Chesler Park 2 (CP2) campsite is located in The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, UT. The terrain features rock formations and open desert landscapes. Temperatures can range from highs of 90°F in summer to lows of 20°F in winter. Nearby attractions include the Needles formations and various hiking trails within the national park.

Chesler Park 2 (CP2) campsite in The Needles District — Canyonlands National Park

In eastern Utah, near Arches National Park and Moab, UT, you’ll find Canyonlands National Park. Often paired with a visit to Arches or Moab, Canyonlands is more than four times the size of Arches. In fact, it’s the largest national park in the state.

Like other Utah parks, getting a campsite can be a challenge. The Needles takes reservations, but Island in the Sky is first-come, first served. Both can be accessed with an RV up to 28 feet long. However, the campsites are dry. Camping in the frontcountry isn’t easy, but there are many backcountry campgrounds to choose from. Like all other parks, the best camping near Canyonlands National Park is wherever you can find it, as 42% of the entire state is BLM land.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Canyonlands National Park is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Canyonlands National Park, Utah

This is a backcountry campsite reachable by a 4.4 miles hike from the Elephant Hill Trailhead in The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This is dispersed camping so there are no services nor amenities once you leave the trailhead. Leave No Trace principles apply. WAG bags required. Carry in any water that you might need because water is scarce or non-existant.

The hike to the campsite is over hills, down canyons, across slick rock, traversing sand and across a plateau. The trail is marked by cairns for most of the way, but it is highly recommended that you use a topo/trail map and compass or GPS to navigate. Along the way you will see a variety of rock formations such as joints, fins and spires.

You will cross a canyon and creek where EC1, EC2 and EC3 are located. A short distance after EC3 you will see a directional sign for Druid Arch or Chesler Park. Follow the Chesler Park Trail for about 1 mile. Look for the CP2 wooden sign post along the trail. The campsite is nestled amongst some rock formations and spires. There is no water resources in the area. There is plenty of open space to set up 3-4 tents.

There are three additional site located within a mile in the NW direction. This site is nestled amongst some huge rock formations and has views of a plateau and some needles. There is a trailhead and latrine toilets about 2 miles west of this campsite. About 1.5 miles away is The Joint.

Chesler Park 2 (CP2) nestled within The Needles

Literally right in between 2 giant boulders looking out over a large plain after hiking the longest 4 miles through canyons and "needles". Breathtaking

Photos of Chesler Park 2 (CP2) campsite in The Needles District — Canyonlands National Park

Real photos from real campers