High on Escalante Mountain, Barker Campground is part of a larger recreation area that includes numerous fishing lakes, hiking paths, mountain biking trails, and equestrian trails. You can access Upper and Lower Barker Reservoirs by car, while hiking trails lead to several other lakes in the area.
The campground is set up in a loop, with sites spread around both the outer and inner circles. Each of the secluded campsites has a fire pit, picnic table, and bear box to store your food and garbage. The surrounding aspen trees frequently create a pleasing chorus of quaking aspen leaves when ruffled by gusts of wind. Not many people visit the campground, making it an intimate and peaceful weekend escape. This campground also offers 3 group sites, each one accommodating between 35-100 visitors.
From Escalante, Utah, drive west on UT 12. A few miles after passing the turnoff to Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, look for Main Canyon Road, between mile markers 55 and 56. Cross the Escalante River and turn right onto FR 149, following the signs to Barker Recreation Area. This road parallels North Creek, and you pass North Creek Reservoir on your left. Close to 12 miles in, veer left to stay on FR 149. The road crosses several creeks continuing up to Barker Recreation Area. Cross a cattle guard just before arriving at the campground, which is on the left side of the road.
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Aspen stands are shady respites in the summer and confetti storms of gold leaves in the fall, but they are losing ground in Utah's high county. We're working with the Forest Service, ranchers, and other groups to make sure aspen have the chance to take root. More on our aspen restoration work ›
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