Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Canyonlands National Park. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Canyonlands National Park campsites are perfect for tent campers.
11 Miles south of Moab, free dispersed sites along Yellow Circle Road. BLM signage designates the area within which you can camp. Many RVs and tent sites. Good for 2wd.
You must have an overnight permit for all overnight trips along the White Rim. Obtain permits here: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315
This is a large site with spectacular views of the Needles and Maze districts of the park. It consists mostly of sand and packed dirt with large patches of slickrock. There are shade trees nearby, but not in the campsite. There is no shade or shelter from the wind. White Crack is the most requested site on the White Rim Road and fills quickly. A marked trail guides you to the southern-most point on the White Rim level of the Island in the Sky district for a nearly 360-degree panoramic view. Broad expanses of slickrock allow easy walking along the canyon rim in all directions for more spectacular scenery.
Limits: 15 people and 3 vehicles
Toilets: The site has a private toilet.
River Access: The site has no river access.
The 100-mile White Rim Road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top and provides expansive views of the surrounding area. Four-wheel-drive trips usually take two to three days, and mountain bike trips usually take three to four days.
Under favorable weather conditions, the White Rim Road is moderately difficult for high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. The steep, exposed sections of the Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and the Mineral Bottom switchbacks make the White Rim loop a challenging mountain bike ride, and require extreme caution for both vehicles and bikes during periods of inclement weather. During high water conditions on the Green River, sections of road on the west side can flood, making a complete loop impossible.
No potable water is available along the White Rim Road. For mountain bike trips, a four-wheel-drive support vehicle to carry water and equipment is highly recommended.
$30 / night
Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers shade year-round and is ideal for small family or groups in tents. No RVs, tent trailers or campers/camper vans are allowed. Within close proximity to national parks and open space, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and four-wheel drive tours in the surrounding area. The town of Moab is approximately 10 minutes away and has dining, shopping, sports rentals, tour companies and museums.
This popular site is near Moab and close to hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel driving opportunities. Kane Creek Road is a popular 4WD and OHV route.
Moonflower is located at the mouth of a shady canyon and a popular, short hiking trail leads to a cool oasis. Large cottonwoods provided ample shade. Historic and pre-historick rock images are on nearby canyon walls. Please do not mark or scratch on rock surfaces.
There are many hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel drive trails along Kane Creek Road. The site is about 15 minutes from Arches National Park and 45 minutes from Canyonlands National Park.
You may contact the BLM Moab Field Office for assistance with changes and cancellations at 435-259-2100. Changes You can make changes to a reservation through your online Recreation.gov user account any time prior to the arrival/first date of the reservation. There is a $10 change fee If you wish to change to dates entirely outside of the original reservation dates. There is no change fee if you wish to extend or shorten the original reservation dates as long as the changes include dates from the original reservation. You cannot make changes to your reservation after the arrival/first day through your Recreation.gov account. However, the BLM Moab Field Office may be able to assist you, 435-259-2100. For reservations with dates at the end of the available booking window (a.k.a. sliding window), you will not be able to make changes or cancellations until the site has been available to the general public for four days. Cancellations Please cancel your reservation if you do not plan to use it. This opens highly sought-after campsites for others to reserve. You can cancel your reservation online through your Recreation.gov user account or through the call center the (call center incurs an additional fee). You may also contact the BLM Moab Field Office for assistance. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Late Cancellations A late cancellation occurs less the 14 days before the arrival/first date of the reservation (a.k.a. cut-off window). Late cancellations will incur a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Early Departures If you spend at least one night and then leave prior to the scheduled departure check-out date, please contact the BLM Moab Field Office (435-259-2100) to open the remaining nights for others to use. You will not be able to cancel these nights through your Recreation.gov account. You will be eligible for a partial refund of the nights AFTER you depart that you did not use. If you depart after the facility check-out time, you will not be eligible for a refund for that night_ No-Shows A No Show occurs if you do not arrive at your campsite or cancel your reservation by check-out time (Noon) on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time (Noon) on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed a $20.00 Recreation.gov service fee and forfeit the first nights recreation fee. Refunds You can submit a refund request through your Recreation.gov account within 7 days of the departure/end date of your reservation. Applicable fees, such as the Recreation.gov reservation fees, service/cancellation fees, lottery application fees, and change fees, are non-refundable. Refunds cannot be issued to any card other than the one used to pay. In the event of an emergency closure, all fees will be refunded. Attempts will be made to notify you using the contact information within your Recreation.gov customer profile. Interagency Pass Discounts Interagency Pass discounts do not apply to group campsite reservations.
