Wind gusts across the mesa top define the camping experience at Porcupine Rim, where dispersed sites sit at elevation within the Manti-La Sal National Forest. This free campground requires navigating a rocky, uphill access road that challenges sedans but remains manageable for crossovers and higher-clearance vehicles.
Sixteen designated sites spread across the rim, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Alfire S. notes that "fire pits are well maintained and clean," with deadwood available for gathering around the sites. A vault toilet sits within 100 yards of most camping spots and receives consistent praise for cleanliness. Cell service reaches the area, though wind conditions can be significant enough to affect tent setup and comfort.
The elevated position provides expansive views toward Monument Valley and the surrounding red rock country. Morning light illuminates distant formations while evening brings clear stargazing opportunities away from city lights. Russell emphasizes the nighttime experience: "OH I forgot the stars...make sure you do a little star gazing." Several nearby dispersed options include National Forest Dispersed - Lupe2 Dispersed and Tracking Station Road for alternative sites.
Access requires 40 minutes from Moab via dirt roads, with two route options available. The shorter approach involves more unpaved driving but reduces overall travel time. Recent visitors report muddy conditions near the entrance during wet weather and recommend checking road conditions before departure. Campers can find additional options through places to camp around Castle Valley for lower-elevation alternatives. Plan for windy conditions and bring extra tent stakes for secure setup.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingPorcupine rim campground is located in Utah
Coordinates
38.57468102082798 N
109.34727583412075 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 12/11/25
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 12/11/25
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 26 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 49 min from Farmington, NM
- 3 hrs 51 min from Provo, UT
- 4 hrs 22 min from Salt Lake City, UT





































