Best Camping in and near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

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Hunt for dinosaur fossils and petrified trees in the Utah desert

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Stay at a public campground in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

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Escalante Petrified Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

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Escalante Cabins & RV Park

81 sites · RVs26 acres · Escalante, UT

Looking for a family-friendly campground, with cabins, RV sites, tents sites, and even vacation rental homes? Well, Escalante Cabins & RV Park is exactly what you're looking for. Make us your base camp for adventures to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument! Close to Bryce, Zion and Capital Reef National Parks as well!

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Paria River Ranch

20 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Kanab, UT

Paria River Ranch is a working ranch that offers access to world class trails and some of the most unique riding in the Paria Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. We offer a limited number of 30 AMP Hookups and have an RV dump. Please come visit us at this magical place. Check out our other site accommodations to find the best stay for what you are looking for! We offer dry camping and also RV camping options. Look for our other sites to book! Bring your horses and mules and enjoy the beautiful trails. We offer 12x12 pipe corrals and have some larger corrals for 2 or 3 horses/mules. You provide everything. We will pick up manure outside of your corral once a day. *Horses and Mules have an additional charge of $15 per animal*

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Bryce Canyon Shadows Campground

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Panguitch, UT

We are located next to the beautiful Bryce Canyon national Park. We offer three different types of camping on our property, we have back in RV sites that will accommodate up to 40 foot RVs include power 30/50 amp, Water, Wi-Fi, and have dump stations to use. Our tent sites are Grassy and shaded with 20 amp power and water. All of our sites include a picnic table and a fire pit The glamping bunk houses are for those who want to camp in style. They have two comfortable queen beds, bedding included, a heater, air conditioning, flatscreen TV. A private area with a smokeless fire pit and Adirondack chairs. 50 feet away. There are private custom restrooms and showers. We have a yard games area where cornhole can be played. The property is beautifully surrounded by farming fields, Which provide great views and quiet evenings around the campfire.

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Ranchito Feliz

6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Cannonville, UT

When booking please add in your note the type of camping you are doing, ie. tent, car, van, or larger RV and please, only texts...NO calls. In the middle of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument; adjacent to Bryce Canyon National Park; within walking distance of Kodachrome Basin State Park; and an easy drive to Zion and Capital Reef National Parks, as well as Lake Powell National Recreational Area, this unique site is an opportunity not to miss. The pet/horse friendly property (approximately 9 acres/3 ha/64 sq. m) boasts private designated single tent sites, and a mix car camping and larger RV sites, as well as paleontological, geological, biological, astronomical, and historical interests of the ranch. The equestrians will find a two-acre pasture, three paddocks, a round pen, as well as beautiful places to ride from the ranch. This secluded location has a small town of about 175 (Cannonville) three miles/5 k distant where there is a small store, gas, and a Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center. And, bonus, the in town campground has: high speed internet, and cell phone service and laundry. This ranch and campground is an off the grid, passive/active solar voltaic, so no electricity, no internet and only Verizon works here. In Tropic 12 miles distant all carriers get service. Potable water, shower, dish washing station and composting toilet (This means that all campers count when booking, even the kids...their poops add up too). The views are spectacular from any site where the xeroscaped landscape uses indigenous material and plants to complement the quintessential Pinon/Juniper ecosystem the campground sits in. On three sides you are surrounded by red cliffs in the Carmel Formation which can give shelter from wind and sun, but campers can also look out over the Paria River (you can hear the river from camp as well as its amphibians) which runs south in front of the property and eventually meets the Colorado River at Lee’s Ferry where most put-in to raft the Grand Canyon. Looking north, one sees the meaning of the term “Grand Staircase” by viewing The Entrada, Tropic Shale, Straight Cliffs, Wahweap, Kaiparowits, and Pink Limestone Formations capped by late Tertiary Volcanism; or, the “steps” of Promise Rock, Sand Point, Powell Point, and the Aquarius Plateau (highest forested mesa in North America at over eleven thousand feet.). The biological diversity here is also astounding: Birds: 140 species and counting including the tiny Costa’s Humming Bird all the way up to the enormous California Condor. Plants: 2 species of Sagebrush, 4 species of trees, numerous grass species, and a plethora of beautiful wildflowers and cacti. Reptiles: Many species of snakes and lizards. Unfortunately, this includes the occasional rattlesnake. It is advised that you have your pets vaccinated. Amphibian: Toads and Salamanders Insects: There are very few mosquitos. There are a few biting Deer Flies, and worse yet, those damn gnats. These “no-see-ums” are temperature dependent so are not a bother in the shade, early mornings, late evenings and at night. It is recommended that you bring some kick ass insect repellant and a “bee hat” if you are out and about in the sun during the day between May and July. Fossils: Bivalves, snails, petrified wood (many types) and various other corals, insects and plant fossils abound and are often incorporated into the ranch infrastructure. The nearby area is considered the hottest paleontological spot on the planet. Astronomy: The area is widely considered to be under the darkest skies in the lower 49. The Milky Way and Presides are common sights without the unsightly annoyance of any neighbor’s lights. The climate is varied and interesting. All four seasons are here and occasionally all in one day. Winter snows melt quickly though temperatures can dip into the sub-zeros. The 5,900 ft./1800 m. elevation keeps the summer temps reasonable and always gives a chilly summer evening to cool things off. If you want climatic extremes, you can, within an hour or so, be at Lake Powell and its 100+ F/38+ C heat or on the Aquarius Plateau at 65 degrees F/18 C in midday June. Recreation on many levels is all within proximity. From canyoneering, “free” climbing on an established nearby crag composed of a welded tuff capping the Aquarius Plateau (see Mountain Project and “The Aquarius Plateau”) and many aid lines on Entrada Formation towers within walking distance (see Mountain Project and “The Grand Staircase”), water sports of Lake Powell and the Colorado River as well as fishing in the cool temps of Pine Lake 35 minutes distant. Then of course, there is the Monument, National Park and the State Park only a short drive away. Seclusion, security, water, and views all within a short walk or drive of exiting destinations, make this worth the stop.

