CAMPING
Sleeping out under southern Utah's clear skies is an amazing experience. Several options exist, from campgrounds to setting up camp in a remote canyon. So fluff up that sleeping bag and get ready for a memorable night.
Backcountry Regulations
When camping in the backcountry there are a few rules set out by the agencies that manage the land.
- First of all, free overnight permits are required by the BLM and Park Service.
- Fires are permitted in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument as long as you are not in a canyon.
- Fires are NOT permitted within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Leave No Trace. Camp only in existing sites.
- Campsites are located all over the canyons and are easy to find. Please don't camp in a pristine area. Pack out all waste!
Looking for a great spot to car camp? Stop by Utah Canyon Outdoors in Escalante and we'll turn you on to our personal favorites.
Campgrounds
There are several campgrounds located in the area that provide great places to set up a base camp.
* Escalante Outfitters: Located in Escalante, the campsite features individual tent pads, a cooking pavilion with picnic tables and a large fire ring with benches for campfires. When camping at Escalante Outfitters you can take advantage of the free internet and hot showers. The campground has sites that will suit families, large groups, couples and solo travelers alike. Camping is safe, shaded, quiet and clean.
* Canyons of Escalante RV Park: Located in Escalante, this quiet little RV park has several tent sites available for $18/night (2 people).
* Calf Creek Falls Recreation Area: Located 15 miles east of Escalante. There are 14 sites situated in the bottom of the canyon with water and rest rooms available in season. $15.00 per night.
* Deer Creek: Located about 6 miles southeast of Boulder on the Burr Trail, Deer Creek has 7 sweet sites along the creek. Limited facilities. $10 per night.
* Escalante Petrified Forest State Park: Located 3 miles west of Escalante on Wide Hollow Reservoir Road, this little gem has 22 sites with great facilities including showers. $16 per night. Campsite reservation number is 1-800-322-3770.
* Dixie National Forest: There are several campgrounds located in the forest. All have picnic tables, fir rings, and pit toilets. Blue Spruce Campground is located 20 miles north of Escalante on Hell's Backbone Road, Posy Lake Campground is located 15 miles north of Escalante just off of Hell's Backbone Road. Dispersed camping is also allowed.
Overnight Permits
All overnight stays within the backcountry of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area require a free permit. Permits are available from the Interagency Office in Escalante and at each of the trail heads.