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Camping near Canyonlands National Park

2,135 Reviews

Canyonlands National Park has several camping options throughout Utah's dramatic desert landscape. Devils Garden Campground sits inside neighboring Arches National Park and connects to many good hiking trails nearby. Around Canyonlands itself, you'll find basic primitive sites that put you right in the middle of the wilderness. UtahRaptor State Park recently opened to campers and shows off some interesting rock formations you won't see elsewhere. The land around these parks includes deep canyons, flat-topped mesas, and standalone buttes that make camping here unlike other places. Many of the established campgrounds have water and bathrooms, which helps when staying in such a remote area. Spring and fall bring the best weather for camping here, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summer gets extremely hot in this part of Utah, so bring plenty of water and sun protection if you visit then. Some roads and camping areas close during winter when snow and ice make them dangerous or inaccessible.

Map showing campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park, UtahExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Canyonlands National Park (269)

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

    25 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 719-2313

    "Willow Flat campground is located in the Canyonlands National Park: Island in the sky section. It’s rather small with only 12 spots on a a first come first serve basis. Most spot fill up by noon."

    "Grabbing one of the few first come- first served sites at Canyonlands National Park is tough because this section of the park is immensely popular and there are only twelve available."

    2. BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed

    40 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    13 miles
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "Spending the night on the rim of canyonlands national park— Definitely one of the most magical experiences of my life setting our tents up during sunset and waking up during sunrise overlooking the vast"

    "It is 1.1 miles BEFORE Canyonland National Park sign or between mile marker 3 & 4. A little tough to sign and totally worth it."

    3. Kayenta Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    42 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2614

    $50 / night

    "Beautiful scenery, friendly staff, clean bathrooms and close to Canyonlands National Park."

    "Extremely close to canyonlands national park if you don’t get a site inside of the park. Each site has its own little hut and picnic table at it. They offer both electric and non electric sites."

    4. Wingate Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    36 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2614

    $40 - $150 / night

    "Just outside Canyonlands National Park, if you can snag a spot...well worth making this your basecamp."

    "We stayed here while visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. This setup is very nice with a great covered picnic table and grill, with a fire ring right next to it."

    5. Horsethief Campground

    52 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    $25 / night

    "Horsethief Campground is a BLM campground between Moab and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park."

    "This BLM campground is situated upon the plateau road near the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park."

    6. Needles Outpost Campground

    27 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    "This is a private campground right outside of the Needles district of Canyonlands National Park. There are some really wonderful sites with a bit of privacy and great views."

    "It’s right outside of Canyonlands national park. The bathrooms were super nice and there’s a little store. Some sites are right under the rocks which is the best."

    7. Hamburger Rock Campground

    22 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    15 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "We hiked around back and camped back where it was pretty open with some nooks in the rocks. We had 7 high school students along."

    "Hamburger Rock is a BLM campground located in the Indian Creek Unit of Bears Ears National Monument. Sites 1- 9 are at the base of the Hamburger Rock geologic feature."

    8. Cowboy Camp Campground

    21 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "It's very close to the state park and it's along the way to Canyonlands (about 15 minutes away). 

    The campground is quite simple. They're first-come, first-serve sites."

    "Very close to Dead Horse Point state park. Easy to access. A few sites (6-7?). Pay cash or by check at the entrance. BLM. Great views. Vault toilet was very clean. Picnic table and fire ring."

    9. The Needles Campground — Canyonlands National Park

    11 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-4711

    $20 / night

    "We stayed in the Dutch Oven group site, loop A, which was adjacent to the restrooms with running water, and very near to the Squaw Flat trailhead. I really appreciate how the NPS utilized the space."

    "Adjacent to the trailheads, the sites have great views of the terrain, and level parking. RV and tent sites available-- these are spread out enough for a sense of isolation."

    10. Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park

    11 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-4711

    $70 - $115 / night

    "Vault toilets Water available

    This very private group site is nestled in a rock formation outside the campgrounds. Park rangers had to help us locate it because it wasn’t on the park maps."

    "Our site was located right near the entrance to the campground and had 3 tent pads. There were two little caverns where we sat in to escape the storm."

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Recent Camping Photos near Canyonlands National Park

665 Photos of 269 Canyonlands National Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Canyonlands National Park

2135 Reviews of 269 Canyonlands National Park Campgrounds

  • 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    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

  • Devin W.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Jacob's Chair Trail Basecamp

    great spot

    just after going through the gate there is an awesome spot on the right, if filled there are more spots along the trail, I was there middle of the week in Sep 2025, nobody around for miles

  • 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 Canyonlands National Park

Camping near Canyonlands National Park, Utah, offers a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures in the area. 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 Canyonlands 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 skies in the area provide excellent stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Kayenta Campground noted, “Great stargazing!” which is a highlight for many campers.
  • Mountain Biking: The trails around Moab are famous for mountain biking. One review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned, “Close to most of the MTB trails we were there for,” making it a great base for biking enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and facilities. A review from Devils Garden Campground highlighted, “Well maintained bathrooms,” which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Helpful Hosts: Many campers enjoy the friendly and helpful campground hosts. One camper at BLM 378 Willow Springs Road said, “Host was very helpful,” which can make a big difference during your stay.
  • Beautiful Views: The stunning scenery is a major draw. A visitor at Kayenta Campground remarked, “Amazing park with incredible views,” showcasing the natural beauty surrounding the campgrounds.

What you should know:

  • Cold Nights: Be prepared for chilly evenings, especially in the fall. A camper at Devils Garden Campground warned, “It does get cold at night,” so pack accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned, “No drinking water,” so be sure to bring your own supplies.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A visitor at Horsethief Campground noted, “Very popular campground in mid October!” so plan ahead if you’re visiting during busy times.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer ranger talks or educational programs. A review from Devils Garden Campground mentioned, “Kid friendly nighttime ranger talks,” which can be a fun experience for families.
  • Spacious Campsites: Choose campgrounds with ample space for kids to play. One camper at Kayenta Campground appreciated the “large tent pads,” providing plenty of room for family activities.
  • Safety Precautions: Be aware of wildlife. A camper at Devils Garden Campground humorously noted, “This is the Ravens home; we are just visitors,” reminding families to keep an eye on their surroundings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Big Rig Access: Ensure the campground can accommodate larger RVs. A review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned it was “big rig friendly,” which is a plus for RV travelers.
  • Plan for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A visitor at Slickrock Campground noted, “Sites are ridiculously close to each other,” so be prepared for a more communal experience.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the campground’s proximity to attractions. A camper at Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown mentioned, “Walking distance to downtown,” making it easy to explore the area.

Camping near Canyonlands National Park, Utah, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy outdoor activities. With a variety of campgrounds and experiences, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds located in Canyonlands National Park?

Canyonlands National Park has campgrounds in two main districts. In the Needles District, you'll find The Needles Campground, which offers drive-in sites with water and toilets. For a backcountry experience, Taylor Backcountry Campsites provide more remote camping options within the park. The Island in the Sky District has fewer developed camping options within the park boundaries, which is why many visitors choose to stay at nearby BLM campgrounds or in Moab. Each district of Canyonlands is relatively isolated from the others, requiring significant driving time between them, so choosing a campground near your planned activities is important.

What are the camping options near Canyonlands National Park if the park campgrounds are full?

If Canyonlands campgrounds are full, several excellent alternatives exist nearby. Horsethief Campground is a BLM option between Moab and the Island in the Sky district, offering simple sites with picnic tables and fire rings. It's an ideal base camp for exploring both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Dead Horse Point State Park offers Wingate Campground with spectacular views and well-maintained facilities just outside Canyonlands. For more primitive options, BLM dispersed camping is available on Mineral Bottom Road and Sovereign Lands outside Moab. These free sites provide basic camping with no amenities but offer convenient access to the parks.

What types of camping are available in Canyonlands National Park?

Canyonlands National Park offers several camping styles to suit different preferences. Developed camping is available at designated campgrounds with basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. For groups, Split Top Group Campsite in the Needles District accommodates larger parties with drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. Backcountry camping is permitted with proper permits in designated areas, allowing for a more immersive wilderness experience. For those seeking solitude, Hamburger Rock Campground and nearby dispersed camping areas offer primitive sites with stunning surroundings. Vehicle camping is restricted to designated roads and campsites to protect the fragile desert environment.

Are there any private campgrounds with additional amenities near Canyonlands?

Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway is centrally located off the main road, about twenty minutes from Canyonlands National Park. This private campground offers level camping pads, clean drinking water, and nice bathrooms. It's also conveniently close to Arches National Park and Dead Horse State Park. Another option is Needles Outpost Campground, a private facility right outside the Needles district with wonderful sites offering privacy and great views. It features showers, flush toilets, and a small store. The campground provides access to fantastic hiking and climbing, though shade is limited. Both locations offer more amenities than public campgrounds in the area.

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