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One Of The Best Campgrounds In Utah Is Open For Adventure Year-Round

Published Jan 24, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

The state parks in Utah offer some of the most incredible camping in the country. However, for many of these destinations, the camping season ends when the chilly weather arrives. Fortunately, in southern Utah, you will find many year-round campgrounds where you can sleep under the stars no matter the time of the year. While there are many year-round campgrounds we recommend, Gunlock State Park Campground is one to consider. It’s located in an underrated state park with red rocks and desert views all around. It’s perfect for an adventure no matter the season.

Gunlock State Park is tucked away in southern Utah, approximately 15 miles northwest of St. George. While there are outdoor opportunities galore in this park, Gunlock State Park is known for one thing — its waterfalls.

Sign welcoming visitors to Gunlock State Park, established in 1970, with a road and trees in the background.
Iarilu/TripAdvisor

Here, you will find seasonal waterfalls that are truly breathtaking. When flowing, they create quite a gorgeous scene against the red rock. Plus, these waterfalls only make an appearance a few times each decade, making them extra special.

A serene waterfall cascades over red rock formations, surrounded by greenery and a soft blue sky.
lightphoto/iStock Via Getty Images Plus

And while the waterfalls certainly draw in quite a crowd, there is another park feature that is worth checking out — the campground.

A scenic view of a lake surrounded by rocky terrain, with construction equipment and sparse vegetation in the foreground.
Gunlock State Park/Facebook

Gunlock State Park Campground is not fancy and you won’t find a long list of amenities. But, you will find 30 standard campsites that are open all year long.

A tent set up on dry, rocky ground near a lake, with mountains and blue sky in the background.
Josh Wright/Google

You will also find red rock and desert views that will quickly capture your attention.

A serene lakeside campsite with mountains in the background, featuring a trailer and picnic area under a clear blue sky.
Max Witherspoon/Google

The campground is also right by Gunlock Reservoir, an ideal spot for fishing, relaxing on the shoreline, stargazing, boating, and swimming.

A serene lake surrounded by rocky hills and sparse greenery under a clear blue sky.
Florent LGN/Google

Because this isn’t a huge campground, reservations are encouraged and can be made up to four months in advance on the Utah State Parks website.

Sunset over a serene lake, surrounded by mountains and desert vegetation, including cacti and golden grasses.
Gunlock State Park/Facebook

I recommend always checking the website before you visit to learn about any closures, fire restrictions, and more.

Gunlock State Park is a wonderful destination for some time outdoors. The warm summers and mild winters make it a fabulous year-round destination and this campground is the perfect base camp for exploring.

A serene lake at sunset, with clouds reflecting on the water and mountains silhouetted in the background.
Gunlock State Park/Facebook

Have you spent time at Gunlock State Park? Did you stay at the campground? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments. You can learn more and make reservations for this campground on the Utah State Parks website.

If you are looking for more year-round campgrounds in Utah, check out our list featuring several found in our great state parks. Also, make sure you visit REI for all of the best camping gear.

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