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.

Sunset Campground

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Bryce National Park is located in the south western corner of the state of Utah
Bryce National Park is located in the south western corner of the state of Utah

Sunset Campground, located at approximately 8,000 feet elevation in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, is a seasonal campground open from mid-April to mid-October, offering 100 sites: 46 tent-only sites (Loops B and C), 50 RV/tent sites (Loop A), one reservable group site, and two wheelchair-accessible sites. From January 1 to April 14, 2025, the campground is closed; from April 15 to May 16 and October 8 to mid-October, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis; and from May 17 to October 7, all sites require reservations through Recreation.gov. Set in a ponderosa pine forest near Sunset Point and the Bryce Amphitheater, it provides easy access to iconic trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden, as well as the park’s shuttle system. The campground offers flush toilets and potable water but lacks showers and hook-ups, requiring preparation for high-altitude conditions and Dark Sky Park regulations. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of Bryce Canyon National Park.

Description of Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, a 35,835-acre geologic wonder in southwestern Utah, is famed for its vibrant hoodoos—spires of limestone, dolomite, and siltstone sculpted by erosion into fantastical shapes of pink, orange, and white. Situated at 7,000–9,100 feet elevation along the Paunsaugunt Plateau, the park’s centerpiece is the Bryce Amphitheater, a natural bowl showcasing the densest collection of hoodoos, best viewed from Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration, and Bryce Points. Beyond the amphitheater, the park stretches across 18 miles of scenic viewpoints like Rainbow and Yovimpa Points, connected by a scenic drive, and features 60 miles of trails, from the easy Rim Trail to the strenuous Under-the-Rim Trail (22.9 miles).

The park’s high elevation brings cooler temperatures (50–80°F in summer, 20–40°F at night) and occasional summer thunderstorms or spring snow. Wildlife includes mule deer, Utah prairie dogs, pronghorn, mountain lions, and birds like Steller’s jays and peregrine falcons. As an International Dark Sky Park, Bryce Canyon offers exceptional stargazing, with over 7,500 stars visible on moonless nights, celebrated annually at the June Astronomy Festival and through over 100 nightly ranger-led programs, including full-moon hikes. Nearby attractions like Red Canyon, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument enhance its appeal, while Scenic Byway 12 offers jaw-dropping red rock views. Bryce Canyon’s unique geology, hiking opportunities, and starry skies make it a bucket-list destination for adventurers and photographers.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

Sunset Campground is located 1.5 miles south of the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, just west of Sunset Point on Highway 63. From Panguitch, Utah, travel 7 miles south on Highway 89, east on Highway 12 for 14 miles, then south on Highway 63 to the park entrance; the campground is on the right, past North Campground and the Visitor Center. Its proximity to Sunset Point (0.5-mile walk) and the Navajo Loop trailhead makes it ideal for hikers, and a shuttle stop at the campground entrance (mid-April to mid-October) connects to major viewpoints and trails.

The campground features paved roads and spurs in Loop A (RV/tent, sites 200–249) and gravel spurs in Loops B (252–271) and C (272–310, tent-only), accommodating vehicles up to 60 feet in Loop A but 20 feet max in Loops B and C. Two wheelchair-accessible sites in Loop A offer paved surfaces and proximity to flush toilets. The hilly terrain may challenge mobility-impaired visitors, and some sites are unlevel. “Site 216 was hilly but had a great sunset view,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025). Potable water and flush toilets are available, but no cell service or Wi-Fi exists; bring printed reservation confirmations. Check-in is at the registration kiosk, where first-come, first-served campers select sites and deposit payment ($30/night) in an envelope.

Amenities

Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and access to bear-proof food storage (recommended, though bear activity is low). Flush toilets and potable water spigots are well-maintained, with campers praising cleanliness: “Bathrooms were warm and spotless,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025). No showers or laundry are on-site, but coin-operated facilities are available at the General Store near North Campground (1.5 miles, seasonal). A free dump station is located at North Campground’s southern end (mid-May to mid-October). No electric, water, or sewer hook-ups are provided, and portable showers/toilets are prohibited. The General Store sells groceries, firewood, and supplies, while Bryce Canyon Lodge (1 mile) offers dining. Trash and recycling are provided with animal-proof dumpsters. Generators are allowed in Loop A only (8 AM–8 PM), ensuring quieter Loops B and C. Dark Sky Park rules prohibit extra lighting like string lights.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

Sunset Campground’s three loops are set in a ponderosa pine forest with rolling hills, offering a mix of sun and shade. Loop A accommodates RVs and tents, with larger, paved sites but less privacy due to proximity to the road and shuttle stop. Loops B and C, tent-only, are quieter and more secluded, with gravel spurs and more tree cover. “Loop C felt tucked away, perfect for tents,” said a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). Sites are spacious but close together, with limited ground-level privacy due to sparse undergrowth. “Sites are thin—our truck didn’t fit site 216,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025). The group site in Loop A accommodates up to 30 people. The campground’s hilly layout and meadow views enhance its scenic appeal, though some sites (e.g., 200–210) hear road noise.

RV and Tent Camping

Loop A supports RVs and trailers up to 60 feet, though many sites fit 20–40 feet due to trees and slopes; Loops B and C are limited to tents and camper vans (20 feet max). “Our 30-foot trailer barely fit site 205—check site lengths,” warned a camper (Campendium, 2025). Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking near site 245 in Loop A, which can be inconvenient. “Parking our truck away from site 216 was a hassle,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2025). Loops B and C are generator-free, ideal for tent campers seeking quiet. Sites may be unlevel, especially in Loop A, requiring leveling blocks. The forested setting, with hoodoos visible from nearby trails, creates a magical camping experience, enhanced by Dark Sky-compliant lighting for stargazing.

Reservation and Cost

From May 17 to October 7, 2025, all sites require reservations via Recreation.gov, bookable six months in advance (opening 7 AM MST). From April 15 to May 16 and October 8 to mid-October, sites are first-come, first-served, filling by noon in peak season. “Arrive by 8 AM for FCFS—sites were gone by 11 AM,” advised a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). RV/tent sites cost $30/night, tent-only sites $20/night, and the group site $50/night, with a 50% discount for Senior/Access Passholders. A $35 vehicle entrance fee (valid 7 days) is separate, and day-use reservations may be required in peak season. No-shows face a $20 fee and forfeit one night’s fee. A 14-day stay limit applies park-wide from May to October.

Activities and Attractions

Sunset Campground is a short walk from Sunset Point (0.5 miles), offering access to the Navajo Loop (1.4 miles), Queen’s Garden (1.8 miles), and combined Navajo/Queen’s Garden Loop (2.9 miles), showcasing hoodoos and slot canyons. “Hiking Navajo Loop from camp at sunrise was breathtaking,” said a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025). The Rim Trail connects to Sunrise Point (1 mile) and Bryce Canyon Lodge (1 mile). The park shuttle, stopping at the campground entrance, links to viewpoints like Inspiration Point and trailheads. Stargazing is a highlight, with ranger-led astronomy programs at the Visitor Center or campground amphitheater. The Mossy Cave Trail (8 miles) and Ebenezer Bryce Cabin (5.3 miles) are nearby, while Red Canyon and Kodachrome Basin State Park are short drives. Horseback riding, biking on paved paths, and winter snowshoeing are also available.

Wildlife and Safety

Wildlife includes mule deer, Utah prairie dogs, and rare mountain lions or black bears. Food should be stored in vehicles or lockers to deter animals, though bear activity is minimal. Pets are allowed on leashes (6 feet max) in campgrounds and paved areas but not on unpaved trails. The 8,000-foot elevation may cause altitude sickness, so hydrate and rest upon arrival. Weather varies from warm days (50–80°F) to cold nights (20–40°F), with summer thunderstorms and possible spring snow. “It dropped to 27°F at night—bring warm gear,” warned a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). Fire restrictions may apply, and wood gathering is prohibited; purchase firewood at the General Store. Check weather and fire alerts on NPS.gov.

