The marvelous range of sights in Utah attracts many campers every year, and with good reason. There are a huge number of RV trips in Utah just waiting to be had! From deserts to snow-capped mountains, from red sandstone arches to endless blue skies, there’s beauty and adventure high and low, attracting hikers, nature lovers, and plain old sightseers alike. The state’s towering, snow-covered mountains draw thrill seekers with their many opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The best part of traveling through Utah, though, is the potential it has for bringing families closer together and creating unforgettable memories!
The 15 Best RV Trips to Take in Utah
If all that sounds like a trip you might like to make, you’re in luck: we’ve decided to make it a little easier for you. This free Utah RV travel guide is a comprehensive list of some of the best attractions that the entire state has to offer. There’s something for everyone; look them over and find what piques your interest!
Click here to see RVshare rentals in the state of Utah.
1. Zion National Park
True wilderness is a hard thing to find nowadays — a retreat from civilization into a place that is seemingly untouched by man may seem like a fairy tale. But that is exactly what Zion National Park can offer! It may be one of Utah’s most famous tourist attractions, but visitors will soon discover it’s popular for good reason. Zion has many hiking trails that will allow you to experience what the wilderness is truly like. More populated trails are perfect for beginners who still want to see the beauty of the West. And beauty there is! Sandstone cliffs swirled with reds, pinks and creams reach high into the sky, making a wonderful contrast against the bright blue horizon. The narrow slot canyons are a wondrous sight, and the unique desert plants and animals will keep you enthralled in the environment.
When you get to the park, be sure to make a stop at the visitor center, where you can find any information about the park that you might need – and useful supplies like sunscreen and refill stations for your water bottles. If you want an even better experience at the park, consider some of the ranger-led activities, especially the guided hikes!
Zion National Park Information
Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
Contact: (435) 772-3256
Price: $35 for a weekly pass for a private, non-commercial vehicle
Website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
Where to Stay
What’s the best part of a visit to Zion National Park, you ask? You never have to leave the beautiful surroundings! The park has three campgrounds, two of which are located right in Zion Canyon. South campground has primitive sites available for $20 per night and Watchman Campground has Sites with electric hookups available for $30 per night.
2. Dinosaur National Monument
Let out your inner archaeologist at Dinosaur National Monument! Over 1500 dinosaur fossils are preserved in The Quarry Exhibit Hall, featuring numerous species, including the Stegosaurus and Allosaurus. Learn more about these creatures that have been preserved in fossils for 149 million years! For something a little closer to our day, check out the pictographs and petroglyphs left by the Fremont people that inhabited the area about 1000 years ago.
While the fossils and petroglyphs shed light on the past, the park is also teeming with life today. The mountains, deserts, and rivers support a vast variety of ecosystems — and they can provide adventure for visitors! Boating and river rafting are particularly popular choices. You can take a guided tour, or if you have the proper licensing and experience, you can head out on your own!
Dinosaur National Monument Information
Address: 11625 East 1500 South, Jensen, UT 84035
Contact: (970) 374-3000
Price: Private vehicles $25
Website: https://www.nps.gov/dino/index.htm
Where to Stay
Gates of Lodore is a campground offering primitive RV sites starting at $6 per night, located right in Dinosaur National Monument! The convenient location of this campground is certainly alluring, but if you prefer a park with more amenities, you can check out one of the many other great Utah RV parks.
3. Arches National Park
Arches National Park embodies everything that Utah is famous for, a desert landscape filled with natural beauty. There’s plenty to experience in this “red-rock wonderland”– the most famous, of course, being the arches. There are over 2,000 of these natural stone arches in the park, and each one is unique. You’ll be able to spend your days exploring the trails that wind through the arches, pinnacles, and giant balanced rocks. Ranger programs are available as well to help you get the most of a visit. There are daily guided walks, hikes, and evening programs that will teach you all about the park and let you take in as much of the beauty as possible.
Arches National Park Information
Address: Arches National Park, UT 84532
Contact: (435) 719-2299
Price: $30 for a week-long pass for private vehicles
Website: https://www.nps.gov/arch/index.htm
Where to Stay
Devil’s Garden Campground is only 18 miles from the entrance to Arches National Park. Being surrounded by the stunning desert throughout the duration of your trip certainly helps you appreciate the park even more. Groups of up to 10 people and two vehicles can stay at a campsite here for only $25 per night — talk about a deal!
