Category: Campgrounds

Campgrounds are serene havens nestled in natural landscapes, offering a rustic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. Surrounded by towering trees, babbling brooks, or expansive meadows, campgrounds provide a tranquil setting to pitch tents or park RVs, fostering a connection with nature. Trails for hiking or biking often wind through these sites, leading adventurers to hidden vistas or peaceful lakeshores. Campfire circles crackle with warmth in the evenings, where stories are shared under starlit skies. Facilities may range from basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables to more modern conveniences such as restrooms with showers and designated cooking areas. Whether for a weekend escape or an extended wilderness adventure, campgrounds offer a refreshing escape from urban life, inviting visitors to unwind and recharge in the great outdoors.

Gecko Campground

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Imperial County California Seal
Geckp Campground, Imperial County, CA

Gecko Campground is the largest campground in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, located near Glamis and Holtville, Imperial County,,California, approximately 23 miles east of Brawley. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it is a prime destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, offering direct access to the expansive sand dunes that stretch across a 40-mile by 5-mile area, with some dunes reaching heights of up to 300 feet. The campground is particularly popular during the winter months (October to May) due to milder temperatures, especially around holiday weekends like Christmas and New Years. Summer camping is not recommended as temperatures often exceed 100°F.

Location and Access

  • Address: Gecko Road, Holtville, CA 92250
  • Coordinates: Latitude 32.94206000, Longitude -115.13880000
  • Directions:
    • From Brawley, CA: Take Highway 78 east for about 23 miles, turn onto Gecko Road, and the campground is on the left.
    • From Yuma, AZ: Take Interstate 8 west to Ogilby Road (Exit 166), drive north to Highway 78, then head west to Gecko Road.
  • Contact: (760) 337-4400
  • Website: BLM Imperial Sand Dunes

Campground Features

  • Layout: The campground consists of two large paved loops—North Loop and South Loop—making it accessible for RVs, trailers, and other vehicles.
  • Amenities:
    • Numerous vault toilets are available throughout both loops.
    • Fire rings are provided at most sites for campfires.
    • No hookups, potable water, or trash services are available, so campers must bring their own water, supplies, and pack out all trash in accordance with BLM’s Leave No Trace policy.
  • Camping Style: Primitive, dry camping with a 14-day stay limit. Sites are first-come, first-served, with no reservations accepted.
  • Fees: A 7-day pass costs approximately $75 (based on older data; check with BLM for current pricing).

Recreation and Activities

  • OHV Riding: The primary draw is off-roading, with hundreds of square miles of dunes available for ATVs, motorcycles, and side-by-sides (SxS). Popular nearby spots include Oldsmobile Hill and the dunes south of Highway 78.
  • Hiking and Exploration: The nearby North Algodones Dunes Wilderness is designated for non-motorized activities like hiking and horseback riding. The Alamo River Trail offers a scenic path along a canal.
  • Fishing: Anglers with a valid California fishing license can fish in the Coachella Canal for species like channel catfish, largemouth bass, and flathead catfish.
  • Nearby Attractions: The Hugh T. Osborne Lookout Park offers picnic facilities and expansive dune views.

Visitor Information

  • Best Time to Visit: Winter months (October to May) are ideal due to cooler temperatures. Peak season brings crowds, so early arrival is recommended.
  • Connectivity: Verizon and AT&T cell service are generally reliable, though coverage may vary.
  • Safety Notes: The area is known for high OHV activity, so expect noise from motorcycles and ATVs. Sand dunes can be dangerous; visitors should be experienced with off-roading and aware of safety regulations.
  • Regulations: The area is well-regulated to ensure safety, a shift from its reputation in the 1990s as an unregulated off-road party spot.

Tips for Campers

  • Bring all necessary supplies, including water, firewood, and battery/solar-powered equipment, as the campground is primitive.
  • Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially during peak seasons, due to OHV activity.
  • Check with the Cahuilla Ranger Station (open weekends in winter) for additional information or updates.
  • For those seeking quieter alternatives, nearby primitive campgrounds like Roadrunner Campground or Glamis Flats may be options, though they also lack amenities.

Gecko Campground is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the thrill of the Imperial Sand Dunes while enjoying a no-frills desert camping experience under starry skies.

