Ken'S Lake Campground

4.34

752 reviews

82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT 84532

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Utah

Quick Facts

5,085 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

48 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens BLM Moab Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

5,085 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

48 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens BLM Moab Field Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Ken'S Lake Campground

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$20 per site per night plus a reservation fee. Reservation fees vary from $3 (in person) to $8-$9 (online or via call center).

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

435-259-2100blm_ut_mb_mail@blm.gov

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What Campers Say

4.34

Recommended

Based on 752 reviews

245 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspacioushiking

Some mention

reservation

"Ken's Lake Campground is highly rated for its scenic views, spacious campsites, and proximity to Moab attractions. However, the lack of water, high winds, and exposed sites in Loop A are common complaints. Loop B offers more privacy and shade."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT 84532

Ken'S Lake Campground

82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT 84532

Driving directionsFrom Moab, drive south on Highway 191 until you see signs for Ken's Lake, approximately 8 miles. Turn left off the highway and follow signs to the lake. The campground is just beyond the turn to the lake. Loop A is in the first campground loop and B is the second loop.

The campground is accessible via paved roads until the campground turn-off. Some roads in the area are gravel, and visitors recommend using the Old Airport Road entrance to avoid gravel pit truck traffic. Roads within the campground itself are gravel and can be dusty.

Nearby places

Moab - 10 miles (approximately 15-20 minutes)

Arches National Park - 15 miles (approximately 20-25 minutes)

Canyonlands National Park - 43 miles (approximately 50-60 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are available in Moab. Grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies can be found approximately 10 miles away. Maverick Gas Station south of town offers free potable water and a dump station.

Best Time to Camp at Ken'S Lake Campground

Experience the dramatic beauty of high desert seasons at Ken's Lake, where nature paints with bold strokes. Winter nights (October through March) bring crystalline skies and temperatures that dip below freezing, perfect for cozy campfires and stargazing. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched playground, with temperatures soaring above 100°F from June to August—ideal for early morning adventures and refreshing dips in the lake. Be prepared for nature's theatrical displays: gusty winds that whisper through the canyons and spectacular summer thunderstorms that illuminate the red rocks with lightning shows you'll never forget.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

Summer reviews note extreme heat and high winds; Loop A may be closed in low-use periods.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is popular for moderate temperatures and active campground hosts; highly recommended season.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring is a top season with moderate temps, active hosts, and popular trail access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winter brings freezing temps; Loop B open year-round but conditions are harsh for some campers.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: February 13 to July 6, August 27 to December 1 (peak and non-peak seasons). No bookings during out-of-season dates (July 6 to August 27).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Loop A is closed during low-use seasons (summer and winter; exact dates vary yearly). Loop B remains open year-round.
Current Alerts: None mentioned in the source material.

About Ken'S Lake Campground

Nestled in the heart of Utah's red rock country, Ken's Lake Campground offers an enchanting escape where spacious sites meet spectacular scenery. This hidden gem within the Ken's Lake Recreation Area beckons adventurers with its sparkling man-made reservoir, winding trails perfect for hiking and horseback riding, and sweeping vistas that capture the essence of the American Southwest. Whether you're seeking the refreshing mist of nearby Faux Falls or simply yearning for a peaceful night under desert stars, this campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Ken's Lake Campground offers primitive camping with no hookups. It is suitable for RVs, tents, and groups, though site conditions (especially in Loop A) vary by size, slope, and exposure to wind.

Historical SignificanceKen's Lake tells a story of human ingenuity meeting natural beauty. Born from the Mill Creek Project in 1981, this reservoir emerged as a lifeline for local irrigation, transforming the arid landscape into a sustainable oasis. Nearly two decades later, in 2000, visionary planners recognized the area's recreational potential, carefully developing it into the beloved campground and day-use destination it is today. Each ripple on the lake's surface reflects this harmonious blend of practical water management and outdoor recreation that defines the modern American West.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of high desert seasons at Ken's Lake, where nature paints with bold strokes. Winter nights (October through March) bring crystalline skies and temperatures that dip below freezing, perfect for cozy campfires and stargazing. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched playground, with temperatures soaring above 100°F from June to August—ideal for early morning adventures and refreshing dips in the lake. Be prepared for nature's theatrical displays: gusty winds that whisper through the canyons and spectacular summer thunderstorms that illuminate the red rocks with lightning shows you'll never forget.

ElevationPerched at 5,085 feet above sea level, Ken's Lake Campground shares the same breathtaking elevation as nearby Moab, offering visitors the perfect balance of mountain freshness and desert warmth. This sweet spot in altitude means cooler temperatures than the valley floor below, yet still provides that unmistakable high desert atmosphere that makes every sunrise feel like a masterpiece and every sunset a celebration.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that seems plucked from an artist's imagination. Towering red rock fins rise like ancient sentinels from expanses of silver-green sagebrush, creating a stunning contrast against azure skies. To the east, the snow-capped La Sal Mountains provide a majestic backdrop, while the dramatic Moab Rim frames the western horizon. The gentle murmur of Mill Creek adds life to this desert tableau, culminating in the picturesque Faux Falls—a natural wonder that rewards hikers with its cascading beauty and cool respite from the desert sun.

