Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Utah with wildlife watching

United States
—
Utah

93% (4540 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Utah

Star Hosts in Utah

Under $50

91%

(1768)

Kolob Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Virgin, UT

The perfect way to escape the heat of summer, and the crowds of Zion National Park. Kolob Campground, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Reservoir is a quiet location nestled between the main canyons of Zion National Park and the remote Kolob Finger Canyons Complex at Zion National Park. With quick access to West Rim Trail, Subway Canyon, Hop Valley Trail, and Wildcat Canyon Trail, this area of Greater Zion is not to be missed. Located in a private gated area on the shores of Kolob Reservoir, Kolob Campground is the premiere location for camping on Kolob Mountain in the Greater Zion National Park area. Kolob Campground is located adjacent to the Kolob Reservoir boat ramp and dock, including four acres of private shoreline. Just a few feet from the paved road, nestled in tall aspen, oak, and pine trees. Access to potable water is available adjacent to camp, and public restrooms (vault toilets) are only a short walk from camp.WiFi access is available nearby at Kolob Adventure Rentals/Adventure Beach (3 minute walk). WiFi location and password provided by host upon request. This is an exclusive benefit available to our guests, and the only WiFi available to campers in the area.Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals, snacks and beverages are also located nearby. LP(propane) fires are allowed and LP fire bowls can be provided through the camp host. LP fuel is also available for purchase. Wood burning, charcoal, and smoking currently not allowed due to area restriction.

Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

57 sites · RVs, Tents1200 acres · Virgin, UT

Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.

95%

(114)

Lakeside Cabins and Camping

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · Scipio, UT

This is on about 3 acres with a river running through it. It is only a 5 minute or so drive to Yuba Lake. The nearest town with a grocery store is Nephi, the nearest gas stations with convenience store and Dairy Queen is 7 miles away.

93%

(296)

Red Desert RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Moab, UT

Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.

92%

(360)

Sandy Beach

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Scipio, UT

17 RV sites available for reservations. Easy to access 55 foot long sites. Each site has incredible lake views. Access to private sandy beach with kayak, and paddle board rentals available. Fishing, water sports, views, and star gazing. Just a short distance from I-15 but worlds away from the hustle an bustle.

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Utah with wildlife watching

97%

(3974)

Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

57 sites · RVs, Tents1200 acres · Virgin, UT

Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.

Red Desert RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Moab, UT

Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.

Kolob Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Virgin, UT

The perfect way to escape the heat of summer, and the crowds of Zion National Park. Kolob Campground, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Reservoir is a quiet location nestled between the main canyons of Zion National Park and the remote Kolob Finger Canyons Complex at Zion National Park. With quick access to West Rim Trail, Subway Canyon, Hop Valley Trail, and Wildcat Canyon Trail, this area of Greater Zion is not to be missed. Located in a private gated area on the shores of Kolob Reservoir, Kolob Campground is the premiere location for camping on Kolob Mountain in the Greater Zion National Park area. Kolob Campground is located adjacent to the Kolob Reservoir boat ramp and dock, including four acres of private shoreline. Just a few feet from the paved road, nestled in tall aspen, oak, and pine trees. Access to potable water is available adjacent to camp, and public restrooms (vault toilets) are only a short walk from camp.WiFi access is available nearby at Kolob Adventure Rentals/Adventure Beach (3 minute walk). WiFi location and password provided by host upon request. This is an exclusive benefit available to our guests, and the only WiFi available to campers in the area.Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals, snacks and beverages are also located nearby. LP(propane) fires are allowed and LP fire bowls can be provided through the camp host. LP fuel is also available for purchase. Wood burning, charcoal, and smoking currently not allowed due to area restriction.

Sandy Beach

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Scipio, UT

17 RV sites available for reservations. Easy to access 55 foot long sites. Each site has incredible lake views. Access to private sandy beach with kayak, and paddle board rentals available. Fishing, water sports, views, and star gazing. Just a short distance from I-15 but worlds away from the hustle an bustle.

