Canyonlands National Park Needles District Campground
4.67166 reviews2282 SW Resource Blvd, Moab, UT 84532, USA
Canyonlands National Park Needles District Campground
$20.00 - $225.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$225.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites cost $20 per night for up to 10 people; group campsites range from $70 to $225 depending on group size.
About this campground
Escape to The Needles Campground, a hidden gem tucked into the southern reaches of Canyonlands National Park where solitude meets spectacular scenery. This tranquil desert retreat offers two distinct camping experiences: the spontaneous adventure of Loop A's first-come, first-served sites, perfect for last-minute wanderers, and the peace of mind found in Loop B's reservable spots. While amenities remain refreshingly simple and purposefully minimal, the well-maintained facilities provide everything you need for an authentic wilderness experience beneath star-studded skies.
The Needles District Campground offers individual campsites in Loop B and first-come, first-served sites in Loop A. Group camping options are available via separate reservations.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia as you explore The Needles District, where ancient voices still speak through remarkable prehistoric petroglyphs etched into canyon walls. The weathered remnants of cowboy camps along trails like Cave Springs tell tales of a more recent past, when hardy ranchers attempted to tame this unforgiving landscape. These preserved glimpses into human history create a powerful connection between past and present, reminding visitors that they're merely the latest chapter in this land's long story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high desert, where summer days blaze with intensity before giving way to surprisingly crisp nights, and winter brings a stark, crystalline beauty to the landscape. Most adventurers time their visits for the magical shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when perfect temperatures transform the desert into an outdoor playground. These coveted months see wildflowers dotting the rust-colored terrain and comfortable conditions ideal for exploring the surrounding wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 4,900 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the high desert realm where thin, crystal-clear air carries the scent of sage and juniper. This elevation creates a unique microclimate that moderates the desert's extremes while offering breathtaking vistas that seem to stretch forever across the Colorado Plateau.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath the protective shade of ancient Utah junipers and gnarled pinyon pines, the campground serves as your basecamp for exploring a geological wonderland. Spring transforms this seemingly austere landscape into a painter's palette, with vibrant prickly pear cactus blooms and towering yucca flowers adding splashes of color against the red rock canvas. The iconic sandstone spires rise like ancient sentinels around the campground, their layered bands telling a 300-million-year story written in stone.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of Earth's most extraordinary sculpture gardens, where the Needles District of southeastern Utah showcases nature's artistic mastery. The campground sits amidst a forest of colorful Cedar Mesa Sandstone pinnacles, their red and white bands creating a striped wonderland that defies imagination. This arid high desert environment represents millions of years of patient erosion, where wind and water have carved a maze of canyons, arches, and impossibly balanced rocks that make Canyonlands National Park a geological treasure trove unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo accessible sites are located in Loop A. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis no more than six months ahead. Contact the Needles Visitor Center for inquiries.
Sites SizeSites vary from small and intimate to larger spaces accommodating multiple tents. Site 20 offers three tent pads and a metal picnic table.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across sites, with some being isolated (e.g., Site 19) and others close to neighbors (e.g., Sites 25 and 26). Overall, Loop B is praised for its spacious and quiet layout.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites close to trails for convenient hiking access. Sites 20 and 21 are recommended for privacy and stargazing; sites 25 and 26 are close to bathrooms but less secluded.
Best CampsitesSites 20, 21, 23, and 26 are highly rated for privacy, views, and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay of 14 nights within a year
- 7 consecutive nights allowed during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 10 people per individual site
- group sites allow more (up to 50).
Groups
Group sites accommodate up to 50 people. Wooden Shoe Group Campsite allows up to 25 people ($115 per night). Split Top Group Campsite accommodates up to 15 people ($70 per night).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are divided into two loops (A and B). Loop A is first-come-first-served; Loop B is reservable up to six months in advance.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from March 15 to December 31, including peak seasons from March to May and September to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop A is available on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly in the busy spring and fall seasons. Early arrival is recommended during these times.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations (after midnight the day before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Needles District Campground is centered around outdoor recreation, offering access to extensive hiking trails, backcountry camping, and spectacular stargazing opportunities. The area is ideal for photography, climbing, and exploring unique rock formations.
