RV Parks Near Bears Ears National Monument

Quick Definition

Bears Ears National Monument is a 1.36 million-acre protected landscape in southeastern Utah jointly managed by the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and five tribal nations: the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray, and Pueblo of Zuni. There is no entrance fee to the monument itself, making it one of the most accessible archaeological and geological destinations in the Southwest. The area encompasses the iconic twin Bears Ears Buttes (elevation 8,527 feet), cedar-forested canyons filled with Ancestral Puebloan ruins, world-class natural bridges, dramatic slot canyons, and some of the clearest night skies in the region. RV travelers can base themselves at commercial campgrounds in nearby towns like Blanding, Bluff, and Monticello, or venture into the backcountry for permit-based canyon expeditions and dispersed camping. Whether you're seeking ancient cultural sites, river adventures, or remote desert solitude, Canyon Country Utah RV Parks offer a range of accommodations to match your trip style.

TL;DR

• Bears Ears is 1.36 million acres of free public lands with no entrance fee; jointly managed with tribal nations; the two iconic mesas give the monument its name and are visible from US-191 south of Blanding
• Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal seasons; summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, and winter is cold but accessible
• Nearest full-service towns are Blanding (30 miles north) and RV Parks in Blanding for hookups and fuel, followed by Bluff (20-50 miles depending on access point) and Monticello (50+ miles north)
• Top attractions include Natural Bridges National Monument (Sipapu Bridge with its 220-foot span), Cedar Mesa's permit-based Grand Gulch backpacking, San Juan River floats from Sand Island, and free BLM exploration of Comb Ridge and Valley of the Gods
• RV park rates range from free dispersed BLM camping on Cedar Mesa (high-clearance vehicles required) to 30-55 dollars per night at commercial parks with full hookups in Blanding and Monticello

Access Zones

Bears Ears National Monument is accessed from four primary zones, each offering different experience levels, services, and vehicle requirements.

Blanding/Monticello Gateway (North) — The most developed and accessible entry point to the monument, 30-50 miles north of the main archaeological areas. Blanding serves as the closest full-service town with commercial RV parks offering 40-55 dollars per night with full hookups, dining, groceries, fuel, and visitor services. Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum here showcases an exceptional Ancestral Puebloan collection. Monticello, an additional 20 miles north, offers similar amenities. From Blanding, the drive to Bears Ears Buttes overlook is about 30 minutes on US-191.

Bluff Gateway (Southeast) — A smaller, historic desert town 20-40 miles from primary monument features depending on which access point you're targeting. Bluff is the traditional jumping-off point for San Juan River floats, which depart from Sand Island just 3 miles west of town. RV parks here range from 30-50 dollars per night, with fewer commercial options but more backcountry character. Bluff offers a genuine frontier feel and serves as the staging point for Valley of the Gods exploration and Comb Ridge access.

Cedar Mesa (Interior) — The southern portion of the monument is rich in Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites and accessible only to those willing to navigate rough BLM roads with high-clearance vehicles. Dispersed camping is free and remote; camping areas are unmarked and require navigation skills and self-sufficiency. Permit-based access to Grand Gulch, Moon House Ruin, and Bullet Canyon limits daily use to 12 permits per day via recreation.gov. This zone is for experienced backcountry travelers.

Natural Bridges National Monument (West) — Located within the Bears Ears boundaries, this standalone NPS unit features a 9-mile scenic loop drive connecting three world-class natural bridges, including the 220-foot-span Sipapu Bridge (the second largest natural arch in the United States) and the smaller, delicate Owachomo Bridge. Entry is 20 dollars per vehicle; the park campground offers tent and small RV sites for 20-25 dollars per night. The monument is stargazing-certified and draws visitors primarily during spring and fall.

Best RV Parks Near Bears Ears

Things To Do

Bears Ears National Monument offers a staggering range of activities for RV-based travelers, from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking expeditions.