Hope Acres

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Tabiona, UT

Looking for a Glamping experience? Hope Acres is in the tall Pinion Pines at 7800 feet atop of a Mesa in Northern Utah. Just minutes from 2 large Reservoirs, Strawberry and Starvation to include mountain lakes, rivers for fishing, boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming and other water activities. While the property lies in the middle of mountainous country there are many hiking trails as well as off road UTV and ATV trails for riding the back country. If your into sightseeing then this is the place, with many different species of wildlife that roam this beautiful landscape as well as a Birds Eye view of the high terrain that awaits you. Hope Acres has beautiful Bell Tents that are placed on elevated decks with comfortable queen beds and some twins. Each tent boasts air conditioning that provides the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. Each camp site offers a personal bathroom as well as a shower, picnic table, high speed internet, hammock, BBQ and outdoor sink, amenities for an enjoyable experience. If you are looking for a hideaway then come experience the beauty while relaxing and making memories at Hope Acres, we look forward to seeing you.

Lakeside Cabins and Camping

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · Scipio, UT

This is on about 3 acres with a river running through it. It is only a 5 minute or so drive to Yuba Lake. The nearest town with a grocery store is Nephi, the nearest gas stations with convenience store and Dairy Queen is 7 miles away.

Ravens Nest Utah

5 sites · RVs, Tents93 acres · Panguitch, UT

Ravens Nest is NESTled in the mountains near Panguitch Utah, and is a prime location for camping with a great many places to visit nearby. All 2W Drive. Those being Bryce Canyon 23 miles, Zion Canyon 56 miles, Panguitch Lake 18 miles, Kodachrome Basin 32 miles, Petrified Forest 40 miles, Coral Pink Sand Dunes 63 miles, and many more.

Swell Retreat in San Rafael Swell

13 sites · RVs, Tents208 acres · Castle Dale, UT

A Swell Oasis in the desert of the San Rafael Swell: Swell Retreat. A pine tree farm was active prior to us purchasing the land, so lots of beautiful trees. A couple ponds stocked with large mouth bass. Zipline, WIBIT, water slide, etc. A field of hay, and continued improvements to make it into a Swell Retreat!!! We are a great spot to stay and have onsite a zip line into Lake Elevate, water slide into the pond, adventure island, zipline, kayaking, paddle boarding, catch and release fishing, and close to all fun in the San Rafael Swell. 20 min or so from three reservoirs for additional fishing, swimming and motor boating, 30 minutes from the Little Grand Canyon for breathtaking views, hiking and mountain biking, petroglyphs and the San Rafael Swell river to float on, 60 minutes from Goblin Valley, within 60 minutes to multiple slot canyons: Little Wild Horse Canyon, Muddy Creek, The Chute (similar to Zion National Park), Baptist Draw, to name a few. Mountain fun for rock climbing just up the road in Joe's Valley, hiking, biking, fishing, etc. We would love to have you stay on our little farm while you enjoy the fun of the San Rafael Swell adventures.

100%

(2)

Mike's Place on the "Boulder"

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Duchesne, UT

This is a very natural place with awesome rock formations, abundant wildlife etc. I did find an ancient axe head years ago in one of the crevices. Up above camp is a rock formation I have always called "Mike Rushmore". Learn more about this land: This is a really cool place and I get a lot of compliments from those that have been here or have seen it. It's a hikers paradise with lots of rock features, sandy areas, tons of trees, wildlife and all the beautiful plant life of a high desert. The lake is close by for Fishing, kayaking, boating, or just a good ole swim about 10 minutes away. So, here is what you get on my 15 acres. Me, as your host to show you around and let you pick from several spots available where you would like to camp on the upper 5 acres for RV, truck, tent,, etc. I can accomidate whatever. For those that want the natural experience I suggest down below. So cool. There is no one right next to me to the north, south, east, or west. Very private. It is off grid.. However, potable water and generator can be available if needed for and extra fee. This place is absolutely amazing. Your host: Mike It's my place so I can do what I want. I'll show you around, hook you up so you have a nice stay. Contact me if interested in a more natural place to stay. Let me know how I can help or if you have any questions. Thank you, Mike

