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Best Camping Spots In Utah

Free Camping Near Park City And The Wasatch Range

Van Life Utah – The Best Camping Spot

Utah may tout itself as having the greatest snow on earth, but that snow wouldnt be too useful without the gorgeous mountains it gets trapped on. These mountains are beloved by skiers in the winter and adventure-loving campers in the summer.

Check out Salamander Flat or Heber Mountain for beautiful boondocking and tent camping on national forest lands. Mud Creek Road BLM dispersed camping near Strawberry Reservoir is another option near the Wasatch.

Watchman Campground Zion Np

Camping inside Zion National Park is one of our favorite experiences. You literally get to sleep right under the towering red rocks and be close to a lot of great Zion Hikes and the shuttle, which can take you further up the canyon.

In summer, its fun to camp here and play in the river and then at night, you can walk right into the town of Springdale and grab a beer and dinner.

Right next door to Watchman is South Campground that is open Mar to Oct and allows generators but doesnt have any hookups .

Related: Ultimate Guide To Visiting Zion N.P.

Our Five Best Fishing Spots In Utah

We enjoy fishing several times a year. Utah has 100’s of great places to try your angler skills. Check out UtahFishingInfo.com and UtahFishFinder.com. They are both good for resources for fish conditions, updates on recently stocked ponds and other fishing information. Here’s a few spots that we favor.

1. Flaming Gorge

The Gorge is a local favorite. It’s located on the Utah/Wyoming boarder, in the northeast corner of Utah and the southwest corner of Wyoming, between Green River and Rock Springs, Wyoming all the way into the Uintah Mountains towards Vernal. There are over 100 different areas to fish including beautiful mountain lakes and streams.

The scenery is gorgeous, there’s great activities like hiking, boat rental, farmers markets. While you’re in the area plan a visit to the Dinosaur Museum in Vernal or Fort Bridger. Flaming Gorge has a free travel guide to download here.

Mustang Ridge campground is our favorite place to camp near The Gorge. It’s wooded and offers more seclusion than some of the others.

Details: 70 sites, 1 group site. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with grate. Some sites have views of the reservoir.

Location:Take US 191 from Vernal, Utah, 51 miles north. Three miles north of Dutch John on US 191, turn west on Forest Road 184 for approximately 2 miles.

Granite Flats campground: is a great camping spot about a mile away from Tibble Fork Reservoir.

3. Fish Lake

4. Duck Creek Pond

5. Mirror Lake

Details: 79 sites. Opens June 30 September 1.

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Hole In The Rock Road

Location: Near Escalante

An abundance of free camping is available just east of the town of Escalante south of Highway 12.

These dispersed campsites are located on BLM land within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. A good place to start your search is near Hole in the Rock Wayside and down Hole in the Rock Road.

Also known as BLM 200, the road is unpaved and somewhat rocky but well-maintained . Several campsites, especially the large meadow less than a half mile after the turnoff, are perfect for RVs and trailers of all sizes.

Car and tent campers should drive in a little further to find a more peaceful campsite. There is a huge variety of campsites here many private, some with shade, and almost all with outstanding desert views.

This area is filled to the brim with awesome hiking opportunities, such as Zebra Slot, Peek-a-Boo Gulch, and Coyote Gulch to name just a few. Definitely give yourself enough time for one or two hikes.

Capitol Reef National Park is only about an hour and a half away from Hole in the Rock Road. And the drive there along Scenic Byway 12 is among the most scenic in all of Utah.

Unlike most BLM dispersed camping, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument does require a permit for all overnight campers. Pick one up at the visitor center in Escalante.

What I Like:

What I Dont Like:

It can get very windy and dusty here. The best campsite for big rigs is often busy and noisy. Its also fairly close to the highway so there is some road noise.

Best Free Camping Inutah

Best Places to Camp in Utah Archives

By Sara Sheehy

Utah is a land of extremes. From the achingly beautiful red-rock desert of the south to the powder-filled slopes of the Wasatch Range, Utah has a little something for everyone. Utah also has over 35 million acres of public land, much of which is managed for camping and other uses by the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management , and other entities.

If youre looking for a place to enjoy free, dispersed camping areas, Utah might just be the right place for you. Heres where to find some of the best free camping in Utah.

See a map of all free camping in Utah.

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Wedge Overlook In Emery

Coordinates: 39.0932, -110.7589

About:The Wedge is a natural overlook to a massive river gorge called the Little Grand Canyon. Its not as big as the Grand Canyon itself, of course, but its also not as crowded. With its 16 miles of trails, its also a top destination for hikers. Youll have a ringside seat to view the changing hues of the sandstone as the sun moves across the sky. This free camping site is about 25 miles north of Interstate 70 at an elevation of 6,266 feet.

Thousand Lakes Rv Park

One of the best RV parks in Utah, Thousand Lakes RV Park is your portal to discovering Capitol Reef National Park and beyond.

