Discover the Top 2 Must-Visit Camping Spots in Moab, Utah!
After three trips to Moab, I finally ventured beyond my usual campsite and tried something new. Though I was hesitant to leave my tried-and-true favorite, I’m glad I took the leap. Now, I’m excited to share my two favorite camping spots and what makes them truly special!
Camping along Highway 128
At least 10 scenic campsites line Highway 128, each offering its own adventure. Since these are all first-come, first-served sites, searching for an open spot can be a bit adventurous, as you may need to drive into the campsite and look for a suitable option. Grandstaff, Goose Island, and Hal have all been favorites—plus, they’re just a quick 10-minute drive from Arches National Park. These are the perfect camping spots if you were hoping for a short drive to catch a sunrise hike in Arches.
The best part? Pitching my tent right beside the Colorado River, with towering red rocks rising all around me. Also, this area had zero cell service, so if you are really looking for a place to chill with no cell service, this is the one!
You do have to pay for your camping spot, which is $20 a night, but it has a bathroom!
To add a little bonus activity, I highly recommend hiking the Grandstaff Canyon Trail—a 5-mile round-trip adventure that begins just across from the Grandstaff Campground.
Horsethief Campground
On my June 2025 trip to Moab, I took my friend’s advice and chose Horsethief Campground—it’s the closest spot to Canyonlands National Park, which means a quick drive for sunrise adventures since it’s only 30 minutes from Canyonlands. Although I didn’t catch the sunrise at Canyonlands, I loved watching it from my tent.
Horsethief is fantastic: I saw the Milky Way, enjoyed peaceful solitude watching shooting stars, and appreciated the clean bathrooms(although there were no showers). The sweeping views and access to Dead Horse and Canyonlands made this spot truly awesome! You must pay $20 a night to stay here as well.
Now, how did I stay fresh with no showers at either of my favorite campsites?
If you're wondering where to shower since both campsites lack facilities, here's my go-to tip: after a few days of hiking and camping, I visit the Lazy Lizard Hostel in Moab. You don’t have to book a room—just stop by the front desk and pay $4 (cash or credit) for a shower as a walk-in guest. The showers are basic but reliable, making them a great option for clean-up before heading home.
Now, I know there are so many other places to camp in Moab, some paid and non-paid, which I am curious to check out since I finally broke my rule of not camping anywhere other than along highway 128. I’d love to hear what you think of my recommendations! Do you have any favorite Moab camping spots I should add to my list for next time?
