Utah is home to dozens of state parks, historical sites and national protected areas and parks and is a heavily visited year-round destination for travelers looking to head outdoors and stay active. With plentiful attractions and recreation opportunities to keep even the most active travelers busy for at least a couple of weeks, visitors will find that tent camping provides an affordable and flexible way to explore and enjoy Utah's natural wonders.
National Campgrounds
Because of its astounding natural beauty and unique geological and geographical characteristics, Utah is home to six national parks, all of which offer tent camping. Some of Utah's best tent camping can be found at Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Zion National Park and Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. All of Utah's national parks are situated in the central and southern portion of the state. National park campgrounds usually have both full, partial and non-hookup sites and all have restroom and shower facilities. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times. Camping at a national park allows visitors to be closest to Utah's most spectacular natural sites, as well as easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. National park tent sites are limited, and parks operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early in the morning if you want a tent site.
State Campgrounds
Utah's 42 state parks offer excellent tent camping opportunities and are spread throughout the state, providing easy access to activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, adventure sports and water sports. Utah's state parks have 2,000 campsites, but because tent sites are limited, it's important to make reservations at least a few months in advance during high season. Reservations can be made via Internet or by phone. Amenities and services at Utah state parks are similar to those found at national parks. Popular state parks with tent camping include: Antelope Island State Park, Snow Canyon State Park, Yuba State Park, Wasatch Mountain State Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Privately Owned Campgrounds
Many tent campers feel that privately owned campgrounds offer the best tent camping in Utah. Private campgrounds usually offer more amenities and services than their public counterparts, so families with younger children may be happier at one of Utah's privately owned campgrounds. Many private campgrounds offer amenities such as a swimming pool, game room, camp store, hiking and biking trails and family activities. The best private tent campgrounds can be found near Utah's state and national parks, because they tend to offer the most amenities and offer the easiest access to outdoor recreation opportunities and important natural sites and attractions. Private campgrounds usually charge higher nightly rates than state and national park campgrounds, but they generally offer mostly full-hookup sites, cable TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Reservations should be made at least a few months in a advance during high season.
What to Bring
In order to guarantee the best possible tent camping experience, every camper should keep a checklist of camping necessities. Tent site necessities include: Ground cloth, outdoor rug for shoes, rain cover, extra stakes, outdoor chairs, lantern, flashlight, spare batteries and a small broom to keep sand and dirt out of the tent. Campers who plan to do their own cooking need to bring pots, pans, dishes, utensils, food, beverages, lighter fluid and ice. Toiletries such as towels, soap, shampoo, baby wipes, hand towel, toothbrush, deodorant and razors and first aid items, such as Band-aids, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and gauze are must-bring items. To make sure you're comfortable during your camping trip, be sure to pack appropriate hiking shoes, sneakers, flip-flops and clothing, as well as your swimsuit, sunscreen and bug repellent. Don't forget items such as detergent; a good city, regional or state map; and, of course, your camera to capture all of the best moments.
Camping Considerations
Although Utah is a popular year-round destination, you'll want to call your campground of choice ahead of time to find out if winter camping is allowed and if any special permits or permissions are required. If you plan to tent camp during spring, summer or fall, make your reservations at least a few months ahead of time, as tent sites are limited at many camping establishments. Keep in mind that summer temperatures in some parts of Utah can reach into the 100s, so bring plenty of water. You'll want to bring at least a gallon of water per camper in the summer if you plan to spend the day hiking or exploring outdoors.
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