35 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Dispersed camping options surround Park Valley, Utah, with both primitive sites and established campgrounds in the neighboring areas. Most camping activity concentrates in the City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park, approximately 50 miles northeast in Idaho. These areas provide multiple accommodation types including tent platforms, RV sites with varying hookup levels, and even yurt and glamping options for those seeking more comfort. Campground options range from developed sites with amenities to remote, free dispersed camping on public land where visitors can experience greater solitude.
Road quality varies significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds requiring travel on rough dirt and gravel roads. A camper noted, "The 9 miles of gravel road to get there are extremely bumpy with washboard surfaces for most of the way. In a small RV, things were bouncing around, shifting in cupboards, and at one point the hood of our engine popped open because of all the jostling." Seasonal weather patterns affect access, particularly during winter months when facilities at some campgrounds close and water systems shut down. Most established campgrounds in the area require reservations through online systems, while dispersed camping typically operates on first-come, first-served basis. Cell service remains limited in many camping areas, with most reliable coverage only available at higher elevations or near small towns.
Campers consistently highlight the spectacular rock formations and star-gazing opportunities as primary attractions. Several reviewers emphasized the privacy of campsites, particularly at Smoky Mountain Campground where sites are well-spaced with natural vegetation barriers. "We were so surprised when we got to this campground. Private sites. Clean. Paved, not gravel," wrote one visitor about Castle Rocks State Park. Wildlife sightings, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities enhance the camping experience throughout the region. Public lands near Park Valley offer quieter, less crowded alternatives to the more popular established campgrounds, though amenities are minimal to non-existent. Campgrounds with water access receive particular attention in reviews, with many campers mentioning the peaceful sound of nearby creeks helping them sleep at night.
"Sites are dispersed throughout the entire park, as opposed to being condensed into one central location. It makes for some very unique and private sites - no two alike."
"Being right next to the Breadloaves you have close to 100 routes to choose from with a combo of both traditional and sport."
"Each site has access to a creek."
"Located about a 7-mile drive/walk to the entrance of City of Rocks, Smoky Mountain Campground is situated above the valley providing a wonderful view from many sites including space #19 where I parked"
"Smoky Mountain campground is very close to the entrance of City of Rocks NR and just slightly further is Castle Rocks SP, however, the grounds are managed by the state park."
"After 20+ years we decided to camp at the "City" on our way to Utah, regretably just an overnight and not a climbing trip."
"Small campground surrounded by very scenic rock perimeter. Fairly level electric sites that are easily reserved online. Very quiet night with almost zero traffic."
from $14 / night
Check Availability"Electric and water taps are on even numbered sites and shared with the adjacent odd numbered site, so if your cord or hose is on the short side choose an even numbered site."
"Walking distance to the ranger station and town. Close to the entrance of the City of Rocks. Onsite informal manager and owner both stopped by to ensure we did not need anything. A great experience."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Shower room was a little bit away from where we stayed at, but it had warm running water, and didn’t smell at all."
"We especially appreciate a place that has access to easy walking or running after a long drive day, and this place has it. I will stay again."
from $40 - $45 / night
Check Availability"I could actually get away from everything and just relax. Very well managed and very well put together. Highly recommend"
"Camping right by the old California Trail near the city of rocks is memory I will never forget. The hosts made it so welcoming and comforting."
from $50 - $99 / night
Check Availability"All in, the camping rate is extremely reasonable as compared to the state park rates and the access to hiking and climbing couldn't be better."
"Had plenty of room, dog friendly, lots of amenities and close to town and the park."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful. Lights of a nearby town (Malta) could be seen from a distance making this spot even more lovely at night. Pitted toilet."
"Road 1250 off of Highway 81 is probably not going to work if towing due to a somewhat tight turn at the second cattle guard but more of a concern is the big dip right after that guard The entrance is"
"The site is a little bit of a walk from the parking lot so bring something to haul your stuff in. The walls nearby face east and provide an excellent opportunity for some night or moonlight climbing."
"The breadloaves has one large group site right next to the bathrooms and parking and numerous dispersed tent sites, some with long approaches so check the map on the Gov [website](https://www.nps.gov/ciro"
LegendNew place so the trees are small but it is by far the closest camping with services to both the national monument and the state park hiking area. They seem to have added some services since the last reviews and now have an outdoor shower, 3 pit toilets along with the electric and water services. All in, the camping rate is extremely reasonable as compared to the state park rates and the access to hiking and climbing couldn't be better.
LegendGreat dispersed site with views of the snow dusted hills, stars and a beautiful sunrise. We were the only camper the night we spent in our way through the area. This is definitely worth a repeat should we find ourselves in the area again. It was a bit confusing entering the area. Road 1250 off of Highway 81 is probably not going to work if towing due to a somewhat tight turn at the second cattle guard but more of a concern is the big dip right after that guard The entrance is quite narrow as well. The first road in off Highway 77 has you opening and closing a couple gates and is a bit rough until you get to the main road. There is mention of a second entrance off 77 but we didn’t check that one out. The vault toilet was very clean but was out of TP. Pack it in-pack it out
GuideWe drove through. Beautiful suites. Super windy in mid October.
GuideBeautiful sites, electric and water. Bathrooms and showers adequate. Simply crazy noisy during our stay. It was like camping in an elementary and middle school playground. Decent multi use trail on site. Great hiking and climbing nearby. No information offered regarding trails do depended on AllTrails.
ScoutSuper gorgeous spot. Over 3 mile access road to get there. Of the 2 possible entrances to one further west down 77 is much smoother, but about 1/2 mile longer.
ScoutThis Campground is very nice... It has its own uniqueness. I recommend rolling in before dark to find your camping spot... But once you do, they're spaced out really well... A little windy last night but that's okay
GuideAfter 20+ years we decided to camp at the "City" on our way to Utah, regretably just an overnight and not a climbing trip. Was surprised that there were not many campers, although we had gotten reservations and it was mid-week. A number of the roads to campsites were a washed out from recent rain, so we were not able to get into our site (#11) but parked the camper next to the site. Great place to spend more than just an overnight.
TravelerPretty far but worth a visit. We got here midnight and IT WAS WINDY!! Was afraid our car gonna tip over (yes, it’s that bad)
To our surprise it snowed in the morning and we had such a long walk around the site, very inspiring, very introspective. Would recommend!!!
ScoutSmall out of the way campground maintained by the National Forest Service, but completely free. There are one set of toilets on site, do not know how well maintained they are. Each site has access to a creek.
Camping near Park Valley, Utah occurs on high desert terrain with seasonal temperature fluctuations ranging from over 90°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet, creating stark temperature differences between day and night. Cell service remains extremely limited throughout the area, with campers reporting consistent connection only at higher elevations.
Rock climbing: Try multiple difficulty levels at City of Rocks Campground, where climbing routes cater to beginners and experts. "This is a very popular area, but you can still find solitude if you want it. Plenty of activities as well; climb all day, check out Register Rock, or hike the City of Rocks Loop trail around the site to get a little bit of everything," notes Katherine B.
Hot springs: Visit Durfee Hot Springs in Almo, just minutes from camping areas. "Durfee Hotsprings in Almo is a must on any visit. The Outpost for a good burger or Rock City for pizzas," recommends Corey K., who frequents the area with family.
Stargazing: Take advantage of dark sky designation by selecting campgrounds away from town lights. "It is a designated dark sky park, which is cool, but from our site (#63) the lights from the town of Oakley were pretty bright on the horizon, though the stars in the sky were still amazing," shares Laura M.
Private, well-spaced campsites: Smoky Mountain Campground offers exceptional site separation. "Caution: Save yourself some time, dust and frustration and enter Smoky Mountain Campground into your GPS and not Castle Rock State Park like we did. Haha. We were so surprised when we got to this campground. Private sites. Clean. Paved, not gravel," shares Nancy C.
