Hal Canyon Campground

For Utah locals craving an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of Moab's iconic red rock country, Hal Canyon Campground presents an idyllic riverside retreat. Tucked away on the scenic banks of the Colorado River along Highway 128, this charming campground offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views of the towering canyon walls. It’s a favored spot for tent campers and those with smaller RVs seeking a more intimate connection with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of larger, more developed sites.

What truly sets Hal Canyon Campground apart is its unparalleled natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Imagine waking to the gentle sounds of the Colorado River flowing by, with spectacular views of the red rock canyon painting a new masterpiece with every sunrise and sunset. The campground is praised for its well-maintained, clean vault toilets and the thoughtful spacing of its 11 campsites, ensuring a sense of privacy. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, it appeals to the adventurous spirit of Utahns who enjoy the thrill of securing a prime spot in a highly sought-after location.

Beyond its scenic allure, Hal Canyon Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the world-renowned recreational opportunities that Moab offers. From floating and paddling on the Colorado River to accessing endless trails for hiking, mountain biking, and off-highway vehicle adventures, the options for outdoor activity are boundless. For locals who prioritize stunning views, a quiet environment, and direct access to the adventures that define Utah's desert landscape, Hal Canyon Campground is a truly exceptional find.

Hal Canyon Campground is ideally situated on UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA. This prime location places it directly on the scenic Colorado River Byway, approximately 6.6 to 7 miles east of the junction of Highway 191 (Main Street) in Moab. This offers exceptional accessibility for Utah locals, ensuring a relatively short and incredibly picturesque drive from Moab, allowing more time for actual camping and recreation.

The campground's position along the "Big Bend" of the Colorado River Canyon provides campers with stunning panoramic vistas of the river and the dramatic sandstone cliffs that characterize the Moab area. While the scenic highway runs nearby, the campground is often tucked behind natural vegetation, such as a grove of scrub oak trees, which helps to buffer road noise and enhance the sense of seclusion. Reviewers often note that despite its proximity to the road, the campground remains remarkably quiet, particularly in the evenings.

As a first-come, first-served campground with 11 individual sites, accessibility to a spot depends on arrival time. Campers are strongly advised to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or on weekends, to secure a desirable site. The sites are designed to accommodate tents and smaller RVs or trailers, with pull-through and back-in options, though the larger sites, like #11, are particularly sought after for their expansive views and generous space. The ease of access combined with its stunning location makes Hal Canyon a highly convenient and visually rewarding choice for Utah residents.

• Individual Campsites: Hal Canyon Campground features 11 individual campsites, designed to accommodate both tents and small trailers or RVs. There are also two designated walk-in sites.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Campers should plan to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during popular seasons.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor dining, meal preparation, or simply gathering with your group.

• Fire Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire ring, often with a grill grate, allowing campers to enjoy campfires responsibly and cook over an open flame. Visitors should always check for current fire restrictions.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, with campers frequently praising their cleanliness and availability of toilet paper.

• Trash Collection: Designated trash dumpsters are available for responsible waste disposal, helping to maintain the cleanliness of the campground and protect the natural environment.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that Hal Canyon Campground does NOT have potable drinking water available. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Water can typically be filled at Lions Park in Moab (intersection of Hwy 191 and UT 128) or at outdoor stores in downtown Moab.

• Self-Pay Station: Payment is made at a self-pay station upon arrival, typically $20 per night (cash or check only). Campers should pin their receipt to the wooden post at their site to mark it as occupied.

• Spectacular Colorado River Views: A primary highlight is the campground's "beautiful views" of the Colorado River canyon. Many sites offer direct river vistas, allowing campers to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets reflecting off the red rock walls and water.

• Peaceful Riverside Setting: Despite being near Highway 128, the campground is noted for its "very quiet" atmosphere with "no real road noise noticeable," providing a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. The presence of scrub oak trees often acts as a natural buffer.

• Spacious and Private Sites: While there are only 11 sites, they are often described as "nicely laid out" with "plenty of privacy between spaces." Site #11, in particular, is highlighted for being larger and offering expansive views.

• Direct River Access & Activities: The campground's location along the Colorado River allows for easy access to water-based activities such as rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Some reviewers even mention a rope swing into the water during summer months, indicating popular recreational use.

• Proximity to Moab's Attractions: Hal Canyon is conveniently located just a 10-15 minute drive from the town of Moab and the entrances to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. This makes it an ideal base for exploring world-class hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and OHV trails.

• Dark Skies for Stargazing: The relatively low light pollution in the area provides fantastic opportunities for stargazing, allowing campers to enjoy the "majestic night sky" and truly connect with the vastness of the desert.

• Good Cleanliness of Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep of the vault toilets, which are a crucial amenity in primitive campgrounds.

Address: UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 259-2100 (BLM Moab Field Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 435-259-2100

Email: utmbmail@blm.gov (BLM Moab Field Office)

For Utah locals, Hal Canyon Campground along the Colorado River near Moab embodies an ideal blend of accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and a quintessential desert camping experience. Its suitability for residents stems from several key aspects that resonate deeply with the local outdoor culture and desire for genuine adventure.

Firstly, its prime location offers immediate immersion in Utah's iconic red rock landscapes. Being directly on the banks of the Colorado River provides unparalleled views of the towering canyon walls and the soothing presence of the water, making every moment at the campsite a picturesque escape. For Utahns who appreciate the unique geological formations and vibrant colors of their state, Hal Canyon delivers a daily spectacle of nature, creating a sense of wonder right outside their tent or RV.

Secondly, the campground's first-come, first-served policy and smaller size (11 sites) foster a more intimate and less commercialized camping experience. This appeals to those who value a sense of discovery and enjoy the thrill of securing a spot in a sought-after natural setting. While it requires a bit of planning (arriving early), it often leads to a quieter atmosphere, allowing for deeper relaxation and connection with the environment, a stark contrast to more crowded, reservation-heavy campgrounds.

Finally, Hal Canyon's proximity to the adventure hub of Moab means locals have world-class recreation at their fingertips. Whether it’s paddling on the river, tackling renowned mountain biking trails, or exploring the breathtaking national parks like Arches and Canyonlands, the campground serves as a perfect base camp. The lack of potable water, while requiring preparedness, is often seen as a minor trade-off for the stunning views and serene environment, aligning with the self-sufficient spirit of many Utah outdoor enthusiasts. For a truly authentic, peaceful, and activity-rich desert escape, Hal Canyon Campground is a highly recommended choice for Utah locals seeking to connect with their state's extraordinary natural heritage.

Hal Canyon Campground

UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA