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Best Tent Camping near Moab, UT

1,786 Reviews

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands surrounding Moab, Utah offer numerous tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote dispersed sites. Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area, located about 11 miles south of Moab, provides free primitive tent campsites with mountain views and stargazing opportunities. Gemini Bridges Campground features five well-marked tent sites nestled within a narrow canyon surrounded by high cliff walls, though it requires a 40-minute drive on rough roads from the main highway. For tent campers seeking amenities, Up the Creek Campground in downtown Moab offers a tent-only experience with showers, picnic tables, and shade trees from March 13 to November 1.

Most tent campgrounds near Moab require campers to bring their own water and pack out waste. Portable toilets are required at many dispersed camping areas, as digging cat holes is prohibited on BLM land. Tent sites typically feature dirt or sand surfaces, with occasional fire rings at established locations. High clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing remote tent campsites like Gemini Bridges, where the road becomes steep and narrow with sharp rocks. Walk-in tent sites at Jaycee Park Campground require carrying gear between 30-100 feet from parking areas. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, making shade a valuable commodity at tent sites, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions.

According to reviews, Yellow Circle Road provides peaceful backcountry tent camping where "we were the only ones out in this area with not a single car driving by." The sites offer excellent views of the mountains and spectacular sunsets. At Up the Creek Campground, one camper noted that "tent-only camping is peaceful with no RVs, generators or blinding headlights." Moonflower Canyon Group Site features deep sand surfaces that are "great for sleeping on" but can present challenges as "sand blew in through the mesh of our tent." Many primitive tent sites require proper preparation, with one visitor at Gemini Bridges advising: "No facilities of any sort. Pack in, pack out. Be prepared to enjoy fresh air, beauty, quiet."

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Best Tent Sites Near Moab, Utah (51)

    1. Gemini Bridges Campground

    28 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 208-9692

    "No WiFi. No cell. Be prepared to enjoy fresh air, beauty, quiet.

    This is a narrow canyon, surrounded by high cliff walls. Everything echoes. Bring good quality firewood."

    "The drive to these campsites is steep and narrow. 4x4 advised. We drove the road in a Jeep Grand Cherokee and had no issues."

    2. Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area

    31 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    14 miles
    Website

    "This was our second night boondocking near Moab, and it was peaceful. We were the only ones out in this area camping with not a single car driving by while we were here."

    "This campground is about 11 miles south of Moab, and one of the only FREE places in camp in the area."

    3. Up the Creek Campground

    9 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (435) 248-2001

    $28 / night

    "A few things set this place apart in Moab: Tent only campers, no dogs, showers, and there are Wheelbarrows to bring your camp gear to your site - there are no vehicles allowed past the parking lot."

    "Short drive to all the state/national parks, and just a walk to downtown."

    4. Moonflower Canyon Group Site

    8 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    $125 / night

    "This campground is pretty primitive but that is just how I like it! All the parking is together and then you walk down a path to the different camping spots."

    "Great spot, close to the road, trailhead and river with some petroglyphs right there. 4 picnic tables, 1 fire pit and 1 bbq available as well as toilets, and large parking lots. flat sites in canyon for"

    5. Behind the Rocks Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "This is an amazing place to come and get away from all the people in Moab! Beautiful place to set up and plenty of room to spread out and have a private area!"

    "We stayed here for a night while driving across the country. Our cell service only occasionally worked there. There is no facilities or trash cans. So pack it in and pack it out."

    6. Jaycee Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "Campground Review: All walk in campground near the Colorado river next to the Wall Street climbing area. I really liked this spot despite its location to the road."

    "The campground is $15/night, and comes with a reasonable amount of space per campsite with a fire pit and picnic table."

    7. Under Canvas Moab

    5 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    11 miles
    Website

    $199 - $399 / night

    "We spent 3 night at Under Canvas Moab for a wedding and had a wonderful experience. We (2 couples) stayed in a 4-single beds tent and were happy with the choice due to the heat while we were there."

    "Sitting under the stars listening to music around a fire was awesome. Tents themselves were really comfortable, had a wood burning stove, and our view was great."

    8. BLM Mineral Point Road Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "We found the very first campsite (designated by a rock fire ring) to be empty and snagged it."

