Airport Campground A

For those of us in Utah who crave the solitude of the desert and the thrill of outdoor adventure, finding the perfect campground can make all the difference. Nestled in the iconic landscape near Moab, Airport Campground A offers a compelling option for a serene and accessible camping experience. This is not your average bustling RV park; rather, it provides a quiet, backcountry feel, making it an excellent choice for a first night's stay as you plan your Moab explorations, or as a peaceful basecamp for extended adventures.

Moab is a world-renowned destination for a reason, drawing adventurers from across the globe with its dramatic red rock formations, challenging trails, and proximity to two of Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. For locals, Moab is a familiar and beloved escape, and finding a campground that enhances this experience is key. Airport Campground A stands out for its tranquility, its surprisingly clean facilities, and its adventurous access routes. In this detailed overview, we'll delve into the specifics of Airport Campground A, covering its location and accessibility, the practical services it offers, its unique features and highlights, essential contact information, and why it's particularly well-suited for Utah residents looking to connect with the raw beauty of our desert backyard.

Airport Campground A is located on Airport Campground Road in Moab, UT 84532, USA. Its name hints at its proximity to the Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY), although it’s important to note this isn't a direct airport parking lot, but rather a designated camping area in the vicinity. This location places it within the vast and awe-inspiring landscape that defines the Moab area, a region celebrated globally for its unique geological formations and unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities.

Accessibility to Airport Campground A is a significant point of interest for many prospective campers. While some roads in this remote area can be challenging, a previous visitor noted that the "road is a bit rough but any 4x4 would make it. Made it there in a sprinter van." This suggests that a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and a 4x4 will provide the most comfortable and secure journey. Crucially, the review highlights that "the access through 279 (Potash Road) is easier than the Shafer Canyon switchbacks." This is vital information for locals planning their route, as Potash Road (State Route 279) generally offers a more manageable drive for those less accustomed to extreme off-roading. Potash Road runs alongside the scenic Colorado River and provides access to numerous trailheads and climbing areas, placing campers at Airport Campground A in a prime position to explore this section of Moab. Its placement allows for relatively quick access to both downtown Moab for supplies and to the trail systems and parks that make this region famous.

While Airport Campground A leans towards a more primitive camping experience, focusing on connection with nature, it still provides essential services that significantly enhance a camper's stay. Based on available public information and customer reviews, here’s what visitors can expect:

• Designated Campsites: Airport Campground A offers specific areas for camping, suggesting well-defined sites where visitors can set up tents or park their vehicles. The mention of being "just in front of B" implies a structured layout within a larger camping zone.
• Quiet Environment: A key service, though intangible, is the promise of a "super quiet" camping experience. This is a deliberate offering, appealing to those who seek tranquility away from noisier, more developed campgrounds.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Bathrooms: This is a highly praised amenity. The review explicitly states, "The bathrooms were clean and well maintained." For many campers, especially in more remote settings, access to clean, functional restrooms is a top priority and a significant comfort. While likely vault toilets in a backcountry setting, their cleanliness indicates regular upkeep.
• Access for Various Vehicles: Although a 4x4 is recommended due to the "rough" road, the fact that a "sprinter van" could make it suggests that higher-clearance 2WD vehicles might also be able to navigate the access road, broadening its accessibility for those without dedicated off-road vehicles.

Airport Campground A, while seemingly simple, offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a standout choice for those seeking a genuine Moab camping experience.