Potato Bottom Campground

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Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah
Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

Potato Bottom Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, situated along the banks of the Green River. The campground features three designated sites (Potato Bottom A, B, and C), each accommodating up to three vehicles and 15 people, designed to provide privacy with sites spaced to minimize visibility and noise from one another. Located at approximately 4,100 feet elevation, the campground offers scenic views of the Green River, surrounded by red rock cliffs, cottonwood trees, and open desert landscapes, with distant mesas visible on clear days. The sites are primitive, with no potable water, limited shade, or wind protection, requiring campers to bring all supplies, including at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day. A vault toilet is shared among the sites, though some campers note odors during warmer months. The terrain is a mix of sandy and rocky ground, suitable for tents but potentially challenging for securing stakes in sandy areas near the river. Stargazing is exceptional due to the remote location and minimal light pollution, with visitors describing the night sky as “breathtakingly clear.” Access requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as the trail to Potato Bottom includes rugged sections, sandy washes, and occasional river-adjacent paths, making it unsuitable for standard vehicles or large trucks with oversized campers (e.g., Ford F-350 with large campers). Overnight permits are required, costing $36 for the reservation plus $5 per person per night, and are highly competitive, particularly in spring and fall. Potato Bottom’s riverside setting and relatively flat terrain make it a favored stop for White Rim Trail adventurers seeking a serene, scenic campsite.

White Rim Trail

The White Rim Trail is a renowned 100-mile loop in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, celebrated for its challenging terrain and stunning desert scenery. This high-clearance 4×4 route, also popular among mountain bikers, traces the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below, offering panoramic views of red rock canyons, towering buttes, and river valleys. Key highlights include Gooseneck Overlook, Musselman Arch, White Crack (with vistas of the Maze and Needles districts), and Murphy Hogback, known for its 360-degree panoramas. The trail features a mix of wide dirt roads, sandy stretches, and technical jeep trails with cliff exposure, particularly at Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and Mineral Bottom switchbacks. With an elevation gain of approximately 9,160 feet, the route is moderately difficult for vehicles and strenuous for cyclists, typically taking 2-3 days to complete, though experienced bikers may attempt it in one day. Permits are required for both day-use and overnight trips, with 20 designated campsites across 10 areas, including Potato Bottom Campground. No potable water is available, and high water on the Green River (May-June) can flood western sections, potentially preventing a full loop. The best seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for milder temperatures and stable weather, as summer brings extreme heat and winter may bring closures.

White House Campground

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Nestled in the rugged southwestern expanse of Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (GSENM), White House Campground offers a serene, primitive escape for adventurers seeking solitude amid one of America’s most remote and geologically stunning landscapes. Established in 1996 and spanning nearly 1.9 million acres, GSENM—often called a “frontier for the 21st century”—protects a vast mosaic of five life zones, from sun-scorched desert lowlands to high-elevation coniferous forests. This unspoiled wilderness, jointly managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is a living museum of natural and cultural history, where ancient Anasazi and Fremont peoples left rock art, granaries, and occupation sites dating back to AD 950–1100. The monument’s dramatic “staircase” of colorful rock layers—limestones atop sandstones atop shales—has been sculpted over millions of years by wind, water, and time, revealing slot canyons, towering cliffs, badlands, plateaus, hoodoos, arches, and natural bridges. Bordered by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area to the east, Bryce Canyon National Park to the north, and Capitol Reef National Park to the northeast, GSENM invites quiet exploration, scientific discovery, and immersive outdoor pursuits like hiking, backpacking, off-roading, photography, and wildlife viewing. Its biological diversity supports desert bighorn sheep, peregrine falcons, and endemic plants, while paleontological treasures, including dinosaur fossils, underscore its role as a hotspot for geologists and paleontologists.

Perched at the monument’s southern edge, White House Campground embodies this raw beauty in a broad, open valley framed by the Paria River to the north and striking white-grey sandstone buttes to the south. Just two miles south of Highway 89 and the Paria Contact Station (about 43 miles east of Kanab, Utah), it serves as an ideal staging point for journeys into the adjacent Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness—a jointly managed area renowned for its narrow slot canyons, petrified wood, archaeological sites, and world-class hikes like the iconic Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass trails. Here, the air carries the scent of sagebrush and juniper, and sunsets paint the buttes in hues of crimson and gold, offering stargazers unobstructed views of the Milky Way in this International Dark Sky Park. The site’s proximity to Zion National Park (about 80 miles west) and Bryce Canyon (roughly 100 miles north) makes it a perfect hub for multi-park itineraries, while local trails provide day hikes through colorful badlands teeming with desert wildlife, from coyotes to golden eagles.

