Hikers and mountain bikers find Grandstaff Campground positioned for direct access to the Grandstaff Canyon Trail and Porcupine Rim trailhead, both located directly across Highway 128. This Bureau of Land Management campground sits along the Colorado River, approximately three miles northeast of downtown Moab on a paved road with easy access for most vehicles.
The 16 sites occupy level gravel pads with picnic tables and fire rings, though recent tamarisk removal has left the area with minimal shade. Most sites sit within 50 feet of the river, providing water access for cooling off during hot desert days. Highway 128 runs close to the campground, generating steady vehicle noise throughout the day and into evening hours. "The road traffic noise is terrible," notes Michael C., particularly during peak tourist seasons when traffic continues well past sunset.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and fills quickly, often by noon during spring and fall. Sites accommodate RVs up to 25 feet, with wooden posts preventing longer vehicles from entering. Vault toilets serve the campground, though no water, showers, or electrical hookups are available. Campers typically fill water containers at Lions Park near the Highway 191 intersection before arriving.
Grandstaff Canyon Trail leads to Morning Glory Natural Bridge via a 4.5-mile roundtrip hike with several stream crossings and shaded afternoon sections. The paved bike path connecting to Moab begins just up the road, offering an alternative to driving into town. "Stars galore, no real light pollution," observes Melissa K., though canyon walls provide natural windbreaks that can trap heat during summer months.
Arrive early morning for the best chance at securing a riverside site, particularly during peak seasons when construction projects may limit available spaces.
Description
Riverside camping designed for tents only. Individual sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The campsites offer spectacular views of the Colorado River and the massive red rock cliffs of Arches National Park. This campground is very popular due to its proximity to Moab, its shade in the summer and the beautiful scenery. Located near the Grandstaff Trailhead (hiking) and Porcupine Rim Trail (mountain biking). Typically fills in the morning, from March-October. (Do not enter the river without the required life jackets; it has dangerous under currents.) Individual Sites: 16 (limited to 10 people & two vehicles per site); Water: No; Toilets: Yes; Hook-ups: No;
Fee Info
$20/night (Pay at campground, cash or check only)
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGrandstaff Campground is located in Utah near Moab
Directions
From the intersection of Hwy. 191 and Hwy. 128, drive east 3 miles along the Colorado River. The campground will be on your left.
Address
Moab Field Office
82 East Dogwood
Moab, UT 84532
Coordinates
38.6102 N
109.5339 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/13/26- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/13/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/13/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/13/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 1 hr 34 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 1 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 11 min from Farmington, NM
- 3 hrs 32 min from Salt Lake City, UT