• Exceptional Tranquility: One of its most significant highlights is its "super quiet" atmosphere. In a popular destination like Moab, finding a campground that provides true peace and quiet is a rare gem. This makes it ideal for relaxation, stargazing, and enjoying the natural sounds of the desert without interruption.
• Backcountry Feel with Accessibility: It offers the sense of being deep in the backcountry, yet it’s not overly remote or difficult to reach for those with appropriate vehicles. This balance of seclusion and convenience is a major draw.
• Stargazing Opportunities: The review mentioning "some sort of aurora boreal light beam I happened to see around 11:30.. Was N 342 degrees from the camp" strongly hints at incredible dark sky conditions. Being away from city lights, Airport Campground A is likely an exceptional spot for stargazing and perhaps even witnessing rare atmospheric phenomena, providing an unforgettable nocturnal experience.
• Rugged Access (an Adventure in Itself): While the "rough" road may deter some, for many adventurers, navigating a slightly challenging access road is part of the fun and contributes to the feeling of an authentic outdoor experience. It filters out those less prepared, contributing to the quiet and less crowded environment.
• Proximity to Scenic Byways: The easier access via Potash Road (SR 279) is a significant highlight. This road itself is incredibly scenic, running alongside the Colorado River and providing access to numerous climbing walls, petroglyphs, and trailheads, effectively making the drive to the campground part of the adventure.
• Well-Maintained Facilities in a Remote Setting: The cleanliness and good maintenance of the bathrooms, even in a more rugged campground, are a testament to the care put into the site. This enhances comfort significantly, especially for those accustomed to more primitive backcountry facilities.

For those planning a trip to Airport Campground A, here is the essential contact information based on publicly available data:

• Address: Airport Campground Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA
• Phone: Specific direct phone numbers for individual backcountry campgrounds like Airport Campground A are typically not provided, as these sites are often managed by federal agencies (such as the Bureau of Land Management - BLM or the National Park Service - NPS) and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, or through a general reservation system for the region. For inquiries regarding general Moab area camping, conditions, or specific questions about the type of facilities, it is advisable to contact the local BLM field office in Moab. Their general inquiry phone number for the Moab Field Office is typically (435) 259-2100. Alternatively, for Canyonlands National Park backcountry information, you might call (435) 719-2313 as Airport Campground A is listed as a backcountry campsite within Canyonlands.

It’s always a good practice to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the Moab Field Office, or the National Park Service (NPS) website for Canyonlands National Park, as these are the most reliable sources for current information on conditions, fees, and any reservation requirements for backcountry sites like Airport Campground A.

For Utah locals, Airport Campground A offers a compelling and authentic Moab experience that aligns perfectly with the adventurous spirit and appreciation for natural beauty that defines our state. We understand the allure of escaping the urban bustle and immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed landscapes, and this campground delivers precisely that.

First and foremost, the "super quiet" nature of Airport Campground A is a significant draw. While Moab is a beloved destination, its popularity can sometimes lead to crowded campgrounds. For Utahns seeking genuine tranquility and a true escape, this campground provides a rare opportunity for peaceful solitude, allowing for deep relaxation and an undisturbed connection with the desert environment. This is especially appealing for those familiar with the sometimes overwhelming crowds at more developed sites.

Furthermore, its location off Potash Road, and the adventurous yet manageable access, is a true highlight for the local outdoor enthusiast. Many Utahns own 4x4 vehicles or high-clearance vans, making the journey to Airport Campground A an enjoyable part of the adventure rather than a deterrent. The ability to access the campground via the scenic Potash Road rather than the more intense Shafer Canyon switchbacks makes it more approachable for a wider range of local adventurers. This route also places campers directly in an area rich with climbing, hiking, and historical sites, offering immediate access to the kind of outdoor activities Utahns cherish.

The surprising cleanliness and maintenance of the bathrooms, even in a backcountry setting, is a testament to thoughtful management and provides a level of comfort not always found in more primitive sites. This small detail can significantly enhance the overall camping experience, particularly for families or those new to backcountry camping.

Finally, the potential for incredible stargazing, as hinted by a past visitor's experience with an "aurora boreal light beam," speaks to the unpolluted night skies common in rural Utah. For locals, who often seek out these dark sky oases, Airport Campground A offers a front-row seat to the cosmic spectacle, fostering a deeper appreciation for our state's natural wonders. In essence, Airport Campground A isn't just a place to sleep; it’s a gateway to an authentic, peaceful, and adventurous Moab experience that perfectly suits the preferences of the Utah local.

Airport Campground A

Airport Campground Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA