The best camping near Moab with horseback riding

·

On the banks of the Colorado River, just west of the La Sal Mountains, Moab is an excellent base for exploring some of eastern Utah's most impressive outdoor attractions, drawing hikers, campers, and ATV and mountain-biking enthusiasts, particularly in the summer months. It's the gateway to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, and while the national parks are certainly the big draw here, there are plenty of other Moab-area spots to explore, including the Sand Flats Recreation Area and Dead Horse Point State Park. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) also operates a couple of dozen first-come, first-served campgrounds near Moab.

While you’re unlikely to find any free camping in Moab itself, free camping can be found well outside town in Manti LaSal National Forest.  Although the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees more than 20 campgrounds around Moab, most of these developed campsites require a fee to stay overnight. (When within 20 miles of Moab, camping is only allowed in developed campgrounds, making free camping a rarity) Arches National Park requires entry fees, so you won’t find free camping in the park either.

Yes, you can camp on BLM land in Utah, where 42% of the state is considered BLM land (some 22.9 million acres). Most developed BLM campgrounds in the state require a fee, while dispersed campsites on Utah BLM land are more often free. Popular spots include the Silver Island Mountains Backcountry Byway (BCB) outside the Bonneville Salt Flats, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest outside Gunnison, and Ashley National Forest

94% (625) 86 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Moab

Red Desert RV Park

1. Red Desert RV Park

91%
(344)
7.8mi from Moab · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
High Sage Hogans

2. High Sage Hogans

96%
(473)
23mi from Moab · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated at 7,000 feet, campers are surrounded by the snow covered LaSal Mountains overlooking the deep Canyonlands NP of the Colorado River escarpment, and only 30 minutes from Moab, Utah. Summer temps are much cooler here than in the surrounding canyons and valleys of the Moab area, a very pleasant retreat from the heat! Virtually ALL outdoor sporting adventures are found around here in nearly limitless abundance, including winter sports, snowmobiling, off-roading, dirt-biking, 4-wheeling, and more. Campground has outdoor-potty, free firewood with pits.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night
South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

3. South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

100%
(303)
24mi from Moab · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The South-40@LaSal Is: quiet, spacious, secluded, secure, and natural! We are located 26 miles southeast of Moab Utah. ( about a 30 minute drive from town or 40 minutes from Arches national Park.) This property is 40 acres of undeveloped Ranch land That borders the remote community of La Sal, Utah. We currently offer four (4) RV spots and several opportunities for tent camping. The RV spots include: Electric hook ups with (50amp, 30 amp, & 20 amp) water hydrants, Wi-Fi Internet, gray water disposal system, and solar powered sanitary vault toilet, Currently there are no sewer hook ups, black water dump . See more pictures and videos on FB at South-40 at LaSal
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Moab Field Office

4. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve heard about Moab, one of Utah’s most happening recreation spots. This gorgeous place gets packed, so do your homework beforehand so you know where to go! The Moab Field Office, administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), takes up 1.8 million acres of gorgeous canyon-riddled lands. Spend your days hunting for natural arches and bridges, exploring mesas, and contemplating how the heck rocks can look so crazy. BLM lands are also fantastic base camps for forays into nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There are 26 campgrounds, and you can usually find something even on the busiest of weekends (but, if you can swing it, it’s always best to arrive early). River recreation on the Colorado and Green Rivers is another major draw. However you spend your time in Moab, you’ll fall in love with the impressive red rock formations, the deep canyons, and surprising amount of plant life.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Manti-La Sal National Forest

5. Manti-La Sal National Forest

100%
(16)
328 sites · Ferron, Utah
Trivia time! Which part of Utah contains the densest black bear and largest elk population? The Manti-La Sal National Forest, of course! How about this one: where does most of the coal mined in Utah come from? Well, 85% of it is mined right here in the Manti-La Sal. This special forest is full of natural surprises, like lofty mountaintops, lush meadows, cavernous sandstone canyons, plus plenty of water. If it sounds like there’s a ton of diversity here, that’s because there truly is! All of this diversity means that there’s a lot to do out here. Near Moab, the forest is home to the La Sal Mountains with their tall peaks and narrow canyons. To the north, on the Wasatch Plateau, you’ll be yearning for your next road trip along the Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byways (also called the Energy Loop). And when it comes time to hit the hay at night? You guessed it—there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Canvas Camp

