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Camping near Canyonlands National Park

2,182 Reviews

Canyonlands National Park has several camping options throughout Utah's dramatic desert landscape. Devils Garden Campground sits inside neighboring Arches National Park and connects to many good hiking trails nearby. Around Canyonlands itself, you'll find basic primitive sites that put you right in the middle of the wilderness. UtahRaptor State Park recently opened to campers and shows off some interesting rock formations you won't see elsewhere. The land around these parks includes deep canyons, flat-topped mesas, and standalone buttes that make camping here unlike other places. Many of the established campgrounds have water and bathrooms, which helps when staying in such a remote area. Spring and fall bring the best weather for camping here, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summer gets extremely hot in this part of Utah, so bring plenty of water and sun protection if you visit then. Some roads and camping areas close during winter when snow and ice make them dangerous or inaccessible.

Map showing campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park, UtahExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Canyonlands National Park (272)

    1. Island In The Sky (Willow Flat) Campground — Canyonlands National Park

    25 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 719-2313

    "Willow Flat campground is located in the Canyonlands National Park: Island in the sky section. It’s rather small with only 12 spots on a a first come first serve basis. Most spot fill up by noon."

    "Grabbing one of the few first come- first served sites at Canyonlands National Park is tough because this section of the park is immensely popular and there are only twelve available."

    2. BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed

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

    "Spending the night on the rim of canyonlands national park— Definitely one of the most magical experiences of my life setting our tents up during sunset and waking up during sunrise overlooking the vast"

    "It is 1.1 miles BEFORE Canyonland National Park sign or between mile marker 3 & 4. A little tough to sign and totally worth it."

    3. Kayenta Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    42 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2614

    $50 / night

    "Beautiful scenery, friendly staff, clean bathrooms and close to Canyonlands National Park."

    "Extremely close to canyonlands national park if you don’t get a site inside of the park. Each site has its own little hut and picnic table at it. They offer both electric and non electric sites."

    4. Wingate Campground — Dead Horse Point State Park

    36 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2614

    $40 - $150 / night

    "Just outside Canyonlands National Park, if you can snag a spot...well worth making this your basecamp."

    "We stayed here while visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. This setup is very nice with a great covered picnic table and grill, with a fire ring right next to it."

    5. Horsethief Campground

    53 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    $25 / night

    "Horsethief Campground is a BLM campground between Moab and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park."

    "This BLM campground is situated upon the plateau road near the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park."

    6. Needles Outpost Campground

    27 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    "This is a private campground right outside of the Needles district of Canyonlands National Park. There are some really wonderful sites with a bit of privacy and great views."

    "It’s right outside of Canyonlands national park. The bathrooms were super nice and there’s a little store. Some sites are right under the rocks which is the best."

    7. Hamburger Rock Campground

    22 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    15 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "We hiked around back and camped back where it was pretty open with some nooks in the rocks. We had 7 high school students along."

    "Hamburger Rock is a BLM campground located in the Indian Creek Unit of Bears Ears National Monument. Sites 1- 9 are at the base of the Hamburger Rock geologic feature."

    8. Cowboy Camp Campground

    22 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "It's very close to the state park and it's along the way to Canyonlands (about 15 minutes away).  The campground is quite simple. They're first-come, first-serve sites."

    "Very close to Dead Horse Point state park. Easy to access. A few sites (6-7?). Pay cash or by check at the entrance. BLM. Great views. Vault toilet was very clean. Picnic table and fire ring."

    9. Split Top Group Campsite — Canyonlands National Park

    12 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-4711

    $70 - $115 / night

    "Vault toilets Water available This very private group site is nestled in a rock formation outside the campgrounds. Park rangers had to help us locate it because it wasn’t on the park maps."

    "Our site was located right near the entrance to the campground and had 3 tent pads. There were two little caverns where we sat in to escape the storm."

    10. The Needles Campground — Canyonlands National Park

    11 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-4711

    $20 / night

    "We stayed in the Dutch Oven group site, loop A, which was adjacent to the restrooms with running water, and very near to the Squaw Flat trailhead. I really appreciate how the NPS utilized the space."

    "Adjacent to the trailheads, the sites have great views of the terrain, and level parking. RV and tent sites available-- these are spread out enough for a sense of isolation."

