Best Camping in Utah: Top 10 Places to Go (RV Camping, Tent Camping and More）

The incredible variety of landscapes in Utah gives campers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities and numerous camping experiences. There are many rustic campsites near Moab where you can set up your base camp and enjoy days of hiking, biking, and water activities. Cozy nights around the campfire if you wish to explore the remarkable rock formations in locations like Arches National Park. Your possibilities for where to stay the night are endless, with thousands of campgrounds and many more places where you can create your campground. We've selected the best camping in Utah and some suggestions on what to pack and when to go to help you narrow down your options. 

Top 10 Places to Camp in Utah

Utah is a beacon for that traditional American vacation, the camping trip, thanks to its breathtaking environment. You can find an unforgettable camping experience whether you're interested in exploring slot canyons, fly fishing, hiking, bicycling, mountaineering, ATV riding, or simply relaxing around a campfire beneath the stars.

The state has more than 300 campgrounds, including those run by the Bureau of Land Management, the USDA Forest Service, state parks, and national parks. It cannot be easy to decide where to go when there is so much outdoor area to enjoy. The best camping in Utah can be found at the following.

1. Goblin Valley National Park

Location: Goblin Valley Rd, Green River, UT 84525

Phone: 435-275-4584

Website: Goblin Valley National Park  

When to Visit: Spring and fall

Best Campsites: Goblin Valley Campground, Temple Mountain Campground East

Activities: Camping, hiking, biking, stargazing, golfing, canyoneering

Goblin Valley State Park is a unique location along the San Rafael Reef, south of Interstate 70. It challenges you with its geology whimsy while captivating and perplexing the imagination. There is a region called Goblin Valley where soft sandstone has worn into intriguing forms that resemble goblins to some extent. The proximity of the rock formations in some areas creates a playground that resembles a maze that is great for family outings. The site is frequently compared to Mars because of the sandstone "goblins" and other exciting formations that dot the terrain.

Although Goblin Valley has a radically distinct appearance from the rest of Utah's environment, it is equally stunning in an otherworldly manner. Camping, hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf are just a few enjoyable activities available to visitors in the area. You might even spot prehistoric petroglyphs and pictographs that the Fremont, Paiute, and other Native American settlers left behind if you look closely. The three options for overnight guests in Goblin Valley are a campground, a yurt, or their RV. The main campground is situated just outside the "Valley of the Goblins," surrounded by stunning scenery and other rock formations rather than in the valley's heart.

“While visiting the less famous parks of Utah, a friend recommended Goblin Valley to us, so off we went. We were extremely thankful to this friend because Goblin Valley turned out to be a highlight of our tour. ”

2. Bear Lake State Park

Location: 25 East 300 North, St. Charles, ID 83272

Phone: 435-946-3343

Website: Bear Lake State Park  

When to Visit: June to September

Best Campsites: Rendezvous Beach, Cisco Beach, The Marina

Activities: Camping, hiking, boating, water playing, fishing, birding

In the southeast of Idaho, close to the Cache mountain range, you'll find Bear Lake, State Park. Numerous serviced and authoritative sites and camping spots for parties of up to 50 people are available. Bear Lake, a well-liked vacation spot for water sports enthusiasts, hosts roughly 15,000 campers annually. Bear Lake is a natural lake that is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide. Its beautiful, calm waters complement the relaxed pace of the little communities that line its shore.  

Sand beaches and crystal-clear waters beckon visitors to play, fish, boat, and camp at Bear Lake State Park. The lake has characteristics that are unique to each season. Visitors can participate in various leisure and cultural activities throughout the year. Go snowmobiling in the neighboring mountains and feel the adrenaline at the family-run Beaver Mountain resort nearby, ski. Cross the turquoise water in your watercraft. Feel a Bear Lake cutthroat on the end of your fishing line as it bends your rod with enthusiasm. At Bear Lake State Park, camping is offered at the marina, Rendezvous Beach, and Cisco Beach if you intend to stay for a few nights. Bring your boat, a swimsuit, sunscreen, a fishing pole, and water toys.  

“This is one of the most beautiful bodies of water anywhere, and it's in the middle of nowhere in northern Utah/Idaho. The parks are clean with good amenities for both day trips and overnight camping.”

3. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Garfield County and Kane County, Utah, United States

Phone: 435-834-5322

Website: Bryce Canyon National Park  

When to Visit: May to September

Best Campsites: North Campground, Sunset Campground, Bryce Canyon Pines Campground

Activities: Hiking, camping, bicycling, picnicking, water sports

Sandstone cliffs at Bryce Canyon National Park have been sculpted into bizarre figures that appear to have been pulled from a crazy Viking's subconscious by wind, water, and time. Rock strata cross the rows of human-shaped pillars in an almost deliberate, yet extraordinary, manner. So serene, unsettling, and lovely. A red rock hoodoo-filled alpine forest with an equal number of trees. Mule deer browse on the forested plateau alongside the road into Bryce Canyon during sunrise and sunset. Several kinds of mammals and birds live in the alpine habitat.