Natural Bridges National Monument Scenic Drive — The 9-mile loop through Natural Bridges is one of the most accessible and visually stunning drives in the monument. The paved road connects three major natural bridges. Sipapu Bridge, at 220 feet across and 140 feet high, is the second largest natural arch in the United States and dominates the landscape from its overlook. Owachomo Bridge, smaller and more delicate, sits at the far end of the loop. Plan 2-3 hours for this drive and easy rim walks. The stargazing here is world-class; evening visits in late fall are exceptional.

Grand Gulch Backpacking — This permit-required, multi-day descent into a slot canyon is one of the most archaeologically rich hiking experiences in North America. Free permits via recreation.gov limit entry to 12 parties per day and fill quickly during peak seasons. The 20-mile route drops into a narrow red-rock canyon lined with Ancestral Puebloan ruins, rock art, and occasional water sources. Most trips take 2-4 days. High physical fitness and canyon navigation skills are required.

San Juan River Float Trip — Sand Island, 3 miles west of Bluff, is the launch point for permit-free day floats and multi-day river journeys. June through September see the highest water volumes and the smoothest logistics. Day floats to Redd Island or further destinations offer stunning red-rock canyon views and cultural sites. Multi-day trips terminate at Mexican Hat or Clay Hills. Outfitters in Bluff and Monticello can arrange raft rentals and shuttle services.

Valley of the Gods Scenic Loop — This 22-mile free BLM loop drive traces a red-sandstone landscape often called Utah's mini Monument Valley. The narrow, winding road offers pullouts with views of buttes, hoodoos, and slickrock formations. The drive takes 1-2 hours with stops. Valley of the Gods is accessed from US-163 near Bluff and is passable in standard vehicles (though high-clearance is safer).

Butler Wash Ruins Hike — Located 14 miles north of Bluff on US-191, this 1.2-mile round-trip hike ascends from the highway to a rim overlook of cliff dwellings nestled in a canyon wall. The ruins are visible from above without disturbing the site. The trail is free and open to the public, managed by the BLM. This is an excellent half-hour activity for travelers en route to other areas.

Comb Ridge Cliff Dwellings — The 47-mile monoclinal ridge that cuts north-south along US-163 north of Bluff is accessible via free BLM pullouts and short hiking trails. Comb Ridge hosts numerous Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and rock art sites in alcoves along the ridge. Several pullouts provide easy access to 10-30 minute rim and canyon walks.

Moon House Ruin and Cedar Mesa Exploration — The southern portion of Bears Ears, centered on Cedar Mesa, is an archaeologists' paradise. Moon House Ruin, with its distinctive circular tower and nearby Natural Arch (a large arch formation overhead that resembles a helicopter blade), requires a free permit via recreation.gov but rewards explorers with one of the most photographed archaeological sites in the Southwest. The permit system limits daily access and helps protect the site.

Bears Ears Buttes Overlook — The interpretive pullout 5 miles off US-191 south of Blanding offers the best views of the two iconic mesas that give the monument its name. The buttes rise to 8,527 feet and are visible for dozens of miles. The pullout is free and accessible in standard vehicles.

Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum — Located in Blanding, this museum houses an exceptional collection of Ancestral Puebloan artifacts, rock art photographs, and cultural exhibits. The museum provides essential context for understanding the RV Parks in Monticello region and the broader history of the Four Corners tribes. Plan 2-3 hours for the visit.

Cost Math

Visiting Bears Ears with an RV is remarkably affordable, especially if you're flexible with accommodations.

Free and Low-Cost Camping: Sand Island BLM Campground near Bluff and Valley of the Gods dispersed camping are completely free. Cedar Mesa dispersed BLM camping is also free but requires a high-clearance vehicle and self-sufficiency. Devils Canyon USFS Campground near Monticello runs 15-20 dollars per night. Natural Bridges NM Campground is 20-25 dollars per night.

