New Bates Wilson

For us Utah locals, the vast and varied landscapes of our state offer an endless playground for outdoor enthusiasts. When the call for a truly immersive and adventurous backcountry experience arises, far from the crowds and the paved roads, New Bates Wilson Campground within the iconic Canyonlands National Park stands as an unparalleled destination. This isn't just a campsite; it's an invitation to explore the rugged heart of southeastern Utah, a reward for those willing to embark on a genuine 4x4 expedition.

Nestled deep within the Needles district of Canyonlands, New Bates Wilson offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of solitude. As one local visitor perfectly summarized, "This campsite is beautiful. We loved how quiet it was, and the views are amazing." This sentiment captures the essence of what makes this campground so special: its pristine natural beauty and its ability to provide a truly undisturbed wilderness experience.

Unlike more conventional campgrounds, accessing New Bates Wilson is part of the adventure itself, requiring a capable 4x4 vehicle and a spirit of exploration. This exclusivity ensures that those who make the journey are rewarded with a unique tranquility, far from the typical tourist routes. It’s a place where the grandeur of Utah's red rock country can be fully appreciated, where the silence is broken only by the whispers of the wind and the sounds of nature.

For Utahns seeking to push beyond the usual camping spots and delve into the remote beauty of our national parks, New Bates Wilson Campground represents the pinnacle of backcountry vehicle camping. It’s a testament to the fact that the most incredible experiences often require a bit more effort, and the rewards here—uninterrupted views, profound quiet, and a sense of true wilderness—are well worth the trek.

New Bates Wilson Campground is located within the extraordinary Canyonlands National Park, near Monticello, UT 84535, USA. Its position deep within the Needles district of the park is key to understanding its unique accessibility and the kind of experience it offers.

The defining characteristic of New Bates Wilson's accessibility is its reliance on the "Elephant Hill, a somewhat difficult 4x4 trail." This isn't just a recommendation; it's a requirement. The National Park Service explicitly states that backcountry roads in The Needles district, including Elephant Hill, "require high-clearance, low range four-wheel-drive vehicles." Inexperienced drivers are advised against attempting these roads due to "a high risk of vehicle damage, and towing costs usually exceed $1,500." The Elephant Hill trail itself is rated as "Difficult," featuring "steep grades, loose rock, stair-step drops, tight turns, and tricky backing." Maximum vehicle length, including racks and trailers, is 21 feet.

This challenging access ensures the campground's seclusion and pristine condition. As one reviewer noted, despite being "just off the trail, absolutely no one drove by during the three days we stayed there." This provides a stark contrast to other, more heavily trafficked campsites. For Utah locals accustomed to off-roading, Elephant Hill is a known quantity – a demanding but incredibly rewarding trail.

The campground is situated "near the end of the trail, on the way to the Confluence Overlook," indicating its deep penetration into the park's rugged interior. While this means a longer and more challenging drive, it also promises unparalleled views and a more remote experience. Visitors must obtain a backcountry overnight permit, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall) when demand frequently exceeds availability, requiring reservations well in advance.

For us Utahns who value true wilderness and possess the necessary vehicle and driving skills, the journey to New Bates Wilson is part of the adventure, leading to an exclusive and unforgettable camping experience in one of the state's most iconic national parks.

New Bates Wilson Campground offers a truly primitive and minimalist camping experience, focusing on preserving the natural environment while providing basic allowances for backcountry vehicle camping. Given its remote and rugged nature, campers should arrive fully self-sufficient.

• Backcountry Vehicle Campsite: This is a designated backcountry site accessible by a 4x4 road. It accommodates vehicle camping, meaning you can park your high-clearance, 4WD vehicle directly at or very near your campsite. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people and 3 vehicles (trailers and motorcycles are considered vehicles for these limits).

• No Vault Toilets: Crucially, and unlike some other backcountry campsites in Canyonlands, New Bates Wilson does not provide vault toilets. Campers "must bring a portable toilet to this site" and are required to "carry out their solid human waste." The National Park Service specifically requires the use of "washable, reusable toilet systems" or "systems that use dry chemicals and enzymes" for disposal in permitted landfills. Burying human waste is strictly prohibited.

• No Water Available: There is "no water at any of the campsites" in this backcountry area, including New Bates Wilson. Campers must "pack in" all their potable water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene needs. Water sources are not available, even seasonally.

• Designated Tent Areas (Implied): While the primary camping is vehicle-based, the nature of a backcountry campsite generally implies areas suitable for pitching tents on natural ground, though specific tent pads or cleared areas are not explicitly detailed. Reviewers indicate it is a "campsite," implying a place to set up.

