Make a reservation at a campsite that suits your needs. Budget-minded campers tent at Devils Canyon Campground but still have access to the natural wonders of the more expensive campsites. Campgrounds are close to Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods, Four Corners Monument and more.
Park your recreational vehicle at Blue Mountain RV Park. Blue Mountain is a five-star park with water and electrical hookups, full restroom facilities, on-site laundry facilities, free wireless Internet service and many comforts within walking distance to the park.
Pitch your tent at Nizhoni Campground---a more primitive facility. Situated at the base of the Abajo Mountains, this site is 12 miles from the town of Blanding and a perfect place for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Pack appropriately for the changing climate and altitude. With an elevation of 7,400 feet, expect warm summer days and cool nights. Nighttime lows during the peak of the summer dip into the low to mid 50s.
Carry insect spray. Like most outdoor settings, insects abound in the deserts of the Southwest. Take extra care if you have severe allergies. Refer to Amazingnature.us/insects for a complete list of indigenous bugs.
Bring breathable clothing and appropriate footwear. The Blanding area is a favorite for hikers, bikers, boaters and fishermen who love to camp.
Have your car checked by a mechanic. San Juan County has rugged terrain.
Print out driving directions because your GPS may not cooperate. Blanding is located in southwestern Utah. See below for expected travel times from large cities.
Albuquerque, New Mexico --- 5.5 hours
Colorado Springs, Colorado --- 7.5 hours
Flagstaff, Arizona --- four hours
Salt Lake City, Utah --- five hours
Stop at the Blanding Visitor Center. The staff can give you extra information and a map of the area.
Check in at the campground entry booth. Pick up a copy of park regulations including noise limitations, speed limits and possible "carry in carry out requirements" of parks in San Juan County.
Purchase firewood at the park office. The parks do not allow firewood gathering, and they restrict burning wood to the fire pits only.
Survey the site for a good place to set up the tent. Look for rocks or tree roots since you don't want an uncomfortable object under your sleeping bag.
Leave all food in the car. Food attracts unwanted creatures like prairie dogs and black-footed ferrets.
Plan for night-time activities. If you are camping with children, give thought to games or activities they may enjoy.
Sit around the campfire, roast marshmallows and tell stories. With adequate lighting, you can play board games. If you forget flashlights or lanterns, stop at Family Dollar, North Wash Outfitters, True Value Hardware or Clark's Market.
Organize your belongings. Pack the items last that you will need access to during the ride home.
Leave the campsite in the same condition as when you arrived. One last patrol of the site to look for forgotten cans, bottles or litter will help the next family enjoy the area.
Take note of other sites in the camp you may prefer on your next visit to the Blanding area.