    "Found a spot with good privacy. Had 1 bar Verizon. Great for getting up early to catch a sunrise!"

    9. Echo

    3 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    8 miles
    Website

    "The reservoir was great, area was nice, and I really enjoyed my surroundings. The camp spot we were at was especially perfect for star gazing."

    10. Hunter Canyon Spring Camping Area

    1 Review
    Moab, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-6111

    "The sign says it is opening in Spring 2022, and so far they have one site with a picnic table and fire ring."

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Moab, UT

103 Photos of 51 Moab Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Moab, UT

1786 Reviews of 51 Moab Campgrounds

  • Mary S.
    Jun. 1, 2018

    Wingate Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    Brand new Wingate area, comfortable but no shade

    Dead Horse Point has a new section called Wingate. The older section is Kayenta.

    Wingate has wide asphalt spaces, electricity, fire rings, tent pads and picnic tables with wind blocks on 2 sides. There are very few trees...so no shade. (Kayenta has greater shade possibilities.) There may also be some sewer hookups.

    Another feature - walk-in tent sites and yurts. There are 4 great looking yurts in Wingate and 5 others near the park's Visitor Center.

    Bathrooms - they are private and include an automatic flush toilet, soap dispenser, automatic faucet and hand dryer. No showers but the bathrooms are very nice.

    There is a dishwashing sink outside the bathroom. It appears the water is potable but they ask you to arrive with water and help conserve water. Their water is trucked in from Moab....per reserveamerica.com.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2016

    Horsethief Campground

    Best Views for Sunrise and Sunset - Close to Arches NP

    On Utah 313, 12 miles from Hwy 191 Elevation 5800 and offering 56 sites and can accommodate RV's (no hookups). Great views for sunrise and sunset! All BLM campgrounds and camping areas have vault toilets, fire rings, are open year round, and a fee is charged / collected at self pay station at entrance. No firewood gathering (available at convenience stores in Moab). Camping at all sites is limited to 14 days within a 30 day period. Be prepared for wind. Ground is pretty hard and tough to get tent stakes in - we tied down to rocks on site. About a 15 min ride from Arches and about 30 min from Moab. A great place to get away form the crowds!

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2023

    Kayenta Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    Nicely laid out campground

    General & Site Quality: 56 electric sites, walk-in tent sites, and nine yurts in two loops: Kayenta and Wingate. Paved driveways, mostly level, a tent pad, fire ring, and a sheltered picnic table (from sun and wind) complete the electric sites. Back-in sites are on the inside of the loops while pull-thru sites are on the outside. There were three camp hosts in the Wingate loop, more than I usually see. 

    Bathhouse: Eight individual units in each loop with toilet, sink, soap, and hand dryer. Although the toilets were automatic flush, they didn’t always do the job and often took multiple tries. One toilet was clogged. There are also some vault toilets. No showers. 

    Activities: Nice and easy hiking trails. You can hike the west rim and east rim trails to make a loop for approximately five miles (depending on how many overlooks you include). Some trails are better marked than others, but we enjoyed a west-to-east rim hike from and returning to our campsite in Wingate. Designated mountain biking trails. 

    Unfortunately, we could only snag one night here but would have liked to have stayed longer.

  • Mary S.
    Jun. 6, 2018

    Horsethief Campground

    Nice views, spacious sites, no crowds, no frills

    Horsethief is one of many BLM campgrounds in the Moab area. Most are along the Colorado River but this one is about 30 minutes from Moab on the way to Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point State Park. Arches is also easily accessible from here.

    There are almost 60 sites. There is no electricity, water or dump station, and there are vault toilets. Only complaint is that the large sites mean you get some big campers that need to use their generators. Generators are allowed between 8 am and 8 pm, but some people ignore that rule. It would be nice if the BLM divided a campground like this into generator and no generator sections. There are 3 loops here; it's large enough for that.

    Activities: mountain biking trails, 1.5 mile loop hiking trail with a nice view of mountains to the south.