Hiking
The campground provides access to trails like Cave Springs and Druid Arch. "The Cave Springs trail was exceptional," one reviewer stated. Trails range from short walks to 10+ mile hikes.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
Road and mountain biking opportunities are available in southeastern Utah, though specifics about biking trails within the campground are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
"Keep your eyes open" for ancient rock art and markings, one reviewer advised. Wildlife species are not detailed in the sources.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger talks at the amphitheater are highly praised. "Loved the night sky presentation by the rangers," one visitor noted.Winter Activities
Winter visits are characterized by cold temperatures; snowfall was highlighted by one reviewer in October. No specific winter sports activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available in the Needles District.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings provided at each site.
- Quiet hours enforced at night; specifics not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme temperatures, exposure, flash flooding, and wildlife. Visitors should bring ample water and prepare for high winds.
Active alertsCurrently no active alerts. Seasonal closures may affect trails and roads.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest hospital is in Moab, UT, approximately 40 miles away. Emergency services such as police and ranger stations are available in the park and surrounding areas.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 - November 15 (Peak Season); November 16 - December 31 (Non-Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities and outdoor dishwashing stations are frequently noted as clean and well-maintained. Recycling bins are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water bodies nearby. Drinking water is available at the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of RV hook-ups, no dump stations, and group campsite signage being hard to find.
HostSeasonal campground hosts are located in Loop A during spring and fall. Hosts are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
2282 SW Resource Blvd, Moab, UT 84532, USA
Driving directionsOn US Highway 191, drive 40 miles south of Moab or 14 miles north of Monticello, then take Utah Highway 211 roughly 35 miles west. Highway 211 ends in the Needles District, and is the only paved road leading in and out of the district. From the entrance station, follow the main park road until you see signs for the campground. Turn left into the campground and follow the signs into Loop B.
The campground is accessible by paved roads only via Utah Highway 211. This route is well-maintained but remote. There are no lights on park roads or campsites, so arriving before dark is recommended.Nearby places
Moab, UT: 1.5 hours driving time
Monticello, UT: 1.25 hours driving time.
Nearby supplies
Moab, UT offers groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and restaurants approximately 1.5 hours away. Visitors are urged to stock up before arriving at the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
166 reviews
Canyonlands National Park Needles District Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the facility's cleanliness, well-maintained amenities, and proximity to hiking trails. "Most of the campsites are decently spaced out," noted one user. "Bathrooms were top-notch." Some complaints include limited cell service and the difficulty of navigating without printed directions.
Review Summaries
Based on 166 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious campsites, helpful campground hosts, and the stunning views are consistently praised. "Loved the night sky presentation by the rangers," one visitor wrote.
Based on 166 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues include the lack of dump stations, occasional water quality concerns, and site proximity in Loop B. "Bathrooms should get lights," one user mentioned.
Based on 166 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive before dark due to the lack of lights. Bring sufficient water and gas as services are far away. "Bring in your firewood," another user advised.
Based on 166 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons for camping, with many reviews noting temperate weather and ranger-hosted talks. Summer reviews often mention extreme heat.
Based on 166 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were clean and camp sites had plenty of space," "Site 20 was awesome. Three tent pads and a very nice metal picnic table," "Rangers were helpful with new trail ideas."
Based on 166 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 19 is praised for its privacy and surrounding rock formations. Site 20 is noted for spacious tent pads. Sites 25 and 26 are criticized for proximity issues.
Based on 166 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites in Loop A are appreciated, though some reviews suggest improvements in signage or amenities.
Based on 166 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are not allowed in the national park but can explore nearby BLM lands per one reviewer.
Based on 166 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025