Barker Recreation Area
4.3318 reviewsPO BOX 246, ESCALANTE, UT 84726, USA
Barker Recreation Area
$20.00 - $140.00 / 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$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual standard non-electric sites cost $20 per night during the peak season. Group sites range from $80 to $140 depending on the number of guests (1-50 people: $80; 51-max people: $140). Out-of-season bookings are not available.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Colorado Plateau, Barker Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude beneath towering aspens and fragrant spruce trees. This hidden gem features 13 intimate single-family sites and three spacious group camping areas, perfect for family reunions or outdoor gatherings. Whether you're casting a line in pristine waters, paddling across mirror-like surfaces, exploring scenic trails on foot or horseback, this remote sanctuary promises authentic wilderness experiences far from the crowds.
Barker Recreation Area offers single-family and group campsites within its remote, forested setting. Primitive camping options are available at lakeside backcountry sites but are not explicitly part of the main campground layout.
Historical SignificanceBarker Recreation Area serves as your gateway to two of Utah's most treasured landscapes. Just a short drive away, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument unfolds its ancient geological storybook, while Escalante Petrified Forest State Park preserves prehistoric forests turned to stone. These neighboring wonders offer glimpses into millions of years of Earth's history, from dinosaur tracks to petrified wood, making your camping experience a journey through deep time.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Barker bring that perfect mountain recipe: crisp, invigorating air that fills your lungs, brilliant blue skies that stretch endlessly overhead, and comfortable temperatures that make both adventure and relaxation equally appealing. As visitor Clayton K enthusiastically noted, 'Loved the cool air and the outhouse was decently well kept' - a testament to both the refreshing climate and the campground's commitment to maintaining essential facilities even in this remote location.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,300 feet above sea level, Barker Recreation Area places you firmly in the clouds. This lofty elevation means you'll wake to crisp mountain mornings, enjoy naturally air-conditioned afternoons, and sleep under some of the clearest night skies imaginable. Remember to pace yourself during activities as the thinner air takes some adjustment, but rewards you with that special alpine clarity that makes every breath feel refreshing.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where quaking aspens shimmer gold and green against the deep emerald of ancient spruce forests. Summer transforms this subalpine wonderland into a botanical paradise, with wildflowers painting the forest floor in splashes of purple lupine, golden arnica, and scarlet paintbrush. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters - majestic black bears forage for berries, blue grouse drum their mating calls, golden eagles soar overhead, and wild turkeys strut through the underbrush while ducks glide across nearby waters.
Geological RegionRising high above the iconic Colorado Plateau at 9,300 feet, Barker Recreation Area crowns this ancient geological masterpiece with its subalpine forest ecosystem. Here, graceful aspens dance in mountain breezes while stately spruce trees stand sentinel over meadows bursting with summer wildflowers. This elevated perch on one of North America's most distinctive geological features offers a cool refuge where the plateau's red rock country gives way to verdant mountain forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and bear-proof food storage lockers are provided. However, accessibility features beyond these are not detailed.
Sites SizeThe campground contains 13 single-family sites and three group campsites. Users have noted that some sites offer more shade than others.
Sites PrivacySome sites provide better privacy due to shading and positioning, but specifics are not broadly detailed.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded campsites such as 008 for a cooler experience. Group site Old Lady Young offers space and shade.
Best CampsitesCampsites 005, 008, 001, and group site Old Lady Young were highly rated for views, cleanliness, and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights. Maximum total stay within 30 days is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites accommodate single families. Group sites can hold up to 50 or more guests.
Groups
Group sites, such as the Porter group site, accommodate horses. Rates differ based on the number of occupants, with pricing tiers for groups of 1-50 people ($80.00 per night) and 51-max people ($140.00 per night).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 13 single-family sites and three group sites. Roads and parking spurs are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to August 31. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, its mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAdditional first-come, first-served sites may be available on-site; however, these are not guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees include a $10 fee and possible forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Late fees apply from midnight one calendar day before individual campsite check-ins and from 14 days prior for group sites.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The area offers diverse recreational opportunities, including fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Numerous trails connect to backcountry lakes with spectacular views. The Great Western Trail is prominent in the area, leading to nine fishing lakes surrounded by dense spruce and aspen forests.
