Within Canyonlands National Park, Shafer Backcountry Campsite operates as a walk-in site managed by the National Park Service near the Colorado River. The campground requires reservations and prohibits pets, with basic toilet facilities provided. Campers report challenges with site access due to boulder placement that blocks vehicle entry to individual sites, requiring gear transport from the parking area near the restroom. The exposed terrain offers no natural shade or shelter from elements. Multiple reviewers note persistent fly issues, attributed to proximity to both the toilet facilities and river. Sites accommodate a limited number of tents in close quarters. The location provides access to the White Rim Trail system, though the steep Shafer Trail approach requires well-maintained vehicle preparation for campgrounds around Canyonlands National Park.
Description
You must have an overnight permit for all overnight trips along the White Rim. You can obtain a permit from https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315
Shafer The campsite is surrounded by canyon walls, but they provide little protection from the sun and wind. A small ridge adjacent to the campsite provides some shade in the late afternoon and possible protection from the wind. The site is large with good flat spots and a packed dirt base.
Limits: 15 people and 3 vehicles
Toilets: The site has a private toilet.
River Access: The site has no river access.
Bicyclists and four-wheel drivers must stay in designated campsites. There are 20 individual campsites arranged in 10 camping areas. There are toilets at each area. When there is more than one campsite at a location, they are generally positioned to be out of earshot and, as much as possible, sight of each other. Each campsite accommodates up to 15 people and 3 vehicles. Motorbikes and trailers are considered vehicles for these group size limits. Keep all camp activities within the post that mark the campsite boundaries. Campfires are not permitted.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundShafer Backcountry Campsite — Canyonlands National Park is located in Utah
Coordinates
38.46592269 N
109.78164855 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 7 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 4 hrs 32 min from Provo, UT
- 4 hrs 59 min from Farmington, NM
- 5 hrs 3 min from Salt Lake City, UT