$125 / night
Walk-in tent only campground with 16 sites next to Mill Creek. Showers, propane grills, outdoor sink, and bike rack in campground. All sites have picnic tables and most are well shaded. Close to Main St. with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and adventure outfitters.
$28 / night
Located in the Colorado River canyon with shady walk-in tent sites near the popular Wall Street climbing area. Individual sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-in sites only (no trailers, RVs or large vehicles).The Portal Hiking Trailhead is near the campground ascending to spectacular views of the Moab Valley, La Sal Mountains and beyond. Individual Sites: 7 (limited to 10 people & two vehicles per site) Water: No Toilets: Yes Hook-ups: No
You must have an overnight permit for all overnight trips along the White Rim. Obtain permits here: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315
Taylor has one designated campsite: This medium site is composed mostly of packed dirt and scree. There are a few flat spots to set up tents. There is only one site at this location. The area is wide open and there is no shade or shelter from the wind.
Limits: 15 people and 3 vehicles
Toilets: The site has a private toilet.
River Access: The site has no river access.
Come Prepared. The White Rim Road has long rocky stretches, deep sand, and little shade. Bring at least 1 gallon (4 L) of water per person, per day — more if you'll be active. Plan for a minimum of 10-12 hours of driving or cycling.
Keep off the Arches. To promote visitor safety and the opportunity to view natural features undisturbed, climbing, scrambling, walking or standing upon, or rappelling off any arch is prohibited in the park.
Water There is no potable water along the White Rim Road. For mountain bike trips, we highly recommend a four-wheel-drive support vehicle to carry water and equipment.
The 100-mile White Rim Road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top and provides expansive views of the surrounding area. Four-wheel-drive trips usually take two to three days, and mountain bike trips usually take three to four days.
Under favorable weather conditions, the White Rim Road is moderately difficult for high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. The steep, exposed sections of the Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and the Mineral Bottom switchbacks make the White Rim loop a challenging mountain bike ride, and require extreme caution for both vehicles and bikes during periods of inclement weather. During high water conditions on the Green River, sections of road on the west side can flood, making a complete loop impossible.
No potable water is available along the White Rim Road. For mountain bike trips, a four-wheel-drive support vehicle to carry water and equipment is highly recommended.
You must have an overnight permit for all overnight trips along the White Rim. Obtain permits here: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315 Labyrinth has two designated campsites: Labyrinth A This small, very scenic site is composed mostly of packed, gravel dirt. The area is wide open and there is no shade or shelter from the wind. The two Labyrinth sites are approximately 1,000 feet apart and are within sight of each other. During the summer months, sites along the river are very buggy. Limits: 15 people and 3 vehicles Toilets: Labyrinth A and B share a toilet; site A is closer than B. River Access: River access is available 0.3 miles north where the White Rim Road borders the bank. Labyrinth B This small, very scenic site is composed mostly of packed, gravel dirt. The area is wide open and there is no shade or shelter from the wind. The two Labyrinth sites are approximately 1,000 feet apart and are within sight of each other. During the summer months, sites along the river are very buggy. Limits: 15 people and 3 vehicles Toilets: Labyrinth A and B share a toilet; site A is closer than B. River Access: River access is available 0.3 miles north where the White Rim Road borders the bank. Come Prepared. The White Rim Road has long rocky stretches, deep sand, and little shade. Bring at least 1 gallon (4 L) of water per person, per day — more if you'll be active. Plan for a minimum of 10-12 hours of driving or cycling. Keep off the Arches. To promote visitor safety and the opportunity to view natural features undisturbed, climbing, scrambling, walking or standing upon, or rappelling off any arch is prohibited in the park. Water There is no potable water along the White Rim Road. For mountain bike trips, we highly recommend a four-wheel-drive support vehicle to carry water and equipment. The 100-mile White Rim Road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top and provides expansive views of the surrounding area. Four-wheel-drive trips usually take two to three days, and mountain bike trips usually take three to four days. Under favorable weather conditions, the White Rim Road is moderately difficult for high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. The steep, exposed sections of the Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and the Mineral Bottom switchbacks make the White Rim loop a challenging mountain bike ride, and require extreme caution for both vehicles and bikes during periods of inclement weather. During high water conditions on the Green River, sections of road on the west side can flood, making a complete loop impossible. No potable water is available along the White Rim Road. For mountain bike trips, a four-wheel-drive support vehicle to carry water and equipment is highly recommended.
