Sunglow Campground
4.5931 reviews138 SOUTH MAIN ST., LOA, UT, 84747, USA
Sunglow Campground
$20.00 - $55.00 / 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$55.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $55 for group sites and $20 for standard nonelectric sites. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in a breathtaking red rock box canyon near the charming town of Bicknell, Utah, Sunglow Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This small, thoughtfully developed campground provides modern conveniences including flush toilets, fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, and fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While the campground doesn't offer hookups or garbage service, its 'pack it in, pack it out' philosophy helps preserve the pristine beauty of this special place for generations to come.
Sunglow Campground offers tent and group camping options. RV camping is possible, but there are no hookups available.
Weather and SeasonsSunglow's high desert climate delivers an ever-changing canvas of weather throughout the year. Peak camping season from May through September rewards visitors with predominantly dry conditions and crystal-clear skies that showcase spectacular sunsets and unobstructed stargazing. While winter months occasionally dust the canyon with light snow and bring crisp, freezing temperatures, the shoulder seasons offer their own magic—wildflower blooms in late spring and golden cottonwood displays in early fall.
ElevationPerched at 7,200 feet above sea level, Sunglow Campground offers a refreshing retreat from desert heat. The elevation gifts campers with pleasantly cool nights perfect for sleeping and crisp morning air that pairs beautifully with campfire coffee. From this lofty vantage point, sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape unfold in every direction, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a natural amphitheater where towering red rock walls create an intimate canyon sanctuary at 7,200 feet. Ancient cottonwoods provide welcome shade along the canyon floor, their leaves whispering stories in the breeze. Gnarled junipers dot the landscape alongside aromatic sagebrush, while seasonal wildflowers paint splashes of color across the desert canvas. Just a stone's throw away, the magnificent Capitol Reef National Park beckons with its labyrinth of canyons, soaring cliffs, and miles of trails that wind through some of Utah's most spectacular scenery.
Geological RegionSunglow Campground rests within a spectacular red rock box canyon, where millions of years of geological artistry are on full display. At 7,200 feet elevation, this natural fortress showcases the Colorado Plateau's signature sandstone formations, painted in rich hues of crimson and amber. The canyon's unique microclimate supports a diverse ecosystem where stately cottonwoods thrive alongside hardy junipers, fragrant sagebrush fills the air with its distinctive scent, and delicate wildflowers emerge each summer to carpet the desert floor in unexpected bursts of color.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground lacks detailed information on specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious enough to accommodate trailers, with two group sites capable of hosting up to 20 people each.
Sites PrivacySome sites, like site #1, are noted to offer more privacy than others. Generally, the campground is described as quiet and peaceful, though noise can travel due to the canyon surroundings.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 is best for privacy. Group sites A and B are more spacious and accommodate RVs or trailers. Visitors should arrive early to secure spots during peak season.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is described as private and isolated, while site #2 is recommended for tent camping.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates up to 20 guests.
Groups
There are two group sites available, each with a capacity of up to 20 people. Group sites are noted to be spacious and suitable for multiple campers or RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGravel parking spurs with picnic tables and fire pits at individual sites. Group sites have larger spaces close to restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 20, 2025, with reservable dates starting June 25, 2025, and closing September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve basis for sites outside reservation window.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival, but a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellation penalties include forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservations cost $10 if new dates differ entirely.
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
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and off-road vehicle trails. The Great Western Trail is located nearby, offering further opportunities for exploration. Wildlife viewing and fishing are available in the surrounding area, including at the nearby Ke Bullock Waterfowl Management Area.
Hiking
Many miles of hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including an early morning hike that leads to a red sandstone canyon, which 'glows in the early morning sun a golden fiery red,' according to one user review.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the nearby Ke Bullock Waterfowl Management Area.Biking
Biking trails are available in the region, including access to the Great Western Trail.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is available in nearby areas such as the Ke Bullock Waterfowl Management Area.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports activities are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but guests are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent the spread of pests.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise can travel easily due to the box canyon geography. Flash floods have impacted the canyon above camp in recent years. User reviews suggest caution against theft after dark.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 22.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
The nearest emergency services include Bicknell and Loa, which likely have facilities for basic medical care or police assistance. Specific hospital or ranger station details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20, 2025 - September 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingThe facility operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, as there are no garbage services available. Campers are required to bring their own garbage bags.
Proximity to water featuresA small creek runs behind the campground, adding tranquility to the setting.
Common complaintsLimited shade due to sparse tree cover, flies, and potential theft of unsecured items as noted by some user reviews.
Campground Map
138 SOUTH MAIN ST., LOA, UT, 84747, USA
Driving directionsTravel a half-mile south of Bicknell, Utah, on Highway 24, then turn east on Forest Road 143 and travel 1.5 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is paved, but the road and parking spurs within are gravel. Easy access for motorcycles as noted in user reviews. No seasonal road closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Bicknell (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes by car), Capitol Reef National Park (20 miles, 15-30 minutes by car depending on traffic)
Nearby supplies
Groceries are available but at premium costs due to the remote location. User reviews suggest buying supplies before arriving to avoid high prices.
Camper Reviews
4.6
31 reviews
Sunglow Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's beautiful location, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to Capitol Reef National Park. Positive remarks often focus on the clean facilities, well-maintained sites, and the scenic red rock canyon surroundings. A few complaints mention the limited shade and the presence of flies.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
1. 'Beautiful, small campground' and 'clean bathrooms' as noted by multiple reviewers. 2. The campground's proximity to Capitol Reef National Park, being only 15-20 minutes away. 3. Water spigots at...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
1. 'Not enough shade' in some areas, as mentioned by a reviewer. 2. Presence of flies, which some found bothersome. 3. The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, which caused issues...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Arrive early, as the campground is small and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. 2. Bring your own garbage bags due to the pack-in, pack-out policy. 3. Purchase groceries before arriving,...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is most popular and enjoyable during the summer months, with some guests staying extra days due to the pleasant atmosphere. Flies may be more common during warmer...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The short hike up the main canyon is possible for just about anyone and well worth the time.' 2. 'Loved our stay here. Nice size sites with picnic table and fire pit.' 3. 'The sites were clean...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site #1 is described as more isolated and private. 2. Group Site A is noted to be slightly nicer than Group Site B. 3. Individual sites are well-equipped with fire pits, picnic tables, and water...
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Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews were found.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted at the campground, but no specific reviews discussed pet-related features or experiences.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025