It does get busy here but theres a lot of room to spread out. Dog Friendly: Yes. This spot is great if the boondocking sites closer to Moab are full. Despite the treacherous road, making the trek into Gemini Bridges Road is well worth it if you have a well-equipped vehicle. The Best RV Campgrounds for Stargazing Adventures. Heres exactly where to go dispersed camping in Moab on your next trip. Other people or wildlife finding your left-behind waste and toilet paper. There is no camping in the canyon, but once you are on top of the mesa, you are good to go. Elevation Gain: 1,925 feet. Not so great with all the air B&B camper trailers. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. Gemini Bridges Road is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Access to boondocking sites and free camping in Moab is never guaranteed. Closure sign was just about where Deadhorse SP intersects Long Canyon RD and said no camping for next 5 miles, which took us to the top of the Potash Rd coming up from the canyon floor. Closed Sunday, Moab Transfer Station Forget the roadside BLM campgrounds on UT-128 or the over-crowded National Park sites and experience camping at the edge of Long Canyon. It's a first come, first serve campground. Located on the south side of the Colorado River, Portal is only a few minutes from downtown Moab & a 5-minute drive to Arches National Park. Permits are required for all vehicles, bicycles, and motorcycles. Although theres plenty of open space, its easy to find seclusion and privacy, as well. Bryce Canyon National Park Free Camping Locations 12 Miles: Hw 22 Near Bryce Natl Park Address Elevation: 5793 Management Public Bureau of Land Managment The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. Most people will park at the top parking lot of the Mag7/Gemini Bridges Trail Complex next to Highway 313. This is just before you get to the Canyonlands Field Airport, so if you get there youve gone too far. Please note that most individual campsites are available on a first come first served basis only and No reservations are accepted. The Lone Mesa Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. 10 Mile Point starts as a maintained graded dirt road but ends on the rim . The longest RV reported here on Campendium was 28 feet. The trail consists of 4 sections, Bull Run, Arth's Corner, Little Cyn, Gold Bar and Gold Bar Rim. It may take longer depending on how frequently you stop for photos. Drive a canyon in the comfort of your personal SUV! Did see other awd on it, but it was rough! This area has seen a dramatic increase in campers over the past few years, so minimizing your impact is the only way to ensure it remains open for free camping. If you plan to camp in Moab, we cant recommend boondocking in this area enough. Day 2 - Canyonlands. Also known as BLM Road 142, this camping area has several larger sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers. The wide-open spaces, beautiful views, and epic sunsets are better than any amenity that any RV park or campground could ever offer. Most importantly, pack out all of your trash. We stopped a couple times to give the brakes a rest. Click here for a complete list of available locations. This free camping area doesnt make our list of favorites, mostly due to the microscopic grains of fine red sand and threat of cacti attacking our preschooler at every turn, but it is super convenient to the national and state park, the sunsets are perfect, and it's FREE! The website is for information purposes only and we assume no liability for decisions made as a result of the information provided here. If you're visiting Moab for some mountain biking, this is a great place to start. You never want to take a big rig down a road and find out while driving that its unsafe and theres nowhere to turn around. Call the Moab Ranger District: (435) 259-7155. Experienced off-roaders will consider this a wide smooth trail with a few bumps and smaller rocks (pucker pass), but a family in a 2wd Rav 4 or Subaru who hasn't experienced steepish rocky terrain might feel a bit worried. Then youre in luck thousands of square miles of public lands surround the city, home to some of the best dispersed camping in Utah, period. Drive a canyon in the comfort of your personal SUV! Can't complain at all about a view from your campsite over the canyon with the LaSal's in the background. Google Maps | Phone: (435) 719-2299 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle | Browse Popular Tours on Viator. Everyone is talking about this route and it is all great. Distance: 13 miles one-way. Photos from Memorial day weekend 2020. Getting to the Needles District. This campsite doesnt disappoint. Yellow Circle Road outside Moab is a dispersed camping area