Horsethief Campground
4.5278 reviews82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Horsethief 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$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $20 per site per night payable at a self-service fee station with exact cash or checks only.
About this campground
Nestled among ancient pygmy pinyon and juniper trees, Horsethief Campground offers 83 individual sites across four distinct loops, each with its own character. The Appaloosa, Buckskin, and Cayuse loops welcome RV adventurers with full amenities, while the serene Dapple loop provides a generator-free sanctuary exclusively for tent campers seeking tranquility under the stars. Five spacious group sites accommodate larger gatherings by reservation. Adventure beckons just beyond your campsite, with mountain biking trails carving through red rock terrain and rugged 4WD roads leading to hidden desert treasures. Gateway to both the otherworldly landscapes of Canyonlands National Park and the dramatic cliff-edge vistas of Dead Horse Point State Park, Horsethief serves as your basecamp for exploring Utah's most iconic wilderness.
The campground provides a mix of individual and group sites suitable for tent and RV camping. It is primitive in nature, with minimal amenities and no hookups.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert climate here dances between extremes, keeping visitors on their toes throughout the year. Spring and fall bring crisp, invigorating air punctuated by notorious canyon winds that can test your tent stakes and send tumbleweeds racing across camp. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-baked wonderland where shade becomes precious and early morning adventures are rewarded with comfortable temperatures. Winter occasionally dust the pygmy forest with snow, creating a magical contrast against red rock formations while temperatures can plunge below freezing, turning breath into clouds and water bottles into ice.
ElevationPerched at 5,900 feet above sea level, Horsethief Campground offers a natural respite from the desert heat below. This lofty position not only provides cooler temperatures that make summer camping more comfortable but also delivers some of the darkest, most star-studded skies in the Southwest. The thin mountain air creates crystal-clear views by day and transforms the campground into an astronomer's paradise by night, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky in brilliant detail.
Natural Features and SceneryA enchanting pygmy forest creates an intimate canopy overhead, where ancient pinyon pines and gnarled junipers have weathered centuries of desert storms. These diminutive giants frame spectacular views of weathered sandstone outcroppings that glow amber and crimson in the changing light. The campground's position offers sweeping vistas across the vast desert landscape, where layers of geological time are painted in bands of red, orange, and cream. As darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial show that has captivated travelers since ancient times, making every evening a front-row seat to the cosmos.
Geological RegionDramatically positioned atop the mesas that tower above Moab's famous red rock country, Horsethief Campground occupies a unique geological perch where high desert plateau meets canyon country. The surrounding pygmy pinyon-juniper forest thrives in pockets of ancient soil trapped between exposed sandstone formations, creating a fascinating ecosystem adapted to this harsh yet beautiful environment. This elevated platform provides commanding views of the region's geological wonders while serving as a convenient launching point to explore the sculpted canyons of Canyonlands National Park and the vertigo-inducing overlooks of Dead Horse Point State Park, both showcasing millions of years of Earth's artistic handiwork.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground does include level spots suitable for RVs and tents.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and can accommodate up to 10 people and two vehicles per site. Group sites are available and can accommodate larger gatherings.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generally well-spaced with juniper trees providing some privacy. However, some users noted that certain sites lack plant life or foliage, reducing privacy.
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from the entrance for quieter camping. Upper rows near entry road offer better cell signal. Tent campers should prepare for windy conditions.
Best CampsitesSite #40 is specifically mentioned for its amazing views. Sites in the upper loops near the entry road offer better cell signal.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights in a 30 consecutive day period
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 10 people & two vehicles per site
Groups
Five group sites are available for reservation through Recreation.gov.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four loops, with Appaloosa, Buckskin, and Cayuse accommodating RVs, and Dapple loop being tent-only. Sites are spaced well apart, offering privacy.
Reservation PlatformsGroup sites are reservable through Recreation.gov only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll individual campsites are first-come, first-served and generally fill up by 4 PM daily, with turnover observed between 9 AM and 12 noon.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as individual sites are first-come, first-served. Group site reservation policies follow Recreation.gov rules including a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fees for late cancellations.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and stargazing. The area features numerous biking trails such as the MAG 7, suitable for intermediate to advanced bikers. The remote location offers excellent opportunities for observing stars at night, while its proximity to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park makes it a convenient base for exploration.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails within the campground and nearby areas. Specific trail details are not provided, but many visitors highlighted the easy access to various trails.Biking
The campground is surrounded by mountain biking trails such as MAG 7, which are rated as fun and challenging, especially for intermediate and advanced bikers. Dual suspension bikes are recommended for these trails.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, though specific species are not mentioned. The remote location is ideal for appreciating nature.Winter Activities
Camping during winter is possible but temperatures can become extremely cold. Activities like snow hiking may be viable, but no specific winter recreation options are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase onsite for $5 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 8 PM to 8 AM
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions are common, which may affect tent camping. The dry desert environment requires visitors to bring their own water, as none is available on-site. Cacti may pose hazards to pets.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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 emergency services are located in Moab, approximately 12 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are large dumpsters at the entrance for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo natural water bodies are within the campground; notable features include nearby Canyonlands National Park.
Common complaintsComplaints include generator noise outside posted hours, lack of enforcement of speed limits within the campground, and the absence of water hookups. Some users noted crowded conditions and dusty roads.
HostA campground host has been noted in recent reviews, described as attentive and effective in communicating rules.
Campground Map
82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsFrom the center of Moab (at Center and Main) head north on Hwy. 191 to Hwy. 313. Turn left (west) on Hwy. 313 and drive 12 miles. You will see the campground sign on the right. Turn on the gravel road and you will see the campground entrance on your left.
The campground is accessed via a gravel road off Highway 313. The road is described as intimidating when soaked but generally firm and navigable. Reviews mention the gravel road being lengthy. Some mention the risk of muddy and rutted conditions during wet weather.Nearby places
Moab (12 miles
approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The Chevron gas station in Moab offers showers for $10 and has potable water and a dump station for RVs. Firewood is sold onsite at the campground entrance for $5 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.5
78 reviews
Horsethief Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Horsethief Campground is highly rated for its proximity to Mountain Biking trails, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point State Park. It is described as clean, quiet, and spacious with basic but well-maintained amenities. However, the lack of water and reservations can be drawbacks for some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's clean facilities, spacious sites, and excellent location for exploring nearby parks and trails. Stargazing and peacefulness were also frequently mentioned as...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the lack of potable water, occasional overflowing dumpsters, and windy conditions. Some users reported noise from generators and underage drivers causing a disturbance.
Based on 78 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water as there is none on-site. Arrive early to secure a spot as the campground fills up quickly, especially in peak seasons. For mountain bikers, dual suspension bikes are...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during spring and fall. Summer can be very hot with little shade, while winter camping requires preparation for cold temperatures and potential snowfall.
Based on 78 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The stars are amazing, so bright!' - Ada Vermeulen; 2. 'The trails were fun, great for intermediate to pro level bikers.' - Tommy Buck; 3. 'Wide open spaces and you can see for miles...Extra...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details include reports of #40 offering amazing views. Some users noted that group sites are spacious and private.
Based on 78 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 78 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Users cautioned about cacti near campsites potentially harming animals.
Based on 78 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025