The emphasis at New Bates Wilson is on Leave No Trace principles and complete self-sufficiency. Campers should be prepared for a true wilderness experience with minimal amenities, ensuring they bring everything they need and pack out everything they bring, including all waste.

New Bates Wilson Campground is distinguished by several unique features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for experienced backcountry campers and 4x4 enthusiasts in Utah.

• Incredible Views: The most frequently praised feature is the "beautiful" and "amazing" views. Situated within Canyonlands National Park, campers are treated to expansive vistas of the park's iconic red rock formations, canyons, and the distant landscape. These breathtaking panoramas create an unforgettable backdrop for your entire stay.

• Profound Quiet and Seclusion: As noted by reviewers, the campground is "quiet" and provides a sense of deep seclusion. Despite being "just off the trail," one visitor remarked that "absolutely no one drove by during the three days we stayed there." This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking true solitude and an escape from crowded recreational areas, offering a chance to fully immerse oneself in nature's tranquility.

• Access to Elephant Hill 4x4 Trail: The campground's accessibility via the "somewhat difficult 4x4 trail" of Elephant Hill is a highlight for adventurous drivers. This technical road is considered one of Utah's most challenging and rewarding, making the journey to New Bates Wilson an adventure in itself. It appeals to those who enjoy off-road driving and the challenge it presents.

• Proximity to Confluence Overlook: The campground is strategically located "on the way to the Confluence Overlook." This allows campers relatively easy access to a spectacular viewpoint where the Green and Colorado Rivers merge, offering an iconic vista within Canyonlands National Park.

• True Backcountry Experience: New Bates Wilson offers an authentic backcountry experience, requiring self-sufficiency, including bringing a portable toilet and all water. This provides a deep connection to the wilderness, appealing to those who prefer undeveloped sites and a Leave No Trace approach to camping.

• Lower Traffic Compared to Other Backcountry Sites: Compared to other backcountry campsites like Devils Kitchen, New Bates Wilson appeared to be "more heavily trafficked" by OHV. This perception of lower traffic, as observed by a reviewer, adds to its appeal for those seeking greater solitude within the backcountry camping options.

For information regarding New Bates Wilson Campground, as it is located within a National Park, direct contact is usually with the park service responsible for Canyonlands National Park. There isn't a direct phone number for the specific campsite itself, but rather for the park or its relevant district.

Address: Canyonlands National Park, Monticello, UT 84535, USA

For permits, current conditions, and regulations, it is best to contact Canyonlands National Park directly or visit their official website:

Canyonlands National Park Information (Needles District): While a general park phone number can be found online, visitors should specifically look for information pertaining to the Needles District and backcountry permits. For most permit and planning needs, the National Park Service website for Canyonlands National Park (NPS.gov/cany) is the primary resource.

For us Utah locals, New Bates Wilson Campground represents the epitome of a challenging yet immensely rewarding outdoor experience within our beloved Canyonlands National Park. It's a destination that perfectly aligns with the adventurous spirit and self-reliance often found in our state's outdoor community, making it uniquely suitable for those who crave a deep immersion in the wilderness.

The primary reason for its suitability for locals lies in its demanding accessibility via the "Elephant Hill, a somewhat difficult 4x4 trail." For many Utahns, owning a capable 4x4 vehicle and possessing the skills to navigate challenging terrain is part of our outdoor culture. This barrier to entry ensures that those who reach New Bates Wilson are genuinely seeking a remote and quiet experience, contributing to the "beautiful" and "amazing" views and the profound "quiet" that reviewers rave about. This is not a casual pull-off campground; it’s a dedicated adventure.

The requirement to "bring a portable toilet to this site" and "carry out your solid human waste" also resonates with the strong Leave No Trace ethics often practiced by responsible Utah outdoors enthusiasts. This commitment to preserving the pristine environment ensures that the beauty of New Bates Wilson remains intact for generations to come, a value highly cherished by those of us who live here.

Its location "near the end of the trail, on the way to the Confluence Overlook," provides an unparalleled sense of being deep within the heart of the park, offering iconic views that are truly earned. Compared to more trafficked areas, the low visitor count at New Bates Wilson means a solitude that is increasingly rare in our popular national parks. For Utahns seeking to escape the crowds and find true peace in the desert, this is an invaluable asset.

New Bates Wilson Campground offers a raw, authentic backcountry experience that tests skills and rewards with solitude and spectacular scenery. It's for the local who understands that the best views often come after the most challenging drives, and who cherishes the profound quiet of the Utah wilderness. For those of us ready for a genuine adventure and committed to responsible outdoor recreation, New Bates Wilson is not just a suitable campsite; it's an essential Utah pilgrimage.

New Bates Wilson

Canyonlands National Park, Monticello, UT 84535, USA