Wedge Overlook Campsite #4

For many Utahns, the best kind of camping trip is one that takes you far from the crowds and into the heart of the state’s most spectacular, raw landscapes. If you're looking for an experience that offers jaw-dropping views and a true sense of solitude, Wedge Overlook Campsite #4 is a must-add to your list. Known to locals as the "Little Grand Canyon," this area of the San Rafael Swell provides a uniquely breathtaking backdrop for your next adventure. It's not a bustling, amenity-rich campground, but a collection of dispersed, primitive sites that allow you to feel a deep connection with the vast, open desert. The beauty of this location is its rugged, untouched feel, where the only soundtrack is the wind and the silence of the canyons.

The experience at Wedge Overlook is all about the scenery. From your campsite, you can peer down into the dramatic gorge carved by the San Rafael River, with a sheer 1,200-foot drop-off that makes for an unforgettable view. The landscape is a vibrant palette of red rock cliffs and winding riverbeds, a sight that rivals even the most famous national parks, but with a fraction of the visitors and fees. The sites are large and spread far apart, offering a level of privacy that is rare in modern camping. This is a place for those who are prepared to be self-sufficient and are rewarded with some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets Utah has to offer. The tranquility and seclusion make it an ideal spot for astrophotography, as the dark skies are perfect for stargazing. A true gem, the campsite allows you to immerse yourself in nature and escape the stresses of everyday life, all while being a reasonable drive from urban centers like Salt Lake City and Provo.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #4, like the other sites in the area, is a testament to the raw beauty of Utah's wild spaces. It's a place that invites you to bring your own adventure—whether that’s hiking along the rim, mountain biking the Good Water Rim trail, or simply soaking in the expansive views. The primitive nature of the campsite is a feature, not a drawback, for those who value an authentic off-grid experience. The space is so large and the sites so far apart that you can truly feel alone in the wilderness, making for a deeply personal and unforgettable trip. Visitors often remark on the sheer scale of the landscape and the immense quiet that defines the area. It is this combination of stunning visuals and peaceful isolation that makes Wedge Overlook Campsite #4 a standout choice for local campers seeking a new, profound experience in their home state.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #4 is located in Emery County, in central Utah, USA. While there is no specific street address, the campground is part of the larger Wedge Overlook area, which is situated on the rim of the "Little Grand Canyon" of the San Rafael River. The primary access is via a gravel road that is generally well-maintained and passable for two-wheel-drive vehicles in good weather. However, it is a remote location, and visitors should be prepared for washboard conditions and potential impassability during or after wet weather. From the north, the area can be accessed from State Route 10, about one mile north of Castle Dale. You will follow a gravel road for several miles, with clear signs directing you toward the Wedge Overlook. It is a roughly 40-minute drive on dirt roads from Castle Dale, making it a feasible day trip or a secluded overnight camping spot for those coming from central or northern Utah. Its remoteness is a key part of its appeal, as it keeps the crowds away and preserves the pristine nature of the area. It is important to note that access roads can become muddy and impassable during storms, so checking weather conditions before heading out is highly recommended. Parking is available at the campsite, allowing for convenient access to your site.

Services Offered at Wedge Overlook Campsite #4:

• Primitive Camping: The site is a primitive, designated camping spot, not a developed campground with extensive services.
• Rock Fire Rings: Many sites, including this one, have existing rock fire rings for campfires, provided local regulations allow it.
• Vault Toilets: While not at the specific site, there are vault toilets located at the main overlooks and trailheads in the area.
• Dispersed, First-Come, First-Served Sites: Camping is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
• On-site Parking: Each site has an area to park your vehicle right at the campsite.

Features and Highlights:

• Breathtaking Views: The main highlight is the unparalleled view of the "Little Grand Canyon" right from the rim, a truly majestic sight.
• Secluded and Private: The sites are spaced far apart, ensuring a sense of privacy and solitude.
• Mountain Biking and Hiking: The area offers extensive recreational opportunities, including the popular Good Water Rim Trail.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in the area and can be off-leash in certain spots, making it a great destination for pet owners.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: The remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for astronomy and astrophotography.
• No Fees: There is no cost to camp at the designated sites along the rim.

Contact Information:

Address: Utah, USA (for detailed directions, contact the Bureau of Land Management Price Field Office)

What is worth choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #4?

Choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #4 is about embracing a truly authentic Utah outdoor experience. It's a place for the self-sufficient camper who values privacy, stunning natural beauty, and a quiet retreat from the world. What makes this particular site so special is its spectacular view to the north and its relative seclusion from other campers. The site offers ample space for both RVs and tent campers, making it a versatile choice. The complete lack of "river" is a humorous note from a past visitor, highlighting the rugged, high-desert canyon landscape that is the true draw here, a place where you're high above the winding San Rafael River below. This is not a place for those who need extensive amenities or constant connectivity. There is no running water at the sites, so you must bring your own, and cell service can be spotty. However, for those who are prepared, the rewards are immense. The breathtaking views are the primary reason to visit, but the opportunity for quiet reflection, challenging hikes, and a genuine escape into the wild are what make this a truly worthwhile destination. If you're looking for a camping spot that feels like your own private piece of one of Utah’s most impressive and underrated landscapes, this is it. It’s an adventure that promises unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for the raw beauty that makes the state so special.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #4

Utah, USA