New Joes Camping Area

For those in Utah with a passion for rock climbing and bouldering, the New Joes Camping Area is a well-known and essential destination. Located in the high desert landscape near the famous Joes Valley, this campground is a rustic, no-frills site that caters to a specific kind of outdoor enthusiast. It’s a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property that offers a simple yet functional place to set up camp and get a good night's rest before a day of exploring the area’s world-class bouldering routes. While it's a bit out of the way, its location and character are precisely what make it so appealing to the community it serves.

The camping area is known for its rugged charm and its proximity to the New Joe's and Left Fork climbing areas. It’s a place where the focus is on the landscape and the activity, not on luxury amenities. The terrain is a mix of high desert scrub, with some rocky and sandy sections, which creates a very natural and untamed feel. It's a peaceful spot that, according to some visitors, has the rare benefit of cell service, a welcome convenience in an otherwise remote region. This allows campers to stay connected while still enjoying a deep sense of being away from it all.

This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and while it lacks some of the modern conveniences of larger, more developed campgrounds, its simplicity is a part of its appeal. It’s a place for campers who are self-sufficient and comfortable in a more primitive environment. The stunning views of the surrounding rock formations and the quiet atmosphere at night make it a truly special place for those who appreciate the raw beauty of Utah’s landscapes. It’s a good spot to get a sense of the authentic outdoor experience without being too far from civilization.

The New Joes Camping Area is located at Co Rd 57, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA. It is situated on the Wasatch Plateau, an elevated and scenic area that offers a refreshing change of pace from the desert floor. The campground is a bit of a drive to the main Left and Right Fork bouldering areas, which is something to consider when planning your day, but its location along the highway makes it a convenient spot for those coming in from Orangeville. The road to the campground is typically well-maintained, but it's important to be aware that the terrain can be rocky and uneven in some of the lower spots.

The campground offers on-site parking, with designated spots for camping. The sites closer to the highway tend to be less rocky, which is a good tip for those who are tent camping. While the area can be a bit challenging for setting up a tent in certain spots due to rocks, there are also sandy areas that are perfect for pitching a tent. The accessibility is a key factor, as the BLM land is open to visitors, and the campground provides a more organized alternative to dispersed camping.

New Joes Camping Area provides a small number of essential services that enhance a primitive camping experience.

• Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with pit toilets, which are a significant convenience for all campers. While there is no running water, having a designated restroom facility is a major benefit that helps maintain the cleanliness of the area.

• Tent Sites: The campground is primarily designed for tent camping, with open areas that are suitable for pitching a tent. While some areas are rocky, there are also sandy spots that are ideal for a softer pitch.

• On-site Parking: The area provides on-site parking for vehicles, making it easy to unload your gear and set up camp. This is a practical amenity for campers who want to keep their vehicles close to their site.

New Joes Camping Area's main features and highlights are directly related to its unique character and purpose.

• Bouldering Hub: This is a world-class bouldering destination, and the camping area serves as a primary basecamp for climbers. Its proximity to the New Joe’s and other bouldering areas is a major draw for the climbing community. The site provides a great starting point for exploring the hundreds of bouldering problems in the area.

• Cell Service: A rare and highly valued feature of this remote campground is the availability of cell service. This allows campers to stay connected for safety or for sharing their adventures, without sacrificing the feel of being in the wilderness.

• Good for Kids: The campground is noted as being "good for kids," as the open spaces and natural landscape provide plenty of room for children to play and explore. It’s a great way to introduce them to the outdoors in a relatively safe and open environment.

• Peaceful and Rustic Atmosphere: The campground is known for being quiet and peaceful. Its rustic nature and limited services mean it attracts campers who are looking for a genuine, no-frills outdoor experience. It's a place to escape the crowds and enjoy the solitude of the high desert.

For information on the New Joes Camping Area, which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it is best to contact the BLM office in the area.

• Address: Co Rd 57, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA

• Phone: You can often get information by contacting the BLM Price Field Office at (435) 636-3600.

New Joes Camping Area is a great choice for those who want a simple, uncrowded camping experience with a specific focus on bouldering. What makes it worth choosing is its authenticity and its direct connection to the world-class climbing area. Unlike larger, more commercial campgrounds, this site offers a sense of genuine outdoor living. The basic amenities, like pit toilets, are a welcome convenience, while the lack of running water and other services reminds you that you are in a wild and beautiful place.

The availability of cell service is a unique and practical benefit for a remote location like this. It provides a level of security and convenience that is often missing in other wilderness camping areas. For those who are car camping, it is wise to be prepared for the possibility of small wildlife, such as mice, by bringing appropriate traps or precautions. This is not a reflection of the campground itself but rather a natural part of being in a wild environment. Ultimately, the New Joes Camping Area is a gem for those who prioritize rugged beauty and a focus on outdoor activities over glamping. It's a place where you can find a comfortable spot to rest after a long day of climbing, enjoy the quiet of the high desert, and get a true taste of Utah's unique landscapes.

New Joes Camping Area

Co Rd 57, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA