Devils Garden Campground sits at an elevation of 5,200 feet in the heart of Arches National Park, offering a desert climate with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and winter lows sometimes dropping below freezing. The campground is located 18 miles from the park entrance, making it the most remote camping option within the park boundaries and requiring at least a 40-minute drive from downtown Moab.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: At Utahraptor State Park Campground, visitors can discover prehistoric history just minutes from their campsite. "There is a trail with dinosaur tracks!" notes Chelsey M., who camped there with family. This campground provides access to multiple trail systems while keeping you close to Arches National Park.
Mountain bike the Slickrock Trail: Sand Flats Recreation Area offers direct access to Moab's most famous biking terrain. "This is a great spot for riding a number of mountain bike and/or moto trails. Beautiful sun rises and sun sets!" says Katrina, who stayed at Sand Flats. The campground sits right at the trailhead, eliminating the need to transport bikes to ride.
Stargaze in dark skies: The remote locations of dispersed camping areas provide exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At Willow Springs, campers experience "beautiful night skies and a great place to spend sunrise/sunset" according to Chris P., who spent three nights there. The elevation and clear desert air create ideal conditions for astronomy.
What campers like
Privacy options: Willow Springs Trail provides varying levels of seclusion based on how far you drive in. "If you camp by the entrance, you will hear everyone who comes and goes. Overall, pleasant and spaced out for all to enjoy," notes Hector S. Many campers appreciate being able to choose between social and secluded sites.
Affordability: Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab - Sovereign Lands offers free camping options with surprising amenities. "There are even port-a-potty's that are clean," reports Bailey A., who tent camped there with her dog in December. This budget-friendly option provides basic facilities while keeping you close to major attractions.
Swimming pools: Several campgrounds feature pools to combat the intense desert heat. At Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown, "The pool was really nice to be able to cool off in 110 degree weather," writes Alexis Z. These water features provide welcome relief particularly from June through August when daytime temperatures regularly exceed triple digits.
What you should know
Reservation strategies: Despite "FULL" signs, Devils Garden Campground sometimes has availability due to cancellations. "It may say it's full but always check," advises Patrick P. Last-minute campers often find spots by physically checking the campground even when online systems show no vacancy.
Extreme weather preparation: Summer heat makes midday activities challenging with ground temperatures that can burn paws or damage tent materials. "Proper planning is essential when camping with pets in the desert environment," writes one camper. Winter brings freezing nighttime temperatures that require appropriate sleeping gear.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans frequently limit campfires during summer and fall. "Be aware that there are sometimes firebans during the summer," notes Stacie H. who camped at Devils Garden. Always check current fire regulations before planning to cook over an open flame or enjoy evening campfires.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly rock exploration: Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway provides natural playground features for children. "We had an ideal site with a nice big lawn area we set up a whole game area in," describes Jennifer H., who appreciated the campground's amenities. Children can safely climb smaller rock formations within sight of camp.
Shade structures: The desert sun makes shade essential for family camping comfort. At Slickrock Campground, "Tent sites do have canopy for shade, picnic table, and a charcoal grill," reports Jake J. These structural features provide protection during midday heat when temperatures peak.
Junior Ranger programs: National Park campgrounds offer educational activities for children. "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!" recommends Erin M. These free programs typically take 2-3 hours to complete.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Moab KOA offers full hookups when many other campgrounds don't. "They have RV spots, small cabins, and private tent camping. Bathrooms are clean. Good water pressure in showers," notes R.E. This allows RVers to maintain air conditioning during hot summer months.
Site spacing concerns: Many RV parks place units close together, limiting outdoor enjoyment. "Sites are so narrow that you are 3 feet from your neighbor. We didn't even have our own table," reports Janine J. about one campground. Request sites at the edges of campgrounds for more space when making reservations.
Road conditions: Dispersed camping areas often require navigating rough terrain. "The road is good for 2WD cars, although dusty and washboarded in spots," explains Leah W. about Willow Springs Trail. High-clearance vehicles access more remote sites, while standard passenger vehicles should stick to established areas near main roads.
