Sunset Campground – Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Sunset Campground offers a classic Bryce Canyon camping experience in a peaceful ponderosa pine forest just a short walk from some of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. Named for the nearby Sunset Point overlook, this campground provides an excellent mix of serenity and convenience, making it a favorite basecamp for exploring hoodoos, slot-like canyons, and the unforgettable colors of the Bryce Amphitheater.

Location & Setting

Located near the southwestern section of the Bryce Amphitheater, Sunset Campground sits just off the main park road and is within walking distance of Sunset Point, Sunset Loop Trailheads, and the park’s free shuttle system. At around 8,000 feet in elevation, the area enjoys cool summer temperatures, crisp pine-scented air, and easy access to sweeping canyon vistas. The forested setting provides shade and a quiet, natural atmosphere, contrasting beautifully with the bright cliffs and hoodoo formations only a short stroll away.

Campground Overview

Sunset Campground is a large, seasonal campground arranged in three loops suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. While there are no hookups, sites are generally level, well-spaced, and tucked beneath tall pines that offer shade during warm afternoons. Compared to North Campground, Sunset tends to feel a little more rustic and spread out, with loops that allow visitors to find both privacy and proximity to trailheads. Because of its scenic location, Sunset is a popular choice during peak season, especially for travelers focused on sunrise and sunset photography.

Amenities

Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground provides restrooms with flush toilets as well as potable water spigots. There are no showers or electrical hookups, and RV dump facilities are located nearer to the park entrance. The nearby Sunset Point area includes access to shuttle stops, viewpoints, and short walking paths along the rim. Although amenities are modest, they are more than sufficient for a comfortable national park stay, and the quiet forest environment enhances the sense of retreat.

Activities & Nearby Trails

Sunset Campground is perfectly positioned for exploring Bryce Canyon’s legendary trail network. From nearby Sunset and Sunrise Points, campers can quickly reach some of the park’s best-known trails, including the Navajo Loop, Queen’s Garden, and the more challenging Peekaboo Loop. The Rim Trail can be accessed directly from the campground area, offering easy strolls to panoramic viewpoints. Thanks to Bryce Canyon’s International Dark Sky designation, nighttime stargazing is phenomenal, with some of the clearest Milky Way views in the Southwest. Wildlife sightings are common, and early morning walks often reveal mule deer grazing among the pines.

Summary

Sunset Campground offers a peaceful forest setting paired with unbeatable access to Bryce Canyon’s most iconic overlooks and trails. With spacious sites, cool mountain air, easy rim access, and incredible sunrise and sunset conditions just minutes away, it’s an ideal place to stay for hikers, families, photographers, and anyone wanting to fully experience the magic of Bryce’s hoodoo-filled amphitheater. For a quiet and scenic basecamp on the canyon’s edge, Sunset Campground delivers an experience that feels both timeless and uniquely Bryce.