Cabins at campgrounds near Arches National Park provide shelter in a desert region that can experience extreme temperature fluctuations of 40°F between day and night. The elevation around Moab ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 feet, creating cooler nights even in summer months. Several properties offer cabin accommodations within 10-15 minutes of the park entrance, providing a middle ground between tent camping and hotel stays.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: Devils Garden Campground offers direct access to several arches without driving. "It has a fun little trail connected to it. The grounds were crowded, but we felt like our site was really secluded and private," notes a camper at Devils Garden Campground.
Early morning photography: Stay at Sun Outdoors North Moab for proximity to dawn lighting at Arches. "Beautiful and secluded, good facilities, great views!" reports one visitor. The campground's location just minutes from the park entrance allows photographers to reach prime spots before sunrise.
Mountain biking: Cabin rentals at the Moab area provide secure storage for bikes. "Being a cyclist, it's Nirvana. Never have I seen so many bicycle/outdoor shops within one square mile," shares a reviewer. Several campgrounds with cabins connect to local trail networks.
What campers like
Cabin availability during peak times: When tent sites fill up, cabins often remain available. "We arrived on the later side of things and every camp area was full, in all of Moab, KOA had four cabins available so we snatched one up," explains a visitor at Moab KOA.
Temperature control: Cabins offer climate control in an area known for temperature extremes. "We would not choose this site in high season as it would be busy behind our rig," notes a camper about site selection at cabin properties, emphasizing the importance of strategic booking.
Proximity to town amenities: Village Camp Moab combines cabin comfort with urban convenience. "Great location downtown Moab. Close to several bike shops and walking distance to grocery store," explains a camper. This access to supplies proves valuable during multi-day stays.
What you should know
Cabin furnishing variations: Small cabins typically include minimal furniture. "It was a new cabin and it was wonderful. It had a queen bed in the room you first walk in to. Then beyond that was another room with a bunk bed and a full bathroom," describes a KOA visitor, though furnishing levels vary significantly between properties.
Reservation timing: Book cabins 4-6 months in advance for spring and fall visits. "We camped in one of the small RV spots. It was nice that we were the only ones on the north side of the campground. Very quiet and peaceful compared to the summer months," notes a winter visitor at Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway.
Maintenance issues: Some cabins require periodic maintenance. "The tent sites had a nice canopy so your tent stays shaded and dry. Power and potable water. The staff was super helpful," shares a visitor, highlighting the importance of shelter from Moab's intense sun.
Tips for camping with families
Kitchen access planning: Cabin stays often require creative meal planning. "It had it's own deck and cook grill. The views were nice, the staff was nice," reports a KOA visitor, though many cabins lack full kitchens.
Cabin alternatives: HTR Moab offers unique accommodations beyond standard cabins. "Both times I've stayed here we stayed in the big yurt in the center. You have access to great bathrooms and showers right next door, the yurt has AC for during the night," explains a visitor, providing options for larger families.
Pool access: Several cabin properties feature swimming pools for afternoon cooling. "Nice amenities like showers, pool, playground for the kids, laundry, dish sinks, phone charging, and pet friendly," notes one visitor, though pool hours typically run from morning to early evening only.
Tips from RVers
Cabin spacing: Unlike RV sites, cabin spacing varies widely between properties. "The RV sites are close together, not much privacy," explains a camper about one property, while other cabin areas offer more separation.
Pet-friendly options: Wingate Campground accommodates pets but requires caution. "If you have pets, watch out for the sticker bushes as they are everywhere along with cacti," warns a visitor, highlighting the desert terrain challenges.
Utilities and water: Cabin rentals typically include electricity but vary in water access. "No water here so bring your own. Nearest hospital and store are 30 minutes away," notes a camper, emphasizing the need to arrive prepared with sufficient supplies.
