Utah’s Fruita Campground and Devil’s Garden earned a reputation as two of the most challenging campsites to reserve in the United States, according to The Dyrt’s report.
Fruita Campground, nestled within Capitol Reef National Park, ranks eighth on the list of hard-to-book campgrounds, with an impressive 96% occupancy rate throughout the season. Visitors rave about Fruita’s scenic beauty, orchards, and the variety of hiking trails accessible from the campground. The tranquil atmosphere and well-maintained facilities contribute to its allure.
Even more challenging to secure is a spot at Devil’s Garden Campground in Arches National Park, which claims the third position on the list with a staggering 99.2% booking rate. The National Park Service notes that this campground is often fully booked months in advance.
Karen Garthwait, public affairs specialist with the Southeast Utah Group of National Parks, sheds light on the situation at Devil’s Garden.
“We only have about 50 sites and it is fully reservable for eight months out of the year. We’ve become kind of famous, but the road’s only 18 miles long. We just have the one campground,” Garthwait said, as reported by KSL News Radio on July 17.
For those hoping to experience these coveted camping spots, planning ahead is crucial. Recreation.gov offers tips for securing reservations at popular locations, including booking as soon as the reservation window opens and being flexible with dates.
Garthwait advised last-minute travelers to give themselves flexibility and patience, and to consider staying their first night a little farther outside of town. This approach may increase the chances of finding available sites in the vicinity.
While the high demand presents challenges for campers, it also impacts the campgrounds themselves. The National Park Service reports a backlog of deferred maintenance in national parks, affecting campground facilities.
The increased visitor numbers contribute to wear and tear, necessitating more frequent upkeep and potential expansions to accommodate the growing interest. This maintenance backlog can result in reduced amenities or temporary closures, potentially impacting campers’ experiences.
