Goose Island Campground
4.4564 reviews82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
22 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsGoose Island Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee is $20 per night, payable at the campground via cash or check. Discounts are available for holders of an annual National Park pass, making...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$40.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(435) 259-2100
What Campers Say
4.45
Recommended
Based on 64 reviews
185 Google reviews
Most mentioned
locationfriendlysites
"User reviews highlight the campground's excellent location along the Colorado River and its proximity to Moab and Arches National Park. Many praised the views, the camp hosts, and the cleanliness of the sites. However, some expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of water facilities, the inconvenience of first-come, first-served availability, and specific disturbances such as ant infestations and nightly truck lights during boat tours."
Fees & Passes at Goose Island Campground
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: 14 nights within a consecutive 30-day period.
Cancellation: As the sites are first-come, first-served, there is no cancellation policy applicable. Group site re...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Goose Island Campground
Desert sunshine reigns supreme here, with summer temperatures soaring into the 90s and beyond, creating the perfect excuse for afternoon river dips. Desert winds sweep through the canyon, particularly during dramatic storm systems that paint the sky in spectacular fashion. While winter nights can plunge into bone-chilling cold, the magical shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer goldilocks conditions – warm days, cool nights, and weather that invites endless exploration.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: March to October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Typically open year-round, though peak season is from March to October.
About Goose Island Campground
Nestled along the banks of the mighty Colorado River, Goose Island Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp for exploring Moab's legendary landscape. This Bureau of Land Management gem welcomes tents, RVs, and trailers to a riverside sanctuary where towering red rock formations create nature's own amphitheater. As one of the most coveted camping destinations near Moab, early arrivals are rewarded with precious summer shade and front-row seats to the Southwest's most dramatic scenery.
Goose Island Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. The primitive facilities reflect its focus on a back-to-nature experience.
Historical SignificanceThis riverside haven marks the triumphant finish line for riders conquering 'The Whole Enchilada,' one of mountain biking's most legendary descents. The campground rests within a landscape that has witnessed millennia of human stories – from ancient peoples navigating the Colorado River corridor to modern adventurers drawn to Moab's world-class recreation. Every bend in the river whispers tales of geological time and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsDesert sunshine reigns supreme here, with summer temperatures soaring into the 90s and beyond, creating the perfect excuse for afternoon river dips. Desert winds sweep through the canyon, particularly during dramatic storm systems that paint the sky in spectacular fashion. While winter nights can plunge into bone-chilling cold, the magical shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer goldilocks conditions – warm days, cool nights, and weather that invites endless exploration.
ElevationTucked low in the desert canyon country, this campground offers a dramatic contrast to alpine camping experiences. Here in the depths of carved sandstone corridors, the low elevation creates a unique microclimate where the river's cooling influence meets the desert's warming embrace.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the Colorado River's gentle murmur as dawn paints the canyon walls in shades of crimson and gold. Massive sandstone cliffs rise like ancient sentinels on all sides, their layers telling stories spanning millions of years. With Arches National Park's iconic formations visible in the distance, campers find themselves immersed in a natural gallery where every sunrise and sunset transforms the landscape into a masterpiece of light and shadow dancing across weathered stone.
Geological RegionThis campground occupies prime real estate in the heart of canyon country, where the Colorado River has carved its way through layers of ancient sandstone to create one of Earth's most spectacular desert landscapes. Surrounded by the same dramatic formations that make nearby Arches National Park world-famous, campers sleep beneath cliffs that showcase nature's artistic prowess – weathered into spires, fins, and balanced rocks that defy gravity and imagination alike.
Advertisement
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are spacious, with some large enough to accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. Group sites can host multiple tents and vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; trees and natural barriers provide seclusion for some sites, while others are more open and exposed to sunlight.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend arriving early, around noon, to secure a spot as the campground fills quickly. Sites along the river, like #17, offer the best views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
N/A, first-come, first-serve.
Check-out
N/A, first-come, first-serve.
Stay Limit
14 nights within a consecutive 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
10 people per site.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and can accommodate multiple tents and vehicles. Site B permits motor vehicles, whereas Site A is tent-only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 20 individual sites and 2 group sites. Sites are generally spacious and some are shaded. Tent and RV sites are interspersed.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open year-round, though peak season is from March to October.
Reservation PlatformsGroup sites can be booked through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll individual campsites are first-come, first-serve. The campground typically fills in the morning during the peak season from March to October.
Cancellation PolicyAs the sites are first-come, first-served, there is no cancellation policy applicable. Group site reservations follow federal 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Goose Island Campground offers a range of outdoor activities due to its location along the Colorado River and proximity to Arches National Park. Visitors can engage in biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. However, activities like swimming are discouraged due to dangerous undercurrents in the river.
Hiking
The campground provides access to nearby trails, including a bike path leading to Moab and Arches National Park, which is suitable for walking and biking.Biking
The campground is directly connected to a paved bike path that leads to Moab and Arches National Park, making it ideal for biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The area’s natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, including along the river and in the canyon.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings. Seasonal bans may apply.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include strong river currents, as noted by the warning, 'Do not enter the river without the required life jackets.' Campers have also reported ants falling from trees and high winds causing potential damage to tents and camping equipment.
Weather at Goose Island Campground
31
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Moab, 1.5 miles away, which includes a hospital, police station, and fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to October.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some users reported that trash bins were not emptied frequently enough during busy times.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the Colorado River, offering close access to water activities (not recommended due to undercurrents).
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the lack of running water, the presence of ants, occasional high winds, and bright lights from a nighttime river tour that passes through the campground.
HostThe camp hosts, Sean and Angie, are frequently mentioned in reviews for their friendliness and helpfulness. They keep the campground clean and are a valuable resource for campers.
Campground Map
82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsGoose Island is located 1.4 miles east from the junction of Hwy. 128 and Hwy. 191. The campground will be on the left.
The campground is easily accessible from major highways. The road leading to it is paved and suitable for all vehicle types. There are no seasonal closures or challenging terrains mentioned.Nearby places
Moab (1.5 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Moab, 1.5 miles away, offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other necessities.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
64 reviews
Goose Island Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's excellent location along the Colorado River and its proximity to Moab and Arches National Park. Many praised the views, the camp hosts, and the cleanliness of the sites. However, some expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of water facilities, the inconvenience of first-come, first-served availability, and specific disturbances such as ant infestations and nightly truck lights during boat tours.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Phenomenal place to stay. $20 a night or $10 with an annual national park pass." - "Amazing location! Super close to arches entrance. You're right on the Colorado River with 500ft canyon walls...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Several users mentioned issues with payments not being recorded properly, leading to notices to vacate despite full payment. - Lack of water facilities and vault toilet cleanliness during peak...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Arrive early, ideally around noon, to secure a spot. - Bring plenty of water, as there are no water facilities. - Be prepared for ants and other bugs. - Take a photo of your payment slip to avoid...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
- Spring and fall are highly recommended due to moderate temperatures and manageable crowds. - Summer can be challenging due to high temperatures, strong winds, and limited shade. - Winter visitors...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "This is the place to camp in Moab. Beautiful location that is very close to town, and far away enough that it doesn’t feel like you’re cramped into a small hotel campground." - "Don’t let the...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site #1: "One of the largest sites and could accommodate a large ridge. It was level side to side and pretty good front to back." - Site #17: "Recommended by camp host Sean, great spot right on the...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 64 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets seemed to be allowed, but no specific reviews addressed pet policies or amenities for pet owners.
Based on 64 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement