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Established Camping

Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Split Top Group Campsite, near Moab, Utah, is a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Canyonlands National Park. This established campground offers a unique experience with sites that provide breathtaking views and a sense of solitude, making it a perfect retreat for groups.

The campground features picnic tables and fire rings, allowing you to enjoy meals and evenings around the fire while soaking in the magnificent scenery. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper stating, “This campground is in the middle of nowhere, in the best way.” The nearby Chesler Park trail system offers excellent hiking opportunities, connecting you to the park's iconic rock formations.

While amenities are limited, there are vault toilets and drinking water available, which campers appreciate after a day of exploring. Some sites are nestled into canyon overhangs, adding a unique touch to your camping experience. As one reviewer mentioned, “The views were amazing,” highlighting the beauty that surrounds you here.

If you're up for an adventure, the Needles District is known for its climbing and hiking opportunities, making it a great base for outdoor activities. Just keep in mind that it can get hot in the summer, so plan accordingly. Whether you're gathering with friends or family, Split Top Group Campsite offers a memorable escape into nature.

Fee Info

Individual Camp Sites: 1-10 people, $20

Loop A Group Campsite: 11-20 people, $90 21-30 people, $135 31-40 people, $180 41-50 people, $225

Wooden Shoe Group Campsite 11-15 people, $70 16-20 people, $90 21-25 people, $115

Split Top Group Campsite 11-15 people, $70

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Location

Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park is located in Utah

Detail location of campground

Directions

Driving Directions On US Highway 191, drive 40 miles (60 km) south of Moab or 14 miles (22 km) north of Monticello, then take Utah Highway 211 roughly 35 miles (56 km) west. Highway 211 ends in the Needles, and is the only paved road leading in and out of the district. Needles District Campground From the entrance station follow the main park road until you see signs for the campground. Hang the left into the campground and follow the signs into Loop B. __ Split Top__Group Site From the entrance station follow the main park road into the Needles District. Take the first left off the main road (1 mile from entrance station) towards Salt Creek/Cave Springs. Follow this road down until you see the Salt Creek/ Cave Springs sign (.7 miles). Turn left on the dirt access road at this bend. Follow the dirt road until you see the Split Top Group Site sign on your left (.8 miles). Use these directions in conjunction with the interactive map on the reservation page.__ __ Wooden Shoe__Group Site From the entrance station follow the main park road into the Needles District. Take the second left off the main park road (1.8 miles from the entrance station). Follow this road only briefly until you see the Wooden Shoe Group Site Sign on your left (.2 miles/ at the bottom of the hill). Use these directions in conjunction with the interactive map on the reservation page.________ Dutch Oven Group Site From the entrance station follow the main park road until you see signs for the campground. Hang the left into the campground and follow the signs into Loop A. The group site is halfway down the road leading through Loop A on your right. __ __ __ Important!! There are no lights on park roads or campsites. If you are unfamiliar with the Needles, it is highly recommended that you arrive before dark. Bring the driving directions provided above with you. The group campsites are marked with wooden signs located 10 - 15 feet back from the road.

Address

2282 SW Resource Blvd
Moab, UT 84532

Coordinates

38.1687861 N
109.7600389 W

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • WiFi
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

11 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 26, 2021

Best campsite I’ve ever had

Our site was located right near the entrance to the campground and had 3 tent pads. There were two little caverns where we sat in to escape the storm. If you’re luckier than us and get quiet neighbors, the park is silent. Be mindful that you’re in a canyon, surrounded by rocks which echo and carry your voice!! Overall we enjoyed and decided this was definitely the best site in the park.

Site19
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2020

Remote Established Camping

This campsite is a bit off the main roads but that hardly matters because the views are amazing.  We were here in the early summer and was hot and that is probably and understatement.  It's dusty , we were glad to have a tarp under the tent.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Amy S., November 6, 2020
Reviewed Oct. 10, 2020

Peace and solitude

This campground is in the middle of nowhere, in the best way. Although it is popular and was full when we were there, it’s a pretty small campground and spread out, so it didn’t feel crowded at all. Magnificent views of the needles, and the Chesler Park trail system connects to the campground (though this will add a mile or two to the trails, depending on your route). We were there Sept 9-11, and the weather was perfect! Site 25B is close to the neighboring site, but both sites are large with space to spread out. Loved this campground and will definitely be back!

  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Rachel T., October 10, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 16, 2020

Gorgeous views, some sites built right into a canyon overhangs

Almost everything was booked up the day we tried to stay here, but there were some tent sites available for walk ins. Sites were pretty densely packed, but the beautiful views and uniqueness of each site were the highlights. Most sites seemed best suited for tent camping/lower impact setups, though we did see a handful of sites that accommodated RVs. About half were reservable ahead of time, with one loop reserved for walk ins.

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2020

No, no, no music!

Loved the solitude the the rocks. Rules were very stringent. We are out to camp, not told what to do. (Opinion)

If you want zero noise and light, this is the place for you.

Store is expensive, closed on Sunday. No cell signal except in the store.

  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Greg R., June 25, 2020
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Greg R., June 25, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2019

Wooden Shoe Group Site

Vault toilets Water available

This very private group site is nestled in a rock formation outside the campgrounds. Park rangers had to help us locate it because it wasn’t on the park maps. Our group of 15 loved being away from other campers and our teenagers loved climbing/exploring the rock faces.

  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Melissa A., June 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Melissa A., June 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Melissa A., June 4, 2019
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2018

Lovely sites with shade & water access

It was a great decision to visit the Needles district after a few days in Island in the Sky. The landscapes were beautiful and we were lucky to nab a spot at the District Campground. The facilities were awesome - sites had some shade from being tucked into the rock formations. The restrooms were clean and had exterior space for washing dishes and water access. This would be a great place to set up shop for a few weeks and would be a great home base to explore the Needles. However, getting a site here can be tough!

  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Katie K., August 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Katie K., August 29, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 5, 2018

Peaceful retreat

So peaceful and less traffic than island in the sun. Didn’t see a single tour bus. Newer bathrooms a plus. If you want to get away from it all this is it.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Dawn W., August 5, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Dawn W., August 5, 2018
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2018

We stayed at the group site near hamburger rock

We had a group site reservation though Rec.gov but do not use their longitude and latitude for your gps. If you do it will take you onto an Atv trail that looks like a road and is not clearly marked and very dangerous. However that actual campsite was awesome. There was no one for miles and our large group loved that. There is no water in the area and the ony shade was the shelter so it was hot. Its in a canyon area and gave the children alot of area to run and climb.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Hilary B., June 25, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Hilary B., June 25, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Hilary B., June 25, 2018
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jun. 11, 2018

Fantastic camping next to amazing trails

We have stayed here on a few separate occasions and each time we were able to hike 10+ mile trails to new and less visited wonders.

The campsites were great for two people and all included a permanent fire ring. In almost all campsites there is some sort of fun rock form you can scramble around on!

Nearby are miles and miles of trail that can take you to Druid Arch and the confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers to name a couple. If you have a high clearance 4x4 vehicle there is also Elephant rock road right next to the campground. The world class Indian Creek climbing area is also ~30 mins away with numerous other desert towers in the area including the famous 6 shooter tower.

In short if you stay here you'll have weeks of recreational enjoyment no matter how you choose to enjoy the outdoors!

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Alan B., June 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Alan B., June 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park by Alan B., June 11, 2018
  • (11) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find group campsites in Utah's national parks?

Split Top Group Campsite is a notable group camping option in Canyonlands National Park's Needles district. This group site is uniquely positioned away from the main campgrounds, nestled within rock formations that provide privacy and a spectacular setting. The site can be somewhat difficult to locate as it's not prominently marked on park maps - some visitors have needed ranger assistance to find it. For other group camping options, check Arches, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef National Parks, each offering their own unique desert landscapes and camping experiences.

Do I need to reserve group campsites in Utah in advance?

Yes, advance reservations are absolutely necessary for Split Top Group Campsite. The site must be booked through Recreation.gov, and it tends to fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Be cautious when using GPS coordinates from reservation systems, as some visitors have reported being directed to incorrect locations including dangerous ATV trails. For accurate directions, contact park rangers directly. Making reservations as far in advance as possible is strongly recommended due to the limited availability and popularity of this unique camping location.

How many people are allowed at Utah's group campsites?

Split Top Group Campsite can accommodate groups of up to 15 people comfortably. The site is designed to provide ample space for multiple tents and group activities while maintaining the natural desert setting. When planning your trip, ensure your group size doesn't exceed this limit to comply with park regulations that help protect the fragile desert ecosystem.

What amenities are available at Utah's group campsites?

Split Top Group Campsite offers basic amenities including vault toilets and access to water. Each site features a permanent fire ring for evening gatherings. The campsite's primary appeal is its seclusion and natural setting among distinctive rock formations, providing opportunities for rock scrambling and exploration right from your campsite. The location offers excellent access to hiking trails, including connections to the Chesler Park trail system. There are no showers, and visitors should note that cell service is virtually non-existent except at the park store, which has limited hours and is closed on Sundays.