If you are looking for an outdoor adventure that can’t be beaten, a camping trip to Canyonlands National Park is just the answer. Nestled in southeastern Utah, this park has been recognized as one of the United States’ most stunning natural gems since 1964. Boasting miles of incredible red rock formations and buttes, visitors will have access to plenty of hiking trails and breathtaking views.
But where do you start when it comes to planning your trip? What type of camping sites should you choose? Are there any regulations or permits required? And what should you bring with you before heading out into the wilderness?
In this blog post we’ve assembled all the essential information you need so that your visit to Canyonlands National Park rivals all other outdoor experiences! Read on for tips on types of campsites, campground regulations, what to pack, and things to do while exploring this unique region.
Types Of Camping Sites
Canyonlands National Park is a popular destination for camping and offers a variety of sites to choose from. The two main types of campsites are developed campgrounds and primitive camping sites.
Developed Campgrounds: These are the most common type of camping sites in the park, offering amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, water spigots, restrooms with showers and flush toilets. Some campgrounds even offer electrical hook-ups and RV dump stations. Developed campgrounds typically have more restrictions than primitive sites regarding pets, fires, group sizes and other regulations.
Primitive Camping: Primitive camping allows visitors to stay within the backcountry away from roads or developed facilities with permission from the park rangers. These remote areas provide seclusion but usually don’t offer any amenities like drinking water or bathrooms so it is important to come prepared. Primitive camping also has fewer restrictions than developed campgrounds but be sure to check with a ranger first for rules specific to that area.
Developed Campgrounds
Developed campgrounds in Canyonlands National Park offer a variety of amenities, including flush toilets and potable water. These sites are typically first-come-first-serve, with some exceptions that may be available by reservation. Campers should check the park website for more information on availability and fees for developed campsites.
Developed campgrounds provide access to picnic tables, fire rings and grills, allowing visitors to cook meals if they choose. Some sites even have electricity hookups for RVs. Campers should note that no ground fires are allowed in developed or primitive camping areas; only charcoal grills and small backyard-type propane stoves may be used.
The park is also home to multiple backcountry camping areas where you can set up your own tent in remote locations away from the hustle of the main parts of the park. There are no facilities at these primitive campsites, so you’ll need to bring all necessary supplies for your stay (see below). All waste must be packed out as well – there’s nothing worse than leaving behind trash!
Primitive Camping
Primitive Camping is the most popular and least expensive type of camping in Canyonlands National Park. It offers campers the opportunity to immerse themselves in some of the most stunning natural scenery that Utah has to offer.
Primitive camping is allowed anywhere within Canyonlands National Park, as long as it does not interfere with any existing trails or features. Campers must be prepared for harsh desert conditions, including extreme temperatures and wildlife encounters. All human waste should be disposed of properly using a five gallon bucket system or buried at least 6 inches deep, per park regulations.
Campfires are not allowed in any area except established fire rings located at specific developed campgrounds within the Park. For those wishing to cook while primitive camping, an approved portable stove should be used instead. Inappropriate disposal of food items can attract wild animals into campsites so please make sure to store all food items securely when overnighting in the wilderness areas.
Lastly, always practice Leave No Trace principles while primitive camping (or any other type of outdoor activity) by packing out all trash and leaving any natural features untouched before leaving your campsite for good upon departure!
Campground Regulations
Camping at Canyonlands National Park requires visitors to adhere to a number of regulations. Before setting up camp, be sure to familiarize yourself with all applicable rules and regulations.
Permits-A permit is required for all backcountry camping in the park; these can be obtained from any ranger station or visitor center. Certain group sites may also require a special permit.
Group Sites- Group sites are available for groups of 10 or more people and require an additional permit and payment of a fee per person/night. It’s important to note that visitors must stay within their designated campground areas, otherwise they risk being fined by rangers patrolling the area.
Pets- Pets are allowed in developed campgrounds but must remain on leash at all times; pets are not permitted in any backcountry areas unless they have been designated as pet friendly zones by park staff.
Firewood- Firewood is not provided within the park boundaries, so visitors should plan ahead and ensure that they bring enough wood with them for their stay or purchase firewood from one of the nearby communities if needed.
Permits
Before you start planning your camping trip to Canyonlands National Park, it’s important to make sure you have the correct permits. All overnight stays in the park require a permit and the regulations for these permits vary depending on the type of campground or primitive area that you are using.
