Grandstaff Campground
4.3930 reviews82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
16 campsites
Season
The campground typic...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
16 campsites
Season
The campground typic...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Grandstaff Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$20/night payable at the campground via cash or check only.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(435) 259-2100utmbmail@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.39
Recommended
Based on 30 reviews
96 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewslocationhiking
Some mention
noisebugsroad noise
"Grandstaff Campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.13 out of 5. Positive comments focus on the stunning river views, proximity to hiking and biking trails, and clean facilities. Common complaints include road noise, bugs, and the lack of water and showers."
Fees & Passes at Grandstaff Campground
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights in a 30 consecutive day period.
Cancellation: N/A; reservations are not available as the sites are first-come, first-serve.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website.
Best Time to Camp at Grandstaff Campground
Desert extremes define the camping experience at Grandstaff, where summer days can soar to a scorching 110°F, transforming the riverside shade into precious real estate. Even after sunset, the canyon walls radiate heat well past midnight, with true relief arriving only in the early morning hours around 2 AM. Autumn emerges as the golden season, painting perfect camping conditions with crisp mornings and warm afternoons. The campground buzzes with activity from March through October, when adventurers flock to this desert oasis.
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)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: March to October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground typically fills in the morning from March to October, indicating seasonal popularity.
About Grandstaff Campground
Escape to Grandstaff Campground, where the mighty Colorado River whispers beneath towering crimson cliffs and tent camping returns to its purest form. This coveted riverside sanctuary draws adventurers seeking respite from desert heat under a canopy of cottonwoods, just minutes from Moab's vibrant outdoor scene. Here, where the river's gentle current provides nature's soundtrack, you'll discover why seasoned campers reserve their spots months in advance for this intimate encounter with Utah's iconic red rock country.
Grandstaff Campground is designed exclusively for tent camping on a first-come, first-serve basis. It does not accommodate RVs, cabins, or glamping setups. Group camping is also not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground remains unwritten, the surrounding landscape tells an ancient story etched in stone, where generations of travelers have sought shelter along the life-giving waters of the Colorado River.
Weather and SeasonsDesert extremes define the camping experience at Grandstaff, where summer days can soar to a scorching 110°F, transforming the riverside shade into precious real estate. Even after sunset, the canyon walls radiate heat well past midnight, with true relief arriving only in the early morning hours around 2 AM. Autumn emerges as the golden season, painting perfect camping conditions with crisp mornings and warm afternoons. The campground buzzes with activity from March through October, when adventurers flock to this desert oasis.
ElevationNestled within the Colorado River corridor, this campground rests at the convergence of water and stone, though specific elevation details await discovery by those who venture here.
Natural Features and SceneryGrandstaff unfolds as a natural amphitheater where the Colorado River carves its timeless path between soaring sandstone sentinels. These massive red rock cliffs, painted in every shade from burnt sienna to deep vermillion, create a dramatic backdrop that shifts with each passing hour. Ancient cottonwoods line the riverbank, their leaves dancing in the desert breeze while providing precious shade for weary travelers.
Geological RegionSet within the heart of Colorado Plateau country, Grandstaff Campground showcases the region's signature landscape where ancient seas and winds sculpted today's magnificent red rock formations. These towering cliffs, composed of Navajo and Entrada sandstone, stand as natural monuments to millions of years of geological artistry, creating the same breathtaking vistas that define nearby Arches National Park.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide detailed information about accessibility features. Some sites are level and could be suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campsites accommodate up to 10 people and two vehicles per site. Some sites are noted to be level and spacious.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are decently spaced according to user reviews, but the proximity to the road and the shared facilities may affect privacy.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade, consider Site 2. Avoid Sites 6 and 7 due to bathroom proximity. Site 15 is recommended for level ground and ample parking.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- N/A
- first-come, first-serve.
Check-out
- N/A
- first-come, first-serve.
Stay Limit
14 nights in a 30 consecutive day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 10 people and two vehicles per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutIncludes 16 individual sites, each with parking pads for two vehicles, picnic tables, fire rings, and close proximity to vault toilets and trash receptacles.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground typically fills in the morning from March to October, indicating seasonal popularity.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; no reservations accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve. Typically fills by 10:00 AM according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyN/A; reservations are not available as the sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Grandstaff Campground offers outdoor activities such as hiking on the nearby Grandstaff Trailhead, mountain biking on the Porcupine Rim Trail, and stargazing. The proximity to the Colorado River allows for scenic views but swimming or water-based activities are discouraged due to dangerous undercurrents.
Hiking
The Grandstaff Trailhead is located nearby and offers hiking opportunities in the area. However, detailed information about trail lengths and difficulty is not provided.Biking
The Porcupine Rim Trail near the campground is popular for mountain biking. A paved bike path is also in the vicinity, though it includes sections requiring travel on the highway.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though one review notes camping during a snowstorm.Water Sports
Water sports are not recommended due to the hazardous conditions of the Colorado River.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site includes a fire ring; specific rules or restrictions regarding usage are not noted.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned; road noise can disrupt sleep according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsRiver undercurrents can be dangerous. Bugs, including ants and gnats, are commonly reported in user reviews. Extreme summer heat may pose health risks.
Weather at Grandstaff Campground
31
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Moab, UT, 3 miles away. Specific facilities like hospitals or ranger stations are not explicitly listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to October.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly next to the Colorado River. Swimming is not recommended due to dangerous undercurrents.
Common complaintsRoad noise is significant due to proximity to Hwy. 128. Bugs are frequently mentioned by users. The campground design lacks a through-road, causing dust issues from vehicles turning around.
HostNo specific information on campground hosts.
Campground Map
82 East Dogwood, Moab, UT, 84532, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of Hwy. 191 and Hwy. 128, drive east 3 miles along the Colorado River. The campground will be on your left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located just 3 miles from the intersection of Hwy. 191 and Hwy. 128. No seasonal closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Moab, UT (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Moab, 3 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
30 reviews
Grandstaff Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Grandstaff Campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.13 out of 5. Positive comments focus on the stunning river views, proximity to hiking and biking trails, and clean facilities. Common complaints include road noise, bugs, and the lack of water and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful riverside location with views of red rock cliffs. Close to hiking and biking trails. Stargazing is excellent due to minimal light pollution.
Based on 30 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from the nearby road, prevalence of insects (e.g., ants and gnats), and limited amenities (no water, no showers).
Based on 30 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot as the campground fills quickly, particularly between March and October. Bring sufficient water and insect repellent. Cash or check is required for payment.
Based on 30 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular from March to October, with shade being a major advantage in the summer. Some visitors note the extreme heat during the day and cool temperatures at night. Winter...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Right on the Colorado River, convenient and clean campsite close to Moab/Arches." - Frank Formanek. "Beautiful! $20/night. Trash and bathrooms. No water, so bring your own." - Chantelle Torrey....
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is noted for being level and spacious. Sites 6 and 7 are less desirable due to proximity to the restroom and high traffic from day-use visitors.
Based on 30 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not detailed in user reviews, but level sites are appreciated by some campers.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback on pet policies or pet-friendly features is available.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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