Courthouse Rock Campground

Hey Utah explorers! If you're looking for a truly unique camping experience that combines stunning desert landscapes with a fascinating journey into prehistoric times, then Courthouse Rock Campground in Moab is calling your name. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground offers a raw, authentic taste of Utah's wild beauty, with the added bonus of ancient history right at your fingertips. Forget crowded, amenity-heavy resorts; this is where you connect with nature, witness incredible geology, and even walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs.

Courthouse Rock Campground is a prime example of BLM camping, offering a more primitive yet incredibly rewarding experience near the adventure hub of Moab. It's not a sprawling, full-service RV park, but rather a wide-open area with designated sites that accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 40 feet. What truly sets this campground apart is its unparalleled access to significant paleontological sites. Just a short walk from your campsite, you can explore the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite, where over 200 dinosaur footprints from various species are remarkably preserved. A little further, the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail showcases fossilized dinosaur bones still encased in rock.

Guests often describe the campground as having good, easily accessible sites. While there might be some ambient traffic noise from the nearby highway and occasional dune buggies, particularly in the evenings, the overall atmosphere is generally quiet during bedtime hours. It’s a fantastic spot for those who appreciate natural beauty, geology, and a direct connection to ancient life, providing a rustic charm that many campers actively seek out in the Moab area.

Courthouse Rock Campground is situated in Moab, UT 84532, USA. Its location is approximately 16 miles north of Moab, placing it conveniently off U.S. Highway 191. This makes it a highly accessible destination for those traveling from various parts of Utah or beyond, allowing for a straightforward drive to the campground.

The accessibility of the campground is generally considered easy, with well-maintained gravel roads leading to the sites. This makes it suitable for a range of vehicles, from passenger cars to larger RVs and trailers. While some areas might experience wind gusts, which can make tent pitching a bit challenging at times, the open layout typically provides ample space. The proximity to Highway 191, while a source of some traffic noise, also ensures easy connection to Moab's town amenities, supplies, and other popular recreation areas, including Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. This blend of remote feel and convenient access makes it a practical choice for locals seeking a blend of wilderness and ease.

As a BLM campground, Courthouse Rock focuses on providing essential services while maintaining a more natural and less developed camping experience. Campers should come prepared for primitive conditions, but the fundamental needs are covered.

• Pit Toilets (Vault Toilets): The campground features pit toilets for basic sanitation. Reviews indicate they are generally well-maintained.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and activities.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Sites come with a fire ring and grill, allowing for campfires (always check for fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Gravel Parking Areas: Designated gravel parking areas are available at each site, accommodating vehicles up to 35 feet, with some sites suitable for RVs up to 40 feet.
• Horse Corrals: Specific equestrian sites (Sites 5 and 6) are reservable and include horse corrals, catering to those who wish to camp with their horses.
• Trash Collection: Trash disposal facilities are provided, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and free of litter.
• No Drinking Water or Electricity Hookups: Campers must bring their own water and be prepared for off-grid power, as no hookups are available.
• Good T-Mobile Cell Service: Some campers have reported good T-Mobile cell service, which can be useful for remote work or staying connected.

Courthouse Rock Campground truly shines with its unique features and highlights, offering more than just a place to stay:

• Direct Access to Dinosaur Tracksite: One of the most compelling features is the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite, located a short walk from the campground. Here, you can observe remarkably preserved dinosaur footprints, providing an incredible paleontological experience.
• Proximity to Dinosaur Bone Trail: The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail is also within close proximity (about one mile) from the campground, offering another chance to witness ancient dinosaur remains in situ.
• Stunning Natural Backdrop: The campground is set against a dramatic backdrop of iconic Moab rock formations, including Courthouse Rock itself, and the Monitor and Merrimac formations, creating breathtaking views.
• BLM Primitive Camping Experience: It offers an authentic Bureau of Land Management camping experience, known for its scenic locations and rustic charm, appealing to those who prefer less developed sites.
• Suitable for RVs and Trailers: Despite its primitive nature, many sites are well-suited for RVs and travel trailers, providing ample space and easy access.
• Equestrian-Friendly Options: With dedicated reservable equestrian sites featuring horse corrals, it's an ideal spot for horse riders looking to explore the area's extensive trail network.
• Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and Mountain Bike Trail Access: Numerous OHV and mountain bike trails are in close proximity, making it a convenient base for motorized and non-motorized recreation.
• Quiet Evenings: While there can be some daytime activity, campers report that evening hours are generally quiet, allowing for peaceful nights under the stars.
• Educational Opportunities: The nearby dinosaur sites offer a unique learning experience for all ages, with interpretive panels providing valuable information.

For inquiries regarding Courthouse Rock Campground, while it's a BLM site and often first-come, first-served for general sites, some equestrian sites are reservable via Recreation.gov. For general information about BLM Moab campgrounds and local conditions, you would typically contact the local BLM field office.

Address: Moab, UT 84532, USA (This is the general area, for specific guidance, contact the BLM Moab Field Office.)

Phone (BLM Moab Field Office): (435) 259-2100 (This is a general number for the Moab Field Office, not specific to the campground for reservations, which are usually online.)

For Utah locals, Courthouse Rock Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourselves in the very essence of what makes our state so unique. It’s a fantastic option for a weekend escape or a longer stay, providing a direct connection to both our geological wonders and prehistoric past without venturing too far from Moab. The presence of actual dinosaur tracks and bones just a short walk from your campsite is a truly extraordinary educational and recreational highlight, something that resonates deeply with families and history enthusiasts alike.

The BLM camping experience here is perfect for those who appreciate a more rugged, authentic outdoor adventure, offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded commercial sites. Whether you're an RVer seeking a spacious spot with great views, an equestrian looking for a horse-friendly base, or a tent camper wanting to explore ancient trails, Courthouse Rock Campground delivers. Its straightforward access and relatively primitive amenities encourage self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment. For any Utahn craving an adventure that blends breathtaking scenery, unique history, and the tranquility of the high desert, Courthouse Rock Campground stands out as a truly exceptional local destination.

Courthouse Rock Campground

Moab, UT 84532, USA