad G. cautions, "There are pit toilets, but no water so you have to bring your own in. Also, you have to haul out your garbage since there aren't any dumpsters onsite." This lack of services extends to most dispersed camping areas.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. Steven M. describes the route to Potters Pond: "It is very bumpy, but can be done with most vehicles. We were towing our 24' TT so we were going slow. It is about 8.3 miles of dirt road to the campground from UT 31."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is minimal throughout the region. Greg L. notes about Swinging Bridge that there's "No dumpsters, no cell signal," which requires advance planning for safety and communication needs.
Tips for camping with families
Check water levels: When camping with children near the San Rafael River, water conditions can change rapidly. Seasonal variations affect swimming safety and water clarity, particularly after rainfall when river levels can rise quickly.
Pack extra water: The arid climate and lack of potable water at most sites means families need to bring adequate supplies. At Black Dragon Pictograph Panel, Will M. emphasizes, "The campground itself is very basic there's no water there's no toilets," highlighting the need for complete self-sufficiency.
Consider site location: For family camping at busier times, site selection matters. Laura M. advises, "The closer to the highway the more busy it is so keep driving," suggesting that families seeking quieter experiences should venture deeper into available camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: RVers should research site limitations before arrival. Ben M. cautions about Black Dragon: "Only one site I felt comfortable pulling a 27 foot trailer but it was beautiful and I wished I could have stayed longer." Many areas have limited spaces suitable for larger rigs.
Weather awareness: Flash flooding poses risks to RVers in wash areas. "Watch out for rain. The dry wash beds will flood and I'm lucky I left when I did," warns Ben M., highlighting the importance of monitoring weather forecasts when camping in canyon environments.
Elevation considerations: At Potters Pond Campground, the higher elevation creates distinct conditions. Steven M. notes, "The campground is situated above 9000ft elevation so the days are mild warm and the nights can be cool to cold," requiring RVers to prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
