Barker Recreation Area

How often do you find a campground that combines pristine alpine lakes, exceptional solitude, and trails leading to hidden backcountry gems? The Barker Recreation Area in Hatch, Utah, defies typical camping expectations with its serene setting at an elevation of 9,300 feet on the Colorado Plateau, surrounded by aspen and spruce forests teeming with wildlife.

This campground features 13 individual sites and 3 group sites, each equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof storage, ensuring both comfort and safety. During the summer months, amenities like drinking water and accessible vault toilets enhance the experience, though campers must pack out their trash. The picturesque Upper and Lower Barker Reservoirs, located nearby, offer opportunities for non-motorized boating and fishing for rainbow and brook trout. For adventure-seekers, a network of trails, including the Great Western Trail, leads to seven additional backcountry fishing lakes and expansive mountain vistas.

Located about 30 minutes from the charming small town of Escalante, the Barker Recreation Area provides a gateway to natural wonders within the Dixie National Forest. Its remote and intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for peaceful weekend escapes, family gatherings, or extended stays for nature enthusiasts.