Hiking
Numerous trails, including the non-motorized Great Western Trail, offer access to scenic views and backcountry fishing lakes. Trails are described as 'beautiful' and 'romantic' by users, although signage could be clearer according to one review: 'There are quite a few signs for the short trails, but we didn't always know the right way.'Fishing
Upper Barker Reservoir is known for excellent fishing opportunities, hosting rainbow and brook trout. Stream fishing is also available in the surrounding area. User reviews confirm the abundance of fish: 'Saw lots of fish as I walked around the lake.'Biking
Biking trails are accessible within the recreation area, offering varied terrain and scenic routes. Information on trail difficulty or length is not specified.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking is permitted on Upper Barker Reservoir. Motorized boats are prohibited.Wildlife viewing
The dense forests and reservoirs attract a variety of wildlife, including black bears, blue grouse, golden eagles, ducks, and wild turkey, making the area ideal for wildlife viewing. Summer wildflowers add to the natural beauty.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the authoritative source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available at Upper Barker Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Campers are advised to obtain firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include black bears; campers must use bear-proof lockers and keep campsites clean. The gravel road to the campground is steep and challenging.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Escalante Interagency Visitor Center (Phone: 435-826-5499)
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season: May 23 to August 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are not provided; campers are required to haul out their garbage.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Upper and Lower Barker Reservoirs, which offer fishing docks, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include poor road conditions: "The road was absolutely atrocious" (Clayton K). Full trash containers and lack of toilet paper were noted by another reviewer (Jeff Hayes).
HostA host is available but may not always be present; one user remarked positively on the host's friendliness and knowledge (Margaret H).
Campground Map
PO BOX 246, ESCALANTE, UT 84726, USA
Driving directionsFrom Escalante, Utah, drive 2.5 miles west on Highway 12, then turn right at the North Creek Lakes sign and right again at the Barker Recreation Area sign, onto Forest Road 149. Drive approximately 16 miles on FR 149. The last 3.4 miles of FR 149 are steep and single-lane with switchbacks and turnouts.
Roads and parking spurs are gravel. "The last 3.4 miles of FR 149 are steep and single-lane with switchbacks and turnouts." User reviews highlight the road's poor condition: "The road in was absolutely atrocious. It is not meant for motorhomes, travel trailers, or any vehicle you don't want to drive on washboard for 22 miles" (Clayton K). Another reviewer stated: "The road is not for the light-hearted, 16 miles of dirt road, with some switchbacks and 1000 feet of elevation change" (Alan Haywood).Nearby places
Escalante - 2.5 miles west on Highway 12 (approximately 45 minutes by road). Nearby attractions include Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Anasazi State Park.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Escalante, Utah, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.3
18 reviews
Barker Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is generally positive, with an average campground-specific rating of 4.22 out of 5. Reviews highlight the area's natural beauty, excellent fishing, clean facilities, and quiet atmosphere. Criticisms focus primarily on the challenging road conditions and inconsistent servicing of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the beautiful setting, fishing opportunities, clean campgrounds, and well-maintained bear-proof lockers. The cool alpine air and shaded sites are frequently mentioned as...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor road conditions ('The road in was absolutely atrocious,' '16 miles of dirt road'), lack of trash collection, and occasional shortages of toilet paper.
Based on 18 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing fishing gear, preparing for a challenging drive, and being self-sufficient in terms of amenities like trash disposal and toilet paper. Carrying water is also suggested for...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate peak usage during summer months, correlating with the availability of drinking water and pleasant weather conditions. Visitors during off-season periods report less crowded campsites...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Wonderful subalpine mountain retreat for a short hike. Beautiful little lakes (reservoirs, actually), romantic meadows, streams, anything you could wish for.' - Hubert Schwarthoff
- 'Great...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001: Highly rated for access to fishing spots and relaxation.
Site 005: Enjoyed for quiet atmosphere and proximity to hiking areas.
Site 006: Praised for cleanliness but noted lack of water...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but reviews do not provide additional insights into broader accessibility features.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews or complaints regarding pet policies are provided.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025