Outdoor Blog
Best Camping in Utah
Utah holds some of the most breathtaking national parks in the United States, it’s a prime camping destination for anyone in the west of the country. At 5, it has the third-largest number of national parks in a state, as well as 43 Utah state parks and 13 national park service units in total. The natural beauty help by this state includes sweeping deserts, astonishing rock formations, and snowcapped peaks. With all this and more to see, visit Utah for your next back-to-nature getaway.
Because there’s so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up our favorite spots for the best camping in Utah, so all you need to do is pick from our list. So pack your bags, gather up your camping gadgets, and set off into the natural expanses of the beehive state.
1. Zion National Park
Distinguished by Zion Canyon’s steep red cliffs, Utah’s first national park is filled with ancient beauty. Follow the paths where Native Americans and pioneers walked many years ago, and take in the enormous sandstone cliffs that soar skyward. Zion is renowned as one of the world’s best places for canyoneering, so try descending into slender canyons as a daytime activity on your camping trip.
Rock climbing is another popular activity, as Zion National Park has some of the tallest sandstone walls in the world. Experienced climbers will love the huge selection of challenges, while novices can hire a guide in Springdale nearby. Of course, Zoin is also filled with miles of trails, with options for short strolls to strenuous routes for experienced hikers. The famous and dangerous Angel’s Landing Trail is a bucket-list-worthy adventure, less than 5 miles long but including steep drop-offs and narrow ridges. The risk and the thrill are worth it, as hikers will be rewarded with an excellent view of the canyon when they reach the top.
Our recommended place to stay in Zion National Park is Watchman Campground, where there are 176 campsites. They might seem a little crowded, as it’s not the most private campsite, but in return for amazing views of the watchman rock foundation, we think it’s well worth it. You also gain easy access to the rest of the park. Of the campsites available, 96 have electrical hookups, and reservations are strongly suggested.
2. Bear Lake State Park
Bear Lake State Park sits on the shore of Bear Lake along the border in Idaho, nestled high in the Rocky Mountains. Here, calcium carbonate in the lake’s water gives it a spectacular aqua blue color and combined with the gorgeous sandy beaches, you’ll feel like you’re on a seaside holiday. There are a number of recreational activities available year-round on the lake, including plenty of watersports and great fishing. Nearby a ski resort offers snowy winter fun, and several hikes take you around the area to explore.
Bear Lake Campground has 157 sites spread around the entire lake and valley, for tents, trailers, vans, and RVs. Toilets and electricity hookups are scattered throughout, with fire circles already established at most campsites. Anywhere on the shore of Bear Lake makes an amazing camping spot, any one of them opens to a direct view to the beach and blue waters.
3. Antelope Island State Park
For the camping experience of a lifetime, get your spot on Antelope Island. This state park is an island in the Great Salt Lake, known for its stark beauty and surprisingly abundant wildlife. Because of its isolation, Antelope Island is known as one of the best places to stargaze in Utah. Its also home to free-ranging bison, mule deer, pronghorn (antelope), and numerous other desert animals.
Antelope Island State Park is also an excellent birdwatching destination, as millions of birds congregate on the shores each year. The park is also filled with backcountry trails, which you can hike, mountain bike, or ride on horseback, to take in the spectacular lake views and island scenery.
Bridger Bay Campground is a quiet and peaceful place to stay on Antelope Island. There are 26 campsites for tents and RVs, with vault toilets on site. Views from the campsites are highly enjoyable, if you get the right spot then you’ll see panoramic vistas of Great Salt Lake and beyond. De-stressing is one big reason that people take camping trips, and this tranquil island campground won’t disappoint. We highly recommend doing some stargazing from Antelope Island, it’s so quiet and peaceful that you’ll just feel all your stress melt away.
4. Snow Canyon State Park
An area that rarely sees snow, Snow Canyon State Park was actually named after early Utah leaders Lorenzo and Erastus Snow. It’s known for its distinctive towering sandstone cliffs, colored red and white. Other geological features of interest include extinct cinder cones, lava tubes, lava flows, and sand dunes. All around the park, stunning views of the red rock formations can be enjoyed and endless photograph opportunities await!
There are a number of varied trails to try out at snow canyon, such as the Butterfly Trail. This scenic trail winds along the Petrified Dunes, down to the West Canyon Overlook and lava tubes. You could also take a gondola to the top of the mountain for some phenomenal panoramic views, or visit the White Rocks Amphitheater. Contrary to the rest of the park, this small natural amphitheater is composed of white Navajo sandstone, it’s quite the marvel to show your kids.
The campground at Snow Canyon has 14 RV sites with water and electric hookups, and 17 multi-use campsites. Located amid gorgeous scenery, you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop than the gigantic red stone cliffs. Facilities include modern restrooms, showers, and an RV dump station. More than 18 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails are accessible close by.
5. Bryce Canyon National Park
This sprawling preserve in southern Utah is famous for its crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. These hoodoos exist on every continent, but this spectacular sight is the largest concentration on earth. Several popular viewpoints can be enjoyed, each offering a different spectacular vista of the canyon.
Bryce Canyon National Park has miles of hiking trails, and one such popular trail is the Queen’s/Navajo combination loop. This 2.9-mile connected trail makes a route that will show you both Sunset and Sunrise Point. In the summer, horseback rides make a wonderful way to experience Bryce Canyon, one that’s fun for the whole family.
When visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, you can stay at the Sunset Campground. Perfectly situated near to Sunset Point, this campground is popular yet spacious, offering 100 campsites. Tent campsites and spots for RV’s are available, and the ground has amenities such as restrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, and potable water.
6. Wasatch Mountain State Park
Camping in Utah doesn’t have to be a rustic experience. A trip to Wasatch Mountain State Park brings you closer to shopping, dining out, and golfing, to name a few things. Located in the Heber Valley, this park is filled with beautiful outdoor scenery. Miles of mountain trails can be hiked, or alternatively, ride a mountain bike or go horseback. In winter, skiing is popular and there are snowmobiles to rent on the alpine terrain.
There are plenty of options for recreation on your camping trip to Wasatch Mountain. An award-winning 36-hole golf course is located in the park, and plenty of sights to see. The campground at Wasatch Mountain State Park has plenty of tent and RV sites, some with full and partial hookups. Restrooms with showers are spread throughout, and a ranger station nearby will provide any information you need.
7. Dixie National Forest
The two million acres of Dixie National Forest stretch 170 miles across southern Utah. Straddling the divide between the Great Basin and the Colorado River, this national forest is the biggest in the state. The southern rim of the Great Basin provides some spectacular scenery, with views of the Colorado River canyons, made up of many-colored cliffs and steeply walled gorges.
Many visitors to the forest enjoy hiking, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing, there’s a lot of wilderness to explore too. Pine Valley is especially good for horseback riding and enjoying the peace and beauty of the forest in solitude. Also an excellent fishing spot, the many lakes, and reservoirs in the forest are home to rainbow and brown trout to name a few. Anglers, this is a great camping destination for you, just pack up your tackle box and read through our guide on the best way to catch brown trout.
There are endless campgrounds to choose from in Dixie National Forest. One we like is the Honeycomb Rocks Campground. Well located in the Pine Valley area, this campground is also nearby to Enterprise Reservoir. Here, a boat ramp is available; it’s the perfect place to camp and fish. There are 21 campsites with picnic tables, fire pits, and tent pads. A vault toilet is available for use and potable water is also accessible on-site.
8. Arches National Park
This red-rock wonderland is one of the most breathtaking national parks in Utah. The peculiar rock formations are so distinctive, with hundreds of soaring pinnacles, huge fins, and unbelievably balanced rocks to ogle at. Of course, the park’s namesake is its biggest attraction, as there are over 2000 natural stone arches in the 76 thousand acres, the largest density in the world.
One attraction in this national park is the Devil’s Garden, where you can see a variety of natural arches connected by a network of hiking trails. One such sight is the Landscape Arch, which is the longest in North America. The Devil’s Garden offers stunning views, excellent hiking, and very good stargazing as well.
