La Sal Loop Overlook, near Moab, Utah, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy some stunning views. This area offers a free camping experience with plenty of open space, making it a great choice for tent and RV camping.

Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, especially the views of the La Sal Mountains and the valley below. One camper shared, “Amazing views of the La Sals and the lower Moab stretch,” highlighting the picturesque surroundings that make this place special. The night sky is another highlight, with many campers enjoying the clear, starry nights.

While the amenities are basic, the cooler air and breezy conditions are a welcome relief from the desert heat. Some campers have mentioned the occasional friendly cow visitor, adding a unique touch to the experience. As one reviewer noted, “Free, safe, and easy spot to crash,” which sums up the vibe here perfectly.

If you’re looking for a simple, beautiful place to unwind, La Sal Loop Overlook is worth checking out. Just remember to follow the leave no trace principles and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. "Dispersed camping" is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground, and is generally allowed anywhere unless posted otherwise. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find spots that meet the needs for their camp.

Dispersed camping may mean no toilet facilities or treated water are located nearby. Typically, dispersed camping is not allowed near developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas or trailheads. Some dispersed sites are provided with fire rings and in those cases please use them as they are designating that area as the spot to safely have a campfire. Finally some dispersed sites have a designated footprint for use. If you see a site with any type of barriers or fencing please respect these areas by not pulling motor vehicles or OHV’s around them. They are there to preserve the surrounding forest making it enjoyable for all for years to come. 

Regulations

Follow these general guidelines to help ensure these dispersed camping areas will be enjoyed by future generations of campers:

Camping is limited to 14 days. The campsite must then be moved a minimum of ten miles. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period.

All dispersed campers should follow the ideals of Leave No Trace and practice the concept of Pack It In - Pack It Out.

The Motor Vehicle Use Map only allows for motorized vehicles to be parked 150 feet off of any authorized forest service road.

Dispersed camping is prohibited in areas such as developed trailheads and picnic sites.

Choose sites that are already established.

Find camping spots that allow for water to shed naturally. Digging ditches around tents or trailers is not permitted.

Dispose of human waste properly (200 feet from water, in an 8 inch deep hole).

Please do not carve or chop into tree trunks—this can eventually kill the tree.

La Sal Loop Overlook

Searching for the best camping near Castle Valley, UT? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Utah camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Castle Valley and user-submitted reviews.

Castle Valley

The Best Camping Near Castle Valley, Utah

cooler weather, simple basic campgrounds but wonderful!

simple, beautiful

Gress ast place 

Pull off the loop road at any forest service road. There are many little sites to car camp out of. Ensure you’re following leave no trace and National Forest guidelines. Also be aware many of the sites are within cow pastures, so you may have some noisy (but friendly) neighbors! Amazing views of the La Sals and the lower Moab stretch. Phenomenal night sky views as well. Highly recommend these spots if you’re looking to avoid the desert heat.

Stunning Views

Stayed up here to escape the heat! The cooler air and wind was so welcoming. My sister and I camped at a pullout along the La Sal loop road. The spot was just off a gravel road in a cow pasture. We had a few friendly visitors occasionally, but overall the cows were never an issue. There was a rock fire ring which we did not use due to the extreme fire danger. You could see the stunning La Sal mountains behind us and the gorgeous valley below. Free, safe, and easy spot to crash. 

Open and Cool

I car camped here with a good buddy the other night! We laid out two paco pads in the back of his tracker and left the hatch back open to enjoy the glimmering view of Moab at night. With the windows down it was cool and breezy. Had a lot of cars drive by and a truck actually pulled in next to us and crashed as well haha. The night time sky was stunning. Overall not super private but worth it if you’re tired and just need to pull off somewhere and sleep in your car. 

Photos of La Sal Loop Overlook

Real photos from real campers