Commercial RV Parks: Blanding RV Park and Monticello RV Park charge 40-55 dollars per night for full hookups. Recapture Lodge RV in Bluff runs 35-45 dollars per night. Edge of the Cedars State Park Camp is 25-30 dollars per night with partial hookups.

Activities: Most monument attractions are free. Natural Bridges NM costs 20 dollars per vehicle entry fee. Recreation.gov permits for Grand Gulch, Moon House, and Bullet Canyon are free but limited. San Juan River floats range from 50-150 dollars per person depending on trip length and outfitter.

Fuel: Blanding and Monticello have fuel stations. Bluff also has fuel but at potentially higher prices. Budget 40-60 dollars per tank depending on your rig size and mileage.

Sample Budget (4-night spring trip for couple in RV):

• Blanding RV Park (3 nights): 135-165 dollars
• Sand Island BLM (1 night): Free
• Natural Bridges entry: 20 dollars
• Meals and supplies: 200-300 dollars
• Total: approximately 355-485 dollars

This assumes no guide services or commercial outfitter costs. A luxury river trip or guided canyon expedition would add 300-800 dollars per person.

Practical Tips

Permits and Planning: Grand Gulch, Moon House, and Bullet Canyon permits via recreation.gov can fill weeks in advance during peak season (April-May, September-October). Request your permit at least one month ahead. Day hikes along canyon rims may not require permits—check BLM.gov for current conditions.

Vehicle Requirements: Standard passenger vehicles handle Blanding, Bluff, Natural Bridges, and Valley of the Gods. High-clearance 4WD is essential for Cedar Mesa dispersed camping and remote BLM roads. Inquire about road conditions at the Monticello or Bluff visitor centers before venturing into rougher terrain.

Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall are ideal with mild temperatures and reliable water flow for river trips. Summer temperatures exceed 100°F with little water available in canyons. Winter is cold and some roads are impassable. Flash flooding in slot canyons is possible during monsoon season (July-September); never enter canyons if rain is forecast.

Water and Supplies: Blanding, Bluff, and Monticello have grocery stores and gas stations. Cache water before heading into Cedar Mesa (15+ gallons per person for multi-day trips). Sand Island and Natural Bridges have water spigots.

Leaving No Trace: Camp at established sites or dispersed camping areas well away from archaeological sites. Pack out all trash. Use established fire rings where permitted. Never touch or remove artifacts, petroglyphs, or rock art. Stay on marked trails.

River Trip Logistics: San Juan River floats require shuttle arrangements. Several outfitters in Bluff and Monticello provide boats, shuttle services, and guided trips. Rates vary widely; call ahead to reserve.

Stargazing: Natural Bridges NM is one of the darkest night-sky parks in Utah. Bring a red headlamp to preserve night vision. Evening visits in October see peak Milky Way visibility. Avoid full moons for the best experience.

Cell Service: Expect limited to no cell coverage in remote areas, especially on Cedar Mesa and in slot canyons. File a trip plan with someone outside your party before heading into the backcountry. Satellite messengers are advisable for multi-day canyon trips.

Crowds: Bears Ears is less crowded than Moab, Arches, or Canyonlands. Permit-limited sites like Grand Gulch actually feel more exclusive and less impacted by overuse. Visit mid-week for fewer crowds. Early morning arrivals at Natural Bridges secure the best parking.

Local Knowledge: Stop at the Monticello BLM Visitor Center or the Edge of the Cedars Museum for maps, permit applications, and up-to-date trail and road conditions. Rangers and museum staff can recommend hikes and avoid bottlenecks. You can find comprehensive guidance on Best RV Parks in Utah to compare broader options across the state.

FAQ

What is Bears Ears National Monument? Bears Ears is a 1.36 million-acre protected landscape in southeastern Utah managed by the BLM, U.S. Forest Service, and five tribal nations. It encompasses archaeological sites, slot canyons, natural bridges, and the iconic dual-peaked Bears Ears Buttes. There is no entrance fee to the monument itself.

Do I need a permit to visit Bears Ears National Monument? No entrance permit is required for the monument. However, specific areas like Grand Gulch, Moon House Ruin, and Bullet Canyon require free permits via recreation.gov, limited to 12 parties per day. Day hikes on established trails and scenic drives require no permits.

What are the best months to visit? March through May (spring) and September through October (fall) offer the best weather, water flow for river trips, and comfortable temperatures. Summer exceeds 100°F, and winter is cold with limited services.

How close can I park my RV to archaeological sites? RVs must stay in designated campsites or dispersed camping areas; you cannot drive directly to ruins. Commercial parks in Blanding and Bluff offer the most convenient bases. Sand Island BLM and Natural Bridges NM have campgrounds within the region. Cedar Mesa dispersed camping is remote and requires high-clearance vehicles.

Can I fish the San Juan River from my RV? The San Juan River near Bluff is accessible for fishing at public access points. A Utah fishing license is required. San Island offers fishing access. Outfitters in Bluff can provide guided trips and rental equipment.

Is the Natural Bridges scenic drive worth it if I only have one day? Yes. The 9-mile loop takes 2-3 hours and showcases three world-class natural bridges including Sipapu Bridge (the second largest natural arch in the United States). It's one of the finest scenic drives in Utah and easily combined with other Bluff-area activities.

What is the closest RV park with full hookups to Grand Gulch trailhead? Blanding RV Park is approximately 45 miles from Grand Gulch (2.5 hours drive). Monticello RV Park is slightly farther but still within reasonable day-trip range. For backcountry camping closer to Grand Gulch, permit holders can use dispersed Cedar Mesa camping (free, but remote and high-clearance vehicle required).

Are pets allowed at Bears Ears campsites? Pet policies vary by site. Sand Island BLM Campground, Valley of the Gods dispersed camping, and Devils Canyon USFS Campground allow pets with some restrictions (keep leashed, voice control required in some areas). Natural Bridges NM Campground does not allow pets. Check with individual campgrounds before booking.

How much does it cost to enter Natural Bridges National Monument? Entry is 20 dollars per vehicle for a 7-day pass. The campground costs 20-25 dollars per night. The scenic drive and overlooks are included with entry. Seniors and disabled visitors receive discounts.

Can my standard RV access all areas of Bears Ears? Standard RVs handle paved roads to Natural Bridges, the Valley of the Gods scenic loop, and short day hikes from US-163 and US-191 pullouts. Cedar Mesa requires high-clearance 4WD; Comb Ridge road requires high-clearance; dispersed camping in remote areas requires serious vehicle capability and navigation skills.

Thinking About Selling

If you own or manage an RV park in the Bears Ears region—whether a commercial property in Blanding or Monticello, a BLM or forest service concessionaire operation, or even a small family-run lodge like Recapture in Bluff—now is an excellent time to evaluate your position in the outdoor hospitality market. RV park valuations are strong, and there's sustained demand from the growing segment of retirees and remote workers seeking affordable, amenity-rich bases for long-term stays and regional exploration.

The Bears Ears region is poised for continued growth. Blanding's proximity to multiple monuments, cultural institutions, and public lands makes it increasingly attractive to both seasonal and permanent RV residents. Bluff's authentic heritage and river access appeal to a specific, passionate demographic. Smaller parks with character often command premium acquisition multiples because they attract the most engaged guests and operate with tight unit economics.

If you're considering a transition—whether stepping back from daily operations, consolidating properties, or moving capital into other ventures—we can help you understand your park's true value and connect with serious, experienced buyers who respect the asset class and the communities you've built.

Jenna Reed, Director of Acquisitions at rv-parks.org, has spent the past decade evaluating RV parks across the Southwest. She understands the operational realities, the seasonal cash flow patterns, the permit landscape, and what makes a park genuinely profitable vs. what looks good on paper.

If you'd like to explore your options confidentially, reach out: jenna@rv-parks.org or visit /sell to start a conversation. No obligation, no pressure—just honest analysis from someone who knows the business.