Windwhistle Group Site
4.6634 reviews82 E Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Windwhistle Group Site
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site fees are $75 per night. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Early departures may qualify for partial refunds if nights are opened for other reservations.
About this campground
Tucked away in Utah's mesmerizing red rock wilderness, Windwhistle Group Site beckons adventurers seeking an authentic desert camping experience. This secluded sanctuary serves as your gateway to the legendary Canyonlands National Park, where ancient stone sculptures tower against endless skies. Perfect for intimate gatherings under the stars, the campground provides essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, a communal fire ring for evening storytelling, and clean vault toilets. While you'll find seasonal water from May through September, the site maintains its wild character without electric hookups or dump stations—ensuring your connection to nature remains uninterrupted.
The campground provides group camping accommodations in a walk-in site designed for smaller gatherings. It does not support RV camping or glamping.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Windwhistle places you at the crossroads of geological wonder and human adventure. Just moments away, the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park preserves millennia of natural artistry, while the world-renowned Indian Creek climbing area draws athletes from across the globe to test themselves against ancient sandstone walls. These lands tell stories written in stone—from the slow march of geological time to the more recent chapters penned by Indigenous peoples, pioneers, and modern explorers.
Weather and SeasonsThe desert's dramatic personality shines through at Windwhistle, where summer afternoons bring theatrical thunderstorms and winds that dance through the canyons with enough force to challenge even the sturdiest tent stakes. As one seasoned camper noted, 'Wind was enough to prevent me from getting a lick of sleep… make sure to pick your site accordingly.' Winter transforms the landscape with dustings of snow that accent the red rocks like powdered sugar. Fresh water flows from taps during the warmer months of May through September, allowing for extended stays during peak season.
ElevationPerched at high desert elevation, Windwhistle offers commanding views across a sea of mesas that stretch to the horizon. From this vantage point, the landscape unfolds like a topographical map come to life, revealing the intricate patterns carved by wind and water over countless centuries.
Natural Features and SceneryWindwhistle sits like a jewel in the crown of Utah's red rock empire, where towering sandstone cliffs catch the light of dawn and dusk in a daily display of natural theater. Massive rock formations stand sentinel around the campground, their weathered faces telling ancient stories to those who pause to listen. When darkness falls, the show continues overhead—as one awestruck visitor shared, 'Way out in the Beautiful Utah Wilderness. So Many Stars you can see the Milky Way.' The absence of light pollution transforms the night sky into a glittering tapestry that reminds us why our ancestors looked up in wonder.
Geological RegionSet within Utah's iconic Colorado Plateau, Windwhistle occupies a front-row seat to one of Earth's most spectacular geological showcases. Surrounded by a labyrinth of canyons and crowned by weathered cliffs, the campground serves as your personal observatory for studying the artistry of erosion. Scenic overlooks beckon hikers to explore deeper into the backcountry, where each turn reveals new perspectives on the ancient forces that sculpted this magnificent landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group site is a walk-in location with a short, level path. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates a maximum of 25 people.
Sites PrivacySites are described as secluded, with significant spacing between individual areas.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites protected from winds; lower-profile tents or campers recommended. Reviewers suggest preparing for walk-in access and bringing wagons for gear.
Best CampsitesThe group site is highly rated due to its proximity to rock formations and scenic backdrop. "The group site was awesome!"
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Noon
Check-out
Noon
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size of 25 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates a maximum of 25 people and features 4 picnic tables scattered around the area. It is located at the lower end of the campground and requires a short walk from the parking area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup site located at the lower end of the campground with four picnic tables, grills, and fire rings. Walk-in access required.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round (January 1 to December 31). Peak season dates span January to December.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or through the BLM Moab Field Office (435-259-2100).
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites other than the group site are first-come, first-served. The group site requires reservations and cannot be booked on a walk-up basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the call center. A $10 fee applies to cancellations, and late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival) incur additional penalties such as forfeiting the first night's fee. Changes to reservations have specific fees and rules depending on timing.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Windwhistle Group Site offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and auto touring. The nearby Needles District of Canyonlands National Park provides additional activities such as 4WD trails.
Hiking
Numerous hiking options are available, including a dirt nature trail loop accessible through the group site. The Needles Overlook area offers additional trails.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible near the campground, with challenging terrain noted in the area surrounding the Needles Overlook.Wildlife viewing
Ravens, chipmunks, and other wildlife frequent the area. Visitors are advised not to leave food or trash unattended.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not detailed, but the cold conditions may limit options.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions enforced seasonally; fire pits and grates provided when fires are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include gusty winds, flash flooding from summer storms, and biting gnats in early summer. Wildlife like ravens and chipmunks frequent the area; secure food and trash.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be enforced seasonally. Contact the Moab Field Office for current updates.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Moab, approximately 45 minutes away. Contact the BLM Moab Field Office at 435-259-2100 for assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingA large dumpster is available near the parking area for trash disposal.
Proximity to water featuresSeasonal water availability via spigot May through September. No lakes or streams within immediate vicinity.
Common complaintsLimited parking and walk-in only access are noted as potential inconveniences. "I wish we had known how far we needed to walk in from the parking area!"
HostNo dedicated campground host mentioned. The BLM Moab Field Office provides support and information.
Campground Map
82 E Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsFrom Moab, drive 32 miles south on 191 to the junction with the Needles Overlook road. Turn right and travel 6 miles on this road. The campground is on the left-hand side of the road.
The campground is located 6 miles off the main highway (191) on a paved road. Parking is limited and not appropriate for large vehicles, RVs, motorhomes, pull campers, and trailers. Seasonal weather conditions like summer thunderstorms may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Moab (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Monticello (approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Dining, shopping, sports rentals, tour companies, and fuel are available in Moab, 45 minutes away. Essential supplies can also be found in Monticello.
Camper Reviews
4.7
34 reviews
Windwhistle Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Windwhistle Group Site is highly praised for its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and clean facilities. Visitors frequently highlight the scenic surroundings, including red rock formations and clear night skies. The secluded location is appreciated, though some find the lack of water and shade shelters inconvenient. The site is also noted for its proximity to hiking and biking opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the 'BEAUTIFUL views' and 'quiet, secluded atmosphere.' Reviews also commend the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, as well as the site's proximity to national parks and...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shade structures and water (outside of the seasonal availability). The requirement to walk into the group site from the parking area posed challenges for some...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend bringing wagons or carts to transport gear from the parking area. Bug spray is advised for protection against gnats, especially in early summer. Campers are encouraged to...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are described as ideal seasons for camping, with mild weather and clear skies. Summer months can bring biting gnats and thunderstorms, while winters are likely to be very cold and...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Surrounded by natural beauty... the campground is well-maintained and peaceful.' 2. 'The views are wonderful and ever-changing, especially at sunrise and sunset.' 3. 'Very quiet since it's 6...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group site reviews highlight its spacious layout, clean vault toilets, and scenic location by rock formations. Visitors note that the short walk from parking to the site is manageable but requires...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews are limited, but the walk-in nature of the group site could pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as dog-friendly, with visitors mentioning that pets enjoyed the open space and nearby trails.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025