Desert Moon Campground and RV Park

84%

· Thompson Springs, Grand, Utah · 11 acres

Hosted by The Desert Moon T.

5 RV/tent sites

Setup your tent and enjoy some respite before and after exploring the beautiful canyons and desert landscapes that surround the Desert Moon and beyond. We have 2 showers, bathrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and wifi on site. There is also a covered seating area for guest use by our Inn. There are 5 campsites total. Please note, the Union Pacific Railroad is right across the street, with trains passing by multiple times a day and night. There will be noise at night. Campsites are relatively close together so you will likely see other campers during your stay. Also, there is not a lot of shade on the property so be prepared. Thompson Springs began as a railroad stop on the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in the mid to late 1800's. It soon became a shipping point and community center for local farmers, cattle ranchers and sheepherders. It is now a ghost-town with a population of 50 people. The Desert Moon has a true wild western past. The old dancehall on the property, The Cactus Caberet, once served as the town bar and brothel. We are currently in the process renovating the dancehall into a venue for live music and retreats. There are 8-12 staff members living on site in their personal RV's at all times. We are a small community of artists, builders, and adventurers. We are constantly working to improve this property that came under our ownership in July of 2020. Feel free to come say hello and ask us about what we are building here! Thompson Springs is a true "ghost town" with no retail or restaurants except a 7-11 off the I-70 exit. The towns of Moab and Green River are only a half hour drive away and are full of regional and eclectic restaurants and shops. The Desert Moon is located just four miles from the Sego Canyon Rock Art in the Bookcliffs featuring pictograph and petroglyph panels from three different Native American cultures: Barrier, Fremont, and Ute. Be sure to check them out! There are miles of off-road trails accessible from our property. Some require a 4x4 vehicle or dirtbike, but many are well maintained enough for almost any vehicle.Setup your tent and enjoy some respite before exploring the beautiful canyons and desert landscapes that surround the Desert Moon and beyond. We have 2 showers/bathrooms and potable water on site. The Desert Moon has been serving the greater Moab area since the coal mining days of the mid 1930's. Thompson Springs began as a railroad stop on the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in the mid to late 1800's. It soon became a shipping point and community center for local farmers, cattle ranchers and sheepherders. It is now a ghost-town with a population of 50 people. The Pacific Union Railroad is right across the street with trains passing by around 5 times per day. There are 10 staff members living on site in their RV's. We are always working on projects around the property, feel free to come say hello at any time! *under new management as of July 2020*

RV details

Caravans, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Trailer tents, Campervan, Class C (larger motorhome with overcab space), Campervans, and Cars allowed

Vehicles under 6 meters allowed

Pull-in unit

No Motorhome

Ask about slideouts

Ask about surface type

Ask about surface levelness

No electrical hookup

We do have an RV Park, please go to our website, desertmoonrvpark.com to book there

No water hookup

No sewage hookup

I do not have an RV dump but there is one around the corner at Ballard RV park $10 for non-customers to use. I think I can maybe arrange this for a discount.

No TV hookup

Generators not allowed

What to expect

RV/tent site

Camping area selected or assigned upon arrival.

5 guests max per site

Campfires allowed

Firepit. *WE DO NOT PROVIDE FIREWOOD. THERE IS WOOD FOR SALE AT THE GAS STATION 1 MILE AWAY* For the safety of the land and county there is a “fire season” from June to August that does not allow open flames outside. These restrictions are enforced by the Grand County Fire department. Cigarette smoking is also restricted in open areas. If you have any questions about fire safety please inquire with one of the Desert Moon caretakers.

Toilet available

Pets allowed

On leash. Pet policies are available onsite.

Drinking water available

Tap

Showers available

Hot water . There are two single shower/ bathrooms. This facility is only available in spring, summer and fall.

Bins available

Trash bin

Picnic table present

Wifi available

WiFi Is limited in the campsites but works very well by our hotel guest area.

Cooking equipment absent

Laundry absent

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 12:00 PM

Check out: Before 11:00 AM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Flexible

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 3 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 22 vehicles

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

84% Recommend672 ratings · 505 reviews

The campsite at Desert Moon offers a quirky and rustic experience, with a location that's convenient for exploring Arches and Canyonlands. Reviews are mixed; some guests appreciated the clean bathrooms and unique charm, while others found the proximity to the train and the lack of privacy between sites less appealing. Noise from passing trains and the condition of the showers were common concerns. Despite its charm, the site may not suit those seeking tranquility or a longer stay.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Mixed feelings

· May 2025

5 m car

It was perfect for what we needed, one night as we were passing by to our next destination. I would not recommend the tent sites for long term stays. It kind of seemed like those sites were not maintained as well as on the RV park side. It was nice there were showers available. If you aren't picking and just need something to get you thru I'd say go for it.

