The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management’s personnel work hard to oversee the use of more than 245 million acres of public land in the United States. More than 22 million acres of these public lands are in Utah. BLM-managed sites typically include campgrounds, recreation areas, historic sites, trails, creeks, and other natural resources. The Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail is one of the many Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in Utah; this trail is part of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The trailhead is located about 65 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, about 132 miles from Zion National Park and about 200 miles from Arches National Park. The Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail is best known as a hiking trail that leads to a swimming hole fed by a spectacular 126-foot waterfall. Hikers on this trail pass through scenic terrain including sandstone cliffs, prehistoric petroglyphs, and beaver ponds. Swimming is a popular activity to indulge in when you reach the end of the trail. Other interesting landmarks you might wish to visit at the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument include Cottonwood Canyon, Starlight Arch, Grosvenor Arch, Slot Canyons, and the Wahweap Hoodoos.
Grab an interpretive brochure at the trailhead before heading out on this challenging hike that follows the course of Calf Creek. Be prepared to trek across sandy sections as you make your way towards the 126-foot lower falls where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and an opportunity to cool off. Your leashed dog can accompany you on this pet-friendly hike. Length: 6.0 miles round trip Intensity: Moderate
This is primarily a hiking trail. Nature enthusiasts will want to pack a camera for photographing lizards and various bird species. The terrain on this trail tends to be muddy at the beginning where it intersects with a small creek, but the rest of the trail is mostly sandy. Length: 6.0 miles Intensity: Moderate
To go fishing in the Escalante area, consider making a stop at the Wide Hollow Reservoir, which is located at the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. This body of water is stocked with bluegill and rainbow trout. Motorized boats are not allowed in the reservoir, so most visitors here fish for these species from shore. Kayaks and canoes are allowed, and a boat ramp is provided. Other park facilities include an RV campground with hookups, restrooms, and a picnic area.
Rock climbers at the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument enjoy 113 different spots to test their prowess. It’s possible to climb to an elevation of 5,547 feet at this location.
Many birds, mammals and reptiles make their home in the Escalante area. Look for elk, black tail deer, black bears, mountain lions, badgers, golden eagles, California condors, and spotted owls. The Lower Calf Creek Trail is one of the best places in the area to view wildlife.
Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground offers a small day-use picnic area with a few picnic tables. A more scenic and interesting picnic area is accessible if you travel east from Escalante on Hole-in-the-Rock Road; there, you’ll find the Devil’s Garden Outstanding Natural Area about 12 miles away. At Devil’s Garden, your group can explore unique hoodoos, sandstone formations, arches, and red rock terrain. Picnic tables, elevated grills, and fire pits are provided. If you plan to barbecue, it is advisable to bring charcoal or firewood with you; collecting firewood on-site is forbidden. Also, bring your own water because there is none to be found there.
If you camp overnight in the area, consider bringing binoculars and star maps with you so that your group can maximize your opportunities to view Escalante’s clear, star-studded night skies. This is one of the best places in the entire United States to view the Milky Way and its many constellations. If you’re planning to travel east on Highway 12 as you leave Escalante, be sure to stop at the Head of the Rocks Lookout to find a spectacular spot to take photos and observe the dazzling, starry night sky.
You’ll find limited opportunities for RV camping at the Calf Creek Recreation Area Campground in the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. This small facility offers 13 first-come, first-served campsites along with a picnic area and the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trailhead. The fee for overnight stays at each campsite is $15.
Since there are fees for camping at the Calf Creek Campground, you’ll have to look elsewhere for Bureau of Land Management free camping. One possibility is to try Hole in the Rock Dispersed Camping along Hole in the Rock Road near Escalante, Utah. It is free to camp there, but besides trash receptacles, services are not available there. To find other locations to spend the night for free, search "BLM camping near me" once you get near Escalante.
The first thing to pack is your camera or cell phone because Utah’s natural beauty is legendary. The state’s spectacular red rock terrain and sandstone formations make the ideal backdrops for selfies and family portraits. Considering the challenging terrain along the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail and the intensity of Utah’s desert sunshine, you’ll want to come prepared for hot weather, particularly in the summertime. Carry lots of water; it is prudent to wear a backpack that holds a water reservoir to ensure you will have sufficient water. Protect yourself and any kids in your group from sunburn by applying sunscreen often and shielding your faces with visors or wide-brimmed hats. Come equipped with supportive, comfortable hiking shoes. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for more tips and advice on the topic of BLM camping.
Be aware that there are no restroom facilities or trash cans along the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail. Gather and pack out any accumulated trash, even toilet paper. Adhering to the "Leave No Trace" guidelines, put in place by the BLM, is a must as you enjoy these beautiful lands. If you bring a pet, clean up any waste that they leave.
From Boulder, Utah, travel south on Highway 12 for 11 miles. From Escalante, travel east for 15 miles on Highway 12. Look for the trailhead at the Calf Creek Campground. Address: Escalante Field Station, 755 West Main Street, Escalante, UT 84726 Ready to visit Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail? 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 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.