  • Chase R.
    May. 24, 2024

    Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful, Remote Views

    This was our second night boondocking near Moab, and it was peaceful. We were the only ones out in this area camping with not a single car driving by while we were here. On the way up we passed several campers right near the entrance of Yellow Circle Road. The campsite provides views of the mountains. The sunset was amazing even through the shrubbery. It does get windy out here in May; however, the shrubbery provides a solid wind break and the wind usually dies down in the evening. There was already a fire ring when we got here. Broken glass was found in some areas, be sure to watch where you step. If one doesn’t have firewood, there are plenty of dead branches laying around to use as firewood. There is potential room for other campers if one decided to come in a group with a similar set up to our camping set up. To get to this campsite, one doesn’t need high clearance; however, parts of the road aren’t crushed gravel (good tires are a must). Enjoy this beautifully, remote campsite!

  • Angee D.
    May. 17, 2019

    Elephant Canyon 3 (EC3) — Canyonlands National Park

    Views All Around

    This is a great backpacking campsite. Permit is required as are wag bags and leave no trace. I tracked it at 3 miles from Elephant Canyon trailhead. It was a 2 mile hike to Druid Arch from this site. No service and no water so plan accordingly.

  • Anthony P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 3, 2019

    Jaycee Park Campground

    Ranger Review: Gregory Zulu 40 at Jaycee Park Campgroud

    Campground Review: All walk in campground near the Colorado river next to the Wall Street climbing area. I really liked this spot despite its location to the road. There are 7 spots in total, they slightly vary in size. This is an all walk in campground, some spots are steps from the parking lot and others are about 100 feet or so. First com everest served, no reservations possible. Fee was $20 a night but can be reduced with a parks pass. One vault toilet and a large dumpster for trash. 

    The spots themselves are typical. Fire ring and a picnic table. We stayed din spot two, it was a little more secluded from the rest but on had room for one tent. Other spots are able to accommodate up to 3 tents. For our few nights there the campground was quiet and once night fell the cars all but stopped. It ended up being a great spot. 

    The campground is near climbing, river access, hiking (Corona Arch is just a few minute drive) and only a 10 minute drive into Moab. Overall it was a great spot, the only draw backs being so close to the road (unavoidable in that area) and the campsites being right on top of each other. 

    _________________

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products from time to time. Today i tested the Gregory Zulu 40 Backpack. I decided on this pack for long day trips or over nights. It advertises as good fro short backpacking trips. I think this bag excels as a day trip bag, i think it would work for overnights as long as you pack light. The bag itself is really nice, i love the design and colors. The pockets are all well placed and its very spacious. In the interest of testing the bag, i decided to carry every thing for 2 people just to see how well this holds up. It did not disappoint. 

    I had way more than enough room to carry extra clothes, water, snacks, camera and anything else we needed for two people. The bag opens via the top or can be opened by a front zipper. The zipper on the front is great for grabbing gear near the bottom of the bag. My favorite part about the bag, the included rain fly its own pocket. We didn't need to use it but we did get rained on and its great always having one just in case. 

    Overall, great bag. I cant wait to give it a try on a backpacking trip!!

  • Chuck S.
    Jun. 1, 2021

    Hamburger Rock Campground

    Primitive Hamburger

    Near the Needles. Lots of dispersed camping nearby. Vault toilets near road, 200 yards from sites. $15/night or $7.50 with senior pass. About 10 sites, butted against weird red mushroom-shaped rock. Sites not very level, 8’x8’ tent platforms, picnic table, iron fire ring and grate. No water. Nice, primitive sites with starry nights. No bugs (no water)!

  • Casawndra P.
    Jan. 17, 2022

    Utahraptor State Park Campground

    Busy but free

    dry camping only!

    fill up on water and empty tanks at the big Maverik on the far end of town 🤍

    i stayed in a couple different areas, moved to escape the craziness.

    it is mostly uneven terrain but most places are doable as long as you’re willing to level things out-dispersed camping so people park anywhere.

    i had some service, better in some areas i found as i walked around

    port-a-potties are strewn about, they fill up fast! đź’©

    beautiful sunsets and sunrises, if you look closely you can see an arch off in the distance.

    even with all of the people I did feel safe. It’s about a ten minute drive from Moab!

    remember folks- pack in pack out and leave no trace 🤍🤍

Guide to Moab

Moab, Utah, is a paradise for tent campers, offering stunning landscapes and a variety of camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you seek solitude or proximity to adventure, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.