Ashleigh K.

4 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2025

6 m Class B

We rented Desert Moon for a night while we passing through the area and were pleasantly surprised. The bathroom & shower were clean which we appreciated after a long day of hiking. The sites are close together, however we were the only ones there which was nice - but if you’re just looking for place while you’re passing through I don’t think it matters too much. Overall it was a cute place to lay our heads and do a few house keeping items while on our roadtrip.

Dana M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· November 2024

Safe, Cute, and Easy to Find

Tent

Super cute and easy to find! It was so nice to have a hot shower after a long day of hiking.

Katie C.

7 reviews

Not recommend

· October 2024

5 m campervan

The site was rather simple and the sites are all right on top of each other with little room between them. The bathroom and shower were pretty poor, especially the shower which had a door that did not shut, did not lock, and had a single screw on the inside of the door to try and pull shut. A lot of exposure to the outside with walls that were deteriorating. It’s not the worst place I’ve stayed by any means but I don’t think I will visit again.

Mike S.

5 reviews

Mixed feelings

· October 2024

Tent

The campsite has a good location for Arches and Canyonland's national parks. Each campsite has space for a large tent, a picnic table, and a fire pit. The sites are directly beside each other. There are two restrooms, with showers that we appreciated after long days outdoors. These are outdoor facilities so have some bugs and such inside the rooms. The highway is close enough that you can hear traffic, and the train tracks are directly beside which is super loud. We had several trains pass when sleeping. The price was very reasonable.

Conner H.

8 months on Hipcamp

Not recommend

· October 2024

Unsafe and very disappointing

Tent

This was our second time at a HipCamp site and it was just as disappointing as the first trip. The site is beautiful with all the cute lights, however no one was at the site again to check us in or give any information (no one at HC seems to be ever on the site they own). The worst part was a “RV/Cabin” located on site next to the entrance and directly next to the only tent camp sites decided to have a large and loud party bumping music from midnight to 5am and we could not sleep and all attempts to contact the owners proved useless. The men in this RV were very drunk, loud, and definitely on some sort of hard drugs which made us feel very unsafe in our tent as we were the only people there. We couldn’t enjoy our stay because we had to leave in the pitch dark in the early morning to escape the party and hostile situation. Hipcamp once again let us down hard and we would never recommend this place.

Hanna A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

the campsite was so cute and in a beautiful area! bathrooms were super clean as well. thank you 😊

Gabriella C.

3 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

Very Cute campsite with a rustic feel! Bathroom was also very clean and well maintained. Would definitely recommend for anyone planning a trip to Canyonlands and Arches

Colton H.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

Very cool camp in a ghost town off of i-70, close to Arches and Moab. The night sky is amazing!! Sites are quite close to each other so not as private, clean bathrooms and showers are great!

Yuhang A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Road trip and no plans

Tent

This place was cute, corky and it is what you make of it. We enjoyed a place to pitch our tent, have a toilet and take a shower. It’s no 5 star, but I would stay here again. Great for just passing through. Host was super nice and friendly. The train was loud but it only went by 3 times. Fun, corky, cute and creative art sculptures around as well. The sunset, stars and night sky was breath taking. Worth every $39 we spent

Stephanie K.

2 reviews

Mixed feelings

· October 2024

So cute…but that train though!

Tent · With kids

The campsite is soooo cute. There are fairy lights and cute lanterns everywhere. The bathroom was clean and painted amazingly! However, the train was so close and so loud, it felt like it was just going to come straight through our tent. I read other reviews where people said they actually liked it, so I didn’t think it would be that bad, but holy cow it was bad. We had our 5 month old baby and he would fall asleep and then wake up in a panic when the train would come blaring! I ended up sleeping in the car with him. It probably would have been fine if it was just adults, but I do not recommend trying to camp here with kids.

Mariah L.

10 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Cozy!

Tent

I got to camp late at night and I had no issues finding the entrance, or a space to park my car. The property looked rustic and cozy, accompanied by the hanging lights around the property. I didn't stay for long in the morning, but I would happily return :)

Matt S.

4 reviews

Mixed feelings

· September 2024

4 m campervan

Felt like we were parked in an rv junkyard. It didn't live up to the pictures. The potential is there it just needs some attention to detail. Shower was hot but couldn't lock the door.

