Camping near Arches National Park

Arches National Park in Utah draws campers with its red rock formations and natural stone arches. Devils Garden Campground inside the park puts you close to many popular hiking trails and viewpoints. The campground has spots for tents and RVs, but you'll need to book months ahead since sites fill quickly. Horsethief Campground just outside the park boundaries gives you more of a basic camping experience without hookups, though larger vehicles can still fit. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for camping in the area, with temperatures that make hiking pleasant. The summer heat can reach over 100°F during the day, so bring plenty of water and plan activities for early morning or evening. Winter camping means fewer crowds, but nights get cold, so pack appropriate sleeping bags and clothing. Most campgrounds around Arches fill up fast during the busy season from March through October. Try booking for Monday through Thursday arrivals to improve your chances of finding a spot. The newer UtahRaptor State Park offers additional camping not far from Arches. Hiking the park's many trails gives you close-up views of famous formations like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch.

Best Camping Sites Near Arches National Park (246)

    1. Devils Garden Campground — Arches National Park

    94 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 719-2299

    $25 - $250 / night

    "This is the only campground in Arches National park. There are 50 campsites but it fills up so reserve online if you can. There are some low trees to give you some shade during the day."

    "Beautiful campground in Arches National Park. I believe it is the only campground in Arches National Park and the scenery is gorgeous. All of the sites look nice but I liked site 21 and 18."

    2. Utahraptor State Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-3770

    $15 - $50 / night

    "Close to Arches national park - less than 5 miles. 12 miles to downtown Moab. Porta potties no other amenities."

    "If you want a good spot/spot closer to the entrance definitely try to arrive a bit before sunset."

    3. Willow Springs Trail

    52 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    6 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "There are no facilities toilets showers Etc but there are great views and close to Arches National Park. I would recommend and I will go back! What else can you ask for on top of being free"

    "Some of the side roads definitely require 4x4 and high clearance to drive.

    We found an amazing site overlooking Arches National Park in the distance."

    4. Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab - Sovereign Lands

    53 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 538-5418

    "Its really close to the entrance for arches National park. The only con is lack of cover from wind and sun"

    "Low clearance vehicles can access sights closer to highway. Lots of camping spots tucked away if you continue down the road. Cattle around but bothersome. gorgeous red rock!"

    5. Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway

    46 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 418-8535

    $66 - $161 / night

    "Arches national park is a 10 minute drive. Absolutely loved it!"

    "Road noise was loud, but it was beneficial to us to be so close to Arches National Park."

    6. Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown

    46 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-6848

    "The Sun Outdoors Moab Utah camp grounds was great. Beautiful trees in the fall, laundry, clean showers, hookups, easy walk to downtown places, yet still quiet. Staff were very friendly and helpful."

    "This is a great little campground with easy access to downtown Moab. Walk to all the local amenities and downtown attractions."

    7. Sun Outdoors North Moab

    44 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-7660

    "Entering Moab we found a great fit in SlickRock Campground, just a 3 mile drive from Arches National Park, it was a perfect stop for the night."

    "Very close to Arches National Park. Unfortunately, too expensive"

    8. Grandstaff Campground

    35 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "Arrived around 13 and there were still a few spots left. A lot of people left disappointed after 16 though. Great place to stay and we enjoyed the most amazing sunrise. Close to arches national park."

    "Minimal shade but a nice spot by the river on the edge of arches NP. Was very hot while we were there and pit toilets got very smelly. Great access to trails around. Fcfs site midweek no problem"

    9. Goose Island Campground

    28 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    $125 - $175 / night

    "Amazing views of red rock cliffs along the Colorado river

    Goose Island Campground is an amazing campground to get for a visit to Arches National Park."

    "This campsite is a must stay if you plan on visiting Arches National Park. Get here early in the morning to reserve a site. Our site had direct access to the Colorado River!!"

