Creek Pasture Campground

For us Utahns, the red rock landscapes of our state are more than just a backdrop; they are a playground, a sanctuary, and a source of endless inspiration. When the call of the desert beckons, and the desire for an authentic, no-frills outdoor experience takes hold, Creek Pasture Campground near Moab is a destination that consistently delivers. This isn't a resort with all the bells and whistles; it's a true escape into the raw, breathtaking beauty of southeastern Utah, perfectly situated for those who want to immerse themselves in the region's world-class climbing, hiking, and stunning vistas.

Located in the renowned Indian Creek area, Creek Pasture Campground offers a unique blend of accessibility and rugged charm. It's a place where the towering Wingate Sandstone cliffs glow with an "insane" intensity at sunset, and the nights are filled with quiet tranquility, punctuated only by the vast, star-filled sky. As locals, we understand the appeal of finding a clean, quiet spot to unwind after a day of adventuring, and Creek Pasture consistently earns high marks for its well-maintained facilities and serene atmosphere, even for an outhouse.

Whether you're a seasoned rock climber drawn to Indian Creek's legendary routes, a family exploring the wonders of Canyonlands National Park's Needles District, or simply someone looking for a peaceful base to soak in the iconic Moab desert scenery, Creek Pasture Campground provides an ideal setting. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Utah's wild places, inviting you to disconnect from the everyday and truly experience the magic of our incredible outdoor heritage.

Creek Pasture Campground is located in the greater Moab, UT 84532, USA area, specifically within the Indian Creek area, which is part of the Bears Ears National Monument and close to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Its address is best described by its geographic coordinates: 38.1669 N, -109.631665 W, which are more precise for navigating in this region.

For Utah locals, accessing Creek Pasture Campground is relatively straightforward via paved state highways. The campground is situated north off the Needles Highway, which is accessed from Utah State Route 211. To get there from U.S. Route 191, you'll turn west onto Highway 211 and travel approximately 21 to 27 miles. The turn-off to the campground is on the north side of Highway 211, typically a dirt or natural surface road, about 0.4 miles in.

This strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring some of Utah's most iconic natural attractions. It’s approximately 5 to 7.5 miles southeast of the Canyonlands National Park Needles District entrance and visitor center, making it a convenient alternative to the park's own campgrounds. It's also about 15 miles northwest of the historic Newspaper Rock petroglyph site, another popular local attraction. The roads leading to the campground are generally accessible for most vehicles, including tents and smaller RVs/trailers, though caution is always advised on unpaved sections, especially after rain. The relatively easy access from Moab and other parts of Utah makes it a popular choice for spontaneous weekend trips or longer climbing expeditions.

Creek Pasture Campground operates as a primitive, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) managed campground, focusing on essential facilities to support outdoor recreation while maintaining the natural environment. While it doesn't offer the extensive amenities of a private RV park, it provides crucial services for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience in the desert.

• Individual Campsites: The campground features 32 single-family campsites. Each site is designed to accommodate a tent or trailer.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Each site includes a fire ring, allowing campers to have controlled campfires (subject to current fire restrictions). Visitors are encouraged to bring their own firewood as collecting it on-site is not permitted.
• Vault Toilets: Well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground. Visitors frequently praise their cleanliness, even for outhouses, which is a significant plus in primitive settings.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Most individual campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers self-register at a kiosk upon arrival, with payment typically accepted via cash, check, or the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan & Pay feature.
• Group Site Availability: For larger groups, there is a dedicated Creek Pasture Group Site that can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. This site can accommodate up to 20 vehicles and 50 people and includes a shade structure in addition to other basic amenities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that there is no drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring all the water they will need for their entire stay, including for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Hookups: As a primitive BLM campground, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It is an off-grid camping experience.
• Stay Limit: There is a 14-day stay limit at the campground.

Creek Pasture Campground, while primitive in its amenities, offers an abundance of natural features and highlights that make it a truly memorable destination for anyone experiencing Utah's red rock country.

