Camping opportunities near Sunnyside, Utah range from riverside oases to high desert terrain with elevations varying from 4,500 to 7,500 feet. Summer daytime temperatures regularly reach 100°F between June and August, while nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer. Most dispersed camping areas lack cell service, requiring campers to download maps and information beforehand.
What to do
Beach access and water activities: At Swasey's Beach Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the Green River. "Access to our own little beach! Other people came and camped up near the road, while we stayed tucked out of view from the road and other campers," notes Heather M. The campground serves as a convenient take-out point for rafters completing the Desolation Canyon run.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution in Horse Canyon Road Dispersed Area creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "Slept great. Sunset would have been incredible if the clouds hadn't rolled in," reports Seanna M. about her experience at Horse Canyon Road. The area's elevation and distance from urban centers creates prime conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Petroglyphs exploration: Several sites within a 30-mile radius contain ancient rock art. As Adrian W. mentions, "There are a few petroglyphs to see, another launch ramp for boaters, and a small hiking trail that leads to an epic view of the river." Lower Price River Road provides access points to multiple archaeological sites dating back hundreds of years.
What campers like
Canyon vistas: The dramatic rock formations and panoramic views rank consistently high in camper reviews. At CO2 Road Dispersed Campsite, Dylan B. found that "night time was really cool with some good stargazing, and there really weren't any cars on the dirt road." Most sites offer unobstructed views of surrounding mesas and canyon lands.
Riverside camping: Sites along the Green River provide both recreational opportunities and pleasant ambient sounds. Pam T. described Swasey's Beach as "one of our favorites in Utah. Most sites have a great view of the green river. The cottonwoods were all turning yellow and it was really gorgeous."
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed camping areas offer significant distance between sites. Blair S. reported at Horse Canyon Road, "Saw no one, but it's also the middle of winter. 2 bars of at&t cell service!" The area's relative remoteness translates to minimal crowds even during peak summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require travel on unpaved roads that deteriorate after rainfall. At Woodside Lower Price River Road, Brian B. advises, "Quick overnight stay in a Sprinter. Really easy access for any vehicle and lots of sites to choose from. Best sites are past the Price river float parking area in the Desolation Wilderness."
Insect activity: Depending on season and location, bugs can be problematic. At Horse Canyon Road, Tanner S. warns, "Not sure if it's the time of year but we were swarmed with gnats all around us and our rig. It was however a quiet and scenic easy pull off from the highway."
Water access challenges: While riverside camping is available, reaching the water can require effort. Noel C. describes Woodside Lower Price River Road: "The river is difficult to access, a scramble down a 4 foot vertical drop off, holding onto willows. The water is silty and just a foot or two deep, but refreshing to dip into."
Tips for camping with families
Select established campgrounds during extreme heat: For summer trips with children, locations with shade and facilities offer more comfort. Nine Mile Canyon Ranch provides a middle ground between amenities and natural setting. Kimberly M. notes, "The bathrooms have flush toilets and running water and were very clean. There are historic cabins you can rent or you can camp in your tent or RV."
Bring sufficient water: No natural water sources in the region are safe for drinking without treatment. Pack 1 gallon per person per day minimum, plus additional for cooking and cleaning. Most dispersed areas have no water sources whatsoever.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Days can be scorching while nights turn surprisingly cold. Chase R. advises about CO2 Road, "The shrubbery offers a good wind break," but notes that weather conditions can change rapidly in this high desert environment.
Tips from RVers
Consider size limitations: Many sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. At Castle Gate RV Park, James and Susan K. report, "Sites are gravel but level. Sites are still under final construction and from what I saw, will back-up to the river." For dispersed camping, only Horse Canyon Road and CO2 Road regularly accommodate larger vehicles.
Watch for soft ground: Seasonal conditions affect ground stability. Shane W. notes about CO2 Road, "The top 2 to 4 inches of topsoil are soft, which is nice for leveling out your camping in. There's some ready stuff on the bottom but nothing I had to put, my rig into four-wheel-drive for."
Plan for limited cell service: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. Aubrey S. reports about Horse Canyon Road, "2 bars of Verizon service," but this varies significantly by location and carrier. Download maps, directions, and campsite information before departure.