    10. Gemini Bridges Campground

    28 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 208-9692

    "A fantastic place to camp but you will need 4 wheel drive and at least a little clearance on your car. It is on an off road route so you will see side by sides and off road vehicles"

    "These campsites are located in what is called Bride's Canyon, off of the Gemini Bridges Road. Also note that it is currently listed on Google Maps as Poison Spider Trail. Not sure why. "

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Recent Reviews near Arches National Park

2029 Reviews of 246 Arches National Park Campgrounds


  • C L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites

    Amazing Views

    Simple enough to get there, I was in a Bronco. Roads are marked clearly. Lots of availability. Great views.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Island In The Sky (Willow Flat) Campground — Canyonlands National Park

    Worth it

    There’s only 12 spots first come first serve. I woke up late and thought there was no chance there were any spots left. I got in the park at about 11 or 12 (monday) and decided to check anyway and there was actually a couple open! There’s bathrooms and personal picnic tables under the shade. I paid for my site and did some hikes, came back for lunch, a nice break from the sun since there’s basically no shade anywhere. At sunset I walked only a few minutes to the green river overlook. I listened to a ranger give a speech about the stars after dark. It was a full moon so you couldn’t see many stars at the time like I’m sure you can on other nights but the moon was still very cool. No views from the actual campsite but still a very cool spot.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites

    Good in a pinch

    Super close to the parks (10-15 minutes from arches). Great sunset/view but cars were driving by a lot from about 6-9. You can hear and see the highway traffic. Also the train and power lines. And only a couple spots before a very steep hill. I made it up in my 2wd SUV but it was very sketchy and it looked like it got worse so I turned around.

  • Nikki Y.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Athena Slabs at Green River

    Wide Open Spaces & Solitude

    Stayed here for a week and enjoyed the solitude of this wide open space. The Sunsets and moonrise's are spectactular. Worked on my art while out here. Met Mr. Steve and that was a fun evening. My flying hound-dog loved the freedom. The site is not far from the highway but cannot really hear it up here. Green River is just a short ways away. I recommend it for peace, quiet, amazing sky views and bring a Razor. :-)  Nomad Nikki Mobile Art Studio@NomadNikkiMobileArtStudio on YouTube.  https://www.facebook.com/NikkiYeomansAbstractArt/

  • Sarah J.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Athena Slabs at Green River

    Good for an overnight near 70

    This site is nice but not great for the views. More so if you need to pull off for a night. Private and perfect for campers, trailers and RVs. Right off 70. Not really any slabs we saw but gravel/rocky.

    Pulled a 30 ft travel trailer with a 2003 ford f250 with no problems.

  • Devin W.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Gemini Bridges Campground

    awesome spot

    went in from the highway, my truck is a daily driver only 1" of lift on a 3rd gen Tacoma off road and made it in and out without a scratch, dropped my tire pressure down to 25lbs, go slow and take your time in the rough spots, 4 wheel drive is necessary or you'll be in trouble, was there on a Wednesday evening and with in 30 minutes of getting there a couple of the other spots past me got grabbed, I was in the 1st spot on the left

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Another Behind the Rocks rd Dispersed Spot

    Loved the scenery

    What a red Rocky place to ride into loved how beautiful it was and the stars were so bright! Only thing highly recommend a mini suv or larger the road is already so run down I feel over time that will only get worse

  • Peter D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Kens Lake Group Sites

    Nice Campground 🥳

    We had site 36 with some shades from the trees. Very quiet and nice scenery (Utah mountains) Great place for a hike and or swim in the lake! Moab is just 20 minutes drive away 👌🏻

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Athena Slabs at Green River

    No slabs left. Good for a night.

    Just off the highway and the only amenity is good cell service but it's just a rough gravel lot with plenty of parking spaces and like someone mentioned there is still a sketchy camper but he's far away and appears to be living here. Like someone else mentioned there are a lot of sharp rocks and possibly rebar sticking out from when the slabs were moved so I would drive very carefully but it's a great View for the evening although it can get Dusty when the wind picks up since there is no shade or shelter of any kind.