Sunset Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Location: Proximity to Sunset Point and trails is a major draw. “Walking to Navajo Loop from camp was so convenient,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
  • Scenery: The pine forest and hoodoo views are stunning. “Sunset views from site 216 were unreal,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025).
  • Clean Facilities: Flush toilets and restrooms are well-maintained. “Bathrooms were clean and heated,” shared a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
  • Stargazing: Dark Sky Park status is a highlight. “The stars were incredible—best we’ve seen,” said a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025).

Negatives

  • Limited Privacy: Sites are close together. “Little privacy in Loop A—sites felt cramped,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025).
  • Unlevel Sites: Some sites are sloped. “Site 205 was tough to level for our RV,” complained a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
  • No Showers: The lack of on-site showers is a drawback. “Walking 1.5 miles for showers was inconvenient,” said a camper (Campendium, 2024).
  • Parking Issues: Larger RVs struggle with parking. “Couldn’t fit our truck in site 216—overflow lot was far,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2025).

Tips for Campers

  • Book Early: Reserve Loop A sites six months in advance on Recreation.gov for May 17–October 7. For FCFS, arrive by 8 AM, especially in summer.
  • Choose Tent Sites: Loops B or C are quieter and better for tents. “Loop C was peaceful with good shade,” said a camper (The Dyrt, 2025).
  • Bring Leveling Gear: Pack blocks for unlevel sites, especially in Loop A. Check site dimensions on Recreation.gov.
  • Weather Prep: Pack layers, a tarp, and a warm sleeping bag for cold nights and potential storms.
  • Acclimatize: Rest upon arrival to adjust to 8,000 feet elevation. Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Maximize Stargazing: Attend ranger-led astronomy programs and avoid extra lighting to comply with Dark Sky rules.

Overall Experience

Sunset Campground is a prime base for exploring Bryce Canyon National Park, offering a serene ponderosa pine setting and unmatched access to Sunset Point, Navajo Loop, and the park’s shuttle. Its clean facilities and stargazing opportunities are highlights, though limited privacy, unlevel sites, and no on-site showers require planning. “Camping here put us right in the heart of Bryce’s magic,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). With early reservations or arrival, proper gear for high-altitude weather, and adherence to park rules, Sunset Campground delivers a memorable experience amid hoodoos and starry skies.

Rating: 4/5 stars. The location, scenery, and Dark Sky appeal are exceptional, but privacy, leveling issues, and lack of showers dock a point.

Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Campendium, PerfectCamp, DirtInMyShoes.com, VisitUtah.com

Mather Campground

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Mather Campground, located on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, is the largest and most popular campground in the park, offering 327 single-family campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 30 feet. Operated by the National Park Service, it is open year-round, with reservations required from March 1 to November 30 via Recreation.gov, and first-come, first-served sites available from December 1 to February 28. Nestled in a forested area of ponderosa pine, pinyon, and juniper trees, Mather Campground provides a convenient base for exploring the South Rim’s iconic viewpoints and trails, though it lacks direct canyon views. Its proximity to Grand Canyon Village and park amenities makes it ideal for families and first-time visitors, but its size and popularity can lead to crowded conditions. 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, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a breathtaking 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 South Rim, at an elevation of 6,800–7,400 feet, visitors are treated to iconic vistas of layered red, orange, and cream-colored rock formations that reveal nearly two billion years of Earth’s geological history. Key viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hermit’s Rest showcase the canyon’s vastness, with distant buttes, temples, and the shimmering Colorado River visible far below. Sunrises and sunsets ignite the canyon walls in vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and violet, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The South Rim’s ecosystem is rich with wildlife, including elk, mule deer, coyotes, ravens, and the endangered California condor, often seen soaring thousands of feet above the canyon. Ponderosa pine forests and high-desert flora dominate the rim, while the canyon’s depths harbor unique Perspective: desert ecosystems. The South Rim, attracting 85–90% of the park’s five to six million annual visitors, is more developed than the North Rim, with amenities like shuttle buses, a visitor center, and lodges, but it can feel crowded, especially in summer. The night sky, recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2019, offers unparalleled stargazing, and trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab provide access to the canyon’s depths for adventurous hikers.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

Mather Campground is located in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim, approximately three miles from the south entrance station off Highway 64. From the entrance, proceed three miles and turn left on Center Road, then right onto Market Plaza Road to reach the campground. Its central location is a short walk or shuttle ride from the Grand Canyon Village, visitor center, and rim viewpoints like Mather Point. Three shuttle bus routes (Village, Kaibab/Rim, and Hermit) stop near the campground, providing convenient access to trails, overlooks, and amenities without needing to drive.