6. Canvas Camp

91%
(11)
50mi from Moab · 3 sites · Lodging
An off-grid glamping camp in the mountains with spacious tents, shady porches, flushing toilets, potable water, hot showers, picnic areas, grills and propane fire rings. Close to Moab, Canyonlands, Arches, Butler wash ruins, Bears Ears, natural bridges, Needles, Hovenweep and more. 6 minutes from town.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$77
 / night
Ballard RV Park

7. Ballard RV Park

47mi from Moab · 20 sites
Discover the charm of our RV Park and Vacation Rental Houses, uniquely situated just 36 miles north of Moab in the tranquil Thompson Springs. Nestled off I-70 at Exit 187, we are conveniently located only 5 miles from Highway 191, providing easy access to the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures that Moab has to offer. Our campground features a total of 55 sites, including 35 brand new, spacious individual sites designed for your comfort. Each RV site is equipped with full hookups and offers pull-through convenience, available in both 30 and 50 amp options. Enjoy a night’s stay for just $44.79, with attractive weekly and monthly rates to suit your travel plans. Whether you're looking to explore nearby natural wonders, take a dip in local swimming holes, or indulge in the vibrant dining and shopping scene, our location serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Experience the beauty and serenity of Thompson Springs while enjoying all the amenities our RV Park has to offer.
Westerner RV Park

8. Westerner RV Park

50mi from Moab · 45 sites
Nestled beside the renowned Hideout Golf Course, our campground offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty and proximity to some of the most breathtaking destinations in San Juan County. Surrounded by lush trees and vibrant wildlife, this location provides an ideal escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Monticello serves as a gateway to a variety of national parks and monuments, including the iconic Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park. Additionally, the stunning Glen Canyon (also known as Lake Powell), Natural Bridges, Hovenweep, and Mesa Verde are all within a short drive, making it easy to explore these remarkable sites. Don’t forget to visit the famous Four Corners, where Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico converge—perfect for capturing a memorable photo in four states at once! For those seeking state parks, nearby attractions include the Newspaper Rock Historical Monument, Edge of the Cedars Museum, and the picturesque Goosenecks State Park. Come stay with us and immerse yourself in the unforgettable experience of Utah's Canyon Country!
Moab Rim RV Campark & Cabins

9. Moab Rim RV Campark & Cabins

2.4mi from Moab · 64 sites
Discover a one-of-a-kind campground that offers breathtaking vistas of the Spanish Valley and the majestic La Sal Mountains. This unique location not only provides stunning scenery but also features a brand-new shower and restroom facility, ensuring your comfort during your stay. For your convenience, a selection of food items is available on-site, making it easy to refuel after a day of adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Situated just 2 miles south of downtown Moab, you’ll have easy access to local restaurants, shops, and attractions. Enjoy the great views without the annoyance of mosquitoes, making this campground an ideal retreat for nature lovers and families alike. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in this remarkable setting.
Arches National Park

10. Arches National Park

99%
(143)
51 sites · Elmo, Utah
Check out the thousands of natural stone arches that give this park its name.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Canyonlands National Park

11. Canyonlands National Park

100%
(71)
38 sites · Moab, Utah
Explore a vast desert, from the river valley below to the red buttes and night skies above.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Monticello Field Office

12. Monticello Field Office

100%
(3)
85 sites · Monticello, Utah
So, the Bureau of Land Management has these things called “Field Offices,” where they keeps tabs on public lands through these on-site offices. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s talk about all of the fun you and your crew can have out here! The BLM asserts that this area has some of the “most spectacular landscapes in the United States,” and we’re totally inclined to agree. You’ll find Monticello tucked away into the southeast corner of Utah near the Abajo Mountains (BLM land surrounds the mountains). Archeology buffs will have endless fun exploring the remnants of Ancestral Puebloan life, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Thanks to these awesome and unique landscapes, you can spend your time hiking, camping, rock climbing, and more…all to your heart’s content. Heck, can we come with you?!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grand Mesa National Forest

13. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%
(23)
316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado
Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Moab Springs Ranch

