Camping in Bears Ears National Monument is an experience to remember. Once the sun sets over this stunning landscape, you’ll find some of the darkest night skies in the country for ultimate stargazing. There are a wide variety of camping options available, from developed campgrounds to primitive camping with no facilities or water. Fire regulations vary – it is your responsibility to know and follow current fire regulations for your location.
Developed Camping
There are several developed camping areas throughout Bears Ears National Monument. The Indian Creek region includes Indian Creek Falls, Hamburger Rock, Creek Pasture, and Superbowl. Just outside the monument boundary but not far from this region are the Needles Outpost and Windwhistle Campground.
Near Monticello are the Nizhoni, Buckboard and Dalton Springs campgrounds, which are in or near the monument. Near Blanding and outside the monument boundary is Devil’s Canyon. By Bluff and within Bears Ears National Monument is Sand Island Campground and Goosenecks State Park.
Primitive Camping
Dispersed camping is allowed within BLM managed lands, including along Butler and Comb Wash roads, Valley of the Gods, and on Cedar Mesa.
When dispersed camping only use previously disturbed areas within 150 feet of designated routes. Driving off road to create new camping is prohibited. Don’t camp inside archaeological areas. Be prepared to bring all of your own water with you and pack out your trash and human waste.
Backcountry Camping
Overnight backpacking in many canyons on Cedar Mesa requires a BLM permit, including Grand Gulch, Fish Canyon, Owl Canyon, Slickhorn Canyon, North and South Forks of Mule Canyon, Road Canyon, Lime Creek, Butler Wash and their tributaries. Permits cost $15/person/trip. You can make a backpacking reservation from 5 days to 3 months in advance of your trip. Overnight use is limited to 20 people per trailhead. For advance reservations, reserve online at Recreation.gov or call the BLM permit desk at 435-587-1510 or the BLM Monticello Field Office front desk at 435-587-1500.
Note: Twenty visitors are permitted per day for overnight backpacking from each trailhead on Cedar Mesa. Twelve of the 20 spaces are available for advanced reservations – the remainder are held for walk-in only.