Developed campgrounds within Canyonlands require a reservation through Recreation.gov which includes fees for both reservations and per-person occupancy. Primitive camping sites do not charge any fees but they do require a backcountry permit before setting up camp and will limit group sizes to no more than 10 people per site.
When applying for a permit, there are several rules and regulations that must be followed including pet restrictions, firewood gathering restrictions, and group size limits. Pets are allowed at developed campgrounds but must be kept on leashes at all times while in primitive areas all pets are prohibited unless they are service animals used by someone with disabilities. When collecting firewood from outside sources such as downed trees or shrubs it is important to note that transporting firewood into or out of the park is strictly prohibited due to potential insect infestations. Group size limits also vary depending on whether you’re in an established campsite or a primitive area so make sure to check ahead of time before planning your trip with friends!
Group Sites
For people looking to camp with a larger group, Canyonlands National Park offers a variety of group sites. All group sites accommodate at least 9 people and offer picnic tables and fire grates, however most do not have shade or water. Group sites are available in both developed campgrounds and primitive camping areas throughout the park.
When booking a group site, one person must be named as the “group leader” who will be responsible for obtaining any permits required by the park service as well as ensuring that all members of the party abide by all applicable regulations. The maximum stay for groups is seven days and reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.
Group sites can accommodate up to 30 people depending on availability. To reserve a spot for your group, you’ll need to contact the district office directly via phone or email with your name, phone number, dates requested, trip type (backpacking or car-camping), number of participants in each group size category (children under 16 years old are free), and trip purpose (educational program/workshop/church/business retreat).
It is important to note that there may be additional fees associated with large groups so it is best to check ahead of time if possible before arriving at the park. Be sure to also bring extra supplies for larger groups such as food and water as these items may not always be readily available inside the park boundaries.
Pets
Pets are allowed in Canyonlands National Park, but with some restrictions. All pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times and never left unattended. Pets may not go into any park buildings, including restrooms and visitor centers.
In developed campgrounds, pets must be kept on a leash or secured in an enclosed vehicle or tent at all times. They may not enter any developed swimming areas or walkways near concession stands and other occupied structures.
In primitive camping areas, pets can be off-leash as long as they are under the owner’s control and do not threaten wildlife or other people. Pet owners should also clean up after their pet immediately and deposit waste in proper trash receptacles.
Firewood
One of the main campground regulations when camping at Canyonlands National Park is related to firewood. Gathering firewood from the park itself is prohibited, so visitors must bring their own.
For those who choose to camp in a developed campground, wood and charcoal fires are permitted as long as they are kept within a designated fire ring or grill. In areas where no grills or rings are set up, it is not allowed to make an open flame and only propane stoves are allowed for cooking outdoors.
When it comes to primitive camping, open flames such as bonfires and charcoal grills are strictly forbidden due to the likelihood of starting a wildfire. Propane stoves can be used for cooking but should be extinguished after use as well as any other potential sources of heat or light that could spark a wildfire.
It’s also important to take safety precautions around any type of open flame including making sure you have enough water handy in case your fire gets out of control and monitoring children closely who may be playing nearby the source of heat. Finally, please clean up when you leave by disposing all ashes and embers appropriately so that others enjoy their experience just like you did!
What To Bring
When camping at Canyonlands National Park, there are certain items that every camper should bring in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The following items are essential for any successful trip:
Tent: Make sure to bring a tent that is suitable for the weather conditions you expect. If it’s going to be cold, make sure the tent is warm enough; if it’s expected to rain, make sure your tent is waterproof.
Sleeping Bag: Bring an appropriate sleeping bag depending on the season and temperature. A quality sleeping bag will provide warmth and comfort throughout your stay.
Cooking Equipment: Make sure you have all of your cooking equipment such as pots, pans, plates, utensils etc., so you can enjoy meals while camping.
First-Aid Kit: It’s always wise to carry a first aid kit with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic cream or spray, painkillers and allergy medications in case of any unexpected medical emergencies during your trip.
Food & Water: Don’t forget food! Stock up on enough supplies for your entire stay including snacks and meals fit for both hot days or cold nights – make sure you also pack plenty of water which may not be available near certain sites inside the national park; this could be especially true during peak seasons when water sources can dry up quickly due to increased traffic levels within the area.
Tent
When camping in Canyonlands National Park, it is important to make sure you have the right gear. One of the most essential pieces of equipment is the tent.
Be sure to choose a tent that suits your needs and size requirements. Generally speaking, it’s better to err on the side of caution when selecting a tent, as many tents are smaller than they look in pictures or advertisements. Make sure there is enough room for everyone who will be sleeping in the tent and all your other supplies.
Your chosen tent should also be able to withstand harsh weather conditions like rain and wind while still offering protection from bugs and critters. Consider bringing a tarp or ground cloth to provide extra waterproofing underneath your tent as well as added comfort while sleeping on rough terrain or rocky soil surfaces found throughout Canyonlands National Park.
Finally, take into account how much weight you plan on carrying during your visit when choosing a tent since some models can be heavier than others due to materials used for construction or extra features such as poles with shock cord technology which adds more weight but offers easier setup time for campers new to pitching their own tents.
Sleeping Bag
When camping at Canyonlands National Park, it is crucial to make sure you have a comfortable and warm sleeping bag. While the temperatures can reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, they can drop to as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Therefore, having a quality sleeping bag that is designed for colder temperatures can help keep you warm and cozy throughout the night.
When selecting a sleeping bag for your trip, you’ll want to consider its insulation rating. The lower the temperature rating of your sleeping bag (e.g., 0-20°F), the warmer it will keep you when camping in cooler climates such as those found in Canyonlands National Park. You should also pay attention to other features of your sleeping bag such as its construction material (down vs synthetic) and how compressible it is if you are backpacking into camp sites within the park boundaries.
Additionally, consider whether or not you need additional blankets or quilts inside your tent for extra warmth and comfort on cold nights. If so, make sure they are rated for similar temperatures or colder than what is expected during your stay at Canyonlands National Park so that they provide adequate protection from the elements while also being lightweight enough to carry with you on your trip if needed.
Cooking Equipment
When camping in Canyonlands National Park, it’s important to make sure you have the right cooking equipment. This will ensure that you can cook and prepare meals safely while protecting the environment.
An ideal setup would include a camp stove with fuel, propane tanks, or charcoal briquettes for grilling. You’ll also need pots and pans, plates and utensils, an electric kettle or coffee maker (if allowed), a cutting board, lighters/matches, and containers for storing food.
Additionally, if you’re going to be at the campsite for multiple days make sure to bring enough fuel or charcoal briquettes to last your entire stay. It is strictly prohibited to collect wood from within the park so it is important that you plan ahead and bring all of your own cooking materials with you upon arrival!
First-Aid Kit
When camping in Canyonlands National Park, it is important to come prepared with a well-stocked first-aid kit. It should contain all of the necessary items for treating minor cuts, scrapes and bruises, as well as any potential medical issues that may arise while outdoors.
The most important item to have in your first aid kit is a wound dressing. This includes gauze pads, adhesive tapes or bandages, and antiseptic wipes such as alcohol swabs. Also consider having over the counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin to address any aches or pains that might arise from physical activity while camping.
If you are prone to allergies or insect stings, make sure to bring along antihistamines like Benadryl and EpiPens if necessary. Additionally a CPR mask can be helpful for emergency situations where mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is required.
Lastly, don’t forget tweezers for removing splinters or ticks and scissors for cutting off bandages when appropriate. Make sure your first aid kit has enough supplies to last through the duration of your trip; it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Food
Food is one of the most important elements for a successful camping trip. We recommend you pack enough food to last your entire stay at Canyonlands National Park. Be sure to include plenty of snacks and nonperishable items, such as energy bars, trail mix, freeze-dried meals, and canned goods.
It’s also a good idea to bring along nutrient-rich breakfast foods like oatmeal or granola bars in case you don’t have access to an oven or stove top in the morning. Additionally, it’s always wise to pack a few extra items that can be used if needed – things like peanut butter sandwiches, extra snacks, and even emergency rations like meal replacement bars are all great options.
If you plan on cooking your own meals during your stay at Canyonlands National Park, make sure you’re fully prepared with all of the necessary kitchen supplies: pots & pans; cutlery; utensils (e.g., spatulas); dishes & bowls; coolers for keeping perishables fresh; firewood & matches if applicable; and any other relevant equipment depending on what type of cooking method(s) you’ll be using (e.g., charcoal grills).
Water
Having an adequate supply of water is essential for any camping trip. At Canyonlands National Park, potable water is available in some parts of the park, while other areas may require you to bring your own source of safe drinking water.
If you do need to bring your own water, it’s best to fill up several containers before heading out on your adventure. The amount of water that will be needed depends on the number of people and duration of the trip; a good rule-of-thumb is to plan for 1 gallon (3.78 L) per person per day when camping in warmer climates and 2 gallons (7.57 L) when camping in cooler climates. Make sure all containers are clearly labeled with “drinking” or “potable” so that they can easily be identified if necessary.
Always check with rangers at the Visitor Center before departing on your trip, as they can provide updated information about potable and non-potable sources throughout the park during different seasons or times of year. Additionally, boiling or purifying untreated groundwater from streams and springs is sometimes necessary if visiting remote areas where no other drinking source exists. Finally, keep hydrated by drinking small but frequent amounts throughout the day rather than waiting until feeling thirsty – proper hydration helps maintain mental clarity as well as physical energy levels!
Things To Do
Camping at Canyonlands National Park can be a great way to explore the area and its various attractions. There are many things to do in the park, from hiking and biking trails to canoeing, fishing, stargazing, and rock climbing.
For hikers, there is a wide range of trails available ranging from easy loops around the campground or day hikes along the Colorado River with expansive views of canyons and mesas. Biking is also popular here with several designated routes for mountain biking through scenic landscapes that include both high-desert terrain as well as lush forests.
Canoeing and fishing can be done either on one of the three large lakes or at some spots along the Colorado River where it cuts through the park. Fishing is catch-and-release only but supplies some good sized trout for experienced anglers.
The night sky presents an amazing view of stars over Canyonlands National Park as long as you’re able to brave cold temperatures after sunset. In addition, rock climbers will find plenty of places to get their ropes swinging up canyon walls in Escalante Canyon or within Horseshoe Canyon units of the park – just remember to take all safety precautions seriously!
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity to do at Canyonlands National Park. With over 90 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone! The terrain varies from easy walks along the canyon rim to strenuous hikes down deep canyons that require good fitness and navigation skills.
The White Rim Trail is one of the most popular routes in Canyonlands National Park. This hundred-mile trail system circles around Island in the Sky mesa and takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes imaginable. It’s also possible to hike sections of this trail which are more suitable for people who don’t have a lot of time or experience with hiking long distances – these sections vary in lengths but always offer spectacular views.
If you’re looking for a shorter trek, Mesa Arch Trail is a great option. This short loop trail takes visitors past an iconic sandstone arch framed against breathtaking canyon views – perfect for those seeking an easier route or just beautiful photo opportunities!
For those interested in exploring further, there are plenty of other trails within Canyonlands National Park that offer different levels of difficulty and different experiences to choose from; from easy strolls alongside rivers, lakes and viewpoint overlooks, to full day challenges traversing wild canyons far away from civilization!
Biking
Biking is a great way to explore the area and can often be the best way to get around. Canyonlands National Park offers many different biking trails, ranging from easy and family-friendly routes to more challenging off-road paths for experienced cyclists.
The easiest option is the paved path along the Green River overlook that runs between Island in Sky Visitor Center & Upheaval Dome. This trail is great for families with small children or casual riders who want an easy ride with stunning views of scenic sandstone mesas and sheer cliff faces.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of off-road single track mountain bike trails through the backcountry of Canyonlands National Park. Popular routes include Murphy Trail, White Rim Trail, Syncline Loop, and Lavender Canyon Trail — all offering incredible views of natural wonders like rock formations and migratory birds flying over canyon walls!
Most trails at Canyonlands are well marked with signs indicating difficulty level and length so you know exactly what you’re signing up for before you hit the road! Be sure to bring enough water as temperatures can be extreme during summer months — dehydration is a real danger here! You should also pack plenty of snacks as these rides can take hours on end depending on your fitness level or desire to explore.
Canoeing
Canoeing is a great way to explore the various waterways of Canyonlands National Park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with its unique features. There are several options for launching your canoe in the park such as Bullfrog Marina, Mineral Bottom Boat Launch, and Island-in-the-Sky Visitor Center Boat Ramp.