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Recent Camping Photos near Canyonlands National Park

673 Photos of 272 Canyonlands National Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Canyonlands National Park

2182 Reviews of 272 Canyonlands National Park Campgrounds

  • Jessica K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    BLM 144 Dispersed

    If rainy/wet and in 2wd beware

    I got stuck, luckily got myself out. It was about 930p and I didn't notice just how muddy it was until I was sliding. Good spot if dry. There were a couple other campers there.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Salt Valley Dispersed Camping

    Underrated spot

    Surprised this spot isn’t more popular. Lots of nice remote site options and trail leads you right into Arches NP (dont forget parks pass unless government is still shut down) with some fun off roading trails for capable vehicles but did see some motorcycles struggling in some sand farther up the road. I didn’t see anyone else camping here and saw maybe three OHVs drive past in the distance but was super quiet and peaceful otherwise. I will definitely stay here again next time I’m in Moab.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Dubinky Well Road Dispersed

    Perfect apot

    Went about a mile back to Bartlett road, rocky and bumpy but so worth it. Stayed 2 nights - quiet with no one around

  • J
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Ballard RV Park

    Nice park

    I've been here about a month. The staff is super friendly, the park is clean, the showers are hot and clean and it's only about 40 mins. to Moab.

  • Susan D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Yellow Circle Road Mountain Top Camp

    Great location!

    I chose this icon for Yellow Circle Road because we were kind of on the middle tier of the road. There were spots up the road further, but the road for rough and spots got smaller, so we stayed in the 2nd level. This area is very accessible to Moab. The "sites" on our level were quite large. We tow a 33 ' fifth wheel. We could have fit 6 in our spot. There was a short, steep, rocky, hill to get to this level, but we just took it slow. The only real down side was the dust when the wind picked up. Red dust everywhere! A convenient Maverick station (on the east side of Moab) had free dump and potable water.

  • gThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area

    Great views

    The place was empty. I was there October 8. The views are amazing. There’s a tons of spots. There’s power lines but I guess you can’t have everything. I got here in a standard 4x4 Ford F250. I wasn’t towing anything. It was just me and the truck. It took about :15 mins to drive back down the hill to the 191

    One important note: I think the coordinates are wrong. My GPS showed 38.42514, -109.40074

  • kelly B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Thompson Canyon

    Thompson Canyon Overlook

    Found this while looking for the Sego Canyon spot. The seldom used trail off of Thompson Bench Road was a tight squeeze for our F150, but once we got to the end, there was plenty of room to set up camp. 4WD is recommended, but probably doable without. I suggest not going if the ground is wet.

    The views are spectacular.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Sand Flats Recreation Area

    Iconic Slickrock mountain bicycle trailhead

    This is a city run park and campground that is primarily used by mountain bicyclists, motorcyclists, jeeps and side-by-side UTVs. So expect a lot of traffic and noise from these vehicles. It is fun to watch them navigate along very narrow trails through the sandstone Hills and boulders. I was in the first of five separate campground locations. Campgrounds can handle pretty much any size camping rig. Bathrooms consist of vault toilets surrounded by head high wooden walls with no roof. I camped here 9/22/25.

  • Christy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Cowboy Camp Campground

    Simple and stunning

    Absolutely incredible campsite. If you’re heading to Dead Horse Point for sunset, skip it and camp here instead—the sunsets from this spot are unreal. There are only seven sites, and most are great. The first one is near the road but still has amazing views. One site sits higher on a hill, tricky for vans but perfect if you want a panoramic overlook. I camped on #6 and while it not “private” it’s a view not to be missed.

    Every site has a fire ring, the vault toilet is spotless and stocked, and it’s quiet, peaceful, and beautiful. I’d pay $20 for this without a second thought. I arrived at 5:30 on a Tuesday in October and there were only three spots left.

