Campgrounds near Castle Valley offer diverse options from primitive sites to luxury glamping accommodations. Located in the high desert at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, the Castle Valley area experiences wide temperature swings between day and night, especially in spring and fall. Many camping areas along the Colorado River corridor provide access to both water recreation and hiking opportunities.
What to do
Hiking to Corona Arch: From Williams Bottom Campground, access the Corona Arch trail just across Highway 279. "Corona Arch is a great close hike. Not a secluded site, but nice trees and close to lots of activities," notes Alex P. The moderate 3-mile round trip trail rewards hikers with views of a 140-foot natural arch.
Stargazing at higher elevations: Kayenta Campground provides exceptional dark sky viewing. "Amazing views and perfect for star gazing. We were here for the harvest moon and the park hosted a guided moon lit hike," shares Lauryn V. The campground sits at 6,000 feet elevation with minimal light pollution.
Colorado River activities: Camp at Oak Grove Campground for river access. "Great location! Close to Arches NP, downtown Moab, trailheads and the Colorado River," writes Lauren N. Rafting outfitters in Moab offer half-day to multi-day trips, with put-ins near several riverside campgrounds.
Mountain biking from camp: Multiple trail networks start near camping areas. "Being a cyclist,..it's Nirvana. Never have I seen so many bicycle/outdoor shops within one square mile," reports Dave V. about staying at Sun Outdoors North Moab (formerly Slickrock Campground).
What campers like
Early morning views: Campers at Devils Garden Campground praise the sunrise opportunities. "Beautiful night skies and a great place to spend sunrise/sunset," mentions Chris P. The high desert lighting conditions create dramatic morning photography conditions with red rock formations catching first light.
Campground accessibility: Moab KOA offers convenient camping for those with mobility considerations. "We had a tent but so happy we got the cabin. It was clean, comfortable and kept us out of the wind and rain," notes Johnny V. Sites are relatively level with paved pathways to facilities.
Pet-friendly options: Some glamping sites accommodate four-legged companions. "This is a great pet friendly campground. They even have little cabins with yards with fences around them to let your buddy stretch his legs," says Kristof B. about Moab KOA.
Location convenience: Campers value proximity to national parks. "Great location in Moab, great access to nice hikes," writes Olaf I. Most campgrounds are within 15-30 minutes of park entrances, saving driving time for early morning starts.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winters can drop below freezing. "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," reports Tina S. about Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway.
Reservation timing: Secure glamping sites months ahead during peak season. "Sites are First Come first serve and owned by the BLM. There was 1 bathroom (Vault) and no water when we were there," explains Erin M. about Williams Bottom. Many BLM sites operate first-come, first-served with no reservation system.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. "There is NO WATER available, so bring plenty of water!" warns Amanda M. Desert camping requires 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during hot weather.
Wind conditions: Evening wind can be challenging at exposed sites. "At night, there were terrible wind storms that filled our tent with blowing sand," reports Stacie H. Consider wind breaks or sheltered tent locations when selecting sites.
Tips for camping with families
Community amenities: HTR Moab offers shared facilities that enhance family camping. "Great amenities, clean bathroom and showers. Lots of food stores near by," notes ALEJANDRA G. The common areas include cooking facilities and gathering spaces.
Kid-friendly features: Some campgrounds include play areas. "Nice playground and splash pad for the kids! We were at a tent sight which was close to the playground and bathrooms! We were able to pack up while the kids played," recommends Caitlin C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families enjoy wildlife encounters at campgrounds. "We had a kit fox follow us around on a evening hike and even visited us at our campfire and hung out!" shares Lauryn V. Early mornings and dusk provide best viewing times.
Temperature management: Prepare for heat when glamping in Castle Valley with children. "The AC isn't amazing though so it's not somewhere you would want to hang out in for too long during the day," advises Bentz E. Plan indoor activities during peak afternoon heat.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers recommend researching specific sites. "Standard spots are a bit small, and you'll be dependent on the… social skills… of your neighbors with shared green space / picnic areas near the pads," advises David S.
Parking considerations: Many glamping sites accommodate RVs but have limitations. "Sites are on a hill and are not meant for big rigs, and even some sites were tough for smaller rigs. Their driveway is very steep, so unfortunately a lot of people bottom out rear racks," warns Kloee S.
Utility reliability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "50A service at our site and a couple next to us was spotty in its overall quality - probably an open ground or something," notes David S. Surge protectors are recommended for all electrical hookups.
Storage logistics: Consider where to secure gear at glamping sites. "They do have gas grills you could use during your stay and we enjoyed that for sure! There is laundry there and the facilities are very nice," reports Bounding Around about their stay at Ok RV Park.