93%

(40)

Stoneview Camp

2 sites · RVs33 acres · Bryce Canyon City, UT

Theres no better way to capture the full beauty of the stars at night than out here on Stoneview ranch. close to Bryce Canyon, discount on local country music dinner show. bathroom available

91%

(692)

Bear Lake Aquatics Base

33 sites · Tents300 acres · Laketown, UT

Bear Lake Aquatics Base is owned and operated by the Crossroads of the West Council, Scouting America. It is used for Scout events and campsite rentals during the summer season. There aren’t many places inland that you can say you really feel like you’re at the ocean. Bear Lake just happens to be one of them! With one mile of beach-front property, you will enjoy a beach-front camp like you’ve never dreamed of! All campsites are located between the highway and Bear Lake. Each campsite has potable water, a picnic table, campfire pit, and restrooms/showers a short walk away. No alcohol, drugs, or fireworks on property per Scouting America policies. Bear Lake Aquatics Base is conveniently located north of Laketown and nearby many local attractions - Bear Lake State Park, Logan Canyon, Minnetonka Cave and the National Oregon Trail Museum. Explore neighboring Laketown to experience the local flavor, maybe even a raspberry shake.

Rasmussen Ridge

12 sites · RVs1 acre · Mantua, UT

Located in Mantua, UT, a small mountain valley in Cache National Forest on the Wasatchback of the Rocky Mountains of Utah. A ten minute walk to Mantua Reservoir for ice fishing in the winter, kayaking, boating, water skiing, fishing in Spring, Summer, & Fall. Pickleball courts and Sydney's Grill are a 10 minute walk away. Mountain biking, four wheeling, side-by-side adventure right outside your RV door to Willard Peak and the beautiful Northern Wasatchback. Use of my huge lawn (next to the field where you park) for lawn games (provided for a small fee), and my in-ground fire pit are available for your enjoyment. Friendly dogs are very welcome - my white Lab is always looking for new friends! 3 miles down Box Elder Canyon to two large grocery stores, Walmart, gas stations, restaurants, and gyms. One hour to skiing at Snow Basin (home of 2002 Olympic downhill), Powder Mountain to the south and Beaver Mountain to the north. World's largest game bird refuge and museum 10 minutes west down the canyon. Utah State University 30 minutes to the north and Weber State University 30 minutes to the south. Box Elder Creek is a 5 minute walk into Box Elder Campground, the poppy hill (2 weeks in June), and wonderful hiking opportunities. The valley was settled by Danish immigrants in 1862, and the property you will be on is owned by a descendent of the original settlers. See more info about Mantua in the link below.

Dog-friendly getaways

92%

(360)

Sandy Beach

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Scipio, UT

17 RV sites available for reservations. Easy to access 55 foot long sites. Each site has incredible lake views. Access to private sandy beach with kayak, and paddle board rentals available. Fishing, water sports, views, and star gazing. Just a short distance from I-15 but worlds away from the hustle an bustle.

Red Desert RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Moab, UT

Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.

Kolob Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Virgin, UT

The perfect way to escape the heat of summer, and the crowds of Zion National Park. Kolob Campground, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Reservoir is a quiet location nestled between the main canyons of Zion National Park and the remote Kolob Finger Canyons Complex at Zion National Park. With quick access to West Rim Trail, Subway Canyon, Hop Valley Trail, and Wildcat Canyon Trail, this area of Greater Zion is not to be missed. Located in a private gated area on the shores of Kolob Reservoir, Kolob Campground is the premiere location for camping on Kolob Mountain in the Greater Zion National Park area. Kolob Campground is located adjacent to the Kolob Reservoir boat ramp and dock, including four acres of private shoreline. Just a few feet from the paved road, nestled in tall aspen, oak, and pine trees. Access to potable water is available adjacent to camp, and public restrooms (vault toilets) are only a short walk from camp.WiFi access is available nearby at Kolob Adventure Rentals/Adventure Beach (3 minute walk). WiFi location and password provided by host upon request. This is an exclusive benefit available to our guests, and the only WiFi available to campers in the area.Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals, snacks and beverages are also located nearby. LP(propane) fires are allowed and LP fire bowls can be provided through the camp host. LP fuel is also available for purchase. Wood burning, charcoal, and smoking currently not allowed due to area restriction.

Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

57 sites · RVs, Tents1200 acres · Virgin, UT

Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.

Hope Acres

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Tabiona, UT

Looking for a Glamping experience? Hope Acres is in the tall Pinion Pines at 7800 feet atop of a Mesa in Northern Utah. Just minutes from 2 large Reservoirs, Strawberry and Starvation to include mountain lakes, rivers for fishing, boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming and other water activities. While the property lies in the middle of mountainous country there are many hiking trails as well as off road UTV and ATV trails for riding the back country. If your into sightseeing then this is the place, with many different species of wildlife that roam this beautiful landscape as well as a Birds Eye view of the high terrain that awaits you. Hope Acres has beautiful Bell Tents that are placed on elevated decks with comfortable queen beds and some twins. Each tent boasts air conditioning that provides the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. Each camp site offers a personal bathroom as well as a shower, picnic table, high speed internet, hammock, BBQ and outdoor sink, amenities for an enjoyable experience. If you are looking for a hideaway then come experience the beauty while relaxing and making memories at Hope Acres, we look forward to seeing you.

Available this weekend

97%

(38)

Hope Acres

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Tabiona, UT

Looking for a Glamping experience? Hope Acres is in the tall Pinion Pines at 7800 feet atop of a Mesa in Northern Utah. Just minutes from 2 large Reservoirs, Strawberry and Starvation to include mountain lakes, rivers for fishing, boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming and other water activities. While the property lies in the middle of mountainous country there are many hiking trails as well as off road UTV and ATV trails for riding the back country. If your into sightseeing then this is the place, with many different species of wildlife that roam this beautiful landscape as well as a Birds Eye view of the high terrain that awaits you. Hope Acres has beautiful Bell Tents that are placed on elevated decks with comfortable queen beds and some twins. Each tent boasts air conditioning that provides the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. Each camp site offers a personal bathroom as well as a shower, picnic table, high speed internet, hammock, BBQ and outdoor sink, amenities for an enjoyable experience. If you are looking for a hideaway then come experience the beauty while relaxing and making memories at Hope Acres, we look forward to seeing you.

Stoneview Camp

2 sites · RVs33 acres · Bryce Canyon City, UT

Theres no better way to capture the full beauty of the stars at night than out here on Stoneview ranch. close to Bryce Canyon, discount on local country music dinner show. bathroom available

Ravens Nest Utah

5 sites · RVs, Tents93 acres · Panguitch, UT

Ravens Nest is NESTled in the mountains near Panguitch Utah, and is a prime location for camping with a great many places to visit nearby. All 2W Drive. Those being Bryce Canyon 23 miles, Zion Canyon 56 miles, Panguitch Lake 18 miles, Kodachrome Basin 32 miles, Petrified Forest 40 miles, Coral Pink Sand Dunes 63 miles, and many more.

Rasmussen Ridge

12 sites · RVs1 acre · Mantua, UT

Located in Mantua, UT, a small mountain valley in Cache National Forest on the Wasatchback of the Rocky Mountains of Utah. A ten minute walk to Mantua Reservoir for ice fishing in the winter, kayaking, boating, water skiing, fishing in Spring, Summer, & Fall. Pickleball courts and Sydney's Grill are a 10 minute walk away. Mountain biking, four wheeling, side-by-side adventure right outside your RV door to Willard Peak and the beautiful Northern Wasatchback. Use of my huge lawn (next to the field where you park) for lawn games (provided for a small fee), and my in-ground fire pit are available for your enjoyment. Friendly dogs are very welcome - my white Lab is always looking for new friends! 3 miles down Box Elder Canyon to two large grocery stores, Walmart, gas stations, restaurants, and gyms. One hour to skiing at Snow Basin (home of 2002 Olympic downhill), Powder Mountain to the south and Beaver Mountain to the north. World's largest game bird refuge and museum 10 minutes west down the canyon. Utah State University 30 minutes to the north and Weber State University 30 minutes to the south. Box Elder Creek is a 5 minute walk into Box Elder Campground, the poppy hill (2 weeks in June), and wonderful hiking opportunities. The valley was settled by Danish immigrants in 1862, and the property you will be on is owned by a descendent of the original settlers. See more info about Mantua in the link below.

Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

57 sites · RVs, Tents1200 acres · Virgin, UT

Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

91%

(89)

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Levan, Utah

88%

(12)

Ashley National Forest

Dead Horse Point State Park

Moab, Utah

100%

(9)

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Escalante, Utah

82%

(19)

Dixie National Forest

Cedar Fort, Utah

100%

(15)

Manti-La Sal National Forest

Ferron, Utah

91%

(11)

Fishlake National Forest

Joseph, Utah

Rent a kayak or paddleboard near the campground and tour the lake. Row to the northernmost part for some shade, but keep in mind: Years of silt have made the lake bottom soft and murky - you may sink up to your ankles, possibly lose a shoe!

100%

(3)

Quail Creek State Park

Hurricane, Utah

100%

(3)

Willard Bay State Park

Willard, Utah

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Utah with wildlife watching guide

Overview

With a wide variety of terrains ranging from dense forest to arid plateaus, Utah has been attracting campers, backpackers, and hikers for generations. It's home to five national parks, plus dozens of state parks and national forests and monuments (not to mention plenty of BLM land), making it easy to find a Utah camping experience that suits you best. While the southern and eastern parts of the state attract lovers of the great outdoors with their massive rock formations and abundance of recreation activities, you’ll also find plenty to do up in the north, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to getting out on one of the region’s many lakes and reservoirs come summer.

Where to go

Northwest Utah

Northern Utah is where you'll find some of the state's lushest areas, with plenty of lakes and mountains, a stark contrast to the rockier, arid regions to the south. Salt Lake City is one of the region's biggest draws, and its easy access to outdoor recreation areas, such as Antelope Island State Park on the Great Salt Lake, makes it a reasonable base for those wanting to explore the region. Camping areas abound in this region—the tent-only Cottonwood Campground at Bear Lake State Park is a particularly good choice.

Eastern Utah

Eastern Utah offers some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation in the state, and that's not just because two of Utah’s five national parks—Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park—are here, a short drive from Moab. Spots worth visiting include Dead Horse Point State Park (popular for mountain biking) and Natural Bridges National Monument, where you’ll see three natural bridge formations carved from the earth millennia ago. This area is also great for archaeology fans. Hovenweep National Monument is a great place to check out the ruins of 13th-century pueblos, while Bear Ears National Monument is full of beautifully preserved ancient cave art.

South-Central and Southern Utah

South Central Utah offers a mix of high desert and dense forest, with plenty of spots to go out and play. You can hike through the slot canyons of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, explore the fairytale-like hoodoos at Goblin Valley State Park, or try your hand at canyoning at Capitol Reef National Park. This region is also home to Lake Powell, on the Colorado River, right on the border with Arizona.

Southwest Utah

Home to both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, southwest Utah offers fantastic hiking and camping options, with a mix of beautiful rock formations, vast forests, and desert sand dunes. While the national parks are the main draw, this region offers plenty to do, from ATV/OHV riding on the massive golden dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park to checking out the red rock formations at Kodachrome Basin State Park. You'll find some of Utah's best camping spots and hiking trails all through the region, and the lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for stargazing under the night skies.