Dispersed tent camping near Canyonlands National Park ranges from sandy desert flats to elevated mesa positions. The park sits at elevations between 3,700 to 7,200 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations that can exceed 40°F between day and night. Winter camping requires extra preparation with overnight temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hike to Druid Arch: From the Elephant Canyon backcountry sites, this iconic formation is accessible via a moderately challenging trail. "It was a 2 mile hike to Druid Arch from this site. No service and no water so plan accordingly," notes a camper at Elephant Canyon 3 (EC3).
Experience night sky viewing: The Canyonlands region offers exceptional dark sky conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "We had a clear night, and the starriest sky I've ever seen!" reports a visitor at Elephant Canyon 3. For elevated viewing locations, Murphy Hogback sites provide panoramic celestial observation points.
Explore off-road areas: Many remote areas require technical driving but reward with isolation. "The road is rough, and has some technical aspects to it, so high clearance 4x4 and experiences off road driving is a must," explains a camper at Candlestick Backcountry Campsites, who visited during January when they "saw no one else on the trail."
What campers like
Unique geology access: Tent camping provides entry to geological features unavailable to day visitors. At White Crack Backcountry Campsites, a camper explains "a few yards down is the reason why it's called white crack camp. Large mushroom white top rocks, and a large crack!"
Weather variation opportunities: Winter camping offers complete solitude not possible during peak seasons. "For us, when we did this in January there were no other cars or bikes on the trail, and certainly none in the campground," reports a White Crack visitor who needed permits from the Island in the Sky visitor center.
Desert canyon privacy: Many sites provide natural separation despite being in primitive areas. At Gemini Bridges Campground, "Bumpy drive in 4x4 and high clearance definitely recommended. Probably 5/6 spots large enough for big groups. We got there around noon on a Thursday and only found one open spot."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements are non-negotiable: Many tent camping areas demand specific vehicles. "The road is very rough and is only suitable for high clearance 4x4 travelers, or mountain bikers/hikers," states a White Crack camper. Similarly, at Gemini Bridges "you need 4x4 to get back in here and it is a bit of a drive back in here."
Permit systems vary by location: Most backcountry sites require advanced permits through recreation.gov or visitor centers. Airport Backcountry sites need "permits required from Island in the sky visitor center. Highly sought after camp sites in peak season."
Exposed campsites require adaptation: Lack of natural shelter means preparation for environmental conditions. "Zero shade. Pack your own," advises a visitor to Airport A Backcountry Campsite.
Waste management is strictly regulated: All backcountry tent camping requires proper waste disposal. At Maze Overlook, "if you are at the campsite, and you have to answer nature's call, then carry Enzyme treated potty bags to do your business. If you are hiking, you can bury your waste, but make sure to carry out the toilet paper."
Tips for camping with families
Start with accessible dispersed sites: For families new to tent camping in Canyonlands, choose less remote areas first. At BLM Mineral Point Road Dispersed Camping, "we had reservations the following night at the Horsethief Group Sites, so were just looking for a place for a few early arrival folks to crash for the evening," making it "easy to use their toilets and trash if needed."
Plan multiple-day itineraries: Strategically position family camping to maximize park access. "We enjoyed this area and we able to do day trips to all the parks," notes a visitor at BLM Mineral Point Road, who cautions "some of the access is trickier than others so be sure to scout ahead of time."
Bring comprehensive sun protection: Desert tent camping requires multiple sun barriers. At Airport A, preparation for "zero shade" conditions is essential, particularly for children sensitive to extended sun exposure.
Tips from RVers
Transfer to tent setups at remote sites: Many RVers leave their rigs at developed campgrounds and use tents for backcountry experiences. "We took our travel trailer (22' total) up, just have to be careful," notes a camper at Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area, adding that "the higher up you go on the road, the rougher."
Scout roads before commitment: Road conditions change seasonally and require verification. "Unless you've ample off roading experience, outfitted your rig with an assortment of lights, and a decent lift kit, please don't attempt to climb the mountain beyond a certain point at night," warns a Yellow Circle Road camper, explaining that "the trail has portions where the road has given out."
Use BLM areas for staging: Public lands surrounding Canyonlands provide staging areas for extended stays. "This is a free area 10 min from canyonland and 15 from dead horse point state park," reports a visitor to Mineral Point Road, who found "a spot with good privacy" and "had 1 bar Verizon."
