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