With 65 pull-thru RV campsites with full hook-ups, cabin rentals, and tent camping, Thousand Lakes offers a little something for everyone. Thanks to its location in Southern Utah, its the ideal home base for hiking, fishing, OHV driving, mountain biking, and so much more. Theres even an on-site auto repair shop if youve been experiencing any vehicle problems on the road!

Learn more about Thousand Lakes RV Park.

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Utah Campgrounds: Singletree Campground

Do not be put off by the misleading name of this campground Singletree Campground is actually located in a lovely ponderosa pine and aspen forest close to Capital Reef National Park in the Dixie National Forest. Here campers will find spacious campsites, some of which can accommodate large RVs and trailers. There are 31 individual primitive campsites of which 13 can be reserved in advance. Although no hookups are available, there are toilets and drinking water on-site. The area is ideal for hiking and mountain biking as well as bird watching and you can easily access National Scenic Byway 12, one of the countrys most interesting and beautiful All American Roads.

Singletree Campground, Dixie National Forest, Forest Rd 4218, UT 84701, Phone: 435-896-1020

Spruces Campground: Salt Lake City Ut

Complete Guide to Camping in Moab, Utah (Best Campgrounds)

Spruces Campground is a wonderful place to go camping. Its located just 15 minutes away from the Salt Lake City International Airport and is great for people looking to escape the bustling city life. The campground has several sites that are all first-come, first-served. Two group sites can accommodate up to 50 people. The Spruces Campground is open year-round and offers a variety of amenities, including flush toilets, showers, an RV dump station, electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire grills. The campground also offers potable drinking water.

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Is Dispersed Camping In Utah Worth It

The price is always right with free campsites, but theres no question that some spots are better than others. If you love the mountains, the desert, and exploring mind-blowing red-rock canyons, Utah is hard to top. You may have to suffer some slow-going along rough, uneven roads, but the payoffs quickly put those inconveniences in your rear mirror. In many ways, dispersed camping in Utah is a wild adventure you wont soon forget. For many campers, its absolutely worth all the effort it takes to make it happen.

When will you be camping in Utah?

Utah Camping: Bridger Bay Campground

Located close to the Bridger Bay Beach and Day Use Area, the Bridger Bay Campground is a popular choice with campers visiting Antelope Island on the Great Salt Lake. Although this is a primitive campground which does not offer any form of hookup, you will be able to have a hot shower and access to flush toilets. The scenery on the island is unique and spending time here is a wonderful way to shake of the shackles of the city. After setting up camp you can spend your days hiking along the lake shore, swimming in the salty waters and doing some excellent bird and wildlife watching/photography.

Bridger Bay Campground, Antelope Island, Utah, Phone: 801-773-2941

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Utah Campgrounds: Tanners Flat Campground

Beautifully located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Tanners Flat Campground is a great place to spend a few days admiring nature. The campground is surrounded by maple, oak, aspen and pine trees, which provide a very pretty show in fall, while spring and summer bring a profusion of wild flowers. There are 31 individual campsites, 3 double sites and a group site suitable for up to 50 people. The group campsite is only suitable for tents but the other campsites can also accommodate RVs up to 35 foot. Although there is no electric or water hookups, there is drinking water and toilets on site. The campground is close to several good hiking trails and visitors can also enjoy fishing and biking.

Tanners Flat Campground, Little Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Sandy, UT 84092, Phone: 801-236-3400

Upper Onion Creek Campground

Our little camp spot overlooking the Castle Valley, Utah. From a few ...

Upper Onion Creek Campground is the ideal Utah camping location for large groups.

Two spacious group sites are available that are perfect for reunions, weddings, and other group camping activities. The views from both group sites as well as individual sites are striking with the Colorado River Canyon and its red rock formations in the distance. Drive just 40 minutes to the bustling town of Moab.

Learn more about Upper Onion Creek Campground.

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Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

3,000 acres of rust-colored sand dunes meet stark blue skies at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.

The park is also known for its red rock cliffs, juniper and pinion trees, and plentiful off-road vehicle opportunities. Camping here is the best way to explore the state parks unique geologic features. The 22-site campground is also a prime jumping off point for further exploration of nearby Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Canyon National Park.

Learn more about camping at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.

Silver Island Mountains Dry Lake In Wendover

Coordinates: 40.8028, -114.0058

About: The downside is theres no shade. The good news is youre right next to the salt flats and have incredible views day and night. Some use the word otherworldly to describe the desolate beauty of this unique desert area. Its just off the Silver Island Mountains Backcountry Byway west of Salt Lake City. They dont allow dispersed camping directly on the salt flats, but youre free to explore them during the day. You may run across a herd of pronghorn.

Recommended Reading: Salt Lake City Tent Camping

Best Camping In Utah: Hal Canyon Campground

Another of the beautifully positioned primitive campgrounds located along the banks of the Colorado River, Hal Canyon has just 11 individual campsites. You will need to get there early to stake your claim the campground operates on a first-come, first served basis and does fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Your secluded campsite offers beautiful views of the Colorado River, some shade and a fire pit. The campsites are suitable for tent campers and can also accommodate small RVs or trailers. You will need to bring your own water but there is a toilet on site. The campground is located close to the Porcupine Rim Trail and the Negro Bill Trail.

