Barker Recreation Area

About

Barker Recreation Area is a developed campground perched at 9,300 feet on Utah's Colorado Plateau within Dixie National Forest. The campground comprises 13 single-family sites and 3 group sites, all set beneath a dense canopy of aspen and spruce. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food storage locker. Vault toilets serve the area, and potable water is available from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Upper Barker Reservoir lies adjacent to the campground and permits non-motorized boats for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Rainbow and brook trout populate both Upper and Lower Barker Reservoirs. Floating docks provide fishing access. The Great Western Trail and other hiking, biking, and equestrian trails depart from nearby trailheads, connecting to nine backcountry fishing lakes and offering expansive mountain views. Wildlife is abundant, including black bear, blue grouse, golden eagle, and wild turkey. The area is known for spectacular fall colors and summer wildflowers. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Escalante Petrified Forest State Park are all within driving distance.

Directions

From Escalante, drive west on Highway 12 to between mileposts 55 and 56. Turn right on the dirt road and cross the Escalante River. After a short distance, turn right onto Forest Road 149 signed for Barker Campground. Continue 16 miles on FR 149. The final 3.4 miles are steep and single-lane with switchbacks and turnouts.