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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.

Wonderland RV Park

40 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Torrey, UT

Wonderland RV Park is the perfect spot to hang your hat while you explore Capitol Reef National Park, after all, we've been welcoming guests to the wonders of Southern Utah since 1934. We're located at the junction of Scenic Byway 24 and All American Highway 12 – just three miles away from Capitol Reef. We provide outstanding amenities to ensure that your stay is both comfortable and convenient. Come stay with us, and discover why we're Capitol Reef's Best RV Park. So welcome to Southern Utah. Welcome to Wonderland.

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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

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Thousand Lakes RV Park

66 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Torrey, UT

At Thousand Lakes RV Park, you will enjoy views of red rock mountains and sagebrush-covered plateaus from every site. Just 6 miles from Capitol Reef National Park, we are convenient to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, spectacular National Scenic Byway 12, Goblin Valley, and Bryce Canyon. Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, 4-wheel-drive back road excursions, and leisurely drives are just minutes away. Because our area is not as well known as other Southern Utah destinations, you won’t find crowds, even in peak season. Thousand Lakes RV Park offers a full range of accommodations, including a full-service RV park with 65-foot pull-thru spaces, shaded tent sites, and deluxe cabins large enough to sleep 6. Groups appreciate our covered pavilion with picnic tables. Everyone enjoys our chargrilled, scratch-made BBQ dinners, fresh morning muffins, clean facilities, pool, playground, basketball court, satellite hook-up, and outstanding views. Our RV Park Jeep Rentals are available from Capital Reef Jeep Rentals conveniently located on our premises. Stop by our office for our personal recommendations to help you enjoy your visit. Unforgettable scenery, endless outdoor activities, a full array of services, and no crowds.

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Canyons of Escalante RV Park

55 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Escalante, UT

Welcome to Canyons of Escalante RV Park! We are so excited for the opportunity to host you and share in the unique beauty of Southern Utah. We are a family owned and operated RV Park that has RV Sites, Cabins, Tent spaces, and immaculate Shower/Laundry facilities. We are located directly on the Main Street of Escalante, Utah and are nestled against the Escalante Grand Staircase. We are not only the perfect basecamp for exploration of the Staircase but so much more! We are ideally situated between Bryce NP, Capital Reef NP, Dixie National Forest, Petrified Forest State Park, Glen Canyon Recreation Area and within walking distance to the Dining, Pubs and Groceries that Escalante has to offer. Canyons of Escalante RV Park is conveniently located on Main Street of Escalante, UT. Within walking distance to local eateries and shopping. Our Standard sites are pull through, accommodating RVs up to 28' in length. Full hookups with 30 amp service, Wi-Fi, shower and laundry facility nearby. Perfect for smaller motor homes, tent trailers, pods, vans, truck campers, etc. We are also pet friendly, have bathroom facilities and hot showers! Our cabins are away from the RV sites in a secluded area surrounded by beautiful gardens and walkways. Fire rings are at each cabin as well as 2 shared pavilions equipped with charcoal grills and picnic tables. Your adventure awaits! Let us help make the most of it. Look forward to seeing you soon. Happy Trails!

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Bryce Valley Ranch RV and Horse Park

78 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Cannonville, UT

Bryce Valley Ranch RV Resort offers a stunning landscape in a quiet setting close to Bryce Canyon National Park and Escalante Grand Staircase. Where your adventure begins and memories last. We thank you for supporting our small business! All our sites provide full hook-ups with large 75' pull-through or back-in options featuring 50 & 30 amp service. Our 35' back-in or pull-through sites also offer 30 amp service with easy parking. Free WiFi is included at all our sites. We welcome large group events and offer a covered pavilion with a small stage, group firepit, and grill for your use and enjoyment. Experience magnificent trails, hikes, and drives in a landscape that changes in every direction. With our park situated at 6000' elevation and nearby mountain lakes and forests reaching up to 10,000' elevation, you’ll find plenty of day trips to explore. We are the perfect base camp for your adventures and special destinations.

Casitas at Capitol Reef

15 sites · Lodging1 acre · Torrey, UT

Welcome to Casitas at Capitol Reef, your gateway to adventure in Torrey, Utah. Nestled near the majestic Capitol Reef National Park, our charming accommodations offer a comfortable retreat surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the park's stunning landscapes, hiking through rugged terrain, or simply relaxing under the vast Utah sky, Casitas at Capitol Reef provides the perfect base for your outdoor adventures. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Torrey and Capitol Reef National Park. Casitas at Capitol Reef has undergone a recent transformation, blending modern comforts with rustic charm. The motel rooms at our inn have been tastefully updated, offering guests a cozy and contemporary stay. In addition to the remodeled Inn, the property includes six charming tiny homes which adds a unique lodging option for those seeking a more intimate retreat. These updates reflect our commitment to providing guests with an exceptional experience, blending the beauty of the surrounding landscape with comfortable accommodations.

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Road to the Sun Ranch

1 site · RV7 acres · Torrey, UT

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Capitol Reef Country! Road to the Sun Ranch is located in beautiful Grover, Utah (elev 7,200') along Scenic Highway 12, one of the most scenic drives in the United States. We are a pet friendly RV only campsite. The property is a short 6 mile drive from the quaint town of Torrey, host of the annual Fort Desolation Festival and 15 miles by car from Capitol Reef National Park. Our location provides RV travelers with an ideal base camp for exploring the natural wonders of this region of Southern Utah and the majestic Boulder Mountain. The property consists of mostly pasture land, desert sage, pinyon pine trees and panoramic mountain views. The ranch is surrounded by some of the most amazing scenery anywhere and endless outdoor opportunities! We have a single (self check-in) RV/trailer/van parking area complete with water, power, sewer, WiFi and picnic table. All guests MUST have their own bathroom, clean up after pets and pack out any trash. We are unable to accommodate tent or car camping anywhere on the property unless you are with a group that has a trailer or RV equipped with a bathroom available for use during your stay and no open wood burning fires are permitted at this time. Max trailer length is 28'. Max RV length is 35'. Class A motor homes are not recommended. Livestock enjoy the adjacent pastures during Summer and Fall months typically (June-September). The RV site is available seasonally from May - October.

The best camping near Escalante Petrified Forest State Park guide

Overview

About

It’s all about the adventure at Escalante. Go boating on the reservoir, or fish for rainbow trout and bluegill. Be sure to bring your hiking shoes — the best way to explore is on foot.

Step back in time on the Petrified Forest Trail. It winds past ancient lava flows and petrified wood that’s over a million years old. Looking for a challenge? The Sleeping Rainbows Trail offers scrambling and climbing opportunities.

In the visitor center, examine fossilized dinosaur bones and plant and marine fossils. You can even see an entire petrified tree — roots and all. Interpretive exhibits explain local Fremont Indian history.

Two campgrounds provide plenty of places to sleep during your visit. Lake View offers spots for RVs, with hookups. At Wide Hollow, you'll find tent spots. Both areas offer showers and water to keep you comfortable.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer months can be hot, so if you're visiting then, be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection. Winters are cold, and some facilities may be closed, so check ahead for seasonal hours.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit, as the park can experience extreme temperatures.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking on trails where petrified wood and fossils are abundant.
Wide Hollow Reservoir offers boating and fishing opportunities; ensure you have the necessary permits.
Be mindful of park rules to preserve the natural and historical features of the park.
Accessibility may vary throughout the park, so inquire ahead if you have specific needs.