Cottonwood Canyon Road Dispersed
Cottonwood Canyon Road Dispersed Camping
Remote dispersed camping along one of Utah’s most scenic dirt roads, surrounded by red rock formations, slot canyon day hikes, wide desert views, and near-zero foot traffic.
Campground Quick Facts
Cottonwood Canyon Road Dispersed Camping · Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah
| GPS Coordinates | 37.2156° N, 111.9823° W |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 4,700 to 5,200 ft |
| Road Type | 2WD passable in dry weather; high-clearance recommended; not recommended after rain or in wet, slick conditions. Review the official BLM scenic backway page and the current GSENM road condition report before travel. |
| Maximum Stay | Generally limited to 14 days within a 28-day period; local limits or closures may vary. Confirm current requirements through BLM Camping on Public Lands and the local monument office. |
| Permit | A free overnight permit is required for overnight stays inside Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument according to the current BLM Plan Your Visit page. Permits are available at monument visitor centers and developed trailheads. |
| Nearest Fuel | Cannonville / Big Water / US-89 direction, about 25 to 35 miles depending on approach |
| Cell Coverage | Poor / intermittent; canyon sections and low areas usually have weak or no service |
| Best Season | Spring and fall; recommended March to May and September to October |
| Facilities | Primitive dispersed camping, no potable water, no toilets, no trash service, and no hookups. Pack out all trash and solid human waste in accordance with the monument’s official visitor guidance. |
| Land Manager | BLM Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument / Paria River District · 435-644-1200 |
| Important Note | Cottonwood Canyon Road is a long scenic backway inside Grand Staircase-Escalante, about 46 miles total. The first 9 miles from Cannonville are paved, while most of the remaining route is dirt / gravel. After rain, the clay road surface can become extremely slick and may be impassable even for high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Check the GSENM road condition report, current monument travel information, and weather before entering. |
| Fire Restrictions | Fire rules can change rapidly. Check the official BLM Utah fire restrictions before using a campfire, stove, generator, or other ignition source. |
| Sources |
BLM Cottonwood Canyons Scenic Backway BLM Grand Staircase-Escalante Plan Your Visit BLM GSENM Road Condition Report BLM Cottonwood Road Georeferenced Map BLM Camping on Public Lands BLM Utah Fire Restrictions |
About This Campsite
Cottonwood Canyons Scenic Backway is a rugged dispersed camping route in southern Utah, ideal for travelers looking for solitude, desert scenery, and a true off-grid camping experience. The area is especially appealing for campers who enjoy red rock landscapes, quiet nights, and easy access to scenic drives and canyon hikes.
This is not a developed campground. There are no marked campsites, no restrooms, no water, and no services. Campers should arrive prepared, bring everything they need, and follow the BLM monument visitor guidance.
Why Camp Here
This area is perfect for campers who want something quieter than popular national park campgrounds. The landscape feels raw and spacious, with dramatic desert formations, winding dirt roads, and open skies that make it especially memorable at sunrise, sunset, and under the stars.
What to Expect
- Remote desert camping with limited crowds.
- Primitive pull-offs and dispersed camping opportunities.
- Beautiful red rock scenery and canyon landscapes.
- No water, trash service, toilets, or hookups.
- Road conditions may change quickly after rain; review the official BLM road report before entering.
Bring With You
- Plenty of water and food.
- Offline maps or GPS, including the official BLM Cottonwood Road georeferenced map.
- Recovery gear and spare tire.
- Trash bags and toilet kit.
- Sun protection and warm layers.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are usually the most comfortable seasons for dispersed camping in this part of Utah. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter nights may be cold. Avoid driving the road during or immediately after rain, as dirt roads can become muddy and difficult to pass. Review the official road report and current fire restrictions before departure.
Open in Google Maps Official BLM Route Road Conditions