Goose Island Campground

For those of us in Utah, the call of Moab's iconic red rock landscapes is often irresistible. Among the many incredible outdoor havens this region offers, Goose Island Campground stands out as a prime destination for an unforgettable riverside camping experience. Situated directly on the banks of the mighty Colorado River, and incredibly close to the vibrant town of Moab without feeling overly urban, Goose Island provides the perfect blend of natural serenity and convenient access to Utah's adventure capital. It's a place where you can wake up to the sound of the river, surrounded by towering cliffs, ready to embark on your next thrilling Utah escapade.

Goose Island Campground is celebrated by local campers for its sheer beauty and exceptional location. Imagine pitching your tent or parking your RV right beside the Colorado River, with breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock formations and direct access to the water. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground offers a "well maintained" and rustic, dry camping experience, meaning no running water or electricity – a feature that many Utahns appreciate as it allows for a true "get away from all that" immersion in nature. Despite the lack of extensive amenities, visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep, particularly noting that the "pit toilets were clean and stocked."

Its strategic location is a major highlight. Reviewers rave about being "next to town, next to the river, next to insane cliffs," and critically, "next to the exit of the whole enchilada" mountain biking trail and "next to Slick Rock!" This makes Goose Island an unparalleled basecamp for mountain bikers, rafters, hikers, and anyone looking to explore the world-renowned recreational opportunities of Moab. Whether you're looking for a peaceful riverside retreat or a convenient launchpad for your next adrenaline-fueled adventure, Goose Island Campground offers a truly special piece of Utah's wild heart.

Goose Island Campground is strategically located at Bureau Of Land Management Moab, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA. This address places it directly on scenic Utah State Route 128, also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway, just a few miles northeast of the bustling town of Moab. Its position on this byway means easy access from Moab, making it highly convenient for picking up supplies, grabbing a meal, or accessing other local attractions.

Accessibility to Goose Island Campground is excellent for all types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers, as it is directly off a paved state highway. Unlike some more remote or primitive campsites in the region, the drive in is straightforward and smooth. This ease of access is a significant advantage, particularly for those with larger setups or families with children.

The campground's location right on the Colorado River provides immediate access for water-based activities like rafting, kayaking, and fishing. Furthermore, its proximity to Moab's renowned mountain biking trails is a massive draw. Being "next to the exit of the whole enchilada" and "next to Slick Rock" means that world-class trailheads are just a stone's throw away, making it an incredibly convenient base for mountain biking excursions. Despite being so close to town and major recreation areas, the campground maintains a peaceful ambiance, thanks to its riverside setting and the natural buffer of the surrounding landscape. For Utah locals, this seamless blend of accessibility, convenience, and direct access to prime outdoor recreation is a major draw.

Goose Island Campground offers essential services and facilities tailored for a comfortable dry camping experience. While it focuses on the basics to maintain its rustic charm, these amenities are well-maintained and highly appreciated by campers:

• Campsites: Offers individual campsites suitable for tents and RVs, as well as group sites (like Group Site B, noted for being "spread out over a large group").
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-stocked vault toilets are available, providing essential restroom facilities without the need for running water. This attention to cleanliness is consistently praised by visitors.
• Shade Structures: As noted by a reviewer, "The shade structure was very nice." These can be invaluable, especially at group sites, offering respite from the intense Utah sun.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available at campsites, allowing for campfires (check local fire restrictions, which are common in Moab).
• Trash Service: While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, BLM campgrounds usually provide trash receptacles for proper waste disposal. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is still highly encouraged.
• No Running Water: It's important to note there is no potable running water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Electricity: There are no electrical hookups at campsites, making it a true dry camping experience.

These services ensure a functional and enjoyable stay while maintaining the natural, undeveloped feel of the campground.

Goose Island Campground is celebrated for a multitude of features and highlights that make it a favorite among Utah outdoor enthusiasts:

• Riverside Location: Its prime position directly on the Colorado River is perhaps its biggest draw. This offers beautiful water views, the soothing sound of the river, and direct access for floating, kayaking, or fishing.
• Proximity to Moab Town: The campground strikes a perfect balance, being "close to town without feeling like it." This means easy access to Moab's restaurants, gear shops, grocery stores, and other amenities, while still providing a genuine wilderness feel.
• Unbeatable Access to Mountain Biking: For mountain bikers, its location is ideal. It's "next to the exit of the whole enchilada" (a famous epic ride) and "next to Slick Rock," two of Moab's most iconic and challenging trails. This convenience allows riders to maximize their time on the trails.
• Stunning Red Rock Scenery: Campers are surrounded by "insane cliffs" and the dramatic, iconic red rock landscapes that define Moab, providing a consistently breathtaking backdrop.
• Well-Maintained and Clean: Despite being a rustic, dry campground, reviewers consistently praise the site for being "well maintained" and highlight that "the pit toilets were clean and stocked," which is a significant comfort in a primitive setting.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and proximity to adventure, the campground manages to maintain a peaceful and quiet ambiance, perfect for relaxation after a day of activities.
• Excellent for Groups: Group sites, like Group Site B, are noted for being "spread out over a large group," making it ideal for multiple families or larger gatherings to camp together comfortably and affordably.
• Floating the River Access: The ability to "float the river and came out right at Camp one day" highlights the direct river access for water-based recreation, adding another layer of adventure.

These combined features make Goose Island Campground a highly desirable and unique destination in Moab.

For those planning a visit to Goose Island Campground in Moab, Utah, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Bureau Of Land Management Moab, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 259-2100

Mobile Phone: +1 435-259-2100

Goose Island Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - Moab Field Office. The provided phone numbers are likely for the main Moab BLM office, which can provide comprehensive information regarding the campground.

It is highly recommended to contact the BLM Moab Field Office directly for the most current and accurate information, especially regarding:

• Campsite availability (Goose Island operates on a first-come, first-served basis unless it's a reservable group site through Recreation.gov).
• Current fees (while the group site was noted as "spendy," individual site fees are typically lower).
• Fire restrictions (very common in Moab, especially during dry seasons).
• Water availability (confirm whether any non-potable water sources are available or if you must bring all your own).
• Road conditions and any alerts.
• Specific details on group site reservations.

You can also find additional information on the official BLM website by searching for "Goose Island Campground Moab BLM." Their website often provides maps, photos, and detailed facility descriptions.

Goose Island Campground is an outstanding choice for Utah locals, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of our state's outdoor lifestyle. Its unique blend of accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and proximity to world-class recreation makes it incredibly suitable for a wide range of adventurers. For mountain bikers, the direct access to iconic trails like "The Whole Enchilada" and "Slick Rock" is unparalleled, allowing for more time on the trails and less time commuting. For families, the riverside location offers opportunities for splashing in the Colorado River, while the spacious group sites provide an ideal setting for multi-family gatherings, making larger trips both fun and affordable.

Even though it's a dry campground with pit toilets, the consistent praise for its cleanliness and well-maintained status ensures a comfortable experience for those who appreciate a more rustic approach to camping. It's the perfect place to "get away from all that" – the noise and distractions of modern life – and truly immerse oneself in the dramatic landscapes that define Moab. For Utahns seeking a convenient, beautiful, and adventure-rich escape, Goose Island Campground offers an authentic and memorable taste of our state's incredible outdoors, right at our fingertips.

Goose Island Campground

Bureau Of Land Management Moab, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA