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Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites — Canyonlands National Park

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Getting to Hardscrabble Bottom requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and patience. The access road involves steep climbs, large holes, and a long stretch of cliff-edge driving that becomes genuinely hazardous after dark. The site sits along the Colorado River inside Canyonlands National Park, with open sightlines toward the canyon walls and river corridor. A vault toilet is on-site. Bug pressure near the water is significant in warmer months, with mosquitoes reported in force at sunrise, and temperatures climb fast once the sun clears the canyon rim. Campers looking at tent sites around Canyonlands National Park may want to compare conditions before committing to a riverside site in summer. Potato Bottom Campground sits 1.4 miles south for those wanting a nearby alternative.

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Map & DirectionsHardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites is located in Utah near Moab

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

38.452613403659136 N
110.00918554375525 W

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites

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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 10, 2017

Gorgeous sunset river camp. Terrible swarm of bugs!

First of the road to get there is pretty sketchy. Some gnarly long long hefty climbs and holes. We took our time slowly and on 4 LO. Plus the views, we took to long and had to drive into the place as it was getting dark. So it got dangerous. a good portion of the road was a long stretch of cliff edge.. scary as it was getting dark. However, the sunset glowing over the canyons and the mighty colorado river was majestic. Stunning Stunning stunning views. Camp in the evening was great. Large clean vault toilet restrooms near the river. Amazing.

however..... the morning... the river makes for a nice view, but also a good home for bugs. I literally woke up to bugs, mosquitos, tiny ones, gnawing at the screen of my tent ready to take a bite of my flesh. We had all different types of bug spray, candle repellents.... none of which worked. We we're almost being eaten alive, and as soon as the sun came up, it was baking our skin. Bug biting burning sun rays, really hit us... we quickly packed up and left before the temperatures got to a hundi...

well only come back in cooler temperatures..and large netted tents.. and netted head mask...

SiteHardscrabble A and B
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites — Canyonlands National Park by Kuo G., July 10, 2017
  • Review photo of Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites — Canyonlands National Park by Kuo G., July 10, 2017
  • Review photo of Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites — Canyonlands National Park by Kuo G., July 10, 2017
  • (16) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What vehicle requirements are needed to access Hardscrabble Hill campsite?

A high-clearance 4WD vehicle with 4-Low capability is essential for accessing Hardscrabble Hill campsite. The road features challenging terrain with long, steep climbs, substantial holes, and cliff-edge driving sections. The approach includes gnarly climbs that demand careful navigation and patience. Standard vehicles or 2WD are not suitable for this route. Plan to drive during daylight hours for safety, as navigating in darkness can be dangerous given the road conditions and cliff exposure.

Where is Hardscrabble Hill located on the White Rim Trail?

Hardscrabble Hill is located along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park. It sits along a section of the trail that features dramatic cliff edges and expansive views. The campsite is positioned in an area that requires navigating some challenging terrain to reach, with the approach involving significant elevation changes as you traverse the White Rim Road. The location offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding canyon landscapes that make the journey worthwhile.

What river camping options are available near Hardscrabble Hill in Canyonlands?

Hardscrabble Bottom Backcountry Campsites offer primitive camping near canyon terrain, though they aren't directly on a river. For river camping options in the area, you'll need to look at other designated backcountry sites along the Green or Colorado Rivers within Canyonlands National Park. These river campsites typically require permits from the National Park Service. Contact the Canyonlands visitor center for specific river camping availability and permit requirements in the vicinity.