Wedge Overlook Campsite #9

For those who call Utah home, the San Rafael Swell represents the state's wild heart—a rugged and spectacular landscape of canyons, mesas, and stunning geological formations. Tucked within this immense area is the Wedge Overlook, a spot so dramatic it has earned the nickname "Utah's Little Grand Canyon." While many visitors flock here for a quick photo, a true appreciation for its beauty comes from staying the night. Among the network of primitive, designated campsites, Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 offers a unique and secluded perch. This is not a place with modern amenities, but rather a space where the views, the solitude, and the experience of a truly off-grid adventure are the main attractions.

This article is a comprehensive guide for Utah locals and visitors alike, designed to provide a factual and engaging overview of what to expect at this specific campsite. Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 is a first-come, first-served site on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and its appeal lies in its raw, undeveloped nature. It's a place for campers who are self-sufficient and value the tranquility of a remote setting. The site, like others in the area, is a testament to the "leave no trace" ethos, and visitors are expected to be good stewards of the land, preserving its pristine condition for others to enjoy.

The camping experience here is about more than just a place to sleep. It’s about being present to a world of incredible natural beauty, from watching the sunrise cast a warm glow on the canyon walls to gazing at a sky so full of stars it feels like you can touch them. The lack of modern amenities is not a limitation but an invitation to simplify and reconnect with the outdoors in its purest form.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specifics of this remote gem, covering its location, accessibility, and the services you can or cannot expect. We will also highlight its best features and explain why, for the right kind of camper, choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 can be the perfect way to experience the magic of the San Rafael Swell.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 is located in the San Rafael Swell, near Castle Dale, Utah. As with many remote BLM sites, there is no precise street address. Instead, the location is best described by its position within the broader Wedge Overlook area. Access to the overlook itself is via a well-graded dirt and gravel road that is generally passable for most vehicles in dry conditions. The road can become difficult to navigate when wet, and it is not maintained during the winter months, so a high-clearance or 4-wheel-drive vehicle may be required depending on the season and recent weather.

From the town of Castle Dale, the route to the overlook is well-known and often used by locals. You will travel east on a gravel road for about 13 miles before taking a signed turn. The road to the specific campsites runs along the rim of the canyon, and while the main road is relatively easy, the short spurs leading to individual sites can be rougher. Campsite #9 is one of several designated sites, and while some are located just off the main road, others require a bit more effort to reach, which often rewards you with greater seclusion.

The site is a short drive from the main Wedge Overlook parking and picnic area, which is a popular day-use spot. However, the camping areas are set apart, offering a more private and peaceful setting. It is important to remember that this is a remote location, and you should be prepared for a drive that may take longer than anticipated due to the terrain. Always have a full tank of gas and let someone know your travel plans.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 is a primitive, designated dispersed camping site. As such, it offers no modern services. This is a key detail that all visitors must understand and prepare for.

• Campsites: It is a designated spot for primitive camping, typically marked with a small post. The site offers a relatively flat area suitable for a tent or a small self-contained camper.
• Water: No drinking water is available. You must bring all the water you will need for your entire stay. It is recommended to bring at least a gallon of water per person per day.
• Toilets: There are no toilets at the campsite itself. Vault toilets are available at the main Wedge Overlook parking and picnic areas, but campers must be prepared to use Leave No Trace principles for waste disposal, including packing out all solid waste if a toilet is not accessible.
• Trash Disposal: There are no trash cans or trash removal services. Everything you bring in must be packed out with you, including all garbage and food waste.
• Fires: A fire ring may be present, but you must check for current fire restrictions with the BLM before your trip. You should also bring your own firewood, as collecting wood in this area is prohibited.

• Spectacular Views: The most compelling reason to choose this site is the view. Campsite #9 is positioned to offer a spectacular vantage point over the San Rafael River canyon, often called the "Little Grand Canyon."
• Secluded Atmosphere: Despite being in a popular area, the individual, dispersed campsites offer a sense of privacy and solitude that is hard to find in developed campgrounds.
• Stargazing: The remote location and lack of light pollution make for an incredible night sky. It's a prime spot for stargazing and astrophotography.
• Access to Outdoor Activities: The site serves as a great base camp for exploring the San Rafael Swell. You can easily access a variety of hiking trails, mountain biking routes (including the renowned Good Water Rim Trail), and scenic drives to nearby attractions like the Buckhorn Wash pictograph panel.
• Off-Grid Living: For those who seek to truly disconnect, this site provides the perfect opportunity. You are in control of your own experience, from setting up camp to managing your resources.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 is part of the public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). There is no specific phone number or direct contact for the campsite itself.

Address: Utah, USA (San Rafael Swell, Emery County).

Phone: For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the area, including road conditions, safety advisories, and fire restrictions, contact the BLM Price Field Office at 435-636-3600.

For the adventurous Utahn, Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 is a choice that speaks to a love for the state's wild, untamed beauty. It is worth choosing for the unrivaled access to one of the most stunning views in the state. Unlike crowded national park campgrounds, this site offers a sense of privacy and peace, allowing you to have a more personal and intimate experience with the landscape. The ability to camp right on the rim and watch the sunrise from your tent is an experience that simply cannot be replicated at more developed sites.

Furthermore, the primitive nature of the site is not a deterrent but a central part of its appeal. It requires campers to be responsible, prepared, and mindful of their impact, fostering a deeper connection to the land. This site attracts a community of respectful outdoor enthusiasts who are all there for the same reason—to appreciate the natural world without adding to it. It’s a perfect location for those who are experienced with backcountry camping or are looking to step up their camping game with a truly rewarding challenge.

Finally, the access to a wide range of activities makes it an ideal base camp. Whether you are an avid mountain biker, a hiker, or a photographer, the surrounding landscape offers endless opportunities for exploration. Choosing Wedge Overlook Campsite #9 means choosing an adventure, a breathtaking view, and a profound sense of solitude. It is a place where memories are made under a vast, star-filled sky, and the grandeur of Utah's unique geology is right outside your tent flap.

Wedge Overlook Campsite #9

Utah, USA