Want to go dispersed camping near Canyonlands National Park? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
The Moab Exchange lands were acquired by the State of Utah in 1965 in an exchange for sovereign lands within the newly-designated Canyonlands National Park. The Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands is responsible for the management of 829-acre Prairie Dog Haven Unit and the 4,350 Dalton Wells Unit in Grand County, Utah.
In 2015, the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands completed the Moab Exchange Lands Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP). The CMP was designed to facilitate the management of the exchange lands under multiple-use, sustained yield principles and accommodating public and private uses to the extent that the uses do not substantially impair the public trust resources.
Welcome to the BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed camping area in Utah. This spot is a hidden treasure for those who crave solitude and jaw-dropping views. Perched along the rim of a canyon, this area offers some of the most stunning vistas you'll ever lay eyes on.
Getting here is part of the adventure. The road requires a high-clearance vehicle, and while a 4x4 is recommended, some folks have managed with less. Just be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride. Once you arrive, you'll find several campsites spaced out along the cliff edge, giving you plenty of privacy and a front-row seat to nature's grandeur.
One of the standout features here is the sheer tranquility. Visitors often mention the incredible quiet, broken only by the sounds of nature. It's the perfect place to unwind and disconnect. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Just be mindful of the rugged terrain and keep an eye on them near the cliff edges.
There are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Pack out all your trash and leave no trace to keep this beautiful spot pristine for future visitors.
Whether you're in a tent or an RV, the views and the serenity make the journey worthwhile. So, pack your gear, bring plenty of water, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience at Middle Fork Shafer Canyon.
11 Miles south of Moab, free dispersed sites along Yellow Circle Road. BLM signage designates the area within which you can camp. Many RVs and tent sites. Good for 2wd.
Primitive camping is available in certain areas outside of Moab (see map) https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/Moab%20BLM%20Visitior%20Guide_pub_2019_all%20vertical%20pages.pdf
Welcome to South Klondike Bluffs / Road 142 Dispersed camping area, a no-frills spot near Moab, Utah. This place is perfect if you're looking for a free, quiet place to set up camp with some stunning views. Just a heads-up, this isn't your typical campground with amenities. You'll need to bring everything you need and pack it all out when you leave.
The road in can be a bit rough and rocky, so take it slow, especially if you're towing a trailer or driving a low-clearance vehicle. Some folks have mentioned that the road is manageable, but it can get bumpy. Once you find a spot, you'll be treated to wide-open spaces with no tree cover, which means great opportunities for stargazing and solar charging.
One of the best things about this area is its proximity to Moab and Arches National Park. You're only about 15-20 minutes away from Moab, making it easy to pop into town for supplies or a meal. Arches is even closer, so you can spend your days exploring the park and come back to a quiet spot at night.
Visitors have noted that the sites are exposed and can get windy, but the sunsets and sunrises are worth it. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, but you'll need to bring your own firewood.
If you're into mountain biking, bring your bike along. The long road offers some enjoyable rides with beautiful views. And if you're just looking for a place to crash for the night, this spot works well in a pinch.
So, if you're up for a bit of an adventure and don't mind roughing it, South Klondike Bluffs / Road 142 Dispersed camping area is a solid choice. Just remember to respect the land and leave no trace. Happy camping!
BLM operate three campgrounds along the way, each pleasantly situated next to shady trees and bushes, within sight of the river, though the free primitive camping that used to be possible at other locations is no longer permitted.
Camping is only allowed in developed campgrounds within 20 miles of Moab. Primitive camping is available in certain areas outside of Moab. See details here: https://www.discovermoab.com/blm-campgrounds/
Welcome to Porcupine Rim, a dispersed camping area that offers some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever see. Nestled in the Manti-La Sal National Forest near Moab, UT, this spot is a hidden gem for those who crave a bit of solitude and stunning scenery. The sunsets and sunrises here are nothing short of spectacular, painting the sky in hues that will make you want to stay forever.
Now, let's talk about the nitty-gritty. This place is free to camp, but it's not for the faint of heart. The road up is rocky and bumpy, so a high-clearance vehicle is a must. If you're driving a sedan, you might have to park a bit further out and hoof it the rest of the way. But trust me, the effort is worth it. Once you're up there, you'll find a few campsites scattered around, each offering its own slice of paradise.
Amenities are pretty basic. There's a toilet, which is a nice touch, and fire pits for those chilly nights. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars. Just make sure to bring your own drinking water, as there isn't any available on-site. And yes, pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Visitors have raved about the views and the sense of seclusion. One camper mentioned that they had the whole place to themselves, while another highlighted the incredible stargazing opportunities. Just be prepared for some bugs and sticky sap from the trees—small prices to pay for such an amazing experience.
So, pack your gear, grab your 4x4, and head up to Porcupine Rim. It's a bit of a trek, but once you're there, you'll understand why it's worth every bump and bruise. Enjoy the beauty, and please, leave no trace behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Canyonlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Canyonlands National Park is Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab - Sovereign Lands with a 4.4-star rating from 51 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Canyonlands National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 96 dispersed camping locations near Canyonlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