14. Moab Springs Ranch

2.2mi from Moab · 10 sites
Welcome to Moab Springs Ranch, a unique retreat that offers a serene escape beneath Moab’s stunning red rock formations. This tranquil oasis is adorned with majestic cottonwood trees and a soothing waterscape, providing a refreshing contrast to the surrounding landscape. Ideally situated near Arches National Park, the Colorado River, and the vibrant downtown Moab, our location features convenient bike-in, bike-out access to an extensive network of trails. We provide two distinct types of accommodations to suit your needs: luxurious stand-alone bungalows and spacious one, two, and three-bedroom townhouses. Our bungalows boast studio-style living with kitchenettes, vaulted ceilings, private porches equipped with outdoor dining sets, and easy drive-up access. Meanwhile, our stylish townhouses offer separate bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and covered decks perfect for outdoor meals. Both accommodation types grant you access to our exceptional resort amenities. At Moab Springs Ranch, guests can enjoy a large private park, serene ponds, inviting pools, and a flowing waterscape, all complemented by hammocks for relaxation. Our heated swimming pool and hot tub provide the perfect spots to unwind, while the campfire circle and breathtaking sunset views enhance your experience. As an eco-friendly property, we offer direct trail access to the Moab wilderness.
Uncompahgre National Forest

15. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%
(23)
228 sites · Ophir, Colorado
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

On the banks of the Colorado River, just west of the La Sal Mountains, Moab is an excellent base for exploring some of eastern Utah's most impressive outdoor attractions, drawing hikers, campers, and ATV and mountain-biking enthusiasts, particularly in the summer months. It's the gateway to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, and while the national parks are certainly the big draw here, there are plenty of other Moab-area spots to explore, including the Sand Flats Recreation Area and Dead Horse Point State Park. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) also operates a couple of dozen first-come, first-served campgrounds near Moab.

While you’re unlikely to find any free camping in Moab itself, free camping can be found well outside town in Manti LaSal National Forest.  Although the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees more than 20 campgrounds around Moab, most of these developed campsites require a fee to stay overnight. (When within 20 miles of Moab, camping is only allowed in developed campgrounds, making free camping a rarity) Arches National Park requires entry fees, so you won’t find free camping in the park either.

Yes, you can camp on BLM land in Utah, where 42% of the state is considered BLM land (some 22.9 million acres). Most developed BLM campgrounds in the state require a fee, while dispersed campsites on Utah BLM land are more often free. Popular spots include the Silver Island Mountains Backcountry Byway (BCB) outside the Bonneville Salt Flats, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest outside Gunnison, and Ashley National Forest

94% (625) 86 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Moab

Red Desert RV Park

1. Red Desert RV Park

91%
(344)
7.8mi from Moab · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
High Sage Hogans

2. High Sage Hogans

96%
(473)
23mi from Moab · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated at 7,000 feet, campers are surrounded by the snow covered LaSal Mountains overlooking the deep Canyonlands NP of the Colorado River escarpment, and only 30 minutes from Moab, Utah. Summer temps are much cooler here than in the surrounding canyons and valleys of the Moab area, a very pleasant retreat from the heat! Virtually ALL outdoor sporting adventures are found around here in nearly limitless abundance, including winter sports, snowmobiling, off-roading, dirt-biking, 4-wheeling, and more. Campground has outdoor-potty, free firewood with pits.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39
 / night
South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

3. South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

100%
(303)
24mi from Moab · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The South-40@LaSal Is: quiet, spacious, secluded, secure, and natural! We are located 26 miles southeast of Moab Utah. ( about a 30 minute drive from town or 40 minutes from Arches national Park.) This property is 40 acres of undeveloped Ranch land That borders the remote community of La Sal, Utah. We currently offer four (4) RV spots and several opportunities for tent camping. The RV spots include: Electric hook ups with (50amp, 30 amp, & 20 amp) water hydrants, Wi-Fi Internet, gray water disposal system, and solar powered sanitary vault toilet, Currently there are no sewer hook ups, black water dump . See more pictures and videos on FB at South-40 at LaSal
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Moab Field Office

4. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve heard about Moab, one of Utah’s most happening recreation spots. This gorgeous place gets packed, so do your homework beforehand so you know where to go! The Moab Field Office, administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), takes up 1.8 million acres of gorgeous canyon-riddled lands. Spend your days hunting for natural arches and bridges, exploring mesas, and contemplating how the heck rocks can look so crazy. BLM lands are also fantastic base camps for forays into nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There are 26 campgrounds, and you can usually find something even on the busiest of weekends (but, if you can swing it, it’s always best to arrive early). River recreation on the Colorado and Green Rivers is another major draw. However you spend your time in Moab, you’ll fall in love with the impressive red rock formations, the deep canyons, and surprising amount of plant life.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Manti-La Sal National Forest

5. Manti-La Sal National Forest

100%
(16)
328 sites · Ferron, Utah
Trivia time! Which part of Utah contains the densest black bear and largest elk population? The Manti-La Sal National Forest, of course! How about this one: where does most of the coal mined in Utah come from? Well, 85% of it is mined right here in the Manti-La Sal. This special forest is full of natural surprises, like lofty mountaintops, lush meadows, cavernous sandstone canyons, plus plenty of water. If it sounds like there’s a ton of diversity here, that’s because there truly is! All of this diversity means that there’s a lot to do out here. Near Moab, the forest is home to the La Sal Mountains with their tall peaks and narrow canyons. To the north, on the Wasatch Plateau, you’ll be yearning for your next road trip along the Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byways (also called the Energy Loop). And when it comes time to hit the hay at night? You guessed it—there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Canvas Camp

6. Canvas Camp

91%
(11)
50mi from Moab · 3 sites · Lodging
An off-grid glamping camp in the mountains with spacious tents, shady porches, flushing toilets, potable water, hot showers, picnic areas, grills and propane fire rings. Close to Moab, Canyonlands, Arches, Butler wash ruins, Bears Ears, natural bridges, Needles, Hovenweep and more. 6 minutes from town.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$77
 / night
Ballard RV Park

7. Ballard RV Park

47mi from Moab · 20 sites
Discover the charm of our RV Park and Vacation Rental Houses, uniquely situated just 36 miles north of Moab in the tranquil Thompson Springs. Nestled off I-70 at Exit 187, we are conveniently located only 5 miles from Highway 191, providing easy access to the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures that Moab has to offer. Our campground features a total of 55 sites, including 35 brand new, spacious individual sites designed for your comfort. Each RV site is equipped with full hookups and offers pull-through convenience, available in both 30 and 50 amp options. Enjoy a night’s stay for just $44.79, with attractive weekly and monthly rates to suit your travel plans. Whether you're looking to explore nearby natural wonders, take a dip in local swimming holes, or indulge in the vibrant dining and shopping scene, our location serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Experience the beauty and serenity of Thompson Springs while enjoying all the amenities our RV Park has to offer.
Westerner RV Park

8. Westerner RV Park

50mi from Moab · 45 sites
Nestled beside the renowned Hideout Golf Course, our campground offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty and proximity to some of the most breathtaking destinations in San Juan County. Surrounded by lush trees and vibrant wildlife, this location provides an ideal escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Monticello serves as a gateway to a variety of national parks and monuments, including the iconic Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park. Additionally, the stunning Glen Canyon (also known as Lake Powell), Natural Bridges, Hovenweep, and Mesa Verde are all within a short drive, making it easy to explore these remarkable sites. Don’t forget to visit the famous Four Corners, where Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico converge—perfect for capturing a memorable photo in four states at once! For those seeking state parks, nearby attractions include the Newspaper Rock Historical Monument, Edge of the Cedars Museum, and the picturesque Goosenecks State Park. Come stay with us and immerse yourself in the unforgettable experience of Utah's Canyon Country!
Moab Rim RV Campark & Cabins

9. Moab Rim RV Campark & Cabins

2.4mi from Moab · 64 sites
Discover a one-of-a-kind campground that offers breathtaking vistas of the Spanish Valley and the majestic La Sal Mountains. This unique location not only provides stunning scenery but also features a brand-new shower and restroom facility, ensuring your comfort during your stay. For your convenience, a selection of food items is available on-site, making it easy to refuel after a day of adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Situated just 2 miles south of downtown Moab, you’ll have easy access to local restaurants, shops, and attractions. Enjoy the great views without the annoyance of mosquitoes, making this campground an ideal retreat for nature lovers and families alike. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in this remarkable setting.
Arches National Park