Tim F.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

I loved it!

5 m Class B

I loved it, perfect place to pull in after a long day of driving.

Ethan W.

9 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

6 m campervan

Needed a place to crash for the night, the instant book and no need to meet with anyone was a huge plus. Directions to the camp spot were great, nothing needs changing.

Daniel B.

6 reviews

Mixed feelings

· September 2024

Tent

Overall a good camping experience. Showers and restrooms were a great addition and nice night sky to stargaze.

Shreyas V.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Quirky and fun. Classic desert southwest eclectic and funky place. Nice tent sites, clean bathrooms and simply cool.

Chris D.

7 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent · Group trip

The camp site was lovely, and we were surprised by how well equipped it was. The two bathrooms and showers are fully-fledged restrooms - not pit toilets. The outdoors seating and decorations are very nice, and the solar lights all around are a great touch at night. The views of the night sky are also incredible! The campground itself is also good: not many rocks for ground tents, and plenty of space for cars with rooftop tents.

Juan Manuel V.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Really sweet little space with lots of character - flush toilets and a hot shower. The train coming by made it that much more Wild West iconic - nothing quite like a night in a ghost town being brought to life by creative folks - we will be back !

Rooster B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

This site covered the basics! Fire pits, a kitchen area, potable water, shower and a bathroom. Great place to stay if you're headed to Arches

Misha D.

4 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Very cool desert campground, layout was simple and it was very easy to get settled. It’s an easy drive to Moab and arches from here. Only 1 mile from a gas station or a 7/11 making it super convenient!

Alexander A.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent

Perfect spot for us! Clean bathroom and shower building. I loved hearing the train come by. We will return!

Lisa C.

11 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent

Cool spot near arches! Great amenities and extremely friendly host. Lots of biting ant colonies and tent camping proved to be a bit tricky. Absolutely amazing spot if you are car camping or in a van though!!

Molly R.

5 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent

Tent camping was a little challenging here with the ground and ant mounds everywhere but the campground itself was beautiful. Great amenities, views and stargazing! The host was super informative and friendly and the location felt nice and disconnected but still close to some parks.

Hailey T.

5 reviews

Not recommend

· August 2024

Horror movie vibes

6 m pop-up camper

If you’re into staying on the set of the hills have eyes this is your spot. Overall creepy vibes with trash and random junk decorating the spots. It worked but we were just in and out for one night real quick and arrived at 11pm. Also there are late night early morning trains that also make it extra unique. Interesting camping spot, would not stay again. 🤷🏻‍♂️

Casey B.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Cozy and Intimate

Tent · With pets

Near a railway track which is actually kind of cozy to listen to. I loved the glistening fairy lights the owner’s put out and having a shower is nice.

Peri M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · Group trip

Really nice little campsite! The hosts were incredible, went above and beyond to help us. Would absolutely come back.

Nick B.

3 reviews

Mixed feelings

· August 2024

Tent

Site was quirky and fun. Clean bathroom and shower. Trains coming through can't be ignored... shook te ground under my tent!

Barbara P.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent

Everything went well the host was amazing and helped us figure everything out! I highly recommend staying there.

Carter M.

12 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Quirky & Magical. Wear good shoes!

Tent · With kids

This place has the cosmic factor. I love the crazy, rustic details and decorative charm. It adds appeal to the aesthetic. Right off the highway and easy to spot thanks to the lush green patch in the middle of sandy, desert brush. Upon arrival, we realized we had guests in the form of busy insects and calm, neighboring pets. The fruit trees and fairy lights in our area were adorable and facilities are nearby! We are tent-campers, and finding a comfortable spot to pitch one for a night anywhere can be tricky. There is room for improvement here, and I look forward to visiting again someday to see positive changes. A bit challenging in the safety department due to sharp metal objects strewn across the landscape, so parents of younger children be aware of that. It might be useful to wear closed-toe shoes due to thorns and ants. My children loved hanging out by the railroad, especially after dark, to watch the oncoming lights of the locomotives. Our first night there weren’t any horn blasts, and I wore earplugs just in case (thanks to other web recommendations). My favorite view, besides the lovely little garden, is the nighttime sky vista. I saw the Milky Way Galaxy right above my head and thousands of glittering stars. I even saw a shooting star. The gardener on-site is kind, helpful, and made me feel at ease, being slight and sensitive in nature. I met the hostess who had an easy-going spirit. She facilitated and accommodated our staying an extra night.

Ingrid D.

11 months on Hipcamp

Location

Thompson Springs , Grand, Utah, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking