Devil's Garden

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) properties are areas of land that this agency of the United States government manages for public use. With over 40% of Utah's land owned and managed by BLM, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the area's natural beauty. Note that Bureau of Land Management camping is only allowed in designated areas, and visitors are required to obtain a permit for overnight stays. Additionally, campfires are restricted to designated fire pits and must be attended to at all times. You can locate BLM sites by searching "BLM camping near me." Devil's Garden is one of the best BLM camping spots in Utah, with spectacular sandstone arches and bridges sculpted by millions of years of erosion. The area has a rich human history, with rock art and other archeological sites that tell the stories of the indigenous people who lived there for thousands of years. It is roughly equidistant from Bryce Canyon National Park (66 miles west) and Capitol Reef National Park (75 miles northeast), while Zion National Park is 145 miles away to the southwest. Visitors can explore the garden via a series of trails that range from easy to complex or marvel at the beauty of the rock formations from designated viewpoints.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Twenty Mile Dinosaur Trackway

This out-and-back trail takes you through the dinosaur trackway and some of the best petroglyphs in the area. There are over 350 tracks from various dinosaurs, including three-toed raptors. Length: 1.18 miles Intensity: Easy

Zebra Canyon

Enjoy this out-and-back trail that has magnificent striped canyon walls. Take a break from your hike to explore the canyon and its crevices. Length: 5.2 miles Intensity: Moderately challenging

Bighorn Canyon Trail

Explore this out-and-back trail that starts at Hole-in-the-Rock Road with beautiful views of Navajo sandstone rock layers. Length: 6 miles Intensity: Moderately challenging

Fishing and Boating

The nearby Escalante River has many fishing spots and is excellent for boating. The river regularly has cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout in its waters. Harris Wash and Deer Creek are also great spots to set out canoes or kayaks for a leisurely float.

Climbing

Metate Arch

The natural arch offers an exhilarating climb, with various routes that cater to climbers of all levels. The arch is named after the grinding stones used by the indigenous people to grind corn. You will appreciate this unique piece of history while ascending the sandstone walls of the arch.

Devil's Garden Cracks

It is a world-renowned rock climbing destination, offering many crack climbing routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.10 difficulty levels. These sandstone cracks are beautifully sculpted and provide a unique challenge to climbers with varying widths and angles. Climbers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area while testing their strength and endurance.

Escalante Canyon

It offers a unique blend of sandstone cracks and sheer faces, providing climbers with various options for trad and sport climbing. This area has routes ranging in intensity from 5.6 to 5.12, suitable for climbers of different abilities.

Wildlife Viewing

You will see many species of birds, such as golden eagles, hawks, and falcons soaring in the skies above the area. You might also spot rabbits, coyotes, and foxes in the vast expanses of sagebrush. Lucky visitors might spot bighorn sheep, mountain lions or mule deer while hiking and biking the designated trails.

Picnicking

Devil's Garden offers visitors some great designated spots for picnicking, making it the perfect place to stop and take a break amid the area's natural beauty. There are plenty of shaded areas with tables. Some picnic areas also have grills for those who want to feast while enjoying the perfect backdrop. You will find restrooms in designated sites.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping in Devil's Garden is possible. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park and Wide Hollow Campground are some of the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near the site. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is big rig friendly with a dump station nearby. Wide Hollow Campground charges $20 per night.

Free Camping

You can enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping at designated campsites and areas along the Hole-in-the-Rock Road, accessible by a high-clearance vehicle. Visitors must bring their supplies, such as trash bags and water, to make their camping experience comfortable. These campsites are accessible year-round, but finding a spot during peak camping seasons can be challenging.

RV Rentals Near Devil's Garden Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Devil's Garden BLM trip

If you're planning an RV trip to Devil's Garden, you must obtain a permit for overnight stays. Packing in everything you need, including plenty of water, is recommended, as there are no on-site amenities. Portable stoves are allowed for cooking, but open fires are only permitted in designated fire pits. It is also essential to check the weather forecast before setting out, as temperatures can vary significantly in the area, and flash floods can occur. Many of the campsites in the area are only accessible with a high-clearance vehicle. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When camping on BLM land, it is critical to practice responsible tourism and "Leave No Trace." Littering and the failure to properly dispose of waste can cause significant harm to the environment. Wildlife can also ingest or get tangled in trash left behind. As BLM-managed land belongs to the public, our collective responsibility is to protect and preserve it for future generations to enjoy. To minimize your impact, always pack out what you pack in, and dispose of waste properly. Bring your portable toilet, as digging holes or burying human waste is prohibited in most areas. Avoid damaging vegetation, and refrain from feeding wildlife, which can negatively impact their health and behavior. It is essential to practice responsible camping and ensure that our public lands remain beautiful and accessible.

Devil's Garden Location

From Panguitch, drive on Highway 89 to join Roadway 12. Drive 64 miles and turn onto to Hole-in-the-Rock Road. You will see a sign to Devil's Garden after traveling for 12 miles. Address: Escalante Interagency Visitor Center 755 West Main St. Escalante, UT 84726 Ready to visit Devil's Garden? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying 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.