managed by the BLM. If youre able to get out to these sites, they are sure to please! Youll need four wheel drive to get to this spot, and you wont be disappointed. Campers report decent cell signals on all major carriers, so youll have no problem getting work done while boondocking out here. Driving Directions. IMHO any SUV 4x4 can make the trip up this road to Canyonlands NP from Moab. Dispersed camping near Moab is rapidly changing. Starting March 1, 2021, Kens Lake Campground will be reservable via recreation.gov. Shafer Trail is a point-to-point trail where you may see local wildlife located near Moab, Utah. Moab is an outdoor mecca, from rock climbing to mountain biking to 4WD adventures and while not particularly technical (it is only rated Class 2) the 7.8 mile Long Canyon Road just north of Dead Horse State Park is an excellent way to get a taste for the incredible features (and views) that the Colorado watershed and its canyons has to offer. Make sure to follow all the rules associated with the public land youre camping on, including obeying fire restrictions and maximum length of stay limits (usually up to 14 days). We just spent 7 days camping on Dalton Wells Road in our 35 foot fifth wheel and my son in his 22 foot travel trailer. Simply take Highway 191 north to Highway 313 toward Canyonlands. Youll be camped in Brides Canyon looking up at some towering red rock formations. 700 miles. Moab is an outdoor mecca, from rock climbing to mountain biking to 4WD adventures and while not particularly technical (it is only rated Class 2) the 7.8 mile Long Canyon Road just north of Dead Horse State Park is an excellent way to get a taste for the incredible features (and views) that the Colorado watershed and its canyons has to offer. It's potentially unsafe and the BLM has banned roped activities meaning that you would have to go ropeless. The only negative thing I can say about this place is that the drive up Long Canyon Rd. Approximate Time: 1 to 2 hours depending on stops. Are The National Parks in Tennessee Worth Visiting? Be sure to inquire with the Moab BLM office before camping here as there have been some recent reports that they are considering closing the area to camping. If you can get to it, the views are breathtaking. Its known for late nights, socialization, and traffic noise. If you stick to the interstate then the drive from Las Vegas to Moab is an easy day's driving, taking less than 7 hours if the traffic is in your favor. Campers have found adequate cell signals among all major carriers, too. As with all free camping in Moab, try to scout it out with your tow vehicle ahead of time. Facility. This free camping area is south of Moab and just to the east of Highway 191. Available Campsites Situated west of Moab and close to the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands is the BLM 340 dispersed camping area. This free campsite outside Moab can accommodate any size RV. RV road trippers delight in the selection of easy-in, easy-out Moab RV accommodations. Worth noting - Mineral Road/Horsethief Trail runs parallel to Mineral Point/BLM 340 which goes past Horsethief Campground. By accessing or using this site you are indicating your consent to and agreement with the: Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Affiliate Disclosure, Powered by a Toyota 5VZ-FE | 2023, takethetruck unless otherwise noted. Although stellar dispersed campsites can be found throughout the national forest, the best for those visiting Moab are just off the famous La Sal Loop Road. During the summer months Moab can get very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees. W.A.G. This road should be easy for any vehicle to navigate, although high clearance may be required to get back into some campsites. From here, we highly recommend a sunrise or sunset visit to Mesa Arch. Canyonlands National Park Backcountry 4x4 Adventure from Moab 285 Recommended Adventure Tours from $180.52 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands 17 Recommended Adventure Tours from $325.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Utah Mighty 5 National Parks: Small Group 7-Day Tour 1 Adventure Tours from We are a short drive away from popular attractions, entertainment, and outdoor activities in the heart of Utah. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Turn west on Route 211 and the road will lead you to the park. The first spots at the beginning of the road are easy to access for any sized rig, and youll likely find yourself sharing any large open sites with others (who might pull in late and/or leave early). Dalton Wells Road dispersed camping outside of Moab is on Utah State Trust land. The longest RV campers reported at this spot was a 29-foot travel trailer. Planning a Utah road trip? There are beautiful views in every direction. To get here from Moab take Highway 128 to the La Sal Loop Road. This campsite has decent cell signal for most major carriers. If camping during summer time, heres a few tips and products that can help you stay cool in the heat. So popular that porta potties are actually provided! By: Zach Luchs + Save to a List Moab and the surrounding areas have always been my go-to weekend getaway when I need to abandon the city for just a night. Theres plenty of space to spread out, and the views are amazing. Its usually got plenty of spaces available and can accommodate any size RV. Both Arches and Canyonlands National Park are just a short drive away as is Dead Horse Point State Park. After it turns to gravel, the road climbs into the dramatic scenery of . What Is Primitive Camping? adventures and follow local regulations. Gemini Bridges Road is a primitive BLM campground with six campsites located just west of Moab. There are tons of open and flat sites (great views though! W.A.G. These Destinations Will Be Overrun With Tourists in 2023, The Highest Rated Campgrounds in North Carolina, Your Complete Guide to Marco Island Beaches, The Best Hot Springs in California to Soak Your Bones, What People Really Think About Arrowhead RV Campground. Many areas limited campers to 14 consecutive nights or less. This is definitely a place you should scout with your tow vehicle first. Start Wild Camping Like a Pro [16 Boondocking Questions Answered], Camping Hygiene: How to Bathe While Camping and Traveling, The Best Overlanding Trails and Routes in North America, Wild Camping Safety & Security Tips: Conquer Your Boondocking Fears, 5 Must-Visit Natural Hot Springs in Idaho. This is another one located really conveniently to Islands in the Sky section of Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. However, coming in from 313 is easy to do for any vehicle and is the route youd be on anyway if visiting Canyonland National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park. Cell signal is low with most carriers but still usable. These lookout points get better and better. Would not recommend a stock 2x2. Related Post: Best Apps to Find Dispersed Camping. RV-friendly campsites are located just a few dozen feet off of La Sal Loop Road, but much more private campsites can be found by driving further in. A lot more fun way to get back to Moab after visiting Dead Horse Point SP, or Canyon Lands NP, than by driving on the paved road. I have a Subaru Forester and we took it down this road! Its home to some of the best free camping near Moab but is an adventure to reach. The abundance of BLM land along with Manti-La Sal National Forest means there will be a dispersed campsite to suit any needs. Theres no camping allowed along the first half-mile of the road, but as you drive farther in, youll start to see campsites. Follow your GPS and go past the no camping for 0.6 miles sign. In particular, large swaths of BLM land that once allowed free dispersed camping no longer do. Given how popular free dispersed camping in Moab can be weve provided an overview of the most important information to keep in mind when planning your trip: It is possible to camp in Moab year-round, although the most popular season will be the Spring and Fall. Its a large open lot, but theres still plenty of room to spread out. This is a 5.5 mile loop, if you opt out of the several in/outs to various lookout points, which extend the hike to about 10 miles -- do not opt out! This should only take a couple of hours round trip depending on hiking speed. Long Canyon Road offers some decent dispersed camping near Moab for those willing to drive a bit further. This list includes all commercial campgrounds in the Moab area.Click here for a list of campgrounds, BLM campgrounds are located in extremely scenic locations and are very well-maintained. Do you need to book in advance to visit Long Canyon Road? With recreation increasing on Utahs public lands every year, improper disposal of human waste can lead to: Whenever possible, use developed toilet facilities. If youre heading toward Dead Horse State Park, the subtle turn is right where the road to Dead Horse State Park makes a slight dogleg turn to the south-east. It takes roughly 2 hours to do this drive. Is Long Canyon Road in Utah steep? Open all year weather permitting, do not travel this road in severe weather conditions. Cell Service: spotty T-mobile/Sprint (Google Fi). (even in a lifted Ram 1500) is challenging, to say the least. *(This post contains affiliate links. Always check restrictions for your chosen camping area. Per reviews, one of the roads in is rough with a sheer cliff on one side (from 191), but accessing this area from 313 is a bit easier. Use common sense and caution when passing other vehicles. Beautiful drive. Take a beautiful journey out to one of Moab's most breathtaking overlooks. Keep reading to learn about our nine favorite dispersed campsites near Moab, Utah! But if you have the time and patience, keep driving! Approximately 1.5 miles from the turnoff on US 313 to get to Dead Horse State Park, theres a subtle turn onto Long Canyon Road. Mountain biking, off-roading, hiking, and several National Parks are just a few of the attractions the area has to offer. 