Utah, the four corners area, and the desert of the American southwest are uniquely beautiful landscapes. In fact, Utah is home to some of the most impressive national parks that the country has to offer. This sparsely-populated, landlocked state has an astounding 5 national parks within its borders—Zion National Park, Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Park.
Utah clearly has an abundance of amazing outdoor destinations. After a day of hiking world-class trails, tracking down the perfect slickrock, or taking on a river rafting trip, there is nothing better than returning to a comfortable and fully-equipped campsite for a truly relaxing and restful evening. So, for this list we have rounded up five of our favorite spots for upscale camping and glamping in Utah, each of which are near at least one world-renowned desert playground.
Red Fleet State Park — Double Waterfront Site
Ten miles north of Vernal, Utah, in the northeast corner of the state, lies the picturesque Red Fleet State Park. For many, this state park is extra special, thanks to the numerous dinosaur tracks found within its boundaries. The approximately 200-million year old tracks can be fully enjoyed on the “Tour of the Dinosaur Trackway”, which is a free tour put on by local state park rangers.
The Red Fleet Reservoir in the center of the park provides visitors with endless opportunities for water activities. Plus, the park is literally surrounded by phenomenal outdoor destinations, including the Ashley National Forest, Flaming Gorge National Rec Area, Dinosaur National Monument and Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge. With all the nearby sights to see, you’ll be grateful to have a spacious waterfront campsite to rest your head at the end of the day. And since this is a double site, your whole family/group will be able to stay together and enjoy all of the great Tentrr amenities.
Steinaker State Park — Campsite #2
Just ten miles south of Red Fleet State Park is the equally scenic Steinaker State Park. This park also has a reservoir at the center of it, giving visitors easy access to water activities like fishing, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddle boarding and more. This particular campsite has phenomenal views of the reservoir and the rocky hill tops that surround it. The spacious canvas tent at your campsite sits on its own raised wooden platform, which also gives you a cozy deck area with two wood Adirondack chairs. And as always, their is a queen-size memory foam mattress and propane space heater waiting for you inside the tent.
Fairview Acres (Monticello, Utah)
This Tentrr Signature Site is actually situated on the grounds of a working organic wheat farm in the southeast corner of the state. From this site you are only a 1-hour drive from Canyonlands National Park AND a 1-hour drive from Arches National Park. Plus you’re less than 20 minutes from crossing the border into Colorado. Guests will be just a short hike away from a scenic picnic area known as Fairview Lookout Point, and an even quicker drive from great trout fishing spots. You’ll also be surrounded by wildlife, such as elk, mule deer, coyotes, and even the occasional black bear. Lastly, remember to bring insect repellent for the pesky Utah gnats (aka Midges or “No see ums”) and plenty of food, as the closest grocery store is about 25 miles away.
East Canyon State Park — Wagon Site
Pioneer history awaits at these "wagon sites" in East Canyon State Park. Conveniently located just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, the East Canyon State Park is yet another Utah park that is centered around a reservoir. The Tentrr wagon campsites are near the full-size pioneer wagons, which you can also spend the night in, that are owned and operated by the state. Guests will be within walking distance of the beach, water activities on the reservoir, and plenty of hiking trails. And of course, these wagon sites come fully-equipped with all the Tentrr amenities you know and love.
Wasatch Mountain State Park — Duck's Landing (ADA site)
Located just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City and 25 minutes from Park City, Wasatch Mountain State Park is an amenity-rich park with plenty of lodging options and activities to choose from. This ADA-compliant site has a ramp for easy wheelchair access, plus the canvas tent itself is built on an extra large wooden platform so all guests can move about the campsite with ease. There's also a gas-powered fire pit and grill on this platform site. Comfort and convenience like this isn't easy to find!