Available Facilities

White House Campground is designed for low-impact, backcountry-style camping, emphasizing harmony with the desert environment. It’s a first-come, first-served site (no reservations required), open year-round, with a small nightly fee that supports monument maintenance. Facilities are basic to preserve the area’s pristine character:

FacilityDetails
Sites7 car-accessible sites for tents or small RVs (no hookups; suitable for vehicles up to 20 feet); 5 walk-in tent-only sites (short carry-in from parking). All sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads for comfort.
RestroomsVault toilets (non-flush, cleaned regularly) for basic sanitation.
WaterNo potable water on-site—bring your own or fill up at the nearby Paria Contact Station (seasonal). Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect scarce resources.
Firewood & GrillsFire rings provided; gather dead wood locally or bring your own (no cutting live trees). Propane stoves recommended during fire restrictions.
AccessibilityMostly flat, gravel sites; suitable for most abilities, but walk-in sites require light gear hauling over uneven terrain.
Other AmenitiesTrash receptacles available; pack out all waste. No electricity, showers, or dump stations—embrace the off-grid vibe. Nearby Paria Contact Station offers maps, permits, and info for wilderness entry.

With only 12 sites total, the campground rarely feels crowded, fostering a peaceful retreat even during peak seasons (spring and fall). Arrive early to secure a spot, and note that high-clearance vehicles are advised for the final gravel stretch of Monument Road 751.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker plotting a multi-day trek or a family chasing golden-hour photos, White House Campground delivers an authentic taste of GSENM’s timeless allure. Pack your sense of wonder, respect the fragile ecosystem, and let the monument’s ancient whispers guide your adventure. For current conditions or permits, stop by a GSENM visitor center—your journey into this geological masterpiece awaits.

References

Goblin Valley Utah

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A Goblin formed from a soft limestone, water and time offer a unique hiking experience. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Goblin Valley is located in Utah is a state park and campground which is adjacent to eroded flood plain. Formed by water, time and a soft sandstone, erosion sculpted the limestone into unique rock formations which some have stated appears to be goblins.  The Goblin Valley itself is a day use hiking area which allows one to get lost in the maze of spires and rock formations.

Valley Queen, Goblin Valley, Utah Photography by James L Rathbun
Valley Queen, Goblin Valley Utah. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Each rock spire ranges in height from 3 feet to about 20 feet tall.  The fragile structures litter the landscape and sadly on occasion have been felled by people who do not have respect for nature.  There are three established self, however the Valley of the Goblins is a open trail flat mud plane after a easy and short trail down from the parking area.

Goblin Valley State Park does offer an established campground of 22 campsites just over a hill from the Valley of the Goblins.  The campground features, paved sites, bathrooms, showers, water and dump stations. The campground is very popular destination due to location next to Goblin Valley and is also a wonderful centralized base camp location for exploring the San Rafael Swell.

A solitary Pronghorn ( Antilocapra americana ) found near Golbin Valley, Utah
A solitary Pronghorn ( Antilocapra americana ) found near Golbin Valley, Utah

We stated in Goblin Valley in the off season several years ago. We were greeted with lots of camp sites available, privacy and a minor wind and rain storm. Despite the less then desirable conditions, we enjoyed our stay and will try to make it back again in the future.

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North Rim Campground

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North Rim Campground, perched on the remote and rustic North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park at an elevation of 8,200–8,300 feet, is a scenic haven for campers seeking solitude and stunning views. With 90 mixed-use campsites, including 78 for tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 40 feet) and 12 tent-only walk-in sites, it operates from May 15 to October 15, with reservations required via Recreation.gov. Located 210 miles from the bustling South Rim, North Rim Campground offers a quieter, less crowded alternative, nestled in a dense forest of ponderosa pines and aspens. Its proximity to the canyon’s edge and trails like the Transept and North Kaibab makes it a prime base for exploring the North Rim’s dramatic vistas. Below is a detailed review of its setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a vivid description of the Grand Canyon.

