Canyonlands National Park Needles District Group Campsites
4.5754 reviewsEnd of Hwy 211
Canyonlands National Park Needles District Group Campsites
$70.00 - $225.00 / 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$70.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Dutch Oven Group Campsite: $90 for 11-20 people, $135 for 21-30 people, $180 for 31-40 people, $225 for 41-50 people. Wooden Shoe Group Campsite: $70 for 11-15 people, $90 for 16-20 people, $115 for 21-25 people. Split Top Group Campsite: $70 for 11-15 people.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of Canyonlands' Needles District, these secluded group campsites offer an extraordinary escape into Utah's raw desert wilderness. Perfect for gatherings of 11 or more adventurers, each site is thoughtfully positioned among towering red rock spires and ancient geological formations. While the remote location welcomes tent camping and small self-contained RVs under 25 feet, it's the profound silence and star-filled nights that truly define this backcountry experience.
The campground caters to groups and is specifically designed for group camping experiences, with spacious sites accommodating various group sizes.
Historical SignificanceThis timeless landscape has witnessed the footsteps of countless generations spanning thousands of years. Ancient peoples once called these canyons home, leaving behind whispers of their presence in hidden petroglyphs and dwelling sites. Today's visitors become part of this continuing story, experiencing the same awe-inspiring vistas and profound solitude that has drawn humans to this primeval desert sanctuary throughout the ages.
Weather and SeasonsThe desert's dramatic personality shines through its ever-changing seasons. Spring and fall paint the perfect backdrop for exploration, with comfortable days reaching 60-80°F and crisp nights dipping to 30-50°F. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-baked wonderland where temperatures soar past 100°F, demanding early morning and evening adventures. Winter brings its own stark beauty, with daytime highs hovering between 30-50°F while nighttime temperatures plunge to a bracing 0-20°F, creating frost-kissed mornings that sparkle across the red rocks.
ElevationPerched at 4,900 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a unique sweet spot in the high desert ecosystem. This elevation creates a fascinating blend of environments where hardy desert plants thrive alongside mountain-adapted species, offering cooler temperatures than the lower canyons while maintaining the characteristic dry, crystalline air that makes every sunrise and sunset particularly spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape painted in impossible shades of red, orange, and pink as the morning sun illuminates towering sandstone pinnacles. The campground is embraced by a natural sculpture garden of wind-carved rock formations, smooth slickrock expanses, and sandy washes dotted with gnarled Utah Junipers and fragrant Pinyon Pines. Come spring, the seemingly barren desert erupts in a surprising display of color as prickly pear cacti burst into vibrant yellow and pink blooms, while statuesque yuccas send up their creamy flower stalks against the azure sky.
Geological RegionNestled in the southeastern reaches of Canyonlands National Park, this high desert wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history written in stone. The Needles District earns its name from the countless colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that pierce the sky like ancient sentinels. This remarkable landscape of slickrock domes, sandy valleys, and scattered groves of Utah Juniper and Pinyon Pine creates an otherworldly environment where every turn reveals new geological wonders carved by wind, water, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no specific accessibility features mentioned for the group sites, but the general Needles Campground area has wheelchair-accessible fire rings, tent pads, and paved walkways in select individual campsites.
Sites SizeThe group campsites are spacious and can accommodate various group sizes: Dutch Oven (11-50 people), Wooden Shoe (11-25 people), Split Top (11-15 people).
Sites PrivacyThe group sites are described as secluded and private. The Wooden Shoe site is rimmed with rocks, and the Split Top site is off by itself, enhancing the sense of isolation.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSplit Top offers the best ambience and a cavern for gathering, while Dutch Oven has superior amenities. Wooden Shoe is praised for its privacy and rock formations.
Best CampsitesSplit Top Group Campsite is noted for its unique cavern and cooler temperatures during summer afternoons. Dutch Oven Group Campsite is highlighted for its flush toilets and convenient amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 10 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 10 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate between 11 and 50 guests.
Groups
Available group sizes: Dutch Oven (11-50 people), Wooden Shoe (11-25 people), Split Top (11-15 people). Sites include amenities like potable water and fire rings but differ in additional features such as flush toilets and accessibility.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are located in isolated sections of the park with some accessible via unpaved roads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 15 - November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityGroup sites are only reservable in advance; no walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night fee. Early departures may be eligible for partial refunds contingent on facility policies.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Needles District offers a wide range of outdoor activities, emphasizing hiking, backpacking, and wildlife observation. Visitors enjoy breathtaking trails, scenic drives, and stargazing opportunities. Cultural and natural education is implicitly present through the landscape and its unique features.
Hiking
Camping here gives access to an extensive trail system that leads to famous features like the Confluence Overlook, Druid Arch, the Joint Trail, and Chesler Park. Campers describe the hiking opportunities as 'spectacular' and 'iconic.'Biking
The Needles District has mountain biking routes, including four-wheel-drive roads suitable for experienced bikers.Wildlife viewing
The arid high desert environment is home to unique wildlife, and spring wildflowers enhance the viewing experience. Visitors often comment on the 'tranquility' and 'natural beauty' of the park.Cultural and Educational Programs
Evening ranger programs are available, although reviews suggest that timing could be adjusted for better convenience.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter (November 15 - March 15), with no activities explicitly mentioned for this season.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are discussed in the materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood fires allowed only in designated grates. Charcoal fires permitted in fire pans or grills. Firewood gathering is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 8 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsExtreme temperatures, limited water availability, and potential fire hazards. Some sites are located in isolated areas requiring navigation of unpaved roads.
Active alertsGrand View Point closing for construction weekdays July 28 through September. Park alerts include closures and restricted access areas.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services are located in Monticello, Utah, approximately 1.25 hours away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 - November 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are provided. Campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to maintain the cleanliness of the area.
Proximity to water featuresNo notable water features directly within the campground.
Common complaintsComplaints include unpleasant odors from pit toilets at isolated sites like Split Top and difficulties navigating to sites in the dark.
HostCamp host Ernie was noted as being helpful, friendly, and accessible.
Campground Map
End of Hwy 211
Driving directionsOn US Highway 191, drive 40 miles (60 km) south of Moab or 14 miles (22 km) north of Monticello, then take Utah Highway 211 roughly 35 miles (56 km) west. Highway 211 ends in the Needles, and is the only paved road leading in and out of the district.
Highway 211 is paved and is the only road leading into the Needles District. Roads within the park are not lit and some group sites require navigating dirt roads. It is recommended to arrive before dark.Nearby places
Monticello (14 miles north, approximately 1.25 hours driving), Moab (40 miles south, approximately 1.5 hours driving)
Nearby supplies
Monticello, Utah (approximately 60 minutes driving) is the nearest location for food, firewood, and supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.6
54 reviews
Canyonlands National Park Needles District Group Campsites is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews are highly positive, with an average sentiment score of 4.68. Campers praised the unique natural landscape, the seclusion and privacy of the sites, and the excellent hiking trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 54 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers repeatedly highlighted the 'secluded and private' nature of the sites, the 'cleanliness' and 'friendly camp hosts,' and the access to 'iconic hiking trails.' The Dutch Oven site was...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with the vault toilets (notably their odor) and the challenges of navigating the remote location, especially at night due to the lack of lighting. One user described the...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan to arrive before dark, as the campgrounds have no lighting, and directions can be challenging. Bring your own firewood as it is not available on-site. Prepare for limited cell service. Carry...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons due to temperate weather. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, making outdoor activities more strenuous. Some users noted that the winter closure limits...
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Camper Quotes
"Split Rock has the best ambience, Dutch Oven has the best amenities." – Jared O
'Flush toilets, tent sites, and trailhead access at Dutch Oven. Truly awesome!' – Jared O
'Vault toilets tended to...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Dutch Oven: Highly praised for clean facilities, flush toilets, and spacious layout. Split Top: Appreciated for its cave feature and privacy but criticized for smelly vault toilets. Wooden Shoe:...
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Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility information for group sites, but individual Needles sites include features like wheelchair access to tent pads and fire rings. The lack of lighting and remote location could...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific details about pet-friendly amenities or restrictions are mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 54 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025