The campground features paved roads and site pads, with 16 wheelchair-accessible sites equipped with extended picnic tables and nearby restrooms. Flush toilets with running water and sinks are well-distributed, though some pathways are cracked and may pose minor navigation challenges for wheelchairs. A dedicated shuttle stop enhances accessibility, and the nearby Market Plaza offers a general store, restaurants, a post office, and a bank. Check-in is required at the campground kiosk upon arrival, with after-hours information posted on equivalency the kiosk window.

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). Flush toilets, drinking water spigots, and dishwashing stations are available throughout the campground. A free dump station is located near the entrance at Camper Services, but there are no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups at sites. Coin-operated showers and laundry are available near the campground entrance, a short walk or drive away. The nearby Market Plaza general store sells groceries, clothing, and firewood, and Grand Canyon Village offers dining options, including Yavapai Tavern and lodge restaurants.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

Mather Campground is organized into seven loops (Aspen, Pine, Sage, and others), with sites nestled beneath a tall canopy of ponderosa pine, pinyon, and juniper trees, providing ample shade but no direct canyon views. Sites are paved and fairly level, though some campers report uneven pads requiring leveling blocks for RVs. Privacy varies by loop; for example, site 21 in Aspen Loop is praised for good privacy, with no sites directly to the north and limited neighbors to the south, though other sites may feel closer together due to the campground’s size. “Privacy was great at site 21, with a quick walk to clean bathrooms,” noted a camper (Reddit, 2023). Noise from neighboring sites or elk wandering through can occasionally disrupt the experience, but quiet hours (10 PM–6 AM) are generally respected.

RV and Tent Camping

Mather accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers up to 30 feet (combined length of vehicle and trailer), with about one-third of sites being pull-through. All vehicles must remain on pavement, and pop-outs or awnings may not fit at smaller sites. Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking nearby. Generators are prohibited in Pine Loop (sites 265–319) but permitted elsewhere during restricted hours (7–9 AM, 12–2 PM, 5–7 PM). The campground’s forested setting and wildlife, like elk strolling through sites, add to its charm but require vigilance.

Reservation and Cost

Reservations are required from March 1 to November 30, available up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, with sites costing $18–$25 per night. From December 1 to February 28, sites are first-come, first-served, with potential road closures after snowstorms (campsites are not plowed). Demand is high, especially in summer, with sites often booked within minutes of release. “Be online at 7 AM sharp or check cancellations daily,” advised a camper (Hipcamp, 2024). Winter camping requires a shovel and winter travel kit due to snow. Check-in is at 12 PM MST, and checkout is at 11 AM MST. Arizona uses Mountain Standard Time year-round, except in the Navajo Nation.

Activities and Attractions

Mather Campground’s proximity to Grand Canyon Village makes it a hub for South Rim activities. The Rim Trail (14 miles, paved) and Greenway Trail offer scenic walks and biking, with leashed pets allowed on both. The Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails, accessible by shuttle, descend into the canyon, while day hikes to spots like Cedar Ridge or Indian Garden offer stunning views. The park’s concessionaire provides mule rides and guided tours, and ranger-led programs, including fossil walks and stargazing (notably the June Star Party), enrich the experience. The Yavapai Geology Museum and visitor center, a short shuttle ride away, provide educational exhibits on the canyon’s formation. Mather Point and Yavapai Point, within a mile, offer iconic canyon views, and the Grand Canyon Railway offers scenic train rides from Williams, AZ.

Wildlife and Safety

The South Rim hosts abundant wildlife, including elk, mule deer, coyotes, and California condors. Food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof lockers to deter ravens and squirrels, which can damage gear. “Ravens stole our snacks when we left them out—use the lockers!” warned a camper (The Dyrt, 2023). Trash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters, and recycling stations support the park’s sustainability efforts. The 7,000-foot elevation may cause altitude issues, and weather ranges from warm summer days (80s°F) to cool nights (40–50s°F), with monsoon thunderstorms possible from June to September. Winter camping requires preparation for snow and cold (20–40°F). Check forecasts and pack rain gear and warm layers.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Location: Campers praise Mather’s proximity to amenities and trails. “Five-minute walk to the shuttle stop and a mile to the rim—perfect!” (Reddit, 2023).
  • Amenities: Clean flush toilets, water spigots, and nearby showers are highlights. “Bathrooms were well-lit and had dishwashing stations,” noted a camper (Cactus Atlas, 2019). The general store’s grocery selection is a major plus.
  • Wildlife: Encounters with elk and deer are memorable. “An elk walked right through our site—so cool!” (Cactus Atlas, 2019).
  • Affordability: At $18–$25 per night, it’s budget-friendly. “Best value for staying inside the park,” said a reviewer (We’re in the Rockies, 2021).

Negatives

  • Crowding: With 319 sites, Mather can feel crowded. “It’s like a small city in summer,” complained a camper (Backroad Ramblers, 2025).
  • No Canyon Views: The forested setting lacks rim views. “You’re close to the canyon but can’t see it from your site,” noted a reviewer (Cactus Atlas, 2019).
  • Reservations: Booking is competitive. “Took weeks of checking for cancellations to get a spot,” said a camper (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Maintenance: Some pathways are cracked, and water spigots may malfunction. “The spigot in Aspen Loop was broken, so we drove to Sage Loop,” reported a camper (Reddit, 2023).

Tips for Campers

  • Book Early: Reserve six months in advance on Recreation.gov at 7 AM MST. Monitor cancellations for last-minute openings.
  • Choose Private Sites: Sites like 21 in Aspen Loop offer better privacy. Use campsitephotos.com or Google Street View to preview sites.
  • Bring Bikes: Bikes are ideal for navigating the Greenway and Rim trails. “Biking to Mather Point was quick and fun,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).
  • Wildlife Safety: Store all scented items in bear-proof lockers and use a padlock for security. Watch for ravens and elk.
  • Plan for Weather: Pack for cool nights and monsoon storms (June–September). A tarp or rainfly is essential.
  • Arrive Early: Check-in at 12 PM MST; arrive early to settle in and explore before sunset.

Overall Experience

Mather Campground is a top choice for South Rim camping, offering unparalleled access to Grand Canyon Village, trails, and amenities in a forested setting. Its clean facilities, shuttle stop, and nearby general store make it family-friendly and convenient, though the lack of canyon views and crowded summer conditions are drawbacks. “Mather’s location can’t be beat for exploring the South Rim,” summed up a camper (We’re in the Rockies, 2021). With early reservations, strategic site selection (e.g., Aspen Loop for privacy), and preparation for wildlife and weather, Mather Campground delivers an immersive and budget-friendly Grand Canyon experience under a star-filled sky.

Rating: 4/5 stars. The central location, amenities, and affordability are excellent, but crowding and no rim views prevent a perfect score.

Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, Campendium, PerfectCamp, Cactus Atlas, We’re in the Rockies, Backroad Ramblers

Murphy 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

Murphy Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district. It consists of three designated sites (Murphy A, B, and C), each accommodating up to three vehicles and 15 people, designed to offer privacy with sites spaced to reduce visibility and noise from one another. Located at approximately 4,800 feet elevation, the campground sits atop Murphy Hogback, a prominent ridge offering spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding desert landscape, including red rock canyons, buttes, and the distant La Sal and Henry Mountains. The sites are primitive, with no potable water, 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 it can be odor-prone in warmer months. The terrain is rocky and hard-packed, suitable for tents but challenging for securing stakes due to the exposed, windswept conditions. Stargazing is exceptional due to the high elevation and minimal light pollution, with visitors describing the night sky as “awe-inspiring.” Access requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as the trail to Murphy, particularly the steep climb up Murphy Hogback, is rugged and 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, especially in spring and fall. Murphy’s dramatic location makes it a highlight for White Rim Trail adventurers seeking iconic views.

White Rim Trail

The White Rim Trail is a legendary 100-mile loop in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, renowned for its challenging terrain and stunning desert scenery. This high-clearance 4×4 route, also popular among mountain bikers, follows the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below, offering sweeping 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, where the campground is located, known for its breathtaking 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 Murphy 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.

Holcomb Valley Ranch

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Holcomb Valley Ranch is a historic region located in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, United States. It has a rich history that dates back centuries and has played a significant role in the development of the region.

Holcomb Valley Ranch is a picturesque and historic destination nestled in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California. This sprawling ranch, encompassing an area of breathtaking natural beauty, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and rustic charm of the region.

Surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged mountain peaks, Holcomb Valley Ranch provides a tranquil and idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The ranch’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, expansive meadows, and meandering streams, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.

Steeped in history, the ranch holds a significant place in the annals of the American West. It was originally settled during the mid-1800s as a bustling mining community during the California Gold Rush. Today, remnants of the past can still be found in the form of restored log cabins, mining equipment, and other artifacts that serve as a testament to the area’s rich mining heritage.

Visitors to Holcomb Valley Ranch have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor activities. The surrounding wilderness offers ample opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, allowing visitors to explore the rugged beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the nearby streams and lakes, while nature lovers can indulge in birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

For those seeking a taste of the Old West, the ranch offers a range of authentic experiences. Guests can saddle up and embark on guided horseback rides, traversing scenic trails and taking in panoramic views. They can also try their hand at gold panning, reliving the excitement of the Gold Rush era.

Accommodations at Holcomb Valley Ranch cater to a variety of preferences. Rustic cabins provide a cozy and comfortable retreat, complete with modern amenities, while campsites allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The ranch also offers facilities for hosting weddings, corporate retreats, and other special events, providing a charming and memorable setting.

Whether seeking a peaceful getaway, an adventure in the great outdoors, or a journey back in time, Holcomb Valley Ranch is a place where nature, history, and relaxation converge. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains while embracing the spirit of the Old West.

Trail Map

Campground Summary

NameHidden Valley Ranch
LocationHolcomb Valley, Big Bear, San Bernardino, California
Latitude, Longitude34.2976, -116.9123
Number of Sites

References

White Crack 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

White Crack Campground is a remote backcountry camping area in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, located along the White Rim Trail. This single campsite, accommodating up to three vehicles and 15 people, is one of the most isolated and scenic along the trail, offering unparalleled views of the Maze, Needles, and Island in the Sky districts. Perched at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, the site features expansive vistas of dramatic red rock formations, deep canyons, and distant mesas, with Candlestick Tower and the Colorado River’s gooseneck bends visible on clear days. The campground is primitive, with no potable water, 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 available, but reviews note it can be odor-prone in warmer months. The terrain is rocky and uneven, suitable for tents but challenging for securing stakes due to the hard ground. Stargazing is exceptional due to the remote location and minimal light pollution, with campers describing the night sky as “otherworldly.” Access requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as the road to White Crack is rugged and unsuitable for standard vehicles or large trucks with campers (e.g., Ford F-350 with oversized campers). Overnight permits are required, costing $36 for the reservation plus $5 per person per night, and are highly competitive, especially in spring and fall. The site’s isolation and proximity to trail’s end make it a coveted spot for those seeking solitude.

White Rim Trail

The White Rim Trail is a legendary 100-mile loop in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, renowned for its challenging terrain and jaw-dropping desert scenery. This high-clearance 4×4 route, also popular among mountain bikers, follows the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below, offering sweeping views of red rock canyons, buttes, and river valleys. Notable highlights include Gooseneck Overlook, Musselman Arch, White Crack (with its panoramic views of three park districts), and Murphy Hogback, which provides 360-degree vistas. The trail’s terrain varies from wide dirt roads to 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 about 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 a single day. Permits are required for both day-use and overnight trips, with 20 designated campsites across 10 areas, including White Crack 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 times to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for milder temperatures and stable weather, as summer brings extreme heat and winter may bring closures.