The Devil’s Garden Campground is the only one in Arches National Park, but when it’s this good, you don’t need another. The breathtaking views which surround this campground include not only rock formations but also various desert flora, including yucca and prickly pear. There are 51 campsites, and it’s best to reserve one ahead of time as this is a popular camping spot. There are no hookups, but potable water, picnic tables, and flush toilets are all located on-site.
9. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
The spectacular Grand Staircase of cliffs and terraces, the rugged Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Escalante River Canyons make up this National Monument. It’s a rich historical and geological area, covered in monoliths, slot canyons, and natural bridges and arches. All these geological phenomena make the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument one of the premier places to camp in Utah.
Hike through 250 million years of Earth’s geologic history, and wind between the technicolor cliffs of the monument. Hiking and sightseeing in Utah can’t be bettered, this 1 million-acre area has it all. The popular but small Calf Creek Campground is our recommendation in this National Monument. Here there are 13 first-come-first-served campsites, where you can spend a quiet and peaceful night amongst the red rocks. Another benefit to camping here is the proximity to Calf Creek, a perennial waterfall which makes another great sightseeing opportunity.
10. Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley is named after an area where soft sandstone has eroded into irregular and interesting patterns, which some think resemble goblins. In some places, these formations are close together and form a maze, which is lots of fun to explore with the family. For thrill-seeking campers, ATV trails weave around this interesting and surreal landscape, where Hollywood movie Galaxy Quest was filmed.
This Utah campground offers slightly more luxury than others, as there are two spacious yurts available to rent. These come complete with heating and air conditioning, so your trip to Goblin Valley State Park can be one done in style. Otherwise, there are ten tent camping sites, and 14 camping spots for RVs.
11. Canyonlands National Park
Near the town of Moab in southeastern Utah is Canyonlands National Park. Numerous canyons, mesas, and buttes were eroded here by the Colorado River and the Green River eons ago. Now, the colorful landscape is divided into four districts each retaining its own character.
The Needles District is one of these, where colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone dominate the area. A fantastic location for hiking and overnight camping trips, these rock formations are also excellent for bouldering. There are so many locations for climbing as well as bouldering scattered all around, so for campers in search of an adventure holiday, consider bouldering in Canyonlands National Park.
Squaw Flat Campground is the ideal base from which to explore this district, with miles of trails for hiking and leading to rock climbs close at hand. There are 26 sites, 5 of which are tent only, with toilets, picnic tables and fire rings located within the campground. There are no electric hookups at this campsite, so come prepared with your climbing gear too.
Final Verdict:
Aside from the bustle of Salt Lake City, there are so many natural wonders to explore in Utah. The Grand Canyon is close by, but don’t be tempted to cross over state borders when the equally breathtaking Canyonlands, Arches, and Zion National Parks are waiting to be explored. The isolation and peacefulness of these areas mean you can light a campfire under the night sky and stargaze for hours, meanwhile, the towering and dramatic rock formations create exciting adrenaline-pumping rock climbing opportunities.
There are RV parks, tent sites, and even yurts to rent in Utah’s parks and forests. No matter your requirements, we’ve got the perfect camping area for your next trip. Mountain biking and equestrian camping are best in Wasatch Mountain State Park, where other recreation opportunities include an impressively sided award-winning golf course.
Canyons, of course, are very important to the natural landscape in Utah, with these iconic red rocks holding fame around the world. For the best viewing, visit Bryce Canyon National Park and Goblin Valley State Park. Bouldering and climbing fans should visit the Needles District of Canyonlands, not far from Moab, and great for hiking too!
The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument has endless geological phenomena to view, so any camper with a true interest in our natural environment can’t miss it. The Calf Creek Campground here is so close to the waterfall that it’s a waste not to make the most of it.
The best camping in Utah is well within your reach, all you need to do is jump up and get adventuring! If camping in Utah will be your first time, you’re in for a treat. Utah holds some of the best camping destinations in the United States, so after you’ve picked one out, check out our handy guide on camping gear for beginners. The more you are prepared, the more likely your camping trip is to go off like a dream.
Bonus tip: Check out this video to see some bouldering in Canyonlands!
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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