Wedge Overlook Campsite #3

Welcome to the heart of Utah’s stunning outdoor landscape. For those in the know, the San Rafael Swell is a secret paradise, a vast and rugged wilderness that offers an escape from the ordinary. Within this majestic area lies Wedge Overlook Campsite #3, a true gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the desert. This site, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), provides a unique and unforgettable camping experience with views that will quite literally take your breath away.

Often referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon,” the area around the Wedge Overlook is a deep gorge carved out by the San Rafael River, revealing a tapestry of towering sandstone cliffs and desert vegetation. It is a place of solitude and immense natural beauty, offering a sense of scale and majesty that rivals its more famous counterpart. Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to connect with nature, to witness sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky with a million colors, and to explore a landscape shaped over millions of years. This article will provide you with all the essential information to plan your perfect trip to this exceptional Utah campground.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 is located in Emery County, Utah, within the vast San Rafael Swell. The exact address is given by the Bureau of Land Management as 125 South 600 West, Price, UT 84501, which corresponds to the BLM's Price Field Office. The actual campsite is situated roughly 20 miles east of Castle Dale on well-maintained dirt roads. The journey to the site is part of the adventure, offering spectacular scenery along the way. While the roads are generally passable for any vehicle, especially during dry conditions, a higher-clearance vehicle is recommended for a smoother ride, and always be prepared for changing road conditions, especially after rain. The campsite is a approximately a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Salt Lake City, making it an accessible weekend getaway for many Utah residents. Visitors should note that cell service can be spotty to non-existent in this remote area, so it is crucial to download maps and directions in advance and inform someone of your travel plans.

Access to the campsite is straightforward but requires careful attention to signage. From Highway 10, just before the town of Castle Dale, you'll turn east onto the signed San Rafael Swell Access road (also known as the Green River Cutoff Road). From there, you will follow the dirt road for several miles, watching for signs that will direct you toward the Wedge Overlook. The route is well-marked, but having a good map or GPS is always recommended. Upon arrival at the Overlook area, you will find designated campsites located before the canyon rim. It's important to remember that camping is only permitted in these designated spots, not on the rim itself, which is reserved for day use.

As a BLM campground, Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 is a more primitive camping experience compared to a full-service RV park. This is part of its charm, offering a chance to truly disconnect. While services are limited, they are sufficient for a comfortable and self-sufficient trip.

• Campsites: The campground consists of designated, primitive campsites, each marked with a brown post. These are not reservable and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsite #3, in particular, has been noted by visitors as being a very large site, capable of accommodating a sizable group.

• Restroom Facilities: There is a vault toilet available in the general vicinity of the camping area. This is a basic, non-flush toilet, and campers are advised to bring their own toilet paper and sanitizing supplies.

• Fire Pits: Some sites may have designated fire rings. However, it is essential to check current fire restrictions with the BLM before your visit, as conditions in the desert can change rapidly.

• No Water or Trash Services: There is no potable water available at the campsite. Visitors must pack in all the water they will need for drinking, cooking, and washing. Similarly, there are no trash cans, so all waste must be packed out, following the "Leave No Trace" principles. This includes all food scraps and waste, which should be stored securely to avoid attracting wildlife.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is a great place to bring your canine companions. Dogs are allowed, and in many areas, can be off-leash, but it is crucial to keep them under control, especially near the canyon rim and to be mindful of the desert environment, including cacti. Owners are required to pack out all pet waste.

The true appeal of Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 lies in the natural features and recreational opportunities it provides.

• The "Little Grand Canyon" Overlook: The main highlight is the breathtaking view from the Wedge Overlook, which offers a bird's-eye perspective of the 1,000-foot-deep gorge carved by the San Rafael River. The panoramic vistas of the towering sandstone cliffs and the winding river below are simply spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset.

• Good Water Rim Trail: This is a 15-mile (one-way) mountain biking trail that runs along the rim of Good Water Canyon, a side drainage of the Wedge. It is considered a classic desert trail for mountain bikers, offering incredible views and a thrilling ride. The trail is well-maintained and provides various options for shorter loops.

• Hiking and Exploration: The area is a hiker's paradise, with countless trails and off-road tracks to explore. The rugged terrain offers opportunities for all skill levels, from short walks along the rim to more strenuous hikes into the canyons below. Nearby attractions like the Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel and the San Rafael Swinging Bridge offer additional opportunities for exploration and a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

• Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the Wedge Overlook area is an exceptional place for stargazing. On clear nights, the celestial display is simply magnificent, offering a view of the Milky Way and countless stars that is rarely seen in more populated areas.

• Photography: The dramatic landscape, from the stunning canyon views to the unique desert flora and fauna, makes this a dream destination for photographers of all levels. The changing light throughout the day provides endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Swell.

For up-to-date information on the campground, including road conditions, fire restrictions, and other regulations, it is best to contact the managing authority, the Bureau of Land Management.

• Address: 125 South 600 West, Price, UT 84501

• Phone: (435) 636-3600

Choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 is an excellent decision for a variety of reasons, especially for those in Utah seeking an authentic and memorable outdoor experience. Unlike crowded national parks, the San Rafael Swell offers a sense of seclusion and adventure. The free, first-come, first-served camping model provides a spontaneity that is often missing from other, more structured campgrounds. For residents of Utah and the surrounding region, it represents a less-trafficked alternative to popular destinations, offering the same level of breathtaking scenery without the hassle of reservations and high fees.

The appeal is not just in the solitude, but in the sheer scale of the landscape. The term “Little Grand Canyon” is no exaggeration; the views are profound and humbling. The campsite serves as the perfect base camp for a wide range of activities, from high-adrenaline mountain biking on the Good Water Rim Trail to serene hikes to ancient rock art panels. It caters to a wide variety of interests, from the family looking for a unique camping trip to the avid outdoor adventurer seeking new trails to conquer. The fact that it is pet-friendly and allows for the freedom of dispersed camping (in designated areas) makes it an ideal spot for those who want to bring their entire family, including their four-legged members, to experience the wonders of the Utah desert. Ultimately, choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #3 means choosing an adventure, a chance to disconnect from the digital world, and a front-row seat to one of Utah's most magnificent natural spectacles.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #3

Utah, USA