Guide
Centrally located off the main road. About ten minutes from Arches National Park and twenty minutes from Canyonland Nation Park/Dead Horse State Park. Level camping pads. Clean drinking water. The bathrooms are nice but there are only four so it can get congested. Slight noise pollution from the main strip but worth it for the central location. Nice pool. Moderately priced gas station and camp store on site. Friendly staff. If you plan to visit Arches NP don’t forget make the mandatory reservation online with the NPS.
Scout
We camped in a tent for our road trip through Moab. Loved the private tent site set up. The employees in office were so friendly and polite. My only issue, hence only a 4 star rating was the bathrooms. The two days we were there, the bathrooms were never cleaned. Toilet paper on the ground, the showers were a mess. Other than that, it was great.
LegendGreat facilities, able to walk around town from camp, upkept, clean and seemed safe.
Downfalls would be our ability to hear traffic from our tent camp. And the small area designated for each tent site.
We used it as a restarting point to regroup, do laundry, shower, repack and move onto the next portion of our trip. Also came back for showers on our way through town.
Ranger
Almost everything was booked up the day we tried to stay here, but there were some tent sites available for walk ins. Sites were pretty densely packed, but the beautiful views and uniqueness of each site were the highlights. Most sites seemed best suited for tent camping/lower impact setups, though we did see a handful of sites that accommodated RVs. About half were reservable ahead of time, with one loop reserved for walk ins.
Scout
I think they just changed management so they were doing a lot of improvements. The showers & bathrooms are the best I’ve ever seen. They have cabins, RV & tent sites. We tent camped in an RV site for the hookups. Staff was very friendly & informative. Also it’s at the edge of Moab so it was a very close drive to Arches NP, etc. And it was also close to town so we were only maybe a 10 minute drive to the grocery store & the downtown area of Moab
Ranger
I tried to tent camp here late one night in Aug. 2020. It was dark when I arrived. I picked a random tent site on the after-hours registration board, deposited my envelope in the box, and drove to the site. My red tail lights illuminated an ant hole with black ants crawling around. I tried to sleep in the bed of my truck to no avail. It was hot. I gave up around 2am and drove to a motel in Moab. I called the next day to complete the registration process and explain why I didn’t check-in in the morning and ensure to pay anyway, but no one answered or called me back.
ScoutI tent camped here for a few days with my young children while we explored the local National Parks. There were ample convinces, including running water and a pinick table at each tent site, two separate bathrooms/showers locations within the park, sinks for dishes, laundromat, an outdoor pool (kids loved the pool), and a gas station/convenience store. The basic campsite was decent, although small and hard to drive tent stakes into the hard sand ground. There were shade trees thoughout the park. Also, there's a playground and grassy areas for group gatherings. Nice location in the heart of Moab. Only downsides are it being a busy, noisy, dusty, non-remote RV park. Definitely a good value for the price.
Legend
We stayed about 3/4 of a mile from Hamburger Rock in dispersed camping. There was a pull off and there was someone camping on the rocks on the front of the pull off. 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. Three students, along with a teacher put up hammocks in the rocks and trees, of which there weren't many (way more rocks then trees). Two slept on the ground and three of us slept in tents. The wind was bad and when the wind was blowing, so was the dirt. Our burgers that night were a bit crunchy and gritty. The views were spectacular, clear across almost to canyonlands. On a clear night you'd be able to see stars forever as well. Our night was windy and a bit overcast. We were there in April and it was a bit chilly but the perfect temps for hiking as it wasn't too hot yet. We were maybe 15 minutes from Canyonlands National Park. This is where we spent most of our time. The bathrooms were at Hamburger Rock and they were vault toilets in a building. They smelled pretty awful and were out of TP. We only used them twice, we otherwise found facilities elsewhere. We did take a short bus back there, our bus was not able to go up the road to where we camped so we walked our gear in. If we had more clearance we could have gone up. Even a regular bus probably could have made it but with our auto chain system, we could not. It was not a bad spot, especially for being free.
Guide
I tent camped at this campground/RV park for 6 nights in early October 2020 and highly recommend this. If you are looking for a secluded campsite in nature, this is not it. However, I was looking for a location very close to the heart of Moab which great WiFi and cell service where I could work remotely and a nice camping set up. This campground/RV park hit all those requirements and I highly recommend it. The majority of the sites are RV sites here, but also several tent sites, both with and without power. I booked a tent site with power so be able to work from the road and plug in chargers, etc. The tent site power has 2 standard household plugs and was right next to the picnic table which was convenient. I stayed in site G which had a fire pit, covered picnic table, and plenty of space for 2 tents. All sites have picnic tables and fire pits, but not all are covered. I worked from here for several days and the WiFi was awesome and my T-Mobile service had 3 bars. I was able to participate in Zoom calls with no issue. Bathrooms are extremely clean and there is a small room with a sink for washing dishes which is nice. The office has a small store with camping essentials, firewood, and ice. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly-- when I called with questions before booking, they talked me through everything in detail. Aside from being in more of an RV park setting, there is a little bit of space between sites at least for an RV park style campground and the back of the property is against stunning red rock- which is probably why you came to Moab. Less than a 5 minute drive to restaurants, shops, supermarkets in downtown Moab, short drive to Arches NP, also convenient to Canyonlands NP. Highly recommend Moab Rim!
LegendCampground review: We made or tent site reservations online en route to Moab. When we arrived there was a sign stating they had a special for $20 night for tent camping. The office honored the special and reimbursed us the difference that we had already paid. The young man helping us check in was very kind and helpful. Unfortunately the pool was closed due to some plumbing issues in Moab. Kind of a bummer because it was super hot and it would have been nice. We were provided direction to site 138. It was a nice site with a couple shade trees. Since it is a commercial campground in town it is noisy and you hear highway traffic. Sites are pretty close together. Just bring ear plugs and you’ll be okay. The site had a picnic table and a grill. No campfires are allowed. Some of the other tent sites had canopies for shade and rain protection.
Product Review: Stream2Sea https://stream2sea.com/
I sampled a variety of products from Steam2Sea. In the sunny desert, I was most interested in sun protection. Their sunscreen products are titanium dioxide based. They are all eco conscious, biodegradable and reef friendly. These products do what they say they will do, I did not get sunburned. Even in a sudden rain storm and sweating in the heat. I did reapply once after the rain.
To apply, rub product between palms then pat over the area you wish to apply then begin to rub it in. It will leave your skin whitish and a bit sticky feeling. I honestly did not like the feel of the sunscreen. It did protect me from the sun and it is eco friendly, but I prefer the bad for you chemical sun screen. Just my opinion. It is not a bad product, just not for me.
I tried their sun protect lip balm with spf 30. It left my lips white and the cherry flavor just didn’t do it for me.
I also tried their Tinted Sunscreen. This seemed better than the original, but still felt a bit sticky.
The product I love and will repurchase is their Nourishing Body Lotion. It is packed with good for you ingredients and has a nice coconut scent. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and healthy. It is one of my favorite lotions.
My overall option on Stream2Sea is: If you are looking for an eco-conscious product then this is likely on of the best options on the market. For me, I think I will stick with spray on coppertone.
Ranger
Stayed here for a night after a long drive. We wanted to take showers and not have to search for a site. Hot showers, nice staff, dog park. Close to the highway and we backed right up to a motel 6 that was very busy all night. Dogs not allowed at tent sites, but luckily they made a last minute exception for us at the very end tent site.
Traveler
tent sites and cabins, friendly staff, very convenient location
Guide
Each tent site has a pad and a shelter that has a shade panel. There is no parking next to the site, but it is small walk to the site. The tent sites are spaced far apart and some are tucked behind the Goblins.
There is a good restroom facility with running water and showers that do not need a token or coins. There are 4 showers. Overall, this is a great place to stay.
RangerUtah has such a wide variety of geology and Goblin Valley campground is in the middle of it. Sites are a bit close together, but they have shelters over the tables and there are some walk-in tent sites that are more secluded. Nice, free showers too.
