Moonflower Canyon Group Site
4.5924 reviews82 E. DOGWOOD AVE, MOAB FIELD OFFICE, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Moonflower Canyon Group Site
$125.00 - $125.00 / 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$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group site fee is $125.00 for up to 25 people. Any changes to reservations incur a $10 change fee, late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee, and no-shows incur a $20 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
About this campground
Tucked into the mouth of a stunning red rock canyon, Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers an enchanting retreat where up to 25 adventurers can gather beneath a canopy of towering cottonwoods. This secluded haven provides all the essentials for memorable group camping—a central fire ring for evening storytelling, sturdy picnic tables for communal meals, and vault toilets for convenience. While you'll need to pack in your own water and haul out your trash to nearby facilities, the raw beauty and tranquility of this primitive site more than compensate for these minor inconveniences.
Moonflower Canyon Group Site is designed for small group tent camping only and accommodates up to 25 people. RVs, tent trailers, and camper vans are not allowed.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where ancient voices still whisper from the canyon walls. Moonflower Canyon preserves remarkable petroglyphs etched by ancestral peoples, alongside a rare Native American ladder that bridges prehistoric and historic eras. These irreplaceable cultural treasures tell stories spanning centuries, inviting respectful contemplation from modern visitors. Remember: these sacred artifacts are protected—please admire them with your eyes and cameras only, never with your hands.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Moonflower Canyon in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with perfect camping weather and wildflower blooms, while fall transforms the cottonwoods into a golden cathedral overhead. Summer days can soar to desert temperatures, though the canyon's shade offers blessed relief from the intense sun. Winter brings a quieter magic, with crisp air and the possibility of snow dusting the red rocks—though freezing temperatures mean only the hardiest souls venture here during the coldest months.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at Moonflower Canyon, where towering red sandstone cliffs embrace a verdant oasis. Ancient cottonwoods spread their generous branches overhead, creating a natural pavilion of dappled shade. A gentle hiking trail beckons from the campground, winding deeper into the canyon toward a hidden desert spring. Along the way, the cliff faces reveal their secrets—ancient petroglyphs and historic inscriptions that transform a simple hike into a journey through time.
Geological RegionNestled in the dramatic landscape near the mighty Colorado River, Moonflower Canyon showcases the Southwest's iconic red rock grandeur. Massive sandstone cliffs, carved by millennia of wind and water, create a natural amphitheater adorned with both prehistoric petroglyphs and historic inscriptions. The canyon's microclimate nurtures an unexpected grove of mature cottonwoods, their presence a testament to hidden water sources that have sustained life here for countless generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has no specific mention of ADA-compliant or accessibility features for persons with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe group site is described as spacious, with room for multiple tents and large groups, though parking is located a distance away from the campsite.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the proximity of a public hiking trail and frequent visitors to the petroglyphs near the site. Users note that hikers often pass through the campground, affecting privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a wagon or similar gear to transport equipment across sandy trails from the parking area to the campsite. Avoid summer months due to excessive heat.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is listed as 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 25 guests per group site.
Groups
The group site accommodates a maximum of 25 people and includes multiple picnic tables, a fire ring, and a vault toilet. Parking is a moderate distance away from the site, requiring campers to carry gear across a dry creek bed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is a single group site located near a hiking trail and creek bed. Parking is separate from the camping area.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or through the contact center.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival. No-shows incur a $20 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Moonflower Canyon Group Site offers various recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and four-wheel-driving. It is situated near Kane Creek Road, which is popular for OHV routes. The site also features a short hiking trail leading to a shaded oasis. "The trail meanders through the canyon and you can stay in the shade for a lot of the hike," according to one reviewer.
Hiking
The site features a short hiking trail that leads to a shaded oasis and a small spring-fed pool. "Make sure to check out the petroglyphs and Native American ladder at the entrance of the canyon to the right," one user advises.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are abundant near the site along Kane Creek Road, which is noted for its outdoor routes.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned but visitors have noted the site’s beauty during snowy conditions, making it suitable for winter hikes.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned as available at or near this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only within the designated fire ring.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is present and prolific but easily avoidable. Flash floods can occur during heavy rains, impacting access to the creek bed.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.1 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
Closest emergency services are located in Moab, approximately 10 minutes away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger support.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at nearby Kings Bottom Campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned specifically.
Proximity to water featuresNearby water features include a small pool within the canyon and the Colorado River located across the road.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention lack of privacy due to proximity to a popular hiking trail and issues with people wandering through the campsite. Complaints about lack of fencing and signage are common.
Campground Map
82 E. DOGWOOD AVE, MOAB FIELD OFFICE, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsFrom the center of Moab (at Center and Main), head south to Kane Creek Road, turn right (west) on Kane Creek Road and drive 3.5 miles. You will see the Moonflower Campground on the left just past the King's Bottom Campground.
The campground is accessible via Kane Creek Road, which is paved and well-maintained. There are no seasonal closures or challenging terrain reported.Nearby places
Moab (3.5 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Moab, 10 minutes away, provides access to groceries, camping supplies, dining options, fuel, outdoor sports rentals, tour companies, and museums.
Camper Reviews
4.6
24 reviews
Moonflower Canyon Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the site's scenic beauty, convenient location near Moab, and the proximity to hiking trails and petroglyphs. However, complaints about privacy, the intrusion of hikers, and occasional disruptive visitors are consistent themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the site for its beautiful setting, ample shade from cottonwood trees, proximity to attractions like Arches National Park, and well-maintained picnic tables and fire rings....
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the lack of privacy due to the public hiking trail passing through the campsite, disruptive nocturnal visitors, and flash flood risks. "Too many randoms just strolling through...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many users recommend visiting during spring rather than summer due to intense heat. "We made a massive mistake by going for a weekend in August," one user warned. Others suggest sturdy wagons for...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are widely regarded as the best times to visit, offering moderate temperatures and pleasant hiking conditions. Summer months are extremely hot and less suitable for camping....
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful canyon and campground with a nice hiking trail," wrote Alex Diggins. Another user, Madeleine M, described, "Endless warm, red sand to play and nap in...Totally worth the money to stay in...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The reviews are primarily focused on campsite 01 in the Moonflower Canyon Group Site loop. Users note the spaciousness and shade but frequently mention issues with hikers walking through the site....
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically addressed in user reviews, indicating limited provisions for persons with disabilities.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policy and pet-friendly features are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025