    Honestly, I almost don’t want to share this place—it’s that good. But everyone deserves that “wow, I’m lucky” feeling

Guide to Canyonlands National Park

Camping near Canyonlands National Park, Utah, offers a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures in the area. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the beauty of nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in Canyonlands National Park. One camper mentioned, “Great starting point for several hikes” at Devils Garden Campground, making it a popular choice for those looking to hit the trails.
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area provide excellent stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Kayenta Campground noted, “Great stargazing!” which is a highlight for many campers.
  • Mountain Biking: The trails around Moab are famous for mountain biking. One review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned, “Close to most of the MTB trails we were there for,” making it a great base for biking enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and facilities. A review from Devils Garden Campground highlighted, “Well maintained bathrooms,” which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Helpful Hosts: Many campers enjoy the friendly and helpful campground hosts. One camper at BLM 378 Willow Springs Road said, “Host was very helpful,” which can make a big difference during your stay.
  • Beautiful Views: The stunning scenery is a major draw. A visitor at Kayenta Campground remarked, “Amazing park with incredible views,” showcasing the natural beauty surrounding the campgrounds.

What you should know:

  • Cold Nights: Be prepared for chilly evenings, especially in the fall. A camper at Devils Garden Campground warned, “It does get cold at night,” so pack accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned, “No drinking water,” so be sure to bring your own supplies.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A visitor at Horsethief Campground noted, “Very popular campground in mid October!” so plan ahead if you’re visiting during busy times.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer ranger talks or educational programs. A review from Devils Garden Campground mentioned, “Kid friendly nighttime ranger talks,” which can be a fun experience for families.
  • Spacious Campsites: Choose campgrounds with ample space for kids to play. One camper at Kayenta Campground appreciated the “large tent pads,” providing plenty of room for family activities.
  • Safety Precautions: Be aware of wildlife. A camper at Devils Garden Campground humorously noted, “This is the Ravens home; we are just visitors,” reminding families to keep an eye on their surroundings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Big Rig Access: Ensure the campground can accommodate larger RVs. A review from BLM 378 Willow Springs Road mentioned it was “big rig friendly,” which is a plus for RV travelers.
  • Plan for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A visitor at Slickrock Campground noted, “Sites are ridiculously close to each other,” so be prepared for a more communal experience.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of the campground’s proximity to attractions. A camper at Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown mentioned, “Walking distance to downtown,” making it easy to explore the area.

Camping near Canyonlands National Park, Utah, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy outdoor activities. With a variety of campgrounds and experiences, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds located in Canyonlands National Park?

Canyonlands National Park has campgrounds in two main districts. In the Needles District, you'll find The Needles Campground, which offers drive-in sites with water and toilets. For a backcountry experience, Taylor Backcountry Campsites provide more remote camping options within the park. The Island in the Sky District has fewer developed camping options within the park boundaries, which is why many visitors choose to stay at nearby BLM campgrounds or in Moab. Each district of Canyonlands is relatively isolated from the others, requiring significant driving time between them, so choosing a campground near your planned activities is important.

What are the camping options near Canyonlands National Park if the park campgrounds are full?

If Canyonlands campgrounds are full, several excellent alternatives exist nearby. Horsethief Campground is a BLM option between Moab and the Island in the Sky district, offering simple sites with picnic tables and fire rings. It's an ideal base camp for exploring both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Dead Horse Point State Park offers Wingate Campground with spectacular views and well-maintained facilities just outside Canyonlands. For more primitive options, BLM dispersed camping is available on Mineral Bottom Road and Sovereign Lands outside Moab. These free sites provide basic camping with no amenities but offer convenient access to the parks.

What types of camping are available in Canyonlands National Park?

Canyonlands National Park offers several camping styles to suit different preferences. Developed camping is available at designated campgrounds with basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. For groups, Split Top Group Campsite in the Needles District accommodates larger parties with drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. Backcountry camping is permitted with proper permits in designated areas, allowing for a more immersive wilderness experience. For those seeking solitude, Hamburger Rock Campground and nearby dispersed camping areas offer primitive sites with stunning surroundings. Vehicle camping is restricted to designated roads and campsites to protect the fragile desert environment.

Are there any private campgrounds with additional amenities near Canyonlands?

Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway is centrally located off the main road, about twenty minutes from Canyonlands National Park. This private campground offers level camping pads, clean drinking water, and nice bathrooms. It's also conveniently close to Arches National Park and Dead Horse State Park. Another option is Needles Outpost Campground, a private facility right outside the Needles district with wonderful sites offering privacy and great views. It features showers, flush toilets, and a small store. The campground provides access to fantastic hiking and climbing, though shade is limited. Both locations offer more amenities than public campgrounds in the area.

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