At an elevation of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, Bryce Canyon National Park offers the chance to participate in winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved into the Paunsaugunt Plateau's eastern edge, picturesque vistas, and the starry night sky may all be found in Bryce Canyon. Fantastic hiking, camping, a prairie dog festival, and many ranger activities are all available to visitors. A lodge and two campgrounds are open at Bryce. There are more than 200 campsites at the campgrounds, but no RV hookups are available. The first person who requests a camp will get it. Finding an open campsite is typically hardest on the weekends and holidays.

“Beautiful canyon with gorgeous views - several overlooks. We watched the short video at the visitor's center, and I was glad we did so we could appreciate the hoodoos.”

4. Jordanelle State Park

Location: 515 UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032

Phone: 435-649-9540

Website: Jordanelle State Park  

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites: Hailstone Campground, Jordanelle State Park Campground

Activities: Hiking, camping, fishing, boating, birding, water playing

The Provo River fills Jordanelle Reservoir and Deer Creek Reservoir, helping provide users in Wasatch, Utah, and Salt Lake Counties with culinary water. Many of Utah's top sights and attractions are within a short drive of Jordanelle State Park. This state park and reservoir, built in 1995, are now a well-liked holiday spot for fans of water sports.

Because of its high boardwalks and interpretative pathways, the Rock Cliff Recreation Area is a peaceful haven ideal for birders, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Outdoor adventurers travel to Hailstone because of the abundance of opportunities for camping, fishing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, canoeing, and motorboating available from Hailstone and its eight-lane boat ramp. At the same time, Rock Cliff has a nature center, typical walk-in campgrounds, and basic amenities. Whether you want to stay for a day, a weekend, or longer, Jordanelle has some of Utah's best hiking, boating, camping, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

“Pretty State Park, be good to have a vehicle to drive around. This is not a flat park. Hilly but paved. Can rent Kayak, canoe, wave runner, pontoons.”

5. Dark Horse Point State Park

Location: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532

Phone: 435-259-2614

Website: Dark Horse Point State Park  

When to Visit: Spring and fall

Best Campsites: Kayenta Campground, Moenkopi Yurts, Cowboy Campground

Activities: Camping, hiking, biking, backpacking, climbing, birding

Explore Dead Horse Point State Park to take in the vast desert beauty of gorges, high desert vegetation, and miles of trails. One of Utah's most breathtaking state parks, Dead Horse Point State Park, is located 32.5 miles (51.5 kilometers) from Moab. One of the most famous picturesque panoramas in the world is the view from Dead Horse Point. The viewpoint rises 2,000 feet above the Colorado River and offers a spectacular view of Canyonlands' carved pinnacles and buttes.

Beautiful campgrounds in the park offer contemporary conveniences, breathtaking vistas, and intimate links to nature that will help visitors make lifelong memories. The canyon walls are drenched in golden light during sunrises and sunsets, creating a magnificent picture evocative of vibrant watercolor paintings. Visitors to the park are encouraged to look up and enjoy an unmatched view of the dark skies with thousands of stars. The park has miles of built pet-friendly hiking routes, including a paved trail that makes reaching some of the most beautiful viewpoints simple. Visitors can easily access miles of high desert hiking and mountain biking trails from the well-liked but peaceful campground. The new Intrepid Trail System at Dead Horse Point is fantastic for mountain bikers.

“Love this park! Great place to walk your dog or sit and enjoy the scenery. This is one of the prettiest places around the area and well worth the money.”

6. Arches National Park

Location: Grand County, Utah, United States

Phone: 435-719-2299

Website: Arches National Park  

When to Visit: Summer (7-8 AM or 3-5 PM)

Best Campsites: Devils Garden Campground

Activities: Camping, hiking, biking, birding, stargazing, ranger program

Explore a unique landscape with different hues, landforms, and textures. Over 2,000 naturally occurring stone arches, numerous towering pinnacles, enormous rock fins, and enormous balancing rocks may all be found in the park. The park's 76,518 acres are home to a fantastic range of geological formations. Visitors are dwarfed as they explore the park's views and hiking routes by enormous sandstone fins, huge balancing rocks, soaring pinnacles, and spires.

Visitors can access most of the park's significant overlooks via a paved scenic route. Children and adults both like the park's rock formations, and plenty of short, easy trails allow kids to get out of the car and have a closer look at the arches. A range of routes is available for hikers to select from, ranging from shorter. These twenty-minute strolls take visitors to several of the park's most excellent arches to longer, more challenging hikes through less traveled terrain. In Arches National Park, there is only one campground: Devils Garden. It may be found near the end of the paved main park access road. It is available all year long and is located about 18 miles from the park's entrance.  