Description of the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a colossal chasm carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, stretching 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. From the North Rim, at an elevation of 8,000–9,000 feet, the canyon reveals a distinct character compared to the South Rim. Its higher elevation and forested Kaibab Plateau setting create a greener, cooler landscape, with sweeping views of layered red, orange, and cream-colored rock formations that tell a geological story spanning nearly two billion years. The North Rim’s vistas, such as those from Bright Angel Point or Cape Royal, emphasize the canyon’s depth and vastness, with distant buttes and temples rising from the depths, often framed by lush meadows and aspen groves that turn golden in fall.

The canyon’s ecosystem teems with wildlife, including the endemic Kaibab squirrel, mule deer, and elusive mountain lions, while condors soar above the cliffs. The North Rim, receiving only 10–15% of the park’s visitors, offers a serene experience, with quieter trails and viewpoints that feel intimate despite the canyon’s immense scale. Sunrises and sunsets paint the rock layers in vibrant hues, and the night sky, unmarred by light pollution, is a stargazer’s paradise. The rugged terrain and remoteness demand respect, with monsoon thunderstorms (June–September) and early snows adding to the wild, untamed beauty.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

North Rim Campground is located at the end of State Highway 67, 41 miles south of Jacob Lake, AZ, and 210 miles (4.5 hours) from Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. Accessible via Highway 89A to Highway 67, it’s a remote destination with no direct road across the canyon. The campground is one mile north of the North Rim Visitor Center and Grand Canyon Lodge, connected by the scenic Transept Trail (1.2 miles). A free shuttle operates within the North Rim area, though most attractions, like Bright Angel Point, are within walking distance.

The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, but many sites are not level, with tight curves and narrow passages through trees, limiting larger RVs. Five sites (11, 14, 15, 16, 18) offer canyon views, while tent-only sites (T-1 to T-6) border the Transept Canyon rim. Three wheelchair-accessible sites are available, with nearby flush toilets and sinks, though the tent-only area has a vault toilet. The uneven terrain and walk-in tent sites (20–200 feet from parking) may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Amenities

Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and access to shared bear-proof food storage lockers (required for food and scented items). The campground offers drinking water, flush toilets, and sinks throughout, with a vault toilet in the tent-only section. Coin-operated showers and laundry are available near the general store, though they may close during water restrictions. A free dump station and potable water for RVs are located near the entrance. The general store, a short walk away, stocks groceries, camping supplies, and firewood, while the Grand Canyon Lodge offers dining options, including sit-down and grab-and-go meals. No electric, water, or sewer hook-ups are available at sites.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

The campground is nestled in a thick ponderosa pine and aspen forest, providing ample shade but limited privacy due to closely spaced sites. Premium sites (11, 14, 15, 16, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 31) offer filtered canyon views, while tent-only sites T-1 to T-6 border the Transept Canyon rim, providing scenic outlooks. “Site 18 was incredible—steps from the rim with a jaw-dropping view,” noted a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024). Sites are generally well-spaced, but some, like site 51, have layout issues, with trees obstructing pull-through access, requiring backing out (Campendium, 2024). The forested setting and quiet atmosphere enhance the experience, though noise from nearby campers can occasionally disrupt the peace.

RV and Tent Camping

The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers up to 40 feet, though many sites are limited to 15–27 feet due to tight turns and trees. The maximum length includes both the RV/trailer and tow vehicle, and pop-outs or awnings may not fit at some sites. Tent-only sites require a short walk (20–200 feet) from the parking lot, accommodating up to six people per site. Three group sites (A, B, C) allow up to 25 people and three vehicles (max 12 feet). Generators are permitted during restricted hours (7–9 AM, 12–2 PM, 5–7 PM). Free parking is available, with overflow near the general store.

Reservation and Cost

Reservations are required from May 15 to September 15, bookable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, with sites costing $18–$50 per night (group sites up to $55). From October 16 to October 31, sites are first-come, first-served, weather permitting. Demand is high, and sites often sell out quickly. “Book at 7 AM sharp six months out, or check for cancellations daily,” advised a camper (PerfectCamp, 2024). A backcountry permit ($10 plus $8 per person/equine per night) is required for winter camping (snowshoeing or skiing in). Arizona uses Mountain Standard Time year-round, except in the Navajo Nation.