4. Canyonlands National Park
While you’re in Moab to visit Arches, don’t forget to see the other major attraction in the area: Canyonlands National Park. At over 337,000 acres, this park actually dwarfs the more popular Arches to the north, and it has a wide variety of wonders for any eager adventurer to explore. Along with the hiking and climbing that’s popular all over the state, Canyonlands in particular is a great destination for water lovers; one zone of the park includes the place where the Colorado and Green Rivers connect. From paddling to serious back-country backpacking, Canyonlands offers outdoor recreation opportunities as rugged as you are.
Canyonlands National Park Information
Address: Grand View Point Rd, Moab, UT 84532
Contact: (435) 719-2313
Price: $30 for a week-long pass for private vehicles
Website: https://www.nps.gov/cany/index.htm
Where to Stay
Canyonlands offers two developed campgrounds within the park property: Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) Campground and The Needles Campground. While both are open to RVs, no hookups are available, so if you’re looking for a luxury stay, try Canyonlands RV Resort and Campground.
5. Bryce Canyon National Park
You’ve probably noticed that Utah has no shortage of national parks — and Bryce Canyon National Park is certainly not one to miss. Home to the largest collection of hoodoos — those irregular, improbable-looking rock formations that line its iconic canyons — on earth, this unique landscape is home to a wide array of flora, fauna, and breathtaking geological formations. Go for the hiking, horseback riding, bird watching or just take in the scenery, but whatever you do, make sure it’s on your list.
Bryce Canyon National Park Information
Address: UT-63, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764
Contact: (435) 834-5322
Price: $35 for a week-long pass for private vehicles
Website: https://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm
Where to Stay
Bryce Canyon is home to two campgrounds, both of which are open to RV traffic. North Campground offers 49 RV-only sites and Sunset Campground offers 50, each for $30 per night, though there are no hookups. Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and Capitol Reef, known for its white sandstone domes.
6. Capitol Reef National Park
Tucked into the heart of Utah’s south-central desert, Capitol Reef National Park surrounds a wrinkle in the earth’s crust known as the Waterpocket Fold. The Fold’s unique geological features include Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and the Capitol Reef formation itself, which is renowned for its white sandstone domes. It, like other Utah national parks, is also an International Dark Sky Park, and thus a great place for stargazing.
Capitol Reef National Park Information
Address: Capitol Reef National Park Visitor Center, Torrey, UT 84775
Contact: (435) 425-3791
Price: $20 for a week-long pass for private vehicles
Website: https://www.nps.gov/care/index.htm
Where to Stay
There is one developed campground open to RV traffic inside Capitol Reef National Park: Fruita Campground, which offers no-hookup sites for $20 per night. Although there are no hookups, there is a dump station and potable water available. Be sure to double-check the size limits, as each individual space is different, and some of them are quite small!
7. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Established as a protected natural landscape back in 1996, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a one-of-a-kind site, and certainly worth an RV trip if you’re making your way to Utah. The site is the size of Delaware, and the erosion it’s seen over time has made it into what’s basically a giant, natural staircase — one that’s seen more than 200 million years of history. It’s all there for you to walk through and discover yourself!
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Information
Address: 745 U.S. 89, Kanab, UT 84741
Contact: (435) 644-1300
Price: No entry fee!
Where to Stay
The Monument itself is home to two campgrounds: Deer Creek and Calf Creek. Both are small, primitive, and apt to fill up quickly, so you may also look into private campgrounds in the area, such as Escalante Cabins and RV Park.
8. Monument Valley
You might recognize it from Forrest Gump, Mission: Impossible 2, Back to the Future Part III or National Lampoon’s Vacation — but chances are, you recognize it. Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes anywhere in the world, let alone in the state of Utah, and it’s well worth passing through and even stopping to discover more. A Navajo Tribal Park, these lands fall outside of the jurisdiction of the U.S. Park Service, so your America the Beautiful pass won’t work here… but it’s still well worth stopping and perusing.
Monument Valley Information
Address: Indn Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
Contact: (435) 727-5870
Price: $20 per non-commercial vehicle
Website: https://navajonationparks.org/tribal-parks/monument-valley/
Where to Stay
There are a number of campground options in and around Monument Valley, including low-cost, public locations, like Goosenecks State Park, and plush, inclusive resort options, like the Monument Valley KOA. No matter what you choose, however, you sure can’t beat the view!
9. Natural Bridges National Monument
Want the Arches National Park experience without the Arches National Park crowds? Luckily, Utah is home to a plethora of stunning natural landscapes, an Natural Bridges National Monument gives you the opportunity to experience these unique geological formations in a decidedly less-trafficked place. While it’s certainly not as big as Arches, there’s still plenty of exploring to be done, including a 10-mile full loop trail that walks you past (or under) all three of the park’s natural bridges. It’s a strenuous and primitive adventure, though, so be sure you’re prepared to take it on!
Natural Bridges National Monument Information
Address: Natural Bridges National Monument, Lake Powell, UT 84533
Contact: (435) 692-1234
Price: $20 for a week-long pass per non-commercial vehicle
Website: https://www.nps.gov/nabr/index.htm
Where to Stay
Natural Bridges does offer an on-site campground, though it only has 13 sites total and no water or electrical hookups. About an hour east of the monument, in the small town of Blanding, you’ll find a few private campground options including Blanding RV Park and Blue Mountain RV and Trading.
10. Hovenweep National Monument
Just across the border from Colorado’s Canyon of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument is a can’t-miss destination for anyone interested in our nation’s prehistoric origins. The site includes the ruins of six villages dating all the way back to A.D. 1200 and 1300, and these stunning structures include multistory towers perched on canyon rims and balanced on boulders. A true testament to time, Hovenweep National Monument is as educational as it is awe-inspiring!
Hovenweep National Monument Information
Address: The site is primitive and unlisted; see this page for full details on directions.
Contact: (970) 562-4282
Price: No entry fee!
Website: https://www.nps.gov/hove/index.htm
Where to Stay
Hovenweep National Monument hosts a 31-site campground which can accommodate RVs up to 36 feet in length. The campground is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and sites cost $15 per night between March and October and $10 the rest of the year.
RV Day Trips Around Salt Lake City
Making a long, winding Utah RV road trip is one thing. But sometimes, all you’re looking for is a quick getaway — particularly if you’re a city dweller. We understand that many people may be looking for RV day trips in and around Salt Lake City, Utah, so we’ve put together some of the very best such day trips we can think of.
Click here to see RVshare rentals in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Click here to see our list of the 10 very best campgrounds in Salt Lake City, Utah.
11. Snowbasin
Many of the hotspots on this list have been amazing locations in the desert, but this one is a little different. This ski resort has it all: beautiful snowy mountain views, exhilarating adventures, and fun for all ages! The most popular attraction, of course, is the skiing. Youth and adult lessons are available for newcomers that want to gain confidence in their skiing abilities. Spend a few hours here, and you’ll be a pro in no time!
Skiing isn’t all that Snowbasin has to offer though. Hiking through the mountains is a popular choice, as is mountain biking. In fact, there are even mountain biking clinics available so you can make sure you’re having safe fun as you ride the trails. Little ones aren’t left out either at Snowbasin- a playground, climbing wall, and bungee trampoline will keep them entertained all day! If that’s not enough, they can even hit the hiking trails on a Kid’s Adventure Tour.
Snowbasin Information
Address: 3925 Snow Basin Rd, Huntsville, UT 84317
Contact: (801) 620-1000
Price: Lift ticket prices vary depending on your specific dates and how long the pass is good for. Discounts available for seniors.
Website: https://www.snowbasin.com
Where to Stay
Just half an hour away from Snowbasin, Century RV Park makes the perfect home base. A spa, pool, tennis court, wireless internet, and convenience stores are just a few of the fantastic amenities you’ll be offered at this park. Their rates aren’t listed, but they offer discounts for Military, Good Sam Club, AAA, and AARP members.
12. Lagoon Amusement Park
If you’re looking for the best family-friendly RV Trips in Utah, Lagoon is a must! This amusement park in Farmington has plenty of fun for people of all ages. Lagoon originally opened in 1886 by the name of Lake Park and featured an open-air dance pavilion, roller skating, and water sports to name a few. Now, the park is one of the hottest tourist attractions in the state and is home to over 50 rides!