“Lots to see at Arches National Park. It's cool driving up the face of the mountain on switchbacks from Moab. It's not cool that you have to have an allotted time to get in.”

7. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Wayne, Garfield, Sevier, and Emery counties, Utah, United States

Phone: 435-425-3791

Website: Capitol Reef National Park  

When to Visit: Spring and fall

Best Campsites: Capitol Reef NP Group Campsites, Fruita Campground, Cedar Mesa Campground

Activities: Camping, hiking, horse riding, fruit picking, rock climbing

Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem of cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold in south-central Utah, the heart of red rock country. Despite being a 100-mile pinch in the earth's crust in the middle of nowhere, Capitol Reef National Park is overflowing with geological, cultural, and sensory significance. This stunning national park is a well-liked tourist destination and a breathtaking refuge all year long. Visitors may see the vivid blue sky, white and red sandstone cliffs, lush green riverbanks, and vibrant patches of vegetation scattered throughout the desert plain from one location within the park.

With various hiking trails, campgrounds, outdoor activities, parks, and local activities in Wayne County, Utah, this location makes the ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle. While seeing big cities can be great, sometimes you must go off the beaten path to find new locations, activities, and memories. Families and anyone looking for shorter hikes should visit Capitol Reef. For aspiring photographers, there is a very photogenic barn that will make you feel like you have the place to yourself. Camping in the park transports you back to a prehistoric era when the untamed power of nature shaped the American Southwest.

“We enjoyed the central national park of the Mighty 5. There was lots of driving, but oh, was it amazing. The scenic drive is 8 mi one way but worth your time.”

8. Sand Hollow State Park

Location: 3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737

Phone: 435-680-0715

Website: Sand Hollow State Park  

When to Visit: May to September

Best Campsites: Sand Pit Campgrounds, West Campground

Activities: Hiking, camping, ATV riding, picnicking, boating, fishing, water playing

Red sand beaches, gorgeous red rock formations, and a 1,322-acre reservoir are all notable features of Sand Hollow State Park. Adventurers of every age, type, and ability level can participate in various activities at the conveniently located park. From May through September, the reservoir's wonderfully warm waters make it a popular spot for swimming and other water activities. ATV riders throng for its vast dunes and challenging courses while still-water anglers gather for its plentiful catches.

Access to Sand Mountain in the park is by ATV tracks that cross dunes, and additional trails are nearby. You can camp here, picnic, go boating, fish, and ride ATVs. Off-highway vehicles have access to Sand Mountain's 16,000 acres of canyons, ravines, dunes, and buttes, which give the best ATVing. On a stand-up paddleboard, practice yoga in the morning or cruise the lake's western shore in the late afternoon. Both tent camping and RV camping are welcome along the southern coast. There are 70 campsites in Sand Hollow, 42 of which have full hookups.

“Sand hollow state park is great. We stayed in the campground for a week. The spaces were ample and had full hookups. There's a lot of people that stay there to go ride their ATV.”

9. Kodachrome Basin State Park

Location: Cannonville, UT 84718

Phone: 435-679-8562

Website: Kodachrome Basin State Park  

When to Visit: Spring and fall

Best Campsites: Arch Campground, Bryce View Campground, Bunkhouse

Activities: Camping, hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, stargazing

Here, 67 sedimentary pipes that are monolithic stone spires dominate the splashy landscape. They draw attention to strata of multicolored sandstone that show 180 million years of geologic history. Kodachrome Basin State Park is the kind of state park meant to be captured on camera. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument encircles the park's 2,240 acres of canyon terrain on three sides. It makes for a fantastic basecamp or a stop on an event-filled day in the desert with friends because of its proximity to other well-known locations down Cottonwood Road.

The ideal approach to experiencing the Kodachrome is to pick a few short routes, enjoy them in total peace, and allow the stunning scenery and vibrant colors to inspire you. It only needs two hours to visit Kodachrome Basin, State Park. Some dirt roads you must travel on to the trailheads are still usable, though they could turn hazardous in rain or snow. The Basin campground is near the top, directly next to one of the many sandpipers. Vast white hills surround it, and most hiking paths are easily accessible by foot from the campground.

“Kodachrome Basin State Park is easily reached if you're visiting Bryce Canyon and is beautiful. There are lots of stunning vistas and great photo opportunities.”

10. Goosenecks State Park

Location: UT-316, Mexican Hat, UT 84531

Phone: 435-678-2238

Website: Goosenecks State Park  

When to Visit: Summer and Fall

Best Campsites: Goosenecks Campground

Activities: Hiking, biking, camping, stargazing, sightseeing

This little park offers stunning views of one of the most outstanding examples of an entrenched river meander on the North American continent, perched on the rim of a deep canyon above the sinuous river meander known as a gooseneck. On its approach to Lake Powell, the San Juan River meanders through the meander, covering a distance of more than six miles while moving one and a half miles west. Watch the San Juan River wind and cut its way across the desert 1,000 feet below you to see the results of 300 million years of geological action.

