Camping along the Colorado River in Moab offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and riverside relaxation. With numerous campgrounds dotting the riverbanks, visitors can experience the rugged landscape of Utah while enjoying easy access to water activities and hiking trails. From basic tent sites to group areas and nearby cabin options, the Moab area provides diverse camping experiences for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
What Are the Best Campgrounds Along the Colorado River in Moab?
Moab offers several excellent campgrounds along the Colorado River, each with its own unique features and amenities. Here’s a breakdown of the top options:
- Gold Bar Campground
- Goose Island Campground
- Hal Canyon Campground
- Hittle Bottom Campground
- Jaycee Park Campground
- Williams Bottom Campground
Let’s explore each of these campgrounds in detail.
Gold Bar Campground
- Location: 10 miles from the junction of U.S. Highway 191 and Utah Highway 279
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets
- Trash facilities
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Proximity to River: Riverside camping with Colorado River views
- Capacity: Individual sites and 4 large group sites
- Unique Feature: Close to Corona Arch trailhead
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: Individual sites first-come, first-served; group sites reservable online
Goose Island Campground
- Location: 1.4 miles east from the junction of Highway 128 and Highway 191
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Trash/recycling facilities
- Proximity to River: Spectacular views of Colorado River and Arches National Park
- Capacity: 18 designated campsites, including two small group sites
- Unique Feature: Proximity to Moab and Arches National Park, shaded areas
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: Individual sites first-come, first-served; group sites reservable online
Hal Canyon Campground
- Location: 6.5 miles from the junction of U.S. Highway 191 and Utah Highway 128
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Proximity to River: Riverside camping with Colorado River views
- Capacity: Individual sites available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Unique Feature: Riverside camping with scrub oak trees
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: First-come, first-served; no reservations for individual sites
Hittle Bottom Campground
- Location: 23 miles from the junction of U.S. Highway 191 and Utah Highway 128
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets
- Trash facilities
- Boat ramp
- Proximity to River: Riverside camping with access to Colorado River
- Capacity: Individual sites and one group site
- Unique Feature: Historic homestead and boat ramp
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: Individual sites first-come, first-served; one group site reservable online
Jaycee Park Campground
- Location: Along Potash Road, close to town
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets
- Picnic tables
- Some tree shade
- Proximity to River: River is just across the road
- Capacity: First-come, first-served individual sites
- Unique Feature: Tree shade and proximity to town
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: First-come, first-served
Williams Bottom Campground
- Location: Along Potash Road, offering a more peaceful experience
- Amenities:
- Pit toilets across the road
- Some tree shade
- Proximity to River: Close to the Colorado River
- Capacity: Limited campsites, first-come, first-served
- Unique Feature: Peaceful and limited campsites
- Cost: $20 per night
- Reservation: First-come, first-served
What Are the Seasonal Restrictions and Rules for Camp Moab Colorado River?
When camping along the Colorado River in Moab, it’s important to be aware of the following restrictions and rules:
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Water Availability: None of the mentioned campgrounds have potable water available. Campers must bring their own water supply.
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Firewood Collection: Collecting firewood is prohibited in these areas. Bring your own firewood or purchase it from local stores.
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Trash Management: Campers are required to pack out all trash. Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
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Reservation System: Most individual sites are first-come, first-served, while some group sites can be reserved online. Plan accordingly, especially during peak seasons.
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Fire Restrictions: Check for any current fire restrictions before your trip, as they may vary depending on weather conditions and time of year.
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Pet Policies: While pets are generally allowed, they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Clean up after your pets.
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Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM, to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers.
What Alternative Accommodations Are Available Near the Colorado River in Moab?
For those seeking more comfort or amenities, there are cabin options near the Colorado River in Moab:
Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa
- Type: Luxury cabins and rooms
- Amenities:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Farm-to-table meals
- Spa services
- Occupancy: Varies by cabin type
- Pricing: Generally higher-end, around $200-$500 per night
- Proximity to River: Located along the Colorado River, offering scenic views and access to river activities
Red Cliff Lodge
- Type: Cabins and rooms
- Amenities:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Wine tasting
- Restaurant
- Occupancy: Varies by cabin type
- Pricing: Around $150-$300 per night
- Proximity to River: Located near the Colorado River, offering access to river activities
What Activities Are Available Near Camp Moab Colorado River?
The area around Camp Moab Colorado River offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts:
Hiking Trails
- Corona Arch Trail: Accessible from Gold Bar Campground
- Porcupine Rim Trail: Near Grandstaff Campground
- Fisher Towers National Recreation Trail: Adjacent to Gold Bar Campground
Water Sports
- Kayaking and Rafting: Accessible from Hittle Bottom Campground and other riverfront campsites
- Guided Tours: Companies like Mild to Wild Rafting offer guided river tours
Local Events and Tours
- Guided Hikes: Available through Under Canvas Moab
- Camp Programs: Including yoga, live acoustic music, and campfire s’mores
- River Activities: Various outfitters offer rafting and kayaking tours. Contact Moab Adventure Center for bookings
How Can I Make the Most of My Camp Moab Colorado River Experience?
To ensure a memorable camping experience along the Colorado River in Moab, consider these tips:
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Plan Ahead: During peak seasons (spring and fall), campgrounds fill up quickly. Arrive early or make reservations where possible.
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Bring Essentials: Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.
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Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
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Explore Beyond the Campground: Take advantage of nearby hiking trails and water activities to fully experience the region.
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Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and any current advisories or restrictions before and during your trip.
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Be Prepared for No Services: Most campgrounds have limited amenities, so come self-sufficient with all necessary supplies.
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Capture the Moment: The scenery along the Colorado River is breathtaking. Don’t forget your camera to document your adventure.
By following these guidelines and taking advantage of the diverse offerings in the Moab area, you can create an unforgettable camping experience along the Colorado River.