Geological RegionKen's Lake Campground sits proudly in Utah's legendary Spanish Valley, where millions of years of geological artistry have created one of Earth's most stunning landscapes. Here, ancient red rock fins tell stories written in stone, rising dramatically from sage-dotted flats that stretch toward distant horizons. The campground's centerpiece—a shimmering man-made reservoir—mirrors the surrounding grandeur while offering panoramic views of the majestic La Sal Mountains and the imposing Moab Rim. This is where the Colorado Plateau reveals its secrets, inviting visitors to explore a geological wonderland where every vista tells a tale spanning eons.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 14:00 (2 PM).

Check-out

Check-out is by 12:00 (noon).

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration is 10 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Amaximum of 10 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: Loop A (reservable with gravel pads) and Loop B (first-come, first-served with shaded sites).

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through its mobile app. Payments for Loop B can also be made via cash, check, or scan-and-pay onsite.

Walk-in AvailabilityLoop B campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Loop A requires reservations made up to 6 months in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight one day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited to vault toilets and gravel parking pads. The campground is primitive, so wheelchair accessibility may vary.

Site SizeCampsites are generally large and spacious. Users particularly liked sites in Loop B for their proximity to creeks and trails.

PrivacyPrivacy varies significantly by loop and site. Loop A features open and exposed sites with limited vegetation, while Loop B offers better privacy due to trees and creekside locations.

Total Campsites48 campsites

Recommended SitesLoop A is better suited for larger RVs and trailers; Loop B offers more shade and privacy with smaller sites surrounded by juniper and cottonwood trees.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Ken's Lake Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, and OHV trails. Faux Falls and Ken's Lake are popular attractions within walking distance of the campsites. The campground is also near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, providing opportunities for hiking and photography. Stargazing is highly rated due to minimal light pollution.

HikingThe campground features over 3 miles of trails, including routes to Faux Falls and the lake. Trails are suitable for both hiking and horseback riding. User reviews consistently praise the scenic views on these trails.

FishingFishing is permitted at Ken's Lake, though reviews describe the area as 'pretty muddy' in places around the lake.

SwimmingKen's Lake includes a small beach area for swimming. However, some reviews mention that the water quality is questionable, and the lake is rocky, requiring water shoes.

BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted in Ken's Lake. Electric motors are allowed, but gas-powered engines are prohibited.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is mentioned in reviews, including sightings of ravens and chipmunks. Faux Falls is a popular location for observing local fauna.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGusty winds, flash flooding during summer storms, and wildlife such as ravens and chipmunks can pose minor risks. Campers are cautioned to secure tents and food.

Active AlertsNone mentioned in the source material.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in designated fire pits. Campers must bring their own firewood.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are available in Moab. For medical emergencies, Moab Regional Hospital is located approximately 10 miles north in Moab. Police services are also available in Moab, with the Grand County Sheriff's Office located in town.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available via dumpsters. However, some reviews noted overflowing bins during peak times, suggesting maintenance may be inconsistent.

Water FeaturesKen's Lake, a man-made reservoir, is within walking distance. Faux Falls is also nearby, accessible via trails.

Camp HostCampground hosts are present during spring and fall to assist with trip planning and etiquette education.

Weather at Ken'S Lake Campground

Reviews

4.3

752 reviews

Recommended

Ken'S Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Ken's Lake Campground is highly rated for its scenic views, spacious campsites, and proximity to Moab attractions. However, the lack of water, high winds, and exposed sites in Loop A are common complaints. Loop B offers more privacy and shade.

Review Summaries

Based on 752 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews emphasize the cleanliness of the vault toilets, scenic views, spacious campsites, and stargazing opportunities. Faux Falls and hiking trails are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Based on 752 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include lack of potable water, high winds, exposed campsites in Loop A, and occasional generator noise. A few users reported issues with campsite reservation enforcement and...

Based on 752 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and firewood. Tent campers should choose Loop B for better wind protection and privacy. Avoid sites near vault toilets due to odor.

Based on 752 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are the most popular seasons due to moderate temperatures and active campground hosts. Summer reviews note extreme heat and winds, while winter reviews mention freezing temperatures.

Based on 752 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Ken's Lake Campground is a beautiful wide open campground in the gorgeous Spanish Valley, with amazing red rock canyons.' - Victor Sutphen III 2. 'Great campsite not far from Arches and Moab....

Based on 752 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Loop B sites are consistently praised for shade and proximity to trails. Site 45 is highly recommended for its creekside location. Loop A sites are criticized for exposure to wind and lack of privacy.

Based on 752 reviews