Courthouse Rock offers dedicated equestrian facilities 20 minutes from Moab, with access to extensive bridle trails in the surrounding desert terrain. The campground sits at approximately 4,700 feet elevation in the high desert region where temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night. Seasonal patterns include intense summer heat often exceeding 100°F and cold winter nights that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: Hike from Courthouse Rock to nearby locations where preserved dinosaur footprints remain visible. A camper notes, "Dinosaur prints within an easy hike" from the camping area.
Horseback ride multiple trails: Courthouse Rock provides direct access to bridle paths suitable for all experience levels. "Great access to bridle and atv trails, and lots of enthusiastic, friendly atv'ers," reports one visitor who appreciated the trail connectivity.
Mountain biking from camp: Access mountain biking trails directly from Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab. "Plenty of access to mountain bike trails in the area as well," mentions a camper who used this area as a base for cycling adventures.
What campers like
Panoramic mesa views: The elevated position offers expansive desert vistas. At Lone Mesa Group Campground, "The space was huge and spaced out from the other sites. The location is just about in the middle of Arches and Canyonlands."
Convenient location: Most campsites provide quick access to national parks. At Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites, visitors appreciate being "10 minutes from Arches National Park. You are also close to the state highway, train tracks, and powerlines."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear desert skies offer exceptional night viewing. "OMG the stars... It was active, but we just grabbed the first spot we found. Perfect place to set up shop for the night," shares an enthusiastic camper about the Moab dispersed camping areas.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require careful driving. For Devils Garden Campground, a visitor advises, "My only negative about this Campground is that it's the last stop in the park. Expect at least a 30 minute drive from the entrance to the CG."
Limited shade availability: Prepare for direct sun exposure at most sites. "It was a little rocky and the shade trees are far and few in between. If I would have gone in the fall it would have been incredible."
Campsite availability challenges: Reservations recommended when possible. "It may say it's full but always check," suggests one camper who found an open site despite "FULL" indicators at park entrances.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Kens Lake Group Sites offers swimming opportunities. "Many people come here to take a dip in the water. Can be muddy at times in the dry season but overall a nice place to camp."
Bring your own firewood: Most dispersed sites have fire rings but no wood. "Bring your own firewood, because all that is around the area are juniper trees. Junipers take extremely long to grow, so please don't use the branches to burn."
Early arrival recommended: Secure family-friendly spots by arriving before mid-afternoon. "If you come after 3pm a lot of the good spots are taken and then you have to squeeze in so get there early to grab a spot!!"
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles recommended for many equestrian camping areas near Moab. "The road is passable just rough," notes an RVer with a 29-foot Class C who drove "at about three or 4 mile an hour.. Took me about 15 minutes to go the half mile."
Water and supply planning: No hookups available at most sites. "If staying at this CG supply well so you don't have to leave the park," suggests a camper who spent three nights at a remote location.
Designated parking areas: Some sites offer specific trailer accommodation. "Nice open CG with large sites good for OHV trailer folks. 10 sites $20/$10 senior. NO Water. One older style toilet, trash dumpster."