It’s important to note that motorized boats are not permitted on any lake or waterway in the park. However, nonmotorized boats such as canoes and kayaks are allowed. Be sure to follow all boating safety guidelines while you’re out on the water. This includes wearing a life jacket at all times, following posted navigation signs, being aware of potential hazards like strong currents or low visibility conditions, and never paddling alone.
When it comes to gear selection for your canoe trip in Canyonlands National Park there are several items you’ll need:
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Paddles
Map/compass/GPS unit
Repair kit (pumps, patch kits etc.)
First aid kit On top of this you may also want to bring some camping gear if you plan on making an overnight trip out of your excursion. A few extra items such as food rations and spare clothing will also come in handy during longer trips.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Canyonlands National Park, and there are many opportunities to catch a variety of fish. The most common species of fish in the park include largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, smallmouth bass, sunfish, and northern pike.
To ensure good fishing conditions, it’s important to be aware of the regulations in place for anglers. A valid Utah State fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 14 to fish at Canyonlands National Park. Licenses can be purchased online or at any local tackle shop or sporting goods store. It’s also important to note that special regulations apply if you plan on fishing from a boat— make sure you have all the necessary permits before heading out on your trip!
Before setting off on your fishing trip, make sure you are prepared with all the necessary equipment such as rods and reels (spincast or fly-fishing), line (monofilament or braided), leaders (if using bait), lures/baits (flies or artificial baits depending on your preference), hooks and sinkers (bobbers). It’s also essential to bring along plenty of water and snacks since you’ll likely be spending long periods of time outdoors without access to food or drink.
Finally, remember that conservation should always come first when fishing at Canyonlands National Park. Be mindful not to overfish certain areas so that future generations will still be able enjoy this beautiful national park like we do today!
Stargazing
Stargazing at Canyonlands National Park is an experience like no other. The night sky here is incredibly dark and free of light pollution, making it one of the best places in Utah for viewing stars and celestial bodies.
There are two main ways to go stargazing in Canyonlands: you can either find a spot on your own or join a ranger-guided tour. Both offer unique experiences–the advantage of going solo is that you get to explore the area at your own pace, while guided tours provide knowledgeable insight into what you are seeing in the night sky above.
To make sure you get the most out of your stargazing experience, it pays to come prepared. Bring along binoculars or a telescope if possible as they allow for up close views of stars and planets that would otherwise be difficult to see with just the naked eye. Also bring a flashlight (preferably one with red light), extra layers, snacks, water bottle, and insect repellent if necessary. It’s also important to note that pets aren’t allowed on ranger-guided tours for safety reasons so plan accordingly!
Finally, always remember to respect nature while stargazing—try not to disturb wildlife or plants as well as keep noise levels low so others can enjoy their own experience without distraction.
Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing is a great way to challenge yourself while exploring Canyonlands National Park. There are many routes with varying levels of difficulty, so there is something for everyone.
Before you head out, make sure to check the weather forecast and bring the appropriate equipment. You’ll need a harness, belay device, carabiners, quickdraws and other climbing gear depending on the type of climb you’re doing. It’s also important to be aware of any wildlife in the area before starting your climb.
When you reach the rock face you plan on climbing it’s important to take time assessing it before getting started. Look for potential hazards like loose rocks or dangling vegetation that could put your safety at risk. Once you feel comfortable and confident in your route then it’s time to start scaling up! Pay attention as you ascend and always have an exit strategy in case conditions change quickly or if things don’t feel right along the way.
Finally, make sure that when descending from your climb that all ropes are properly secured with knots tied off correctly – this will ensure that they won’t slip or come undone during rappelling down from your ascent!
Conclusion
Canyonlands National Park offers an incredible opportunity to explore the majestic natural beauty of Utah. From camping in developed campgrounds or going on a primitive camping adventure, there are plenty of options available for those who wish to experience the park’s unique landscapes.
When it comes to regulations, there are several important rules you should keep in mind such as permits, group sites, pets and firewood. It is also important to make sure that you pack all the necessary items for your trip including a tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment and first-aid kit. Additionally do not forget food and water supplies!
Canyonland National Park has plenty of activities for visitors such as hiking, biking canoeing or fishing. Other popular attractions include stargazing and rock climbing which will give you some amazing views of canyons and riverscapes below!
It is highly recommended that whenever you’re visiting Canyonlands National Park that you plan ahead by reading up on all safety protocols. Doing so will ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable stay at this beautiful destination!
