Hike during the day, and stay at Escalante-Petrified Forest Campground at night
If you like to escape commercial RV parks but enjoy amenities, like modern bathrooms, picnic tables, and electrical hookups, consider staying at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Its campground (Wide Hollow and Lakeview) sits on the shores of Wide Hollow Reservoir, a beautiful pond that provides irrigation water for the town of Escalante. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout and bluegill, so pack your fishing pole and water toys!
Campsites within the park are in close proximity to one another, and you will likely have neighbors since the campground fills quickly during the summer months. Reservations are accepted, though walk-in sites may be available.
Amenities
- Drinking Water
- Flush Toilets
- Bathroom Sinks
- Showers
- RV Hookups
- Picnic Tables
- Shade Cover
- Fire Pits
- Trash Collection
Directions
From Escalante: Head west on UT 12 for about 1.5 miles. You see a sign for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park shortly before turning right on Reservoir Road. Another 0.7 mile brings you to the park’s fee station and visitor center for check-in.
From the junction of US Route 89 and UT 12: Head east on UT 12 for 55.5 miles, passing through Red Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the town of Tropic. About 1.5 miles before you arrive at the town of Escalante, you see a sign for Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Turn left on Reservoir Road and drive 0.7 mile to the entrance of the park.
General Location Escalante, Utah
Elevation 5,900 ft (1,798 m)
Number of Sites 20
Season Year-round
Fees Fee required – Check the website below for current information
Pets Allowed
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Related Hikes by Destination
Sites: 25
Season: Open year-round
Reservations: For groups sites only
Distance: 8 mi (12.9 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Out and back
State: Utah
Nearest Town: Springdale, Utah
Distance: 2.2 mi (3.5 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Out and back