9 Mile Canyon
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Naturalists call Utah's 9 Mile Canyon "the world's longest art gallery" due to its ancient Ute petroglyphs. The site provides 46 miles of recreational opportunities amid a scenic landscape with wild sagebrush and juniper. 9 Mile Canyon is a place for biking, hiking, picnicking, and exploring rock art and side canyons. RV camping is not permitted, but RVs can drive through the canyon to take in the sights. The main canyon road and main entry at Wellington off U.S. 6/191 are paved, although portions have gravel and dirt roads and drainage dips. Weather can drastically affect accessibility.
Quick Facts About RVing in 9 Mile Canyon
• RV Friendly: Yes but no overnight visits • Max RV Length: 30 feet • Camping Type: Developed and dispersed camping available nearby • Reservations: Often needed weeks in advance for Nine Mile Ranch & Bunkhouse within the canyon • Hookups: None within the canyon • Dump Station: At Nine Mile Ranch & Bunkhouse • Potable Water: Refill tanks at the Ranch & Bunkhouse • Cell Service: Notoriously spotty • Pets: Leashed pets allowed • Roads: Mix of paved, gravel, and dirt with frequent drainage dips • Best Seasons: March to June and September to November
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Easy access to nearby campgrounds
• Chance to view wildlife, including mule deer, hawks, and lizards
• Good stop on a road trip to/from Arches and Canyonlands national parks
• Numerous hiking opportunities
• Close to another BLM gem, Price Canyon Recreation Area
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Daddy Canyon Complex Trail
Situated inside 9 Mile Canyon, Daddy Canyon Complex Trail is a moderately challenging trail system takes you through varied terrain and offers views of ancient petroglyphs along the path. Length: Varies based on trail choice Intensity: Moderate
Wildlife Viewing
Nine Mile Canyon is a habitat for diverse wildlife species, presenting an outstanding opportunity for wildlife viewing. Sightings of mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species, including red-tailed hawks and western meadowlarks, are fairly regular.
Climbing
Located about 25 miles southeast of 9 Mile Canyon, the Price Canyon Recreation Area offers a wide variety of sport climbing routes. This area is known for its picturesque sandstone cliffs that provide exceptional climbing. Joe's Valley is situated roughly 50 miles south of 9 Mile Canyon. It offers a range of climbing problems for all skill levels. Its sandstone boulders are recognized globally in the climbing community.
Picnicking
The Cottonwood Glen Homestead, in 9 Mile Canyon, has a day-use picnic area with toilets, a pavilion, and picnic tables. However, please note that there is no drinking water available at this site. After indulging in a satisfying lunch, take the opportunity to explore the old cabin nearby.
Rock Art Viewing
The rock art of 9 Mile Canyon is its prime attraction. Thousands of petroglyphs and pictographs adorn the canyon walls, narrating stories of the area's ancient inhabitants. Some are easily accessible from the main road, while others necessitate a short hike. Always remember to view rock art responsibly — do not touch the images because oils on human skin can damage fragile art.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
While 9 Mile Canyon doesn't permit RV camping within its boundaries, you could stay overnight at The Nine Mile Ranch & Bunkhouse, the only camping option in the canyon itself. Staff can assist with organizing recreational activities, and they also serve breakfast. RV dumping is available there. You can also find excellent camping options in the vicinity. Castle Gate RV Park is 35 miles northeast of 9 Mile Canyon in Helper, Utah. It provides a range of amenities for BLM RV camping enthusiasts, such as large, level spaces, full hookups, complimentary Wi-Fi, a playground, laundry facilities, and a convenience store.
Price Canyon Recreation Area is situated about 25 miles southeast of 9 Mile Canyon and features 12 large campsites in a tranquil setting amidst towering cliffs. There are basic amenities here, such as restrooms and picnic tables, but RV hookups are not available at these Bureau of Land Management campgrounds.
Developed Campgrounds
To camp within 9 Mile Canyon, book a dry campsite at Nine Mile Ranch & Bunkhouse in Wellington, UT. There's no electrical, water, or sewer, but you'll find a dump station, spring water, fire rings, pay-per-use hot showers, flushable toilets, and a store. Three of 18 sites accommodate RVs over 30 feet. Fees: $45-$100 per night.
Dispersed Camping
Free dispersed camping is available roughly a mile from 9 Mile Canyon at Horse Canyon Road off the Highway 6 rest area. This dirt road that cuts into the canyon has multiple RV camping spots. If you have a larger Class A motorhome or fifth wheeler, stay near the road to avoid challenging turnarounds. Keep this list of Utah RV dump stations handy. Camp at least 300 feet from range improvements. Avoid trenching or digging fire pits, camp only in designated sites, and Leave No Trace. Abide by Utah's official fire restrictions, and note that peak fire season is June through October. Dispersed campers may stay 14 days but then must move at least 25 miles away.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
• Camper Vans: A camper van can be great for navigating some of the curvier areas of the canyon. It's especially useful for dispersed camping in a tight or remote spot. The lack of four-wheel drive can make navigation harder in wet or muddy conditions. • Travel Trailers: These can be rough in the canyon's narrow, winding, and unpaved conditions. The ideal option is to leave the travel trailer back at camp and explore the BLM area on foot. • Fifth Wheels: A fifth wheel is a potential choice, but you may struggle on the canyon's narrow and twisting routes, some without guardrails or shoulders. It may be tough to pull into spots for viewing rock art. • Class A Motorhomes: These can be ideal for comfort on longer trips, but be ready for narrow, tight paths and stepper switchbacks. The vehicle's bulk and lower ground clearance give a bumpy ride in pitted and sloping spots. If you're traveling in a big Class A, check out these fuel efficiency tips. • Class B Motorhomes: If you like the ease of driving a camper van and don't mind forgoing the homelike amenities of bigger RVs, Class B could be your sweet spot. Backing up and turning around at various points will be much easier. • Class C Motorhomes: One of these vehicles under 40 feet can be a good alternative to a Class A for navigating narrow, winding, and steep canyon roads. Built on a traditional truck or van chassis, it's easier to drive.
Free Camping 
For a more traditional and immersive experience, free dispersed camping is allowed in several areas around 9 Mile Canyon. These camping areas are generally off the beaten track, offering a quiet and secluded experience. You are generally permitted to camp anywhere on BLM lands as long as you don't see any signs forbidding it. Horse Canyon Road is in Price, Utah, just over 50 miles from this site. This rustic Bureau of Land Management free camping experience is a popular open area for dispersed camping.
RV Rentals Near 9 Mile Canyon Plan your next adventure
Planning your 9 Mile Canyon BLM trip
To make your Bureau of Land Management camping trip to 9 Mile Canyon memorable, consider a few key aspects. First, check the local weather before heading out, as conditions can fluctuate swiftly in this desert landscape. Also, pack essentials such as water, food, and a reliable map or GPS, since amenities in the area are limited. Moreover, it's critical to pack sufficient hiking gear if you plan to explore the canyon trails. A sturdy pair of hiking boots, sun protection, and a first-aid kit can significantly contribute to your safety during your outdoor adventures. As cellular service can be irregular in remote areas, it might be beneficial to download maps or invest in a satellite phone for emergencies. Remember, 9 Mile Canyon is a remote area, and the nearest significant grocery stores, gas stations, and other vital amenities may require a significant drive. It would be advantageous to procure all necessary supplies — including spare parts or tools for your vehicle or RV — prior to reaching your campsite. Our BLM camping blog provides more tips and information to ensure a memorable trip.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
Before you leave for 9 Mile Canyon, keep in mind that you'll be in a remote area with no access to water, food, or services. Plan to bring plenty of fresh water, stock your RV with groceries for a picnic, and fuel up your tank. You can get gas and basic supplies for your campsite in Wellington, about a 6-minute drive from the canyon entrance. There's also a larger grocery store in Price, about 15 minutes west of the canyon.
Check the weather forecast to avoid (or prepare for) excessive heat in summer and possible ice or snow in the winter. Use the dump station at Nine Mile Ranch, if you need it, and have receptacles for packing out all your trash. If you are dry camping with your RV, have your generator full and charged. You’ll want to enter the canyon near Wellington along US-6 to have paved access for your RV.
Leave No Trace 
When camping in BLM areas like 9 Mile Canyon, it's crucial to adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles. This includes disposing of waste correctly, respecting wildlife, and leaving the rock art undisturbed for future generations to appreciate.
9 Mile Canyon Location
You'll find 9 Mile Canyon is situated in eastern Utah. For those coming from the nearby town of Wellington, head east on US-6 E, then turn right onto Soldier Creek Road and continue onto Nine Mile Canyon Road. GPS Coordinates: 39.7306 N, 110.2076 W. Ready to visit 9 Mile Canyon? An RV rental is an excellent way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at 9 Mile Canyon
• Morning: Have a big breakfast at your campsite to start the day strong. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the canyon, and bring plenty of water. Get to the canyon early and, while temperatures are mild, embark on the Daddy Canyon 1-mile hike to see ancient petroglyphs.
• Afternoon: Drive along the scenic road and stop in Cottonwood Glen Picnic Area to have lunch. This site offers a glimpse into history with an old cabin you can explore. Continue your drive to the end to see the famous “The Great Hunt” petroglyph panel.
• Evening: Return to your campground for dinner around a campfire. If you're staying at Nine Mile Ranch, use their onsite dump station, and get a fresh start for the next stop in your RV journey.
Nearby Attractions
• Ancient Petroglyph and Pictograph Sites: Visitors will find more than 1,000 panels of rock art created by the ancestral Ute people during a span that began 8,000 years ago. • Price Canyon Recreation Area: Located roughly 25 miles southeast of 9 Mile Canyon, Price Canyon Recreation Area delivers picturesque sandstone cliffs for all climbing skills. Visitors can also hike the Bristlecone Ridge Trail to reach an impressive canyon overlook. • Helper, Utah: A former railroad hub and mining town, Helper offers a gorgeously preserved downtown with charm and flair just 30 miles northwest of 9 Mile Canyon via US-191 and US-6. Spend the day visiting vintage shops, galleries, the Helper Museum, and the Helper Riverwalk Trail. Use this guide to keeping food fresh in an RV fridge to properly store any groceries or other goodies you pick up in town.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 9 Mile Canyon good for large RVs? Larger RVs that are 40 to 45 feet in length can be challenging to navigate in the canyon terrain because of steep paths, winds, switchbacks, and potential mud. How long can you do dispersed camping near 9 Mile Canyon? Utah's regulations allow for 14 days of camping in a single spot in a 28-day period before campers need to move on to a new spot at least 25 miles away. Use our guide to finding free overnight RV parking if you're considering this option. How is the cell service at 9 Mile Canyon? Cell service in the area is notoriously spotty. Travelers are advised to bring backup maps and download all navigation information prior to arriving. Do I need four-wheel drive to get through 9 Mile Canyon? In dry conditions, four-wheel drive isn't a necessity in 9 Mile Canyon because the primary route through this BLM site is paved. For travelers coming during wet weather or planning to go deep into the site to explore unpaved or gravel roads, four-wheel drive is a great asset for navigating mud and unexpected dips. Are dogs allowed inside 9 Mile Canyon? Yes, leashed dogs are welcome. Respect the fragile artwork and ecosystems when exploring with your pet. Abundant wildlife and cattle in the area can be triggers for dogs. RVers staying at nearby Nine Mile Ranch may bring dogs for a $3 fee. When is peak camping season at 9 Mile Canyon? In accordance with Utah's climate, peak camping at 9 Mile Canyon runs from early March through June before a lull to account for the summer heat during July and August. Peak camping picks back up again in mid-September and continues into mid-November.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
While carefully planning your route to avoid steeper areas can make essentially any RV type a fit for this trip, a Class B camper or Class motorhome under 30 feet can be ideal for maneuvering narrow, winding canyons and finding plenty of parking in the tighter spots near the BLM site's famous rock art. If you're used to bringing along an ultra-long Class A motorhome to national parks and BLM sites, it may be smarter to downgrade size with a rental this time around. Start planning your voyage to the storied rock walls of Utah's 9 Mile Canyon with help from RVshare's roster of motorhomes to rent in Price, Utah that are ideal for the trip.