To try to discover other vistas, you can proceed down dirt roads in either direction from the main area, although a high-clearance vehicle is advised, and you should be aware that there is no direct access to the river from the park road. Goosenecks State Park, designated as an International Dark Sky Park in March 2021, is a fantastic location for both night sky and panoramic photography. There are places dedicated to picnics where you may eat outside and enjoy the environment. There are six modest camping spots with fire rings accessible if you want to stay the night.  

“Stunning place to stay or camp. We parked our RV right on the rim, which was truly spectacular. Natural beauty. Felt like we were on the moon.”

Camping in Utah Essentials

Camping is a fantastic and economical way to make the most of your visit to one of Utah's stunning state or national parks. You're on your way to one of Utah's lovely national parks, where you'll stroll along red-dirt paths, explore red-rock canyons, and have fun in the tiny creeks and waterfalls that cut through the dry, arid landscape. As a list of necessities for the best camping in Utah, we typically pack some camping must-haves.

- Campsite Essentials: tent, sleeping bag, table & chair, flashlight, firewood;

- Portable Power Generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1500, Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

- Camp Cooking Essentials: cooking grill, stove, knife, cutting board, coffee maker, food

- Camping Clothes: water-proof jacket, hiking pants, boots, gloves

- Cleaning Essentials: hand sanitizer, toothbrush, shower kit, suncream, towel

- First Aid Kit: personal medication, bandages, finger splints, eye drops

>> Download Camping Essentials Checklist PDF

A portable solar generator is a necessary tool to pack when going camping. A portable solar generator is a great way to guarantee power wherever you need it, even if there is no nearby power grid. If you're camping or off the grid, the Jackery portable solar generator can keep your electronic devices running for hours or even days.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1500 is an excellent solution for outdoor activities like camping and fishing. Its packages contain 4 SolarSaga 100s (simplified versions of 2 SolarSaga 100X) and 1 SolarSaga 100. Whether you're camping for a weekend or a more extended period, the bundle, which was created especially for these activities, is perfect. 1800 operating watts and a big 1534Wh capacity are features of the Explorer 1500. (3600 peak watts). Three AC Pure Sine Wave outlets, one PD 60W USB-C port, one Quick Charge 3.0 port, one USB-A port, and one 12V car port are also included. It can power up to 85% of the appliances and other significant power consumers in your RV, including microwaves, refrigerators, lights, power tools, and home appliances.

Another option is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro if you're outside. Because it features an updated solar panel and battery, it is perfect for people who seek the best solar generator. A full charge may be completed in 1.8 hours thanks to four revolutionary SolarSaga 200W solar panels, three times faster than Solar Generator 1000. With a quick and straightforward 60-second setup, you can enjoy infinite green power wherever you go. An entire wall charge may be completed in approximately 1.8 hours. Its USB-C and 100W PD ports provide dependable power for requirements like phones, iPad, PCs, and drones. It has many interfaces, including a DC vehicle port, two USB A ports, and three 1000W AC output connectors.

Camping in Utah Tips

Camping in Utah is one of the finest ways to take advantage of many natural beauties. Every section of the state is home to dozens of campgrounds and more than 20 million acres of public lands where you can set up your tent. With these suggestions, your camping vacation to Utah will go smoothly.   

• About 42% of Utah's total land area is under the control of the Bureau of Land Management. Public land, sometimes known as "public lands," can be found outside national parks and monuments, state parks, and national recreation areas. You should know the regulations if you plan to camp on public land.
• When camping in the Utah desert, a decent general rule of thumb is two daily gallons per person. It would be best if you got a large water jug to ensure you have plenty of water wherever you go, as not all campgrounds in Utah will have access to drinking water.
• Be sure to come prepared for all seasons, regardless of the time of year, as summers are hot, winters are chilly, monsoon season thunderstorms can be severe, and snow can fall any time of year at higher elevations. The summer months are much more relaxed at higher elevations, and there are many alpine lakes and streams to cool down in.

Final Thoughts

You've decided to visit Utah, but where do you start? Utah provides more than just about anywhere else possible thanks to its five national parks, 40 state parks, six national forests, and millions of BLM land. It is North America's most breathtaking biological and geological zone. Choosing a camping location might take a lot of work with many alternatives. The best camping in Utah and how to prepare for a vacation are described here.

With so much outdoor space to enjoy, Utah is the best place for camping. When camping in Utah, a portable generator is far more critical outside. The Jackery portable solar generator is an advanced power bank that offers a dependable and eco-friendly power supply for your Utah camping trip. Just start your camping trip by owning a solar generator!