MOAB, UTAH

Moab Camping Options at a Glance
From red rock riverbanks to quiet desert mesas, camping in Moab takes many forms. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly RV parks with hookups, classic national park campgrounds inside Arches and Canyonlands, or dispersed BLM sites under endless stars, you’ll find plenty of choices here. This guide highlights the main camping styles and points you to detailed pages for each—so you can quickly decide what fits your trip and start planning the adventures that will make your time in Moab unforgettable.
Arches National Park Camping
Staying inside Arches National Park is a bucket-list experience. Imagine waking up to sunrise glowing across the park’s world-famous arches and red rock formations. Devils Garden Campground, the park’s only developed site, offers tent and RV spaces surrounded by unforgettable scenery. Reservations are essential, especially in spring and fall, when demand is highest. If you’re looking for the most iconic place to camp in Moab, this is it.
Canyonlands National Park Camping
For those seeking solitude and wide-open views, camping in Canyonlands feels like stepping into another world. The Island in the Sky district offers campgrounds perched above sweeping canyons, while The Needles district brings you closer to towering spires and backcountry trails. Sites are more limited than in Arches, and amenities are minimal, so plan ahead and bring what you need. If your dream is to fall asleep beneath some of the darkest skies in the U.S., Canyonlands delivers.
Dead Horse Point State Park Camping
Just 40 minutes from Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park offers stunning views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands below. It's a hotspot for mountain biking, with 17 miles of singletrack in the Intrepid Trail System. Named an International Dark Sky Park, it’s perfect for stargazing. With 21 campsites—17 by reservation—this scenic escape combines red rock beauty, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable night skies. Book early to secure your spot under the stars.
River Camping: BLM Campgrounds
Few experiences match camping along the banks of the Colorado River, where red cliffs rise straight from the water and evenings bring cool breezes through the canyon. Several campgrounds line Highway 128 just minutes from Moab, offering tent sites, RV spaces, and easy river access. These spots are especially popular with families who want to splash in the water by day and enjoy campfires under starry skies at night.
Sand Flats Recreation Area Camping
Sand Flats Recreation Area is a playground for active campers, with views of the La Sal Mountains and nearly 40 miles of 4x4, ATV, and bike trails. Set among sandstone domes and mesas, the area offers 9 campgrounds and 120 sites with fire rings and picnic tables. It’s perfect for stargazing after a day of adventure. Sites are first come, first served and fill quickly on weekends—arrive early to claim your spot in this high-desert wonderland.
Downtown Moab Campgrounds
For scenic camping with more privacy, Moab offers over a dozen private campgrounds in the downtown area—some rustic with fire pits and vault toilets, others family-friendly with pools, hot tubs, and playgrounds. Up the Creek Campground is just two blocks from Main Street, while KOA sits peacefully in Spanish Valley. With options like RV sites, cabins, and tent spots, these campgrounds blend natural beauty with comfort and easy access to Moab’s shops and restaurants.
Moab RV Parks
If you prefer full hookups and modern amenities after a day of adventure, Moab’s RV parks are a great fit. Located close to town, they offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and tour departures while still keeping you near the red rock scenery. Many parks include showers, laundry, and pools—perfect for families or road-trippers who want comfort with their camping. With RV spots filling quickly in peak season, it’s smart to reserve ahead.
Dispersed Camping on BLM Land
For those who want wide-open space and a true desert adventure, dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land offers endless possibilities. These undeveloped sites give you freedom to set up camp away from crowds—often with spectacular canyon or mesa views. There are no services, so you’ll need to pack in water, pack out trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles. If you’re prepared, this is the most affordable and adventurous way to camp in Moab.
Glamping in Moab
For those who love the outdoors but want a touch of luxury, glamping in Moab is the best of both worlds. Canvas tents with real beds, cozy furnishings, and private decks let you soak in the desert views without giving up comfort. Many glamping resorts sit just outside Arches and Canyonlands, combining easy park access with stargazing, campfires, and even gourmet dining. It’s a memorable way to experience the red rock landscape in style.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT TYPES OF CAMPING ARE AVAILABLE IN MOAB?
Moab offers national park campgrounds (Arches, Canyonlands), Colorado River campgrounds, RV parks, dispersed BLM sites, and luxury glamping resorts. Each has different amenities and booking rules.
DO I NEED RESERVATIONS FOR CAMPING IN MOAB?
Yes, especially for Arches’ Devils Garden and Canyonlands’ campgrounds, which book out months ahead. Most BLM campgrounds and dispersed areas are often available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve national park sites and private campgrounds and RV parks as early as possible.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR CAMPING IN MOAB?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and are the most popular times for camping. Summer can be extremely hot (but a little cooler along the river), while winter is quieter but cold at night. Plan accordingly with layers, shade, and plenty of water.
CAN I CAMP INSIDE ARCHES OR CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARKS?
Yes. Arches has Devils Garden Campground, and Canyonlands has sites in the Island in the Sky and Needles districts. Amenities are limited, and spots sell fast—reserve up to six months in advance
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