10 Mile Canyon Overlook is a short side trail leading to a fantastic overlook with camping. Access is never guaranteed, so play it safe. Dont camp here if you want privacy. Please explore responsibly! Best done when dry. The way is paved for about 5 miles along the Colorado River in a huge gorge. For the best experience, you'll want to experience the trail top to bottom where you'll drive down into Long Canyon. This free camping area is off 313, west of Moab. You are still completely responsible for your decisions, your actions, and your safety. Free camping is allowed for up to 14 days at a time. Campendium is an Amazon associate site and earns from qualifying purchases. Do not attempt to get to this campsite in a 2WD truck, van, or small RV - not worth the risk! Because this is such a popular place to camp, its extremely important to practice good stewardship, including the Leave No Trace principles, to ensure that the campground isnt closed permanently. Based on the wonderful reviews, I hoped to stay here in Sept 2022 when we made our tour of the Utah Big 5. Holy hell was I terrified! To get to the free campsites, turn off of 313 onto BLM 137 as if youre going to the Lone Mesa Group Site. Reviewers report that the road in is pretty rough, so its a good idea to drop off your camper and scout this one out with your tow vehicle. 6 hours 40 minutes. Get here by taking Kane Creek Road from Moab. This campsite is near trails, so it might be a bit noisy, but its pretty secluded overall. Distance to Moab: 17 milesRestrooms:NoWater:NoCrowds:ModerateMap. Taking on the Twists and Turns of Cheile Gradistei, The Game-Changer for Winter Driving: Self-Salting Roads. Remember, our suggestions above are our favorite free campsites in Moab but theyre far from the only options, especially if you have high-clearance, 4WD, and a desire to explore. Its up to all of us me, you, and all other dispersed campers to keep our public lands open and available to us all by treating them with respect. The wind can really whip through this area, so if youre tent camping youll want to be sure youve adequately secured your set-up. It is illegal to camp inside city limits unless you are in a designated campground. Yellow Circle Road is sometimes called Black Ridge Area Dispersed Camping Area.. For campground inquiries, please call: 435-259-2100. Read reviews and scout first. Do it like a local! The elevation gain is 659 meters. Remember to read reviews, scout it out, and come prepared. Although its very steep with tight hairpin turns, all but the largest RVs and trailers will manage just fine. High-clearance and 4WD are all but a must. I could have made the trip in an unmodified, stock, 4x4, without any problems. ), so you can find literally hundreds of spots to park here and any sized rig could call this area home for the night. Tent campers should be aware that the dirt here is incredibly difficult to get stakes into, so plan accordingly! This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If you have every seen any arch swing videos this is where its done! Everything from when to camp, what to bring, and how to get there. If driving a bigger rig, always scout out any questionable areas before heading down. Commercial (privately owned) campgrounds generally have many conveniences such as showers, running water, RV hook-ups, flush toilets, and more. Community Recycling Center Keep driving and youll be able to find something! How long is Long Canyon Road? At multiple spots along the trail you'll reach gorgeous scenes of the Colorado River winding it's As a pet owner, you probably know that bringing your pooch along on your National Park adventures can be a frustrating experience. The western 3 miles of the road travel over the flat top of the mesa and will not be discussed here. Once past the formal campground dispersed campsites begin to appear almost immediately. Please explore responsibly! Yellow Circle Road offers basic dispersed camping near Moab just off of Highway 191 south of town. In addition, the map below gives an overview of each dispersed camping areas location with a full description included in the following section. 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