Wedge Overlook Campsite #5

For Utah residents with a passion for off-the-beaten-path adventures and a love for truly spectacular landscapes, the San Rafael Swell is a bucket-list destination. Within this sprawling, geological masterpiece lies the Wedge Overlook, a spot so magnificent it has earned the nickname "Utah's Little Grand Canyon." While many visit for a day to witness the breathtaking 1,200-foot drop to the San Rafael River, a select few stay to camp. Among the dispersed sites along the rim, Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 stands as a prime location for those seeking an unforgettable, quiet, and profoundly scenic camping experience.

This is not a traditional, amenity-rich campground. It is a primitive, no-frills site on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and its appeal is precisely in its rugged simplicity. The camping here is about embracing the raw beauty of the desert, where the only sound you'll hear is the wind and the only light pollution is from the brilliant stars above. Campsite #5 is a perfect example of this, offering a chance to set up camp mere steps from one of the most incredible panoramic vistas in the state.

The surrounding area is a haven for outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to rock art viewing and photography. While the location is remote, it is a well-known spot that can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons like spring break. For this reason, those who want to secure one of the coveted rim-side spots, like Campsite #5, should plan to arrive early.

This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential, factual information you need to plan a successful and responsible trip to Wedge Overlook Campsite #5. We'll cover everything from how to get there to what to expect in terms of services and features, helping you prepare for a memorable adventure in one of Utah's most iconic landscapes. The experience here is about self-reliance, respect for the environment, and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of the Beehive State.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 is located in the heart of Utah, within the San Rafael Swell. Its precise address is often listed simply as Utah, USA, as it is part of a remote, undesignated network of primitive campsites on public land. The closest town for major supplies is Castle Dale, about 20 miles away, or Price. Access to the Wedge Overlook area is via a well-graded gravel road, which is generally passable for two-wheel-drive vehicles during good weather. The road can become impassable when wet or during winter months due to snow.

The approach from the north is from a signed intersection on SR-10, about one mile north of Castledale. From there, you'll travel east on a gravel road for about 13 miles before turning south at a signed intersection. Following the left fork will take you about six miles to the Wedge Overlook area and the campsites. It's a drive that takes you through rolling pinyon and juniper woodlands, offering a sense of anticipation before the landscape suddenly drops away into the dramatic canyon.

While the main road is well-maintained, some of the roads to specific campsites can be a bit rougher and more rocky. A vehicle with good tires and some clearance is recommended, but a four-wheel-drive is not always necessary for the main access road. Visitors should be aware that some of the campsites are perched right on the canyon's edge, requiring a high degree of caution, especially at night.

It is crucial to understand that Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 is a primitive site with no services. This is a deliberate part of the experience, emphasizing an off-grid, self-sufficient style of camping.

• Campsites: The site is a designated dispersed camping spot, marked with a brown post. It offers a flat area for setting up a tent or parking a self-contained RV.
• Toilets: There are vault toilets located at the main Wedge Overlook parking and picnic areas. However, these may be a short walk or drive from the individual campsites.
• Water: No drinking water is available. Visitors must bring all the water they need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Trash Disposal: There are no trash disposal services. All waste, including food scraps and garbage, must be packed out and disposed of properly.
• Fires: Fire rings may be available at some sites, but visitors must check for current fire restrictions or bans, which are common in this arid region.

The "Leave No Trace" principles are not just a recommendation here; they are a fundamental requirement for protecting this pristine environment for all to enjoy.

• Unrivaled Views: The most significant highlight is the location itself. Campsite #5 is one of the premier spots along the rim, offering a panoramic view of the "Little Grand Canyon" and the winding San Rafael River below.
• Remote Solitude: While the area is popular, the dispersed nature of the campsites allows for a sense of peace and quiet. You are far from the sounds of traffic and close to the sounds of nature.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky over the Wedge is absolutely breathtaking. It's an ideal location for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone who wants to see the Milky Way in all its glory.
• Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area is a hub for recreation. The Good Water Rim mountain bike trail is a classic for cyclists, and there are countless opportunities for hiking, off-roading, and photography.
• Proximity to Attractions: The Wedge Overlook is a short distance from other notable sites like the Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel and the historic San Rafael Swinging Bridge.

As a primitive campsite on BLM land, there is no direct contact information for Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 itself. All management and information are handled by the Bureau of Land Management.

Address: Utah, USA (The general location is in Emery County, near Castle Dale).

Phone: For the most current information on road conditions, camping regulations, and fire restrictions, it is best to contact the BLM Price Field Office at 435-636-3600.

Choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 is about making a conscious decision to trade modern conveniences for an unparalleled natural experience. It is worth choosing for the discerning camper who values breathtaking scenery and genuine solitude above all else. The opportunity to wake up to a sunrise painting the canyon walls in vibrant hues, and to fall asleep under a blanket of a million stars, is the primary draw. This campsite offers an exclusive front-row seat to one of Utah's most stunning landscapes, a privilege not available at more developed campgrounds.

The rugged, off-grid nature of the site also encourages a deeper connection with the environment. It requires you to be prepared, to be mindful of your impact, and to leave the area as you found it. This sense of stewardship is a rewarding part of the experience. It is a place where you can test your self-sufficiency while being surrounded by awe-inspiring beauty.

Furthermore, for those who love photography or simply want to escape the digital world, the remote location and dramatic scenery make it a perfect place to unplug. The ease of access via a graded dirt road makes it a realistic destination for a wide range of vehicles, including RVs, as long as they are self-contained. For any Utahn seeking a weekend getaway that feels a world away, Wedge Overlook Campsite #5 is an extraordinary choice that promises incredible views and a profound sense of peace.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #5

Utah, USA