Camping along SR-29 from forest boundary to Joe’s Valley dam prohibited

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Forest Service closes Straight Canyon roadside to camping
The Manti-La Sal National Forest is prohibiting camping within 150 feet from the edge of State Route 29 in Straight Canyon from the forest boundary to Joe’s Valley Dam. The order is in effect from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout the year
The forest service is banning all temporary overnight occupancy including camping in vehicles.
The action comes as an effort to improve public safety along the narrow roadway. SR-29 through Straight Canyon is a narrow, twisting two-lane paved road that stretches 5.2 miles from the forest boundary to Joes Valley Dam. It has few parking turnouts and narrow road shoulders with a steep descent to the river on the south side and mountain terrain on the north.
The area is popular for bouldering and fishing and is heavily used. The forest service hopes the elimination of camping along the roadside will open up more space for parking and mitigate impacts from roadside camping. The affected area will be clearly signed for day-use parking only.
Camping is still available on BLM ground and on the forest above the Joe’s Valley dam.
The bouldering group pays for portable rest rooms during the climbing season along SR-29.
The BLM/forest service hopes to construct a rest room in the area.