RV camping near Green River, Utah offers travelers access to multiple campgrounds within a short drive of spectacular red rock formations. Located at approximately 4,080 feet elevation between the San Rafael Swell and Canyonlands National Park, the area experiences temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 100°F in summer. Seasonal flash floods can occur between July and September, creating muddy conditions on unpaved access roads.
What to do
Arches National Park access: Just 35-40 minutes from Thompson, Utah campgrounds like Ballard RV Park provide a more affordable base camp for visiting national parks. "We stayed five nights and this was a perfect base camp to explore Arches, Canyonlands, and Moab. Full hook ups, clean, very friendly staff," notes one Ballard camper.
Petroglyphs viewing: Ancient rock art sites are accessible near several campgrounds. "It's also super close to Sego canyon which is an awesome little hiking spot like 8 minutes away where you can see petroglyphs," writes one camper at Ballard RV Park.
Dinosaur exhibits: The Moab Giants dinosaur museum offers family-friendly exhibits showcasing prehistoric life. "Our grandchild loved the Moab Giants dinosaur exhibit," shares a reviewer staying at Ballard RV Park.
What campers like
Shower amenities: Many campgrounds offer clean shower facilities, which travelers appreciate after dusty hiking days. At Sun Outdoors North Moab, "Bathrooms were air conditioned and had a nice shower. The views of the mountains are great!"
Swimming pools: Several parks offer pools for cooling off during hot months. "Pool here was great. Nice laundry, great bike wash, loved the playground, nice staff, great amenities," notes a camper at Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway.
Pickleball courts: Active campers enjoy recreational facilities at some of the larger parks. "Other activities available included cornhole, pickleball, and other activities as well," mentions a reviewer at Village Camp Moab.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several Green River and Thompson area campgrounds. "There is a train tracks near by so if that noise bothers you this is not the place," warns a camper at iCamp Green River.
Summer heat: Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F during summer months, making tent camping challenging. "Tent camping in Moab in August is unpleasant due to heat and blowing dust," notes one visitor.
Seasonal crowding: Booking weeks in advance is necessary during peak spring and fall seasons. A Thompson Springs camper shares: "We were able to drive into town and get a campsite at the last minute for a good price, which we wouldn't have been able to do in Arches or Canyonlands."
Tips for camping with families
Shaded tent sites: Look for campgrounds offering covered tent areas. At Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown, "The tent spots had a nice canopy so your tent stays shaded and dry. Power and potable water. The staff was super helpful."
Pool and splash pad: Water features keep children entertained after hiking. "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," shares one family.
Junior Ranger programs: National parks near Green River offer educational activities. "If you have Children be sure to stop at the visitor center prior to your adventure and pick up a 'Junior Ranger' packet and get your kids involved and enable them to earn their junior ranger badge for each National Park!"
Tips from RVers
Spacing considerations: Some parks have limited space between sites. At Love's RV Hookup, "It's a love's travel center. They do have r v hook ups. Water electric and sewer. They do charge, of course."
Pull-through availability: Many RV parks offer convenient access. "Ballard had some nice long pull thru sites. Full hook ups and reasonable rates. Trees are planted and growing. Close to Moab without Moab prices," notes one RVer.
Electricity reliability: Power quality can vary between parks. "50A service at our site and a couple next to us was spotty in its overall quality - probably an open ground or something. We made it work, though, and Canyonlands and Arches are their own treat."
