Desolation Canyon Camping

Desolation Canyon is one of the most remote and awe-inspiring wilderness areas in the lower 48 states. Carved over time by the Green River, this canyon stretches across 84 miles through the Tavaputs Plateau in eastern Utah. It cuts through sheer red rock walls that rise over a mile above the river in places. Encompassing nearly 291,000 acres, the Desolation Canyon Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is the largest of its kind managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) outside of Alaska.

Accessible only by rugged roads and best explored by river, Desolation Canyon is a designated National Historic Landmark with exceptional recreational opportunities, including rafting, primitive camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and archaeological exploration. Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsperson or planning your first multi-day river trip, Desolation Canyon offers an unforgettable backcountry experience.

Rafting Through Desolation Canyon

The 84-mile segment of the Green River from Sand Wash to Swasey’s Rapid offers over 60 named rapids, mostly Class II and III, making it ideal for beginner to intermediate whitewater rafters. At high water, Joe Hutch Canyon Rapid (also known as Cow Swim) can reach Class IV. River trips usually last 4 to 6 days, with commercial and private groups launching during spring, summer, and fall. The gradual build-up in rapid difficulty, paired with incredible scenery and solitude, has made this stretch one of the most popular river rafting destinations in the western United States.

Permits are required for all river trips. Commercial rafting trips are available through licensed outfitters, while non-commercial trips are issued by the BLM through a seasonal lottery for peak-season launches between May 15 and August 14. Off-season permits are available first-come, first-served. Contact the BLM Price Field Office for full details or to apply for a permit.

Camping in Desolation Canyon

All camping within Desolation Canyon is primitive and accessible only by boat. Campsites are located on sandy riverbanks and terraces along the route, with no formal facilities. River runners are required to follow Leave No Trace principles, use portable toilet systems, and pack out all trash. Fire pans are mandatory for campfires, and firewood collection is generally prohibited.

Campsites are first-come, first-served and limited to the west side of the river between Sand Wash and Coal Creek Rapid. From Coal Creek down to Swasey’s, camping is allowed on both sides, but the eastern bank traverses Ute/Ouray tribal lands. Due to past misuse, tribal permits are no longer granted to non-members, so all camping must occur on public land.

Some of the most popular and scenic campsites include:

• Three Canyon Beach, which offers wide beaches, good swimming, and access to a panoramic hike with views of a winding river bend.

• Rock Creek Ranch, a historic homestead with mulberry trees, shade, and relics from early settlers.

• McPherson Camp, across from McPherson Ranch, where shallow water and sandbars make for ideal beach games and swimming.

Natural and Cultural Highlights

Desolation Canyon is home to one of the richest archaeological zones in the region. Thousands of Fremont and Ute petroglyphs can be found etched into sandstone walls, especially in areas like Flat Canyon, Big Tree, and the Price River confluence. These ancient images include bighorn sheep, spirals, and harvest calendars.

In addition to ancient art, Desolation Canyon preserves the history of ranchers and outlaws. The McPherson Ranch was once a hideout for figures like Butch Cassidy, while Rock Creek Ranch still contains remnants of cabins built by early 20th-century homesteaders.

The canyon’s isolation makes it a sanctuary for wildlife. Bighorn sheep, black bears, wild horses, elk, and a wide range of bird species are frequently spotted. Vegetation changes dramatically with elevation, transitioning from desert shrublands to juniper woodlands, cottonwood groves, Douglas fir, and even mountain mahogany.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Weather in Desolation Canyon is highly variable. Temperatures can swing over 40 degrees in a single day, and storms can bring high winds, flash floods, or even snow. Be prepared for intense sun exposure, insects (especially mosquitoes near Sand Wash), and complete disconnection from civilization. Cell service is not reliable in the canyon.

Each group must carry essential safety gear, including personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all boaters, first aid kits, repair tools, and spare oars. All water must be carried or carefully filtered, as the Green River is extremely silty.

Trip Logistics and Nearby Campgrounds

Most Desolation Canyon trips begin at the Sand Wash Ranger Station, a remote launch site with primitive camping and screen cabins for rent. There are vault toilets but no potable water or trash disposal. Access requires a high-clearance vehicle and careful trip planning.

Take-out typically occurs at Swasey’s Rapid, near the town of Green River. Swasey’s Beach Campground offers shaded sites with picnic tables and fire rings—ideal for staging before or after a trip. Green River State Park is another nearby option with full RV hookups, showers, a boat ramp, and a golf course.

For those looking to camp near but not within the canyon, other developed options exist in Arches National Park and Ashley National Forest, both within a few hours' drive.

Final Thoughts

Camping and rafting in Desolation Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience. The mix of wild beauty, deep history, and thrilling rapids offers something for every outdoor adventurer. With careful planning, respect for the land, and an adventurous spirit, a Desolation Canyon trip will stay with you for years to come.

If you're searching for the best backcountry camping in Utah or planning a Green River rafting adventure, Desolation Canyon deserves a spot at the top of your list.