Pros & cons
PROS
- Walk to Sunset/Sunrise Points and major Amphitheater trailheads
- Park shuttle stops at the entrance
- Showers and laundry available nearby in summer
CONS
- No electric, water, or sewer hookups at sites
- Fills quickly in peak season—reserve early
Overview
A classic national park campground tucked among pines near the rim, Sunset Campground puts you steps from the Bryce Amphitheater’s marquee views and trailheads. It’s quiet, woodsy, and wildly convenient for sunrise/sunset photos and early trail starts.
Layout & vibe
There are three loops (A, B, and C) with about 99 sites total. Loop A is for RVs/trailers (generators allowed 8am–8pm). Loops B and C are for tents, trailers, and smaller RVs—with no generators allowed—so those loops tend to feel more tranquil. A separate group site is available. Expect shaded, spacious sites beneath tall pines and a generally serene setting.
Facilities
You’ll find flush-toilet restrooms and potable water throughout the campground, plus a picnic table and fire ring at each site. There are no site hookups, but there’s a fee-for-use dump station nearby and potable water spigots for filling containers. Showers and coin laundry are at the nearby general store during summer.
Location perks
From camp, you can walk to Sunset Point and the Bryce Amphitheater trail network—ideal for Navajo Loop, Queens Garden, Rim Trail, and golden-hour viewpoints—without hunting for parking. The park shuttle stops at the campground entrance, making it easy to roam the Amphitheater area without moving your vehicle.
Wildlife & night sky
Deer and birds frequent the ponderosa forest around camp, and the area’s famous dark skies make stargazing a nightly show when the weather cooperates. Bring binoculars if you like scanning the hoodoos and Milky Way.
What to expect
- No hookups; plan to manage your own power, water, and waste.
- Summer brings crowds—this campground is popular for its location.
- Even in summer, nights can be chilly around 8,000 feet, so pack layers.
- Fire restrictions can kick in during dry spells; check current rules before you light a campfire.
Best time to visit
- For softer light and thinner crowds at viewpoints and on trails, aim for dawn and the hour before sunset.
- Peak season (roughly May–October) fills fast—book well ahead. In shoulder season, some periods operate first-come, first-served and can fill by evening.
- Midweek visits are typically calmer than weekends.
Who will love it
Hikers, photographers, and anyone who wants to trade car time for trail time. If you need hookups, consider an RV park outside the campground; otherwise this is the most convenient base for the Amphitheater.
Where it is
37.6220, -112.1750Tips for Sunset Campground
- 01Reserve well ahead for summer; it often books out.
- 02Use the park shuttle from the campground entrance to skip parking hassles.
- 03Pack warm layers—nights are chilly around 8,000 feet even in summer.
- 04Pick Loop A if you’re okay with generator hours; choose B or C for quieter nights.
- 05Showers and laundry are at the nearby general store in summer.
Amenities
Near Sunset Campground
All places →All trails →
0.4 mi awaySilent CityA dense hoodoo maze viewed best from Sunset Point
0.4 mi awayNavajo Loop and Queen's Garden CombinationHoodoo showcase: slot walls, arches, and a steep finaleModerate · 2.9 mi · 2.5 hr
0.4 mi awayFigure 8 CombinationHoodoos, Wall Street, and Peekaboo in one spectacular figure-eight loopChallenging · 6.4 mi · 4 hr
0.4 mi awaySunset Point to Sunrise PointBig hoodoo views on an easy, paved rim stroll between top overlooksEasy · 1.1 mi · 30 min
0.5 mi awayValhalla Pizzeria & Coffee ShopCasual lodge-area spot for pizza, espresso, and a quick refuelFood · Restaurant
0.5 mi awayNavajo Loop TrailShort, steep dive into Bryce’s hoodoos with iconic switchbacksModerate · 1.3 mi · 1 hr
0.5 mi awaySunset PointPanoramas of hoodoos with trails dropping right from the rimTrailhead · Restroom
0.5 mi awayWall StreetSteep switchbacks into a slot of hoodoos and cool shade