There are tons of activities that are perfect for little ones- they can go for a ride on the Baby Boats, spin around on the Tipsy Tea Cups, or make a splash at Rattlesnake Rapids. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can hop aboard exhilarating rides like the Cannibal, Wicked, and Colossus: The Fire Dragon. Of course, there are plenty of rides that the whole family can enjoy together as well, one of the most popular being Merry-Go-Round. It’s a classic for a reason!
Lagoon Information
Address: 375 Lagoon Dr, Farmington, UT 84025
Contact: (801) 451-8000
Price: Single day passes starting at $69.95
Website: http://www.lagoonpark.com
Where to Stay
Lagoon isn’t only home to fun rides and attractions, it’s also the proud home of an RV park! This campground is so great, it even made it onto our list of the top 10 campgrounds in Utah! Rates start at $50, and full hookup sites, a convenience store, and free WiFi are available. A stay at Lagoon’s RV Park can even get you a discounted ticket to the theme park! The best part, though, is how close you are to all the excitement!
13. Thanksgiving Point
For a unique experience unlike anything you’ve seen before, add Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah to your RV trip itinerary! This nonprofit farm, garden, and museum complex is both fun and educational.
With numerous points of interest, everyone can find something to love about Thanksgiving Point. Love natural history? Head to the Museum of Ancient Life for a closer look at the dinosaurs that once roamed the earth. Is science more your cup of tea? The Museum of Natural Curiosity can let you explore the powers of water, wind, sun, and earth. Do you love spending time with all types of critters? There’s a real working farm, where you can meet cows, goats, horses, and more! Do you have a green thumb? You’ll appreciate the beautifully manicured 55 acres of Ashton Gardens. There’s something for everyone!
Thanksgiving Point Information
Address: 3003 North Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043
Contact: (801) 768-2300
Price: Explorer Passes start at $34.95 for adults and $24.95 for kids
Website: http://thanksgivingpoint.org
Where to Stay
Lakeside RV Campground is only a short drive from Thanksgiving Point but still lets you enjoy the peace and quiet you want on a camping trip. RV sites start at $39.50 per night. With a pool, game room, dog park, and “Snack Shack”, it makes a great home base for Utah RV vacations!
14. Utah Olympic Park
If you’re into the Winter Olympics, The Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation is a nonprofit organization responsible for keeping their Olympic facilities in tip-top shape. Along with maintaining them, the foundation offers education and entertainment to the public, by providing numerous attractions and top of the line activities.
During a visit to the park, you can check out two free museums, and daily guided tours. The best part though? Definitely the thrilling activities! For starters, there’s extreme tubing and an alpine slide… but that’s just the beginning. There’s ton to see and do at the Utah Olympic Park!
Utah Olympic Park Information
Address: 3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098
Contact: (435) 658-4200
Price: Prices vary based on what activities you’ll partake in; see this page for full details.
Website: http://utaholympiclegacy.org
Where to Stay
Full hookup sites, wireless internet, pristine bathrooms and showers, modern laundry facilities — these are just a few of the amenities that come along with a stay at Park City RV Resort! How can that deal get any sweeter? It’s less than ten minutes from Utah Olympic Park, giving ultimate convenience!
15. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This botanical garden is nestled on 100 acres on the edge of the University of Utah. Five miles of hiking trails are available for guests to get away from it all and just enjoy the beauty of nature. In addition to that, over 21 acres of developed gardens are available to be marveled at. To learn more about the gardens, you can take a guided tour; or just wander the grounds taking in the wondrous array of plants, trees, and flowers.
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum Information
Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Contact: (801) 585-0556
Price: Admission starting at $14. Discounts available for Military and seniors
Website: http://www.redbuttegarden.org
Where to Stay
Pony Express RV Park is a great option for camping! However, if you’d like to have more options, the Salt Lake City KOA is another fantastic campground in the area. Rates are reasonable, and the facilities are phenomenal.
Final Thoughts
It’s obvious that this unique state is home to some astounding sights and adventures. We hope that this Utah RV trip planner has made deciding where to go a little easier. If you’re still undecided on what looks best to you, you might just have to make a few trips to this magnificent state to experience it all! Happy travels, and enjoy the wonders of Utah!
