Utah is a state brimming with natural beauty, from vast deserts and majestic canyons to towering mountains and lush forests. It is also home to five national parks, often referred to as the “Mighty 5,” which include Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Parks. For those with a love for adventure, flexibility, and the great outdoors, a campervan trip through Utah offers the perfect way to experience everything the state has to offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, renting or owning a campervan can provide you with the freedom to explore Utah at your own pace, without the need to pack and unpack at hotels or worry about finding new places to eat. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the best campervan activities in Utah, covering outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and unique attractions that will make your journey unforgettable.
Why Choose a Campervan in Utah?
Before diving into the activities, let’s first explore why a campervan trip is an ideal way to see Utah. Here are just a few reasons:
1. Flexibility and Freedom
With a campervan, you can travel wherever your heart desires, stopping for scenic views, hikes, or roadside attractions. The convenience of a built-in bed, kitchen, and bathroom means you can camp almost anywhere, saving both time and money.
2. Access to Remote Locations
Utah is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the U.S., but many of the best spots are in remote areas. A campervan allows you to reach these hidden gems, where traditional hotels and accommodations might not be available.
3. Comfort and Convenience
Unlike traditional tent camping, a campervan offers a level of comfort that allows you to rest in comfort after a long day of hiking or sightseeing. Plus, with kitchen facilities, you can cook your meals and enjoy them under the stars, saving on dining costs.
4. Cost-Effective
While the initial rental cost of a campervan may seem higher, it can be more affordable than booking multiple hotels, eating out, and renting a car for sightseeing. Plus, camping fees are often lower than hotel rates, making it a cost-effective way to experience Utah.
1. Drive the Scenic Byways of Utah
Utah is home to some of the most picturesque and winding roads in the country, and a campervan allows you to explore them at your own pace. Here are a few scenic byways worth exploring:
The Scenic Byway 12
This is one of the most famous scenic routes in Utah, running through a stunning section of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The road winds through towering cliffs, colorful canyons, and picturesque small towns. Key stops along the way include the Kodachrome Basin State Park, the Grosvenor Arch, and the Hell’s Backbone Bridge. There are several campgrounds along the route that are perfect for overnight stays in your campervan.
The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
Nestled in the Uinta Mountains, this byway is a great escape for those looking to enjoy alpine lakes and forested landscapes. The road is particularly stunning in the summer months when wildflowers are in full bloom, and it’s an excellent spot for fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the lake.
The Arches National Park Scenic Drive
Driving through Arches National Park is an experience in itself. The 18-mile road takes you through towering red rock arches and stunning desert landscapes, with plenty of pull-offs for photo ops and short walks to iconic formations like Delicate Arch and the Windows.
2. Visit the Mighty 5 National Parks
Utah’s national parks are truly world-class, each offering something unique for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the best national parks to explore in a campervan:
Zion National Park
Zion is one of Utah’s most popular parks, and for good reason. With its towering sandstone cliffs, scenic canyons, and vibrant landscapes, there is no shortage of things to do in Zion. Popular activities include:
- Angels Landing: This challenging hike offers spectacular views from the top.
- The Narrows: A unique hike through the Virgin River, where you wade through water and narrow canyons.
- Kolob Canyons: A quieter section of the park, perfect for a peaceful drive and short hikes.
There are campgrounds within the park that accommodate RVs and campervans, as well as several dispersed camping options nearby.
Arches National Park
Arches is famous for its surreal rock formations, including over 2,000 natural stone arches. In addition to the scenic drive, you can enjoy:
- Delicate Arch: One of Utah’s most iconic hikes, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
- Fiery Furnace: A maze of narrow rock corridors that require a ranger-led tour.
- Sunset Viewing: The arches light up with vibrant colors during sunset, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Camping in Arches is limited, so it’s a good idea to reserve a spot at the Devils Garden Campground in advance.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon offers a stunning landscape of hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock) that seem to rise from the ground like alien towers. While there, consider:
- The Navajo Loop: A hike that takes you down into the canyon to get up close to the hoodoos.
- Bryce Amphitheater: A natural bowl filled with some of the park’s most impressive rock formations.
- Star Gazing: Bryce Canyon is one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing due to its dark skies.
The Bryce Canyon Campground has both tent and RV sites available, perfect for campervans.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands offers a vast landscape of canyons, mesas, and rock formations. There are several districts within the park, each offering a different experience:
- Island in the Sky: The most accessible part of the park with stunning panoramic views.
- The Needles: A rugged section with great hiking and more solitude.
- The Maze: A remote area for experienced explorers, accessible via a rugged 4WD trail.
There are several campgrounds in Canyonlands, including those that cater to RVs and campervans.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef is often less crowded than the other parks but offers a unique landscape of sandstone cliffs, canyons, and a historic orchard. Top activities include:
- The Cathedral Valley Loop: A 4WD trail that leads to stunning views of Capitol Reef’s remote areas.
- Hickman Bridge: A short hike to a massive natural bridge.
- Fruita Historic District: A restored Mormon settlement where you can sample fruit from the park’s historic orchards.
The Fruita Campground is located in the heart of Capitol Reef, and it has RV sites available for campervans.
3. Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Utah is known for its outstanding hiking opportunities, and a campervan is the perfect home base for exploring the state’s trails. Here are some must-do hikes:
The Narrows (Zion National Park)
This challenging, wading hike through the Virgin River is a favorite in Zion. The trail takes you through a narrow gorge, with towering cliffs on either side, making it one of the most iconic hikes in the park.
Delicate Arch (Arches National Park)
The 3-mile hike to Delicate Arch is one of Utah’s most famous hikes. It offers a stunning view of the arch, particularly at sunset when the rock glows in warm colors.
The Rim Trail (Bryce Canyon National Park)
The Rim Trail offers stunning views of the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and the colorful hoodoos. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike, making it a great choice for families.
Grand View Point (Canyonlands National Park)
This easy 2-mile hike offers panoramic views of the Green and Colorado Rivers and the surrounding canyonlands.
4. Explore the Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems
While Utah’s national parks are the stars of the show, there are many hidden gems that are perfect for campervan exploration. These include:
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley is a small park with unique rock formations that resemble goblins. It’s a fun place for kids and adults to explore and take photos. There’s also a campground where you can park your campervan.
Great Salt Lake
Visit the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and take part in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or floating in the salty waters. The Antelope Island State Park is a great place to camp and enjoy wildlife watching.
Antelope Canyon
This hidden slot canyon near Lake Powell offers one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Utah. While it requires a bit of a detour, it’s definitely worth the trip for photography enthusiasts.
5. Camp Under the Stars
Utah is known for its dark skies and exceptional stargazing opportunities. Whether you’re parked in a national park campground or in a more remote spot, the clear desert skies will provide a spectacular display at night. Make sure to bring a telescope or binoculars to enhance the experience.
Conclusion
Utah is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there is no better way to experience its beauty than by campervan. Whether you’re exploring the Mighty 5 national parks, hiking through canyons, or simply enjoying the scenic drives, a campervan road trip through Utah offers flexibility, adventure, and
unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, rent a campervan, and get ready to explore one of the most breathtaking states in the U.S.!