Tips for tent camping near Moab

  • For a peaceful experience, consider the Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a quiet atmosphere, especially during weekdays.
  • Bring your own water and supplies when camping at Behind the Rocks Road Dispersed, as there are no amenities available, but the panoramic views make it worthwhile.
  • If you prefer a more structured environment, Up the Creek Campground offers showers and restrooms, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby parks.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $25

  • Camping at the BLM Mineral Point Road Dispersed Camping is free, providing a budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
  • Expect to pay around $5 per night at Oowah Campground, where you can enjoy the cooler temperatures of the La Sal Mountains.
  • For a unique experience, the Moonflower Canyon Group Site charges approximately $25 per night, offering a beautiful setting close to the river and petroglyphs.

Tent campers should check out the stunning views

  • The Rock Castle Camping Area provides solitude and incredible views of Castle Valley, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Experience the breathtaking sunsets at Masons Draw Campground, where you can enjoy cooler temperatures and a serene environment surrounded by nature.
  • For a unique riverside experience, BLM Lower Onion Creek Camping Area offers stunning views of the Colorado River, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best tent camping spots in Moab, Utah?

Moab offers excellent tent camping options for all preferences. Up the Creek Campground provides a unique oasis of trees in the desert and is tent-only, creating a quiet sanctuary despite being in town. For those seeking solitude, Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area offers peaceful boondocking with mountain views and minimal traffic. Backcountry enthusiasts should consider the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, where permit-required sites provide immersive desert experiences. For climbers, Jaycee Park Campground near Wall Street climbing area offers convenient walk-in sites close to the Colorado River.

What amenities do Moab campgrounds offer for tent campers?

Amenities at Moab campgrounds vary widely by location type. Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers reservable group camping next to a hiking trail and creek bed, with curved rock walls providing a distinctive setting. For those seeking more facilities, Jaycee Park Campground provides walk-in tent sites near the Colorado River. Dispersed camping areas like Monticello Lake typically offer minimal to no amenities - no picnic tables, fire rings, potable water or dumpsters, though some may have vault toilets. Backcountry sites in Canyonlands require WAG bags and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Be prepared to bring your own water for most tent camping options around Moab.

Where are the best tent camping spots in Moab, Utah?

Moab offers excellent tent camping options for all preferences. Up the Creek Campground provides a unique oasis of trees in the desert and is tent-only, creating a quiet sanctuary despite being in town. For those seeking solitude, Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area offers peaceful boondocking with mountain views and minimal traffic. Backcountry enthusiasts should consider the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, where permit-required sites provide immersive desert experiences. For climbers, Jaycee Park Campground near Wall Street climbing area offers convenient walk-in sites close to the Colorado River.

What amenities do Moab campgrounds offer for tent campers?

Amenities at Moab campgrounds vary widely by location type. Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers reservable group camping next to a hiking trail and creek bed, with curved rock walls providing a distinctive setting. For those seeking more facilities, Jaycee Park Campground provides walk-in tent sites near the Colorado River. Dispersed camping areas like Monticello Lake typically offer minimal to no amenities - no picnic tables, fire rings, potable water or dumpsters, though some may have vault toilets. Backcountry sites in Canyonlands require WAG bags and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Be prepared to bring your own water for most tent camping options around Moab.

What amenities do Moab campgrounds offer for tent campers?

Amenities at Moab campgrounds vary widely by location type. Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers reservable group camping next to a hiking trail and creek bed, with curved rock walls providing a distinctive setting. For those seeking more facilities, Jaycee Park Campground provides walk-in tent sites near the Colorado River. Dispersed camping areas like Monticello Lake typically offer minimal to no amenities - no picnic tables, fire rings, potable water or dumpsters, though some may have vault toilets. Backcountry sites in Canyonlands require WAG bags and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Be prepared to bring your own water for most tent camping options around Moab.

Where are the best tent camping spots in Moab, Utah?

Moab offers excellent tent camping options for all preferences. Up the Creek Campground provides a unique oasis of trees in the desert and is tent-only, creating a quiet sanctuary despite being in town. For those seeking solitude, Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area offers peaceful boondocking with mountain views and minimal traffic. Backcountry enthusiasts should consider the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, where permit-required sites provide immersive desert experiences. For climbers, Jaycee Park Campground near Wall Street climbing area offers convenient walk-in sites close to the Colorado River.

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