Hal Canyon Campground
4.6815 reviewsMoab Field Office, 82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Hal Canyon Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$20 per night. Payment can be made at the campground with cash or check. A 50% discount applies for Interagency Senior, Access, Golden Age, and Golden Access passes.
About this campground
Tucked into the dramatic Colorado River Canyon, Hal Canyon Campground offers an intimate escape with just 11 thoughtfully positioned sites that put you right at the water's edge. This first-come, first-served gem rewards early arrivals with prime riverside spots, including two secluded walk-in tent sites perfect for those seeking a more immersive canyon experience. Wake to the gentle sounds of the Colorado River flowing past your tent, and spend your days exploring one of the Southwest's most spectacular river corridors.
Hal Canyon Campground offers mainly primitive camping options with a focus on tent camping. RV camping is possible for smaller rigs, but larger setups may find it unsuitable.
Weather and SeasonsThe canyon's climate shifts dramatically with the seasons, creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall emerge as the sweet spots, when comfortable temperatures and golden light make for perfect camping conditions. Summer transforms the canyon into a sun-drenched retreat where the river provides welcome relief from the heat, though shade can be precious. Winter brings its own stark beauty, with crisp nights that occasionally dip below freezing and rare dustings of snow that transform the red rocks into a wonderland.
ElevationNestled deep within the Colorado River Canyon's ancient walls, the campground sits at the river's edge where millennia of flowing water have carved through layers of geological time. This riverside setting creates its own microclimate, sheltered by towering canyon walls that have witnessed countless seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering red rock cliffs rise dramatically on all sides, their layered faces glowing amber and crimson in the changing light. The Colorado River winds through this natural amphitheater, its waters reflecting the canyon walls and sky above. Visitors consistently marvel at the pristine beauty of this riverside sanctuary, where meticulously maintained sites blend seamlessly with the raw grandeur of the surrounding landscape. Each campsite offers front-row seats to nature's daily performance as shadows dance across ancient stone and the river carries its timeless song through the canyon.
Geological RegionSet within the heart of the Colorado River Canyon, this campground occupies one of North America's most spectacular geological showcases. Here, the relentless Colorado River has exposed millions of years of Earth's history in towering walls of red sandstone and limestone. The steep canyon walls tell stories of ancient seas, windswept deserts, and the patient work of water sculpting stone, creating a landscape that captivates geologists and casual observers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as small ('Sites seem small, not really accommodating for a big rig or a class A'). Users suggest they are more suited for vans, cars, or tent camping.
Sites PrivacySeveral reviews suggest decent privacy and spacing between sites ('Plenty of space between campers, quiet and private'). However, others indicate some sites are not hidden or secluded ('Camping spots were okay, not very hidden or large').
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early for desired spots, particularly shaded areas. Check for people leaving to secure a site. Sites closer to the river offer the best views.
Best CampsitesSite 6 is highlighted: "Had a beautiful spot on site 6, we had our chairs around the fire with views of the Colorado River and the red rocks."
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights within a consecutive 30-day period
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 10 people and two vehicles per site.
Groups
There is no information on designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 11 individual sites, including two walk-in tent sites. Sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and are spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-serve. Arrive early to secure a spot, particularly during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not available. Sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hal Canyon Campground offers various activities due to its location along the Colorado River. Highlights include river-related activities like rafting and observing wildlife. Hiking trails are not explicitly listed, nor are biking paths or cultural programs.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is likely due to the campground's picturesque setting along the Colorado River. Reviewers often mention scenic beauty ('Enjoyed a beautiful view of the river and the river rafts').Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Informal water sports like rafting and paddleboarding were observed by reviewers ('Enjoyed a beautiful view of the river and the river rafts, SUPs and small river boats'). Formal facilities for water sports are not documented.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Safe fire rings are available at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rapid river undercurrents, limited shade, and occasional gusty winds (up to 40 mph). Side canyon flooding is a risk during heavy rains.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
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
Nearest emergency services are in Moab, approximately 6.6 miles away, offering hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons are not specified but reviews suggest late spring to early fall is most popular.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities include ample trash containers, which appear to be well-maintained according to user reviews ('ample trash container'). Recycling features are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Colorado River, with views and access nearby. Use caution due to dangerous river undercurrents.
Common complaintsLimited shade and occasional gusty winds. "Not a lot of shade where we were" and "On this night they were 40 mile an hour gusts."
Campground Map
Moab Field Office, 82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsFrom the junction of Hwy. 191 & Hwy 128, drive east 6.6 miles along the Colorado River. The campground areas will be on the left.
Access is via paved roads along Highway 128, which winds through the Colorado River Canyon. The roads are accessible year-round but prone to traffic during peak seasons due to the area's popularity.Nearby places
Moab: approximately 6.6 miles (10 minutes by car)
Arches National Park: about 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Moab, around 6.6 miles away, provides access to groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.7
15 reviews
Hal Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hal Canyon Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting scenic beauty, cleanliness, and affordability. However, some mention the lack of shade and small site sizes as minor drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently praised the cleanliness of the vault toilets ('Absolutely the cleanest bathroom I've ever seen in my 50 years of camping') and the scenic Colorado River views ('Beautiful right...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shade at some campsites ('Only issue was that there was not a lot of shade') and the small size of the sites ('Sites seem small, not really accommodating for a...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include arriving early to secure a spot ('Get there early and check for people leaving') and bringing your own water ('No running water is available'). One user suggested visiting the hostel in...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that late summer and early fall are popular times due to mild weather and scenic beauty ('More river than highway this time of year, late September'). Windy conditions were noted...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Absolutely the cleanest bathroom I've ever seen in my 50 years of camping.' - 'For $20 I got a Colorado river view in the beautiful cliffs across the river.' - 'Sites have a decent amount of space...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 was specifically mentioned as a good spot: 'Had a beautiful spot on site 6, we had our chairs around the fire with views of the Colorado river and the red rocks, bathroom close by, and it was...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not addressed specifically in user reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025