Dead Horse Point State Park
00 reviewBOX 609, MOAB, Utah, 84532-0609, United States
Dead Horse Point State Park
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The entry fee to Dead Horse Point State Park is $20 for two days. Overnight camping fees vary based on the type of site. Yurts cost $50 per night, while standard campsites range from $20 to $50 depending on amenities.
About this campground
Perched on a dramatic mesa 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park delivers one of the most spectacular panoramas in the American Southwest. Here, the mighty Colorado River carves an elegant gooseneck through layers of ancient stone, creating a natural masterpiece of sculptured pinnacles and towering buttes. The park's well-appointed campgrounds blend modern comfort with raw natural beauty, featuring shaded picnic tables perfect for sunset dinners, pristine flush toilets, and level tent pads that make setting up camp a breeze. For those seeking a unique twist on the camping experience, the park's cozy yurts offer an enticing alternative—each one thoughtfully equipped with bunk beds, comfortable futons, and climate control to ensure year-round comfort under the vast desert sky.
Dead Horse Point State Park provides diverse camping options, including RV sites with electrical hookups, tent sites, and yurts. The campgrounds cater to a variety of preferences and group sizes.
Historical SignificanceThe windswept mesa of Dead Horse Point whispers tales of the Old West, where cowboys once corralled wild mustangs on this natural peninsula. According to legend, horses left behind on this isolated point met their fate here, giving the park its haunting name. Today, the visitor center brings these stories to life through engaging exhibits that celebrate the often-overlooked history of cowgirls who helped tame this rugged landscape. Interactive displays also unveil the incredible geological journey that transformed an ancient seabed into today's stunning canyon country, connecting visitors to millions of years of Earth's history.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert climate at Dead Horse Point creates a land of dramatic contrasts throughout the year. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched wonderland where temperatures can soar past 100°F, making early morning and evening the prime times for exploration. Winter brings a quieter beauty, with crisp air and occasional dustings of snow that transform the red rocks into a photographer's dream. Yet it's during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the park truly shines—these months offer that perfect sweet spot of comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for hiking the rim trails, capturing stunning photographs, or simply soaking in the otherworldly views.
ElevationRising to meet the sky at high altitude, Dead Horse Point's lofty elevation creates a unique high-desert environment that surprises many first-time visitors. This elevated perch means winter temperatures can dip lower than expected for a desert park, while summer nights often bring welcome relief from the day's heat. The thin air at this altitude makes the stars seem impossibly bright and close, creating some of the darkest night skies in the region—a celestial show that draws stargazers from around the world.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has painted a masterpiece at Dead Horse Point, where crimson cliffs plunge dramatically toward the serpentine Colorado River far below. The landscape reads like pages from Earth's diary, with each rock layer telling stories of ancient oceans, prehistoric sand dunes, and long-lost rivers. Desert-adapted plants like fragrant sagebrush and hardy junipers cling to life along the rim, while golden eagles soar on thermals rising from the sun-baked canyon walls. Lucky visitors might spot desert bighorn sheep navigating impossible-looking ledges, their sure-footed grace a testament to millions of years of evolution in this vertical world.
Geological RegionDead Horse Point stands as a crown jewel in Utah's southeastern desert, where 300 million years of Earth's history lie exposed in stunning cross-section. This geological wonderland began as ancient seas, their sediments slowly transforming into the layered rock formations visible today. Rivers and streams carved through these deposits over eons, while volcanic activity in the distant La Sal Mountains added the final dramatic touches to the landscape. The result is a natural sculpture garden of impossible scale—soaring pinnacles, graceful buttes, and fins of red rock that glow like embers in the desert sun, all testament to the patient artistry of geological time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park provides ADA-accessible facilities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and trails in select locations.
Sites SizeThe campsites offer standard sizes with paved driveways suitable for RVs and tent pads for tent camping.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are relatively private, with shade shelters and adequate spacing between sites. However, some reviews note that views from campsites may include other campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWingate Campground offers larger motorhome sites and yurts. Kayenta Campground includes shelters, grill stations, and tent pads.
Best CampsitesKayenta and Wingate campgrounds are commonly praised for their cleanliness and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly listed.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly listed.
Stay Limit
Reservations are typically limited to a maximum of two nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each yurt accommodates up to families, but no specific guest limit per site was stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campgrounds are divided between Kayenta and Wingate sections, with Wingate offering larger sites and additional amenities like yurts.
Open and Closed SeasonDead Horse Point State Park is open year-round, but seasonal weather like snow or extreme heat may influence usability.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through the Utah State Parks website or by calling the provided contact numbers.
Walk-in AvailabilitySpaces tend to sell out quickly, and booking ahead is highly recommended. Walk-up availability may vary.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are missing from the provided data.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Dead Horse Point State Park offers a wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The park's trails, such as the West Rim Trail and East Rim Trail, provide stunning views and varied challenges, while the surrounding dark skies make it a popular destination for stargazing.
Hiking
The park features numerous trails, including the West Rim Trail and East Rim Trail. These trails offer views of the canyons and the La Sal Mountains, and are suitable for visitors of different skill levels. The Intrepid Trail System also includes 17 miles of single-track mountain bike trails.Biking
The Intrepid Trail System offers 17 miles of single-track mountain biking trails, catering to various levels of difficulty. Riders can also use paved roads for cycling.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to a variety of desert wildlife. Visitors may spot species such as bighorn sheep and birds of prey. The best times for viewing are early morning and evening.Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center offers educational exhibits on the park's geology, history, and biology. Summer evening programs are also a highlight.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not emphasized, but the park remains accessible for hiking and photography during colder months.Water Sports
The park does not support water sports due to its geographical location and elevation above the Colorado River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available at campsites, but specific fire guidelines were not detailed in the source materials.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include unfenced cliffs, lightning, and the relative isolation of the park. Visitors should bring sufficient water and supplies due to limited resources onsite.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Moab, 32 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season spans spring through fall, with summer offering the highest temperatures and winter being cooler with fewer crowds.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans and recycling facilities are available within the park, along with a dump station for RVs.
Proximity to water featuresDead Horse Point offers views of the Colorado River, but there is no direct access to the river from the campgrounds.
Common complaintsLack of showers and water hookups for RVs is frequently mentioned in reviews.
HostCamp hosts are described as friendly and helpful, ensuring facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Campground Map
BOX 609, MOAB, Utah, 84532-0609, United States
Driving directionsDead Horse Point State Park is accessible via State Route 313, located 18 miles off Highway 191 near Moab. This route provides easy access and is well-maintained.
The roads leading to Dead Horse Point State Park are paved and accessible throughout the year. However, there are seasonal considerations for weather conditions like snow or rain that may affect safe travel.Nearby places
Moab - 32 miles (approximately 40 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Moab, which is 32 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Dead Horse Point State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews celebrate the park's breathtaking views, well-maintained facilities, and recreational opportunities such as hiking and stargazing. However, the lack of showers and potable water are common complaints.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praise the incredible views, cleanliness of facilities, and well-maintained trails. Photography, dark skies for stargazing, and the unique geological features are frequently mentioned.
Common Concerns
Key complaints include the absence of showers, the need to bring potable water, and limited cell phone reception.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend booking campsites well in advance, bringing plenty of water, and visiting during sunrise or sunset for the best views. Hiking the full rim loop is highly recommended for those with...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons for visiting, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. Summers can be very hot, and winters, though quieter, may bring cold weather.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Wow. This is truly one of America's hidden gems. Sunrise and sunset offer incredible photographic opportunities.' 2. 'Most sites have a shade shelter. No water fill available for RV, so make sure...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. 'Kayenta Campground: Spacious sites with shaded picnic tables, but no potable water.' 2. 'Wingate Campground: Large, level motorhome sites, multiple tent sites, and yurts, with clean restrooms.'
Accessibility Features
Visitors with accessibility concerns appreciate the ADA-accessible restrooms and picnic areas, as well as the viewing platforms. The park is described as accommodating for visitors with mobility...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted in the park, but must be leashed. Dogs are allowed on hiking trails but not on mountain bike trails. Moenkopi yurts allow up to two dogs for a pet fee.
Last updated August 10, 2025