Activities and Attractions

North Rim Campground is a gateway to the North Rim’s serene trails and viewpoints. The Transept Trail (1.2 miles) connects the campground to the Grand Canyon Lodge and Bright Angel Point, offering rim-hugging views. The North Kaibab Trail, accessible via the Bridle Trail (0.8 miles), descends 14.2 miles to Phantom Ranch, requiring a backcountry permit for overnight hikes. Other trails, like the Uncle Jim and Widforss, offer scenic loops with canyon vistas. The Cape Royal Scenic Drive (25 miles) features stunning overlooks like Roosevelt Point. Mule rides, ranger-led programs, and stargazing events (including the June Star Party) are available. The nearby general store and lodge provide dining, a gift shop, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.

Wildlife and Safety

The Kaibab Plateau hosts unique wildlife, including the tassel-eared Kaibab squirrel, found nowhere else. Black bears, mule deer, and elk roam the area, requiring strict food storage in bear-proof lockers to prevent encounters. “Bears are rare, but squirrels and ravens will steal anything not locked up,” warned a camper (The Dyrt, 2023). Rangers enforce compliance with citations. Trash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters, and recycling is available. The 8,200–8,300-foot elevation can cause altitude issues, and weather varies from warm summer days (60–80°F) to cold nights (30–50°F), with monsoon thunderstorms (June–September) and potential snow in May or October. Check forecasts and pack rain gear and warm layers.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Location and Views: Campers rave about the proximity to the canyon rim. “Steps from our site to incredible views of Transept Canyon,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2024). Sites 11, 14, 15, 16, and 18 are prized for canyon views.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: The campground is notably serene. “Incredibly quiet even when full—couldn’t hear neighbors at 8:30 PM,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2021).
  • Amenities: Clean flush toilets, drinking water, and pay showers are highlights. “Bathrooms were spotless, and the store had everything we needed,” said a reviewer (PerfectCamp, 2024).
  • Staff: Rangers and hosts, like Bill, are praised for their helpfulness. “Bill helped us navigate a tricky site—top-notch host!” (Campendium, 2024).

Negatives

  • Site Layout: Some sites, like 51, have poor design. “Trees blocked the pull-through, making it tough to back out,” reported a camper (Campendium, 2024). Uneven sites can challenge trailer leveling.
  • Reservations: Booking is competitive. “Sites sell out in minutes—be ready at 7 AM,” advised a reviewer (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Limited Amenities: Showers and laundry may close during water restrictions. “Coin machine ate our money, and the store staff weren’t helpful,” complained a camper (PerfectCamp, 2024).
  • Access: The remote location (4.5 hours from the South Rim) deters some. “Worth it, but it’s a long drive,” noted a reviewer (Yelp, 2024).

Tips for Campers

  • Book Early: Reserve six months in advance on Recreation.gov at 7 AM MST. Check daily for cancellations if you miss the window.
  • Choose Rim Sites: Book sites 11, 14, 15, 16, 18, or T-1 to T-6 for canyon views. Verify RV/trailer fit on Recreation.gov.
  • Bring Bikes: Bikes are ideal for navigating the North Rim’s trails and roads. “Biking to Bright Angel Point was a highlight,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).
  • Wildlife Safety: Store all scented items in bear-proof lockers. A padlock adds security against theft or animals.
  • Plan for Weather: Pack for cool nights, rain, and potential snow in May or October. A tarp or rainfly is essential during monsoons.
  • Arrive Early: Check-in is at 12 PM MST; arrive early to settle in and explore nearby trails before sunset.

Overall Experience

North Rim Campground is a gem for those seeking a quieter, more intimate Grand Canyon experience. Its forested setting, rimside views, and access to trails like the Transept and North Kaibab make it a hiker’s paradise. The campground’s clean facilities, friendly staff, and proximity to the lodge enhance its appeal, though competitive reservations and occasional site layout issues are drawbacks. “The North Rim’s solitude and stunning vistas make this the best NPS campground I’ve stayed at,” summed up a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024). With early booking, careful site selection, and preparation for the remote location, North Rim Campground offers an unforgettable escape into the Grand Canyon’s majestic beauty.

Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Campendium, PerfectCamp, Hipcamp, GrandCanyonTrust.org, JamesKaiser.com