Hal Canyon Campground, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532

Canyonlands National Park Moab

Top 10 RV Destinations in Utah

Canyonlands National Park is located close to the town of Moab in the southeast of the state.

The national park is home to a spectacular landscape of buttes, mesas, and canyons was carved out millennia ago by the activity of the Green River and the Colorado River. The colorful topography is divided into four areas, each with its own distinctive character.

RELATED: Best hiking trails in Canyonlands National Park

For camping, check out the Needles District. Hiking and overnight camping among the spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone is a truly memorable experience, and the rock formations are fantastic for bouldering. If youre into climbing, youll be spoilt for choice at this location.

Squaw Flat Campground makes the perfect base from which you can explore the area with lots of hiking trails that lead to rock climbing spots nearby. There are 26 sites around the park with picnic tables, fire rings, and toilets, although there are no electric hookups. Five of the sites are tent-only.

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Lone Mesa Dispersed Camping In Moab

Coordinates: 38.6442, -109.8196

About:Hows this for a location? Its just outside Moab and about halfway between two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands. Youll see a sign for developed campgrounds for dispersed camping in Utah, but keep driving to an open space high on a ridge. If youre lucky, youll have the place to yourself, but you may find yourself joining a small community. There are five large spaces, each with a fire pit, terrific views, and decent cell service.

Have A Blast Camping In Utah

Theres something truly special about Utah whether youre visiting Salt Lake City, its five national parks, or any of its other natural areas.

And, in my opinion, the absolute best way to enjoy all of its beauty is by dispersed camping off the beaten path in a quiet, remote, and uniquely beautiful free campsite.

If youre on a larger camping road trip, or just want to check out free campsites in other states, our other free camping state guides are well worth a look.

Heres to hoping your next Utah dispersed camping trip is one for the record books!

Let me know if you have any more questions:

Read Also: Hoosier National Forest Dispersed Camping Map

Camping In Utah: Goosenecks State Park Campground

Feel as though you are on top of the world as you stare down at the San Juan River as it twists and turns through a tortuous 6-mile gooseneck. To properly explore the remarkable landscape of the Goosenecks State Park you need a least a couple of days. Campers can set up camp in a spectacular campsite on the canyon rim and spend some time communing with nature in an extraordinary setting. The campsites can accommodate RVs up to 30 foot and tent campers are welcome. There is no electrical hookup but each campsite has a picnic table and a fire pit and there are vault toilets on site.

Goosenecks State Park Campground, Hwy 316, Mexican Hat, UT 84531, Phone: 435-678-2238

Diamond Fork Dispersed Camping Area

25 Ideas for Your Best Summer Ever

Free camping in Utah doesnt get much better than dispersed camping near Diamond Fork.

Note that while dispersed camping is free, its very primitive. There are no facilities, including no bathrooms or running water. However, the beauty of Diamond Fork cancels out these slight setbacks. Numerous campsites are available along Diamond Creek, most of them spacious enough for 30 foot RVs and larger. Fifth Water Hot Springs is a short hike away.

Learn more about Diamond Fork Dispersed Camping Area.

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Utah Campgrounds: Panguitch Lake North Campground

Located in the Dixie National Forest, Panguitch Lake North Campground promises a peaceful getaway for nature lovers and ardent anglers. The campground is situated just half a mile from Panguitch Lake, which is rumored to be home to some of the largest and feistiest trout in Utah. If you are not into fishing, you can still spend many happy hours enjoying swimming, boating, canoeing or kayaking on the lake. The campsite offers 39 individual campsites with picnic table and fire ring, suitable for tents or RVs. Other facilities include drinking water, flush toilets, dump station and garbage disposal. There are good hiking, mountain biking and ATV trails close to the campground.

Panguitch Lake North Campground, UT-143, Panguitch, UT 84759, Phone: 435-865-3700

Whiting Campground: Mantua Ut

Whiting Campground is the ideal spot for camping with your family. Known as a gateway to the Uinta Mountains, this site has a lot of fun activities to offer. Whether you love fishing, hiking, or just swimming, this is the place to be. Other activities like stargazing, bird watching, and even horseback riding. The campground is situated in a beautiful forest and has plenty of wildlife.

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Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway

Address: 1773 N Hwy 191, Moab, UT 84532Available activities:

Just steps away from Arches National Park, Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway boast one of the nations most incredible views and offers some the of most enjoyable experiences camping in Utah.

Enjoy the surroundings of Moab with a variety of amenities, such as a pool, mini-golf, life-size checkers and chess, or a hot tub.

The campground features full hook-up pull-through RV sites with 30/50 amp service, tent sites, as well as vacation rentals. Those include cozy cabins and a premium vintage Airstream trailer. Each of the sites has a lunch bench and a BBQ pit.

Guests can also easily access Canyonlands National Park to engage in kayaking, many off-road adventures, or guided hiking tours. And whats more, the whole area is a great spot for biking.

This is just a place that cant be missed.

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