Historical significance: Explore pioneer history throughout the area. "It was interesting to see the emigrants' names on the rocks and imagining them arrive in this small valley of strange formations," explains Scott H. at City of Rocks, referencing the California Trail which passed through the region.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Sites near water attract birds and small mammals. "Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful. Lights of a nearby town (Malta) could be seen from a distance making this spot even more lovely at night," notes a camper at McClendon Spring Campground.
Road conditions vary significantly: Gravel roads to many sites require careful driving. "Google maps led us down an unpassable road. Instead take Tiffler Road/1250 S from the 81 for a smoother ride (still dirt but passable in a 2WD vehicle)," advises a camper about McClendon Spring Campground.
Water availability changes seasonally: Many campgrounds shut off water during colder months. "Water not yet turned on in the campground so bring your own water if you are coming through early in the season. But it was quiet and we were able to explore and hike without running into many people," reports Kristi R. about Castle Rocks State Park.
Reservation systems differ between sites: National Reserve sites require advance planning. "Check out the map on the NPS site and make a reservation to ensure you get the spot you want," suggests Katherine B. Some areas use Reserve America while others allow onsite self-registration or first-come, first-served access.
Temperature preparation: Pack for extreme fluctuations between day and night in all seasons. "We stayed with our 2 dogs in April, it was definitely warm in the sun, but very cool at night and in the shade. It is high desert, summer months must be stifling!" says Katherine B. about her family trip to City of Rocks.
Shade considerations: Choose sites based on coverage for summer camping comfort. "Take your time in picking out a good camping spot. Shade is key in the summer months. Use the 'Shade Legend' on the NPS site," recommends Niki S. for families visiting during warmer periods.
Nearby food options: Plan meals with limited grocery access in mind. "Town includes a Steak house, a grocery store, hot springs, pizza and the City of Rocks headquarters," mentions Tonya W. about options near City of Rocks Camp and Climb.
Site selection: Match vehicle size to appropriate campsites before arrival. "Dry camp that fits for small trailers and tent camping. Larger trailers have limited spots so check dimensions before reserving," advises Jodie S., emphasizing the importance of site research before committing to a reservation.
Hookup availability: Plan according to electrical needs especially during extreme temperatures. "We have bigger RV so some of the spots would not work. Make sure you use the filter to eliminate those with a smaller driveway. The restrooms were clean with nice showers. This campground is 40 miles or so from the interstate so make sure you are well provisioned before you arrive," notes Russell B., highlighting the importance of planning ahead for camping near Park Valley.
Water management: Fill tanks before arrival at primitive sites. "No hookups or dump station at this park, but we stopped at the Castle Rock campground on the way out and filled our tank with potable water and dumped for free," shares Laura M., providing useful information about water access between established campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping facilities are available in Park Valley, Utah?
Park Valley offers limited developed camping facilities, with most options being dispersed camping on public lands. For basic amenities, Earp & James Hitching Post provides tent sites for about $20 per night with shower facilities and warm running water. If you're willing to travel a bit further, the surrounding region offers more developed options. Many visitors to the area use Park Valley as a stopover point when traveling between larger destinations in Utah and Idaho.
What outdoor activities can I do while camping in Park Valley?
The Park Valley area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and photography in its remote desert landscape. For rock climbing enthusiasts willing to travel a bit further, City of Rocks Campground and Bennett Springs are within driving distance and offer spectacular climbing routes and scenic trails. The area's isolation makes it perfect for those seeking quiet recreation away from crowds. Seasonal activities vary throughout the year, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.
Where is Park Valley, Utah located?
Park Valley is a small, rural community located in Box Elder County in northwestern Utah. It sits approximately 30 miles southwest of the Idaho border and about 100 miles northwest of Salt Lake City. The area is characterized by its high desert landscape between the Great Salt Lake Desert and the Raft River Mountains. For those looking to explore nearby attractions, Spiral Jetty is about two hours away from Salt Lake City in the same region, providing a reference point for travelers coming from the south.
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