Best Dispersed Camping near Moab, UT

Moab offers several excellent dispersed camping locations on BLM land. Indian Creek Recreation Area is a premier option located just 2-3 miles from Canyonlands Needles entrance, featuring multiple sites suitable for various camping setups including RVs. For those seeking spectacular views, Porcupine rim campground provides what many consider the best vistas in the area, though it requires navigating a rough dirt road about 40 minutes from town. Other notable areas include Yellow Circle Road (11 miles south of Moab), Mineral Point areas, and several sites along Highway 313. Most locations require varying levels of high clearance vehicles, with sites typically available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yes, Moab offers several free dispersed camping options on public lands. Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area is one of the few free camping areas about 11 miles south of Moab, accessible with 2WD vehicles and spacious enough for various camping setups. BLM Mineral Point Dispersed Camping Area offers approximately 10+ nice free sites along a sandy two-track road past Horsethief BLM fee campground. Other free options include Intrepid Well Road (1.7 miles from Highway 313) and areas near Cotter Mine Road. While these sites are free, they follow dispersed camping regulations including a 14-day stay limit, and campers should be prepared to pack out all trash and waste.

Dispersed camping around Moab typically offers minimal to no amenities, embodying true boondocking. At BLM Intrepid Well Road Dispersed Camping, you'll find only basic sites with good cell signal but no facilities. Similarly, at Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites, expect primitive camping with plenty of space but no services. Most dispersed sites feature only informal parking areas and sometimes rock fire rings (though fire bans are common). You won't find tables, water sources, trash collection, or restroom facilities at most locations. Porcupine Rim is an exception with vault toilets. Cell service varies by location but is surprisingly decent at many sites. Come fully self-contained with all necessary supplies including water, waste disposal capability, and a plan for packing out trash.

No permit is typically required for BLM dispersed camping near Moab, but specific regulations must be followed. At BLM Tibbetts Arch Road Dispersed Camping, special regulations include camping at least 1/2 mile from Highway 313. BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed and similar sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis without permits. Standard BLM dispersed camping rules apply: camp in previously used sites, stay at least 200 feet from water sources, and limit stays to 14 consecutive days. While no permits are needed, always check for temporary restrictions or closures, especially during high fire danger periods. Some areas may have seasonal closures or specific regulations, so consulting the Moab BLM Field Office website before your trip is recommended.

4WD or high clearance is generally recommended but not always required for dispersed camping areas near Dead Horse Point State Park. For National Forest Dispersed - Lupe2 Dispersed, a backup option when Porcupine Ridge is closed, standard vehicles can access the site despite its proximity to the road. However, for more remote spots like Looking Glass Road, high clearance vehicles are strongly advised. Road conditions vary seasonally—becoming more challenging after rain or snow. Some campers report accessing sites with standard SUVs like a Mazda CX-5, though they note careful driving is necessary. For the best experience and to avoid getting stuck, a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended, especially when venturing beyond maintained roads to prime camping spots with canyon views.