GuideThere are only 11 asphalt paved RV camp sites. There are 14 tent sites.
Each site has a covered pavilion with a picnic table, fire ring and a tent site. Drinking water is located throughout the campground. The bathrooms have flushing toilets and hot water in the sinks. They are spotless! The showers are equally as clean. There are no bad views here! The hiking and biking trails are right there.
This one is one of my favorites!
Go!
GuideWe spent two nights here tent camping while in the Moab area. Their staff is really helpful and friendly. The bathrooms were exceptionally clean and big!!
GuideMore of an RV & trailer campground, but they do have a row of tent sites. Each tent site has a picnic table and space for your tent and car, but not much (if anything) else. Unfortunately we had LOTS of ants on our site when we stayed here overnight in late June. Thankfully there was a flatbed trailer parked right next to our site and we were able to pitch our tent on the trailer, safe from the ants (thank you awesome couple from Chicago who let us use their trailer!). The staff was very friendly & there are plenty of facilities (showers & bathrooms) and WiFi for campers, too!
LegendWe came in winter this time and got a tent camp easily, only one other group was camping. If you dont want to tent camp in the winter they also have yurts for rent. We had a different approach to Goblin Valley this time around and decided to do the Lair of the Basilisk (Goblins Lair) canyoneering route. We got to hike in and around snow covered hoodoos that culminates in a 100' drop into the lair! It is truly a magical place and worth a visit! You can also get ti the lair by a now popular marked trail around the east side of the park. 60 m rope recommended plus helmets.
Scout
Tent camping in October, area was clean and pleasant. No covering to get away from the sun. Would only camp here during the summer as a last resort or if I pack shade.
Scout
The campsite was perfect and easy for us! We pulled in and paid $20 for an open tent site, and pitched our tent right along the Colorado river. I’d recommend buying firewood in Moab.
ScoutLaundry, large kitchen, communal space, and showers. Everything you need on the road but the tent sites barely fit a tent and are squeezed against the fence. Stayed in van and the spot was tight.
GuideWe stayed at the tent sites. Great amenities, clean bathroom and showers. Lots of food stores near by. No fire pits, only grill. One of the negatives, close to busy street.
GuideHorsethief Campground is a BLM campground between Moab and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park. Besides easy access to many mountain biking trails, Horsethief Campground makes a great base camp for exploring both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
Horsethief Campground Info
* Elevation: 5780 ft
* Fee per Night:$20
* Total Campsites: 57 sites in the main campground and 27 sites in the tent loop across the road
* Water- No water available in the campground
* Reservations Not Accepted, except for Group Site#39
* Cell Service: Little to No Service with AT&T or Verizon.
* Open Year Round(Weather Permitting)
Area Activities:
* Numerous mountain biking trails
* 4 wheel drive roads
* Canyonlands National Park
* Arches National Park
ScoutWe stayed here randomly, tried to find hotels in town and the only available one was 500$ for two nights. We decided to call and see if this campground had any availability and they had many tent sites open. The sites are fine, covered in a canopy so rain isn’t a worry. But they are small and parking isn’t very easy for the tent sites. The showers and bathrooms were clean and fine. The only other complaint we had was no wood fires, but you can rent a propane fire pit if you’d like. There’s also a pool, that we didn’t use. We did have some road noise. But overall would stay here again for sure. I think I paid 86$ for two nights.
Legend
This is a very small about 10 RV spots with full hookups and about 6 tent sites. $60 night RV, $25 tents. Area is old, run down and funky...looks like most spots are long-term types. If you like funky, this is your place.
TravelerGood place to start adventures in the area. Sadly little space between sites resulting in some parking lot vibes at least for the tent sites. Facilities and pool are definitely great, still a little on the expensive side though...
TravelerGood overall experience. Staff friendly upon check in. Sites are a little close together. No fire rings for rv sites, tent sites only. Mature trees, walking distance to downtown. Grocery store right next door. Military /first responder discount! Definitely would stay again.
Tent camping near Canyonlands National Park in Utah offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed spots to pitch your tent, you can experience the beauty of the desert and the thrill of adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Canyonlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Canyonlands National Park is Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area with a 4.4-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Canyonlands National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 49 tent camping locations near Canyonlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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