Look no further for some of the best camping in Canyonlands National Park, plus tips to enjoy your stay from The Dyrt Ranger team the Switchback Kids.
Most Popular Campgrounds in Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is an age-old wonder that spreads across a whopping 527-sq miles. This vast serpentine of white tipped cliffs is Utah’s largest national park and, its least visited. With all-encompassing views of canyon country at its finest, don’t let those small crowds discourage you. The Canyonlands offer enough adventure to satisfy even the most daring.
Here are three campsites that are perfect for exploring this ancient piece of earth.
1. Squaw Flat, UT
Photo from The Dyrt user Jennifer M.
If being able to boulder right in your campsite appeals to you, then Squaw Flat campground has you covered. This semi-wooded, very private campground offers some great hiking and even better views. With running water near, flush toilets, picnic tables and tent pads, you’ll be able to explore this rugged park in comfort. Keep in mind that reserves are on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to get there early.
Reviews & Photos2. Canyonlands Needles Outpost, UT
Photo from The Dyrt user Jennifer M.
Smack bang in the middle of the red rocks, Canyonlands Needles Outpost is located right next to the park’s entrance. And when you’re out there hiking and enjoying the scenery, it can be a relief knowing that camp is a stone’s throw away. With plenty of trees for shade and hammocks, this site is a great place to beat the Southern Utah heat. The downside is that there isn’t any water, but containers can be filled at the visitors center before you head to camp each night.
https://thedyrt.com/camping/utah/canyonlands-needles-outpost
3. Murphy Point Overlook, UT
Photo from The Dyrt user SwitchbackKids.
In Canyonlands, there are many options for backcountry camping, but the Murphy Point Overlook is one of the best. What’s unique about this campground is that only one permit per day is issued, which means you can camp in the heart of the national park, in complete solitude. With a short trail leading to the overlook, you’ll also be able to enjoy your own private sunset and sunrise experience. Permits can be purchased at the visitor center for $30, which isn’t necessarily cheap but is well worth the stunning views alone.
Review & PhotosExplore Canyonlands
Canyonlands National Park might be Utah’s least visited, but it’s by no means the least inspiring. Lofty viewpoints showcase over 100 miles in any given direction, resulting in panoramic views that encompass thousands of square miles of canyon country. Whether you’re taking a short-day-hike or enjoying a late afternoon sunset, this national park provides an unforgettable camping experience.
The Dyrt’s Ranger duo the Switchback Kids, who spent a year visiting all 59 National Parks, have put together this incredible video to document their firsthand experience in Canyonlands with the hopes of improving the visit of others.
Switchback Kids Ranger Tip: Although most overlooks in the Islands in the Sky district are well-traveled, there is one that is more hidden, called White Rim Overlook. It is about 3/4 of a mile off the road, but it is one of the most spectacular views we saw in Canyonlands. And we were the only people in sight.
And, in case you still (somehow) need convincing to fit this park in your summer itinerary, we present Canyonlands National Park:
Win gear for camping Canyonlands
When you review campsites across the US on The Dyrt, you get the chance to win outdoor gear. In Utah, you have the chance to win a $100 gift card from Green Goo and a $150 gift card from Primus. Check out the contest leaderboard, review your camping experience, earn points for your review, and you could win prizes!