10. Arches National Park

99%
(143)
51 sites · Elmo, Utah
Check out the thousands of natural stone arches that give this park its name.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Canyonlands National Park

11. Canyonlands National Park

100%
(71)
38 sites · Moab, Utah
Explore a vast desert, from the river valley below to the red buttes and night skies above.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Monticello Field Office

12. Monticello Field Office

100%
(3)
85 sites · Monticello, Utah
So, the Bureau of Land Management has these things called “Field Offices,” where they keeps tabs on public lands through these on-site offices. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s talk about all of the fun you and your crew can have out here! The BLM asserts that this area has some of the “most spectacular landscapes in the United States,” and we’re totally inclined to agree. You’ll find Monticello tucked away into the southeast corner of Utah near the Abajo Mountains (BLM land surrounds the mountains). Archeology buffs will have endless fun exploring the remnants of Ancestral Puebloan life, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Thanks to these awesome and unique landscapes, you can spend your time hiking, camping, rock climbing, and more…all to your heart’s content. Heck, can we come with you?!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grand Mesa National Forest

13. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%
(23)
316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado
Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Moab Springs Ranch

14. Moab Springs Ranch

2.2mi from Moab · 10 sites
Welcome to Moab Springs Ranch, a unique retreat that offers a serene escape beneath Moab’s stunning red rock formations. This tranquil oasis is adorned with majestic cottonwood trees and a soothing waterscape, providing a refreshing contrast to the surrounding landscape. Ideally situated near Arches National Park, the Colorado River, and the vibrant downtown Moab, our location features convenient bike-in, bike-out access to an extensive network of trails. We provide two distinct types of accommodations to suit your needs: luxurious stand-alone bungalows and spacious one, two, and three-bedroom townhouses. Our bungalows boast studio-style living with kitchenettes, vaulted ceilings, private porches equipped with outdoor dining sets, and easy drive-up access. Meanwhile, our stylish townhouses offer separate bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and covered decks perfect for outdoor meals. Both accommodation types grant you access to our exceptional resort amenities. At Moab Springs Ranch, guests can enjoy a large private park, serene ponds, inviting pools, and a flowing waterscape, all complemented by hammocks for relaxation. Our heated swimming pool and hot tub provide the perfect spots to unwind, while the campfire circle and breathtaking sunset views enhance your experience. As an eco-friendly property, we offer direct trail access to the Moab wilderness.
Uncompahgre National Forest

15. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%
(23)
228 sites · Ophir, Colorado
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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The best camping near Moab with horseback riding guide

Where to go

North of Moab

Arches is the main attraction north of Moab, and while there's only one camping area in the park (Devils Garden Campground), campers will find plenty of private alternatives, some with RV sites and hookups, in the immediate vicinity. Further north, the McInnis Canyon National Conservation Area offers plenty of gorgeous rock formations, with fewer crowds than what's found at the national parks.

Southwest of Moab

The region to the southwest of Moab is full of outdoor attractions, and while Canyonlands National Park is by far the best-known, there are plenty of other areas within a few hours’ drive worth exploring, including Natural Bridges National Monument. San Juan County, in particular, offers a verdant alternative to the rockier landscapes that dominate the area, with plenty of mountainous forestlands and biking trails just west of Highway 191, near Monticello.

Southeast of Moab

A short drive southeast of Moab will take you to the Manti-La Sal National Forest and its La Sal Mountains. It's a great place to be if you're in search of lush camping options away from the national park crowds; Warner Lake campground, in particular, is a good option, with tent sites, picnic tables, and fire pits. Also worth checking out is the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument in Colorado, which preserves ancient indigenous petroglyphs, cave dwellings, and shrines.

When to go

The Moab area is at its busiest during the summer months, and if you like hot weather and don't mind crowds, this is a great time to visit. For a cooler, quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring, when the weather is pleasant and wildflowers are in bloom. Fall offers equally mild weather, and while winters can be bone-chilling, it’s a great time to visit to avoid crowds—just make sure your car has four-wheel drive.