Planning free camping in Moab? Well, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking your camping sites. This is irrespective of whether you want to go for an off grid camping or not. The Moab area in Utah is dotted with several camping sites, from national and state parks to legally free camping sites.
Keep in mind that when you are free camping, you should respect the land. You should also have your portable toilet system. Here are some of the best free camping sites that you will find in Moab.
Manti LaSal National Forest
This is one of the favorite free camping sites in Moab. If you are looking to camp in a quiet place away from the crowds, then this the camping site for you. It is also a bit cooler than the rest of Moab. Many of the free camping sites in LaSal are just off the road. This makes it convenient for campers who drive large RVs.
For more breath-taking sites, you can drive higher up. If you have the time and patience, you can drive long enough to find large camping spots where you can boondock all weekend, without any disturbance. The roads in this area are easy for any vehicle to navigate.
Yellow Circle Road
You can head south of Moab to this free camping site. It got its name due to its proximity to Highway 191. The area is dotted with large cleared areas that are perfect for camping. For large rigs, we would recommend the first spots along that you will come across at the beginning of the road. This is because they are easily accessible.
However, if you mind sharing large open sites with other campers, then you should head further along the road. The only drawback is that the road becomes more difficult to navigate as you continue driving up and around.
Willow Springs Road
If you want to camp near the Arches National Park, then the Willow Springs Road is the place for you. However, finding a spot where you are the only camper will be quiet difficult. The area is very popular with several campers. Willow Spring Road has known its late-night activities. Expect to have social camping nights.
If you are looking for privacy while camping here, you should arrive early so that you can have enough time to explore the areas for the best sites. You might be lucky to find areas with nice trees for shade.
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Gemini Bridges Road
West of Moab, is a free camping site known as Gemini Bridges road. However, certain restrictions come with camping here. There are certain types of vehicles that are not allowed inside this camp. Only 4wd are allowed. If you are driving a small RV, a van, or a 2WD, you shouldn’t risk camping here.
Once you get here, you will be amazed at the beautiful camping sites. One of the camper’s favorite spot is the Bridge’s Canyon. You will get the best view over some of the areas red rock formations. This site is also good for campers looking for some privacy.
Lone Mesa Area
This free camping site is also located west of Moab. The roads to this campsite are quite accessible. Any vehicle can navigate these roads. There are several good camping grounds on both sides of the road. You can also take the feeder routes to get to other campsites. However, you must navigate the terrain with care.
Watching the sunset or gazing at the stars at night will be one of the things that you will remember about the Lone Mesa campsite. You can travel further down the road to get better views.
Mineral Point
The Mineral Point camping site is located next to the Canyonlands National Park. It is next to the Horsethief camping grounds. It has a lot of fire rings and cleared areas that are suitable for free camping. The roads here are well maintained and can handle all weather. However, that does not mean that you don’t have to check upcoming weather predictions before making decisions.
The sites are also large enough to accommodate large numbers of campers. You will also not encounter many campers here.
When is it the Best Time to Visit Moab?
Seasons play a very important part in determining when you can visit a place. This is because of the weather. For Moab, the best time to visit is during Spring and Fall. It is during these periods that the weather is very comfortable for outdoor activities. The mornings are usually cool while the days’ temperatures always stay moderate.
During the summer, Moab is usually very hot as a desert. Camping here during the summer means that you will not do almost all of your activities during the day. However, if you are lucky to find campsites that are not in direct sunlight, then you can have a nice time. Winter is the worst time for camping in Moab, Utah. It gets very cold. The snow and ice outside may make camping trails dangerous.
The best time of the week to camp here is during the weekdays. With the rising popularity of this area, you are likely to encounter a crowd of campers during the weekends. However, if your schedule only allows for weekend camping, then make sure that you arrive there very early in the morning. If you arrive late, you will have a hard time finding even a spot to park your RV or truck.
Conclusion
If you are looking to spend some time with your friends or family camping, without having to book camping spots, then Moab, in Utah, would be a great place to check out. The area has some of the best free camping sites in the region.
Free camping in Moab will not only allow you to save money on the entrance fee, but you will also get to spend quality time away from the buzzing life of the city. Just pack everything you will need into your rig and you are good to go.