4 ideas for spring camping destinations in Utah

4 ideas for spring camping destinations in Utah

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SALT LAKE CITY — Camping in Utah is a year-round recreation for many, but warmer spring temperatures bring out a renewed popularity for heading to the hills.

While the snow may linger in higher elevations, Utah offers a plenitude of options for spring camping. Nights can still be chilly in most locations around the state, but the flora and fauna is just starting to venture out, making April and May ideal months for outdoor, overnight outings.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef blossoms in the spring. Early Mormon pioneers settled in the area during the late 1800s and planted orchards of apple, pear and peach trees, according to information from the National Parks Service. Many of the remnants and descendants of these fruit trees remain in and around the visitor center area of the park, and the blossoms pop out between the end of April and the beginning of May.

Capitol Reef National Park, Photo Credit: nps.gov
Capitol Reef National Park, Photo Credit: nps.gov

The park, located in the south-central region of the state, offers one designated campground for overnight visitors. Overnight camping at the Fruita Campground is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is a $10 fee per night. There is one group site available and can be reserved in advance.

San Rafael Swell

The San Rafael Swell is located 30 miles south of Green River and spans an area of about 75 miles by 40 miles. Famous for its dramatic red-rock scenery, the San Rafael Swell offers endless options for hiking, biking and camping.

One of the biggest draws to camping in and around the swell is its accessibility. Owned by the Bureau of Land Management, usage of the roads and campsites at the San Rafael Swell are free of charge and easily accessible off Interstate 70.

Be aware that there is no water or toilets located in the camping areas near and in the swell, and all garbage and other waste needs to be packed out of the area. Also, campers with small children should pick an overnight spot farther from the edges of areas like the Wedge Overlook, as there are no railings to keep small explorers safe.

Zion National Park's Watchman Campground

No list of recommendations for spring camping in Utah would be complete without a shout-out to Zion National Park. Gorgeous year-round, Zion seems to shimmer just a little brighter during April and May.

Emerald Pools Trail, Zion National ParkPhoto Credit: Author
Emerald Pools Trail, Zion National ParkPhoto Credit: Author

Camping at Zion National Park is a commodity and can be hard to come by. The Watchman Campground, located about a quarter mile from the south entrance of the park, gives campers unfettered access to trails, walks and views. Reservations are highly recommended; the area fills up early during holiday and summer hours.

Visitors to Zion National Park who come during the spring will be able to enjoy the same splendor as their summer counterparts but with a fraction of the crowds. From the Watchman Campground, a short drive or long walk up the road to the north will bring adventurers to the heads of some of Utah’s most deservedly famous trails in the state. The Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate, paved walk that takes hikers under seeping waterfalls and lush greenery. It’s the perfect outing for springtime exploration.

Antelope Island

Camping on Antelope Island is available year-round, but can be quite chilly during the the winter months. Nighttime temperatures during April and May can still drop down in the 30s but days average in the 50s and 60s, making it a pleasant destination for those looking for camping options in the more northern area of the state.

The Bridger Bay Campground is located on the north end of the island and offers primitive campsites for car and tent camping. There is little shade to no shade in the campground and no running water, so campers will need to pack in their own source of hydration.

Antelope Island is known for its rugged terrain and sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake. Wildlife enthusiasts will not be disappointed; a herd of 550-700 bison roam the island, and Pronghorn antelope and big horn sheep make regular appearances along the landscape, according to the park’s website.

While many Utahns plan camping trips when the kids are out of school in the summer, mild spring temperatures and crowds make this season an ideal time to head for the hills.

Do you have a favorite spot for spring camping in Utah? Share it with us on the comment boards.

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UtahOutdoors
Robynn Garfield

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