• Spectacular Sunset Views: A standout feature consistently mentioned by visitors is the "insane" sunset views. The way the surrounding Wingate Sandstone cliffs light up with vibrant hues of red and orange right in front of the campsites creates an unforgettable visual experience. This makes for incredible photographic opportunities.
• Proximity to Indian Creek Climbing: For rock climbers, this is a prime highlight. The campground is ideally located in the heart of the Indian Creek area, internationally recognized for its world-class crack climbing on Wingate Sandstone. It serves as a perfect base camp for climbers looking to access a vast array of routes.
• Access to Canyonlands National Park (Needles District): Its close proximity (5-7.5 miles) to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park makes it an excellent alternative for park visitors. This allows easy access to the unique geological formations, hiking trails, and scenic drives within the Needles, which offers a different experience than the more crowded Island in the Sky district.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, especially among climbers, the campground is frequently described as "clean and quiet." This provides a serene environment for relaxation after a day of strenuous activity or exploration, allowing campers to truly enjoy the sounds of nature.
• Vast Night Skies and Stargazing: With minimal light pollution in the area, Creek Pasture offers incredible opportunities for stargazing. The clear desert nights provide an unparalleled view of the Milky Way and constellations, a truly mesmerizing experience.
• Natural Creek Setting: The campground is located "right on the creek," referring to Indian Creek. While the creek flow is intermittent and often dry except in spring or after precipitation, the presence of cottonwood trees lining its banks provides natural shade at some campsites and a sense of riparian beauty.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers often note the "huge campsite" and "spacious layout of the sites," indicating that campers have ample room to spread out and enjoy their personal space.
• Gateway to Bears Ears National Monument: Being within the Indian Creek Unit of Bears Ears National Monument connects visitors to a broader landscape rich in cultural resources, hiking, and scenic beauty.

Campground Name: Creek Pasture Campground

Address: Moab, UT 84532, USA (Note: This is a general area address. For precise navigation, use the provided GPS coordinates: 38.1669 N, -109.631665 W, or follow directions from UT-211.)

Phone: (435) 587-1500 (Bureau of Land Management, Monticello Field Office, which manages the campground)

For the most up-to-date information on site availability, current fees ($15 per night for individual sites as of available data), fire restrictions, and road conditions, it is highly recommended to contact the BLM Monticello Field Office directly using the provided phone number. You can also visit the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or Recreation.gov websites for more details, particularly for reserving the group site.

For us Utahns, Creek Pasture Campground represents the quintessential desert camping experience that we deeply cherish. We live amidst some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth, and this campground allows us to truly immerse ourselves in the iconic red rock country that defines our state. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a direct portal to adventure and tranquility in our own backyard.

What makes Creek Pasture particularly suitable for locals is its rugged authenticity and its strategic location. We appreciate a campground that embraces the natural environment, offering a primitive experience that feels genuinely connected to the land. The "insane" sunset views, where the cliffs blaze with color, are a reminder of the unique beauty we are privileged to witness daily. The consistent praise for its cleanliness, even the vault toilets, speaks to the high standards we expect for our outdoor spaces.

Furthermore, for the many Utahns who are drawn to outdoor sports, especially rock climbing, its position in the heart of Indian Creek is unparalleled. It's a natural gathering point for our climbing community, offering immediate access to world-class routes. Beyond climbing, its proximity to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park and Bears Ears National Monument means endless opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring ancient cultural sites – all activities deeply woven into the fabric of Utah's outdoor culture. The first-come, first-served system for individual sites also caters to our spontaneous sense of adventure, allowing for last-minute trips. Creek Pasture Campground is more than just a place to stay; it’s a cherished part of our outdoor lifestyle, offering peace, challenge, and unforgettable memories under the vast, star-studded Utah sky.

Creek Pasture Campground

Moab, UT 84532, USA