Canyonlands National Park Camping Guide

Island in the Sky Campgrounds

Island in the Sky Park entrance is 40 minutes from Moab, Utah

Camping in or near Island in the Sky puts you on top of a vast mesa with sweeping views in every direction. This district is the most accessible part of Canyonlands, just 40 minutes from Moab, and offers easy access to short hikes, dramatic overlooks, and star-filled night skies. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors, families who want shorter drives to viewpoints, or anyone hoping to experience sunrise and sunset from the canyon rim without the crowds.

In this District:

• Willow Flat Campground
• Horsethief Campground
• Lone Mesa Campground
• White Rim Trail Backcountry
• Directions to Island in the Sky Entrance 
  

Needles District Campgrounds

The Needles District Park entrance is 1 hour and 20 minutes from Moab, Utah

Camping in the Needles District feels like stepping deeper into Canyonlands’ backcountry. About an hour and a half drive from Moab along US-191 and UT-211, this area is known for its colorful spires, winding canyons, and access to some of the park’s best hiking trails. With fewer crowds than Island in the Sky, Needles appeals to travelers who want a quieter basecamp, longer day hikes, and the chance to experience Canyonlands’ wild side up close.

In this District:

• The Needles Campground
• Needles Outpost Campground
• Needles District Backcountry 
• Directions to Needles Entrance
  

Camping in the River District

The River District entrance is the Potash Boat Ramp 30 minutes from Moab, Utah

Camping in the River District of Canyonlands is the park’s most adventurous option. Sites along Colorado Rivers are only accessible by boat, meaning you’ll need a permit or a guided rafting trip to spend the night here. The reward is total solitude—towering canyon walls, sandy beaches for tents, and some of the darkest skies you’ll ever see. For those seeking a true backcountry experience, river camps combine the thrill of adventure with an unforgettable experience.

In this District:

• Cataract Canyon 4-Day Rafting Trip
• Cataract Express 2-Day Rafting
  

Cataract Canyon 4-Day Rafting Trip

The Cataract Canyon 4-Day Camping Trip takes you deep into Canyonlands National Park, combining rafting on the Colorado River with nights on sandy beaches beneath star-filled skies. Over four days and 3 nights, you’ll run thrilling rapids, explore hidden side canyons, and enjoy hearty meals by the river. It’s hands-down the best way to experience the park’s wild heart. This is Canyonlands camping and hiking made easy!

Note: This rafting trip also includes a return flight air tour over all four districts of Canyonlands National Park.

Cataract Canyon 2-Day Express

The Cataract Canyon Express packs the best of Canyonlands into just two days. After a scenic flight or drive to the put-in, you’ll raft 100 miles of the Colorado River, hitting big whitewater rapids and camping one night on a riverside beach. It’s the perfect option for travelers short on time who still want a true Canyonlands adventure.

Campgrounds Near Canyonlands

The River District entrance is the Potash Boat Ramp 30 minutes from Moab, Utah

If the campgrounds inside Canyonlands are booked, or if you’d prefer more comforts, you’ll find excellent options just outside the park. From RV parks with full hookups to luxury glamping retreats, these campgrounds keep you close to the trails and views while offering extra amenities families and travelers appreciate.

AT A GLANCE:

• Kayenta Campground
• Sun Outdoors RV Campground
• Moab Under Canvas Glamping
• Glamping Canyonlands
•  ULUM Moab Glamping
  

Kayenta Campground

Only 15 minutes from Island in the Sky at Canyonlands National Park and nestled amongst the junipers, Kayenta Campground at Dead Horse Point State Park offers 21 sites with lighted shade structures, picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads. All sites also have RV electrical hookups, and modern restroom facilities are available. Stay here and savor the stunning views of Deadhorse Point State Park, plus some really cool biking and hiking trails!

Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway

Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway is just 20 minutes from Island in the sky at Canyonlands National Park, offering RV, tent, and cabin stays. With full-hookup pull-through sites—ranging from standard pads to extra-large spots for big rigs—you’ll enjoy leveled gravel pads, picnic tables, and WiFi. On-site amenities include a pool, general store, and gas station, making it easy to stock up before hitting nearby trails. Pet-friendly and family-oriented, this resort is a convenient basecamp for exploring Moab, Arches, and Canyonlands alike.

Under Canvas Moab

Under Canvas Moab blends adventure with comfort just north of town and within 25 minutes of the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park and 10 minutes from Arches National Park. Spacious canvas tents feature real beds, wood-burning stoves, and optional en-suite bathrooms. It’s ideal for travelers who want to stay close to nature without giving up a good night’s sleep. Wake to desert light and fall asleep under starry skies in true glamping style.

Glamping Canyonlands

Just 45 minutes from the Needles entrance of Canyonlands, Glamping Canyonlands offers stylish safari tents with cozy beds, solar power, and unbeatable red rock views. This off-grid retreat is ideal for those who want to unplug without roughing it. Enjoy quiet mornings, star-filled nights, and easy access to world-class hiking—right from your tent.

ULUM Moab

ULUM Moab offers a luxurious take on camping roughly 30 minutes south of Moab, Utah, and 60 minutes from the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Nestled against sandstone cliffs, this glamping resort features spacious safari-style tents with king beds, private decks, and spa-inspired bathrooms. After hiking remote trails, return to fire pits, soaking tubs, and stargazing without sacrificing comfort or style.