Canyonlands National Park Camping

Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is a desert camper’s dream, preserving more than 337,000 acres of sculpted red rock, deep canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers. Divided into four unique districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and Horseshoe Canyon—this park offers a range of camping options, from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Whether you’re looking for an easy-access RV campsite or a backcountry escape, this guide covers everything you need to know about camping at Canyonlands National Park.

Island in the Sky District: Best for First-Time Visitors and RVs

The Island in the Sky District is the most accessible part of Canyonlands, located just 30 minutes from Moab. It sits atop a 1,500-foot mesa and offers sweeping views of the canyons below.

Willow Flat Campground is the only campground in this district and features 12 first-come, first-served campsites. Located near the iconic Green River Overlook, the campground is open year-round and costs $15 per night. It accommodates RVs and trailers up to 28 feet but does not offer water, hookups, dump stations, or showers. Campsites come with picnic tables, fire rings, paved parking pads, and vault toilets. Due to its proximity to top sights like Mesa Arch, this campground fills quickly during the busy spring and fall seasons.

The Needles District: Scenic Hiking and Remote Camping

The Needles District, located about 75 miles south of Moab, is known for its dramatic sandstone spires and remote backcountry feel. The Needles Campground (also called Squaw Flat) features 26 individual sites and three group sites. Twelve of the individual campsites can be reserved in spring and fall; the rest are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsites are $20 per night and include vault toilets, potable water (seasonally), picnic tables, fire rings, and an amphitheater. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 28 feet in length, but there are no hookups or dump stations.

Nearby Campgrounds Outside the Park

If in-park sites are full or you want additional amenities, several campgrounds near Canyonlands offer great alternatives.

Dead Horse Point State Park, located just 10 miles from the Island in the Sky entrance, offers two well-developed campgrounds—Wingate and Kayenta. Both offer RV-friendly sites with electrical hookups (20/30/50 AMP), paved pads, picnic shelters, and restrooms. The Wingate Campground has 31 sites (20 for RVs), while Kayenta offers 21 sites. Fees range from $35 to $40 per night. These campgrounds do not have water hookups or showers, but they are reservable and provide convenient access to Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point scenic trails.

Horsethief Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is another excellent option. Located about 9 miles from the Island in the Sky entrance, it features 83 first-come, first-served sites at $20 per night. Sites are tucked among pinyon-juniper forest and offer fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. However, there are no hookups, water, or dump stations.

Backcountry Camping and Permits

For a truly immersive experience, Canyonlands offers exceptional backcountry camping opportunities. Permits are required for all overnight backcountry use, including camping along the White Rim Road, in The Maze District, and in Horseshoe Canyon.

The White Rim Road is a 71-mile unpaved loop around the Island in the Sky mesa, accessible to high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles and mountain bikes. Permits for both day use and overnight stays are required, and designated campsites must be reserved in advance.

In The Maze and Horseshoe Canyon, camping is remote and rugged. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient and carry all water and supplies. Horseshoe Canyon camping is only allowed at the west rim trailhead; there is no camping in the canyon itself.

Best Time to Camp in Canyonlands

The best time to camp in Canyonlands is during the spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when daytime temperatures are mild, ranging from 60°F to 80°F. These are also the busiest months, so arrive early or book in advance where possible.

Summer brings extreme heat, often above 100°F, making camping and hiking more strenuous. If visiting in summer, plan activities early in the day and bring ample water and sun protection. Winter offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and snow-dusted landscapes. While some roads and facilities may close due to snow, the peaceful experience can be well worth the preparation.

Tips for Camping at Canyonlands

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer, as most campgrounds have limited or no water access. A gallon per person per day is recommended. Cell service is unreliable in much of the park—bring a printed map and let someone know your itinerary. Always check weather and road conditions before heading out, especially if planning to drive backcountry roads or visit remote areas. Practice Leave No Trace ethics and avoid disturbing archaeological sites. If backpacking or camping in bear country (especially near The Needles), use a bear canister to store food and scented items.

How Many Days to Camp in Canyonlands

One to two days is enough to explore Island in the Sky highlights like Mesa Arch and Grand View Point. To see The Needles, hike to Chesler Park, or drive the White Rim Road, plan for three to four days. For backcountry trips or multi-district exploration, a full week allows for a deeper experience.

Conclusion

Camping at Canyonlands National Park offers an unforgettable experience for RVers, tent campers, and backpackers alike. From the dramatic overlooks of Island in the Sky to the remote wilderness of The Maze and Needles, this park provides some of the most scenic and peaceful desert camping in the American Southwest. Whether you're parking your RV at a developed site or hiking deep into the canyons, Canyonlands rewards those who take the time to explore its rugged beauty.