Devils Canyon
4.46105 reviewsMANTI-LASAL
Devils Canyon
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for standard nonelectric sites during peak season is $20, applicable from May 1 to September 30. Same rate applies during first-come, first-served seasons from October 1 to April 30.
About this campground
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Abajo Mountains in southeast Utah's Manti-LaSal National Forest, Devils Canyon Campground beckons adventurers seeking a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. This well-appointed mountain retreat features paved parking spurs and thoughtfully designed accessible sites, making it welcoming for all visitors. From June through September, seasonal water services enhance your camping experience, while the surrounding landscape invites exploration through scenic trails that wind past ancient archaeological treasures waiting to be discovered.
Devils Canyon Campground features a mix of camping options, including standard single-family sites. Most sites accommodate both tents and RVs, but there are no group sites, cabins, or glamping facilities. Sites are paved and range from accessible to non-accessible.
Historical SignificanceDevils Canyon serves as your gateway to some of the Southwest's most treasured cultural landmarks. Within easy reach, the iconic red rock spires of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks tell stories written in stone, while the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park whisper secrets of civilizations past. Closer still, Edge of the Cedars State Park and numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout the region offer intimate glimpses into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who once called these canyons home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Devils Canyon into an outdoor paradise where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool mountain evenings. The seasonal rhythm brings reliable water service from June through September, coinciding perfectly with the prime camping season when wildflowers dot the meadows and the forest comes alive with activity.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 7,400 feet above sea level, Devils Canyon offers a natural escape from desert heat below. This elevated sanctuary delivers crisp mountain air, stunning panoramic vistas, and temperatures that remain pleasantly cool even during peak summer months, creating an ideal high-altitude basecamp for your Utah adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of towering ponderosa pines mingles with hardy pinyon pines and aromatic junipers, creating dappled shade throughout the campground. At 7,400 feet, this mountain oasis maintains a perfect climate balance where sunshine warms your days and mountain breezes cool your nights. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters – graceful mule deer often browse through camp at dawn and dusk, while playful squirrels and chipmunks provide endless entertainment. Black bears also roam these forests, reminding visitors to properly secure food and maintain bear-aware camping practices.
Geological RegionDevils Canyon occupies a remarkable crossroads where three distinct worlds converge in the heart of the Manti-LaSal National Forest. Here, the rugged Abajo Mountains rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape, their peaks soaring above 10,000 feet and cloaked in dense forests of ponderosa, pinyon, and juniper. Below stretches a mesmerizing tableau of southeastern Utah's signature red rock formations and expansive desert floors, creating a geological wonderland where mountain meadows meet canyon country in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySites #1-5 and #8-16 have paved areas for fire pits and picnic tables and are considered accessible. Sites #6 and #7 have short trails from the parking spur to the camping area but are not considered fully accessible. One user remarked on the wheelchair-friendly picnic table and pavement quality.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating both tent campers and larger equipment like 36' fifth wheels. Some sites, such as #12, are specifically noted as spacious.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-separated, offering privacy. Upper loop sites provide more tree cover, while lower loop sites are more spread out.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites located further away from Highway 191 to minimize road noise. Sites in the southern loop offer more spacious setups.
Best CampsitesSites 7, 13, and 24 are frequently praised for being spacious, level, and quiet.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
14-day maximum stay limit. Campers can stay up to 14 nights total in any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies between sites
- user reviews indicate ample space for groups and large RV setups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two loops: north loop with smaller asphalt sites and south loop with larger paved sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 1 to September 30 for peak season and first-come, first-served access from October 1 to April 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its mobile app. Contact center fees apply.
Walk-in AvailabilityFrom October 1 to April 30, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and fees for the first night will be forfeited for late cancellations made less than one day prior to arrival. Modifications are subject to a $10 change fee if dates are entirely outside the original reservation period.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Devils Canyon Campground offers a variety of recreational options, from scenic drives along the Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway to hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. Several off-road vehicle trails are also nearby, and the area provides easy access to attractions like Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.
Hiking
The Abajo Mountains offer nearby off-road vehicle trails and hiking options. However, some reviews note a lack of trails directly accessible from the campground. Trails are more oriented toward ATV use or are located further away.Biking
Biking is an activity that some visitors enjoy within the campground. Specific biking trails beyond the campground are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, mule deer, and even black bears can be seen in the area.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Edge of the Cedars Museum offers evening programs in Blanding. Educational opportunities related to archaeological sites are also accessible in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but the campground operates seasonally, closing before winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are provided at each campsite. Campers are advised to use local firewood to avoid spreading pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include black bears. Visitors are advised to store food securely.
Active alertsUser reviews indicate recurring issues with water system functionality, which has caused restroom closures and lack of potable water during certain periods.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Monticello, UT, which has a hospital and police station. Blanding, UT also has emergency services and a visitor center.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. One user specifically appreciated the presence of recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features within the campground; nearby attractions include Lake Powell.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include water system failures leading to unavailable restrooms and lack of potable water, extensive generator hours, and occasional road noise from Highway 191.
HostThe campground is managed by hosts who have received mixed reviews—while some campers praise their helpfulness, others report lack of communication and inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
MANTI-LASAL
Driving directionsThe campground is 13 miles south of Monticello, Utah and 9 miles north of Blanding, Utah on US Highway 191. The campground is approximately 1/4-mile off the highway.
Paved roads provide access to the campground, and it is located directly off US Highway 191. However, some user reviews mentioned difficulty finding the campground due to poor signage.Nearby places
Monticello, UT (13 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Blanding, UT (9 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Monticello, UT or Blanding, UT, both of which feature grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.5
105 reviews
Devils Canyon is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Devils Canyon Campground are generally positive, with consistent praise for the cleanliness of facilities, spacious sites, and convenient location for exploring nearby attractions. However, recurring complaints include issues with water availability and occasional noise from the nearby highway.
Review Summaries
Based on 105 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean, well-maintained vault toilets, spacious and shaded sites, and friendly camp hosts. Visitors also appreciate the proximity to attractions like Bears Ears and Arches...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Visitors frequently mention the seasonal water availability, with some expressing frustration about arriving to find water turned off without prior notice. Highway noise is also a minor concern for...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra water, especially early in the season, as the campground's water is seasonal. Campers also suggest staying in the upper loop for more shade and privacy.
Based on 105 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Early season reviews often highlight issues with water not being turned on, leading to unclean toilets. Summer reviews focus on the pleasant temperatures at the campground's elevation. Fall reviews...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The vault toilet was one of the cleanest we have ever seen.' (User: JOE H) 2. 'Beautiful campground with tall pine trees. Quiet.' (User: ELIZABETH O) 3. 'Camp hosts were pleasant, and the vault...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #13: Noted for its proximity to water and restrooms, but some found it unsuitable for tent camping. Site #7: Appreciated for its level surface and concrete pad but experienced issues with...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are praised for their concrete pads and wheelchair-friendly features. However, some criticism exists, such as Site #6's steps making certain amenities challenging to reach.
Based on 105 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some reviews mention pets, including incidents of disruptive behavior. A reviewer noted that dogs in neighboring sites were poorly controlled, impacting their stay.
Based on 105 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025