Guide to Arches National Park

Camping near Arches National Park, Utah, offers a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures the area has to offer. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the beauty of nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Arches National Park. One camper mentioned, "Great starting point for several hikes" at Devils Garden Campground, making it a popular choice for those looking to hit the trails.
  • Stargazing: The clear night skies provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing. A visitor at Kayenta Campground noted, "Great stargazing!" which is a big plus for night owls.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One reviewer at BLM 378 Willow Springs Road shared, "This place is very hard to book for two nights in a row," hinting at its popularity among nature lovers.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Horsethief Campground highlighted, "Amazing park with incredible views," which is a common sentiment among visitors.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A camper at Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway mentioned, "All facilities are very clean," which is a big plus for families and solo travelers alike.
  • Helpful Hosts: Campground hosts often go above and beyond. One visitor at Devils Garden Campground said, "The campground host found us an available spot that had opened up and it was perfect!" showing the value of friendly assistance.

What you should know:

  • Booking Challenges: Some campgrounds can be tough to book. A reviewer at BLM 378 Willow Springs Road noted, "Selection matters here," indicating that arriving early can help secure a good spot.
  • Temperature Drops: Nights can get chilly, even in warmer months. A camper at Devils Garden Campground warned, "Only thing to note is it does get cold at night," so pack accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain facilities. A visitor at Willow Springs Trail mentioned, "No drinking water," so be sure to bring your own supplies.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer ranger talks or educational programs. A review at Devils Garden Campground mentioned, "Kid friendly nighttime ranger talks in the amphitheater," which can be a fun experience for children.
  • Spacious Campsites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Kayenta Campground appreciated the "large tent pads and covered dining area," making it easier for families to gather.
  • Safety Precautions: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper humorously noted at Horsethief Campground, "Be aware before you sit!" regarding spiders in the pit toilets.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned, "Some sites are better suited for tents and some for RVs," so plan accordingly.
  • Access to Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown appreciated the "full hookups in the center of town," which can make your stay more comfortable.
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads. A camper at Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab advised, "Higher clearance is needed the farther back you go," so choose your vehicle wisely.

Camping near Arches National Park, Utah, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether you're hiking, stargazing, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there free camping options near Arches National Park?

Yes, several free dispersed camping options exist near Arches National Park. Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites offers primitive camping just 10 minutes from the park entrance, though you'll be near highway, train tracks, and powerlines. BLM 144 Dispersed provides free camping about 22 miles from Arches on primitive roads with slight washboards. Courthouse Rock is another excellent free option just 12 minutes from the park. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no facilities, so come prepared with all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal means. Follow Leave No Trace principles and be aware that popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons.

Is there camping available inside Arches National Park?

Yes, camping is available inside Arches National Park at Devils Garden Campground, the only established campground within park boundaries. Located 18 miles from the park entrance, this campground offers a truly immersive experience among the stunning red rock formations. The campground features 51 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water and restrooms (no showers). While Devils Garden doesn't offer hookups, its prime location provides unparalleled access to park trails and stargazing opportunities. Sites must be reserved in advance through recreation.gov from March through October, and they typically fill months ahead, especially for spring and fall visits. From November through February, sites are first-come, first-served. The maximum RV length is 40 feet.

Where can I find campgrounds near Arches National Park?

Numerous campgrounds surround Arches National Park, offering easy access to this stunning destination. Goose Island Campground sits along the Colorado River just 4.5 miles from the park entrance, providing spectacular red rock views. King's Bottom Campground is another excellent option about 15 minutes from Arches with sites right on the river for only $20 per night. Several campgrounds are located within Moab, including public, private, and RV park options. The area offers accommodations for all camping styles - from basic tent sites with vault toilets to full-service RV resorts with amenities. During peak season (spring and fall), reservations are highly recommended as campgrounds fill quickly due to the park's popularity.

What RV camping facilities are available near Arches National Park?

Arches National Park is surrounded by RV-friendly campgrounds with varying amenities. Village Camp Moab offers full hookups, clean restrooms with showers, a pool area, and is located just 5 minutes from the park entrance. Spanish Trails RV Park provides gravel sites with full hookups, a pool, laundry facilities, bathrooms, and a store centrally located to Moab attractions. Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway features level camping pads and clean drinking water about ten minutes from Arches. Most RV parks in the area offer essential amenities like water, electric, and sewer hookups, with many providing WiFi and cable. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the busy spring and fall seasons.