Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B

For Utah locals seeking an unparalleled backcountry adventure deep within the iconic red rock landscapes, Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B offers a truly unique and secluded camping experience in Canyonlands National Park, near Moab. This campsite is not just a place to stay; it's a coveted destination along the renowned White Rim Trail, a multi-day journey that promises breathtaking scenery, thrilling off-road challenges, and an profound connection to Utah's wild heart. Nestled into the dramatic canyon walls with the gentle flow of the Green River nearby, Hardscrabble Bottom B is celebrated for its stunning views, sense of isolation, and its strategic location relative to one of the trail's most infamous sections, Hardscrabble Hill. If you're an experienced overlander or mountain biker from Utah looking for an escape that blends rigorous adventure with serene natural beauty, this site provides an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of our state's desert wilderness.

Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B is located at Hardscrabble Bottom Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA, within the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Its accessibility is defined by its position along the legendary White Rim Road. This 100-mile loop is only accessible by high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles (with low range capabilities) or mountain bikes with a support vehicle. The journey to Hardscrabble Bottom B involves navigating a very technical and often challenging path. Notably, the campsite is situated just before or after the formidable "Hardscrabble Hill," depending on your direction of travel (most people drive clockwise). This hill is renowned for being extremely steep and narrow, often with a sheer cliff on one side, making it a one-lane passage where encountering oncoming vehicles can require complex maneuvers, including backing up.

Beyond Hardscrabble Hill, the road can also become very muddy, especially after rainstorms near areas like Potato Bottom, adding to the driving challenge. Despite these difficulties, the scenic rewards are consistently deemed "very worth it." Due to the remoteness, there are no immediate services like fuel or grocery stores once you are on the White Rim Road. Visitors must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying all necessary supplies for their trip. The drive from the nearest major towns like Moab is lengthy and demanding, requiring careful planning and ample preparation for both vehicle and occupants.

Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B, like other backcountry sites along the White Rim Road, offers essential, minimalist services designed to facilitate a responsible and immersive wilderness experience while preserving the fragile desert environment.

• Designated Campsite: Hardscrabble Bottom B is a specific, reserved campsite within Canyonlands National Park, ensuring a legal and established place to camp. It can accommodate up to 15 people and 3 vehicles.
• Private Vault Toilet: A significant convenience for a remote backcountry site, Hardscrabble Bottom B boasts its own private, well-maintained vault toilet. This is crucial for hygiene and minimizing human impact in such a sensitive ecosystem.
• River Access: Unlike some other sites, Hardscrabble Bottom B offers direct access to the Green River. While accessibility might vary with water levels or time of year, this feature provides unique opportunities for riverside relaxation and enjoyment.
• Seclusion from Other Sites: The two Hardscrabble sites (A and B) are approximately half a mile apart and out of sight of each other, providing a strong sense of privacy and solitude. This is a highly valued feature for those seeking a true escape.
• No Potable Water: There is no source of potable water at the campground or anywhere along the White Rim Road. All visitors must pack in all the water they will need for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. A minimum of 1 gallon (4 liters) per person per day is recommended.
• No Fires Allowed: Open wood fires are prohibited at Hardscrabble Bottom B and along the entire White Rim Road to protect the fragile desert. Campers should plan to use gas stoves for cooking.
• Permit Required: An overnight backcountry reservation permit is mandatory for camping at Hardscrabble Bottom B. These permits are highly sought after, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall), and must be secured well in advance through the Canyonlands National Park office or Recreation.gov.

Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B is truly special, boasting several features and highlights that make it a standout destination on the White Rim Trail:

• Ultimate Seclusion: Reviewers consistently highlight the incredible seclusion of this campsite. Tucked away into the canyon, with the other site being very far away, you truly feel like you have the wilderness to yourself. This offers unparalleled peace and quiet.
• Stunning Canyon Views: The campsite offers "gorgeous, stunning views" as you are "tucked away into the canyon." The immense canyon walls provide a dramatic backdrop, and the sight of vehicles "way up on the mountain side going up/down the trail" adds a unique perspective to your stay.
• Riverside Ambiance: The presence of the Green River, with the sound of "water slowly flow past," creates a serene and refreshing atmosphere. Direct river access is a significant advantage, allowing for a unique connection with the natural hydrology of the area.
• Natural Morning Shade: Due to the towering canyon walls, the campsite benefits from natural shade in the mornings, allowing for "a bit more sleep" and a more comfortable start to your day before the desert sun becomes intense.
• Strategic Location on White Rim Trail: As a campsite situated just before or after Hardscrabble Hill, it's a critical stop for those traversing the challenging White Rim Road. Its location makes it a perfect break point, offering rest before or after one of the trail's most technical sections.
• Expansive Space: The campsite offers "lots of room for multiple vehicles" and tents, providing ample space for groups to set up comfortably without feeling cramped, enhancing the sense of privacy and freedom.
• A True Backcountry Challenge: The journey to Hardscrabble Bottom B, especially navigating Hardscrabble Hill, provides a significant challenge for 4x4 enthusiasts. Successfully conquering this demanding terrain adds to the sense of achievement and makes the destination even more rewarding.

For all inquiries, including permit applications and current road conditions for Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B, please contact Canyonlands National Park directly.

Address: Hardscrabble Bottom Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 719-2313 (This number typically connects to Canyonlands National Park or its permit office.)

Mobile Phone: +1 435-719-2313

Permits for the White Rim Trail and its campsites, including Hardscrabble Bottom B, are highly competitive and must be reserved well in advance through Recreation.gov. It is strongly advised to call the park's backcountry permit office to confirm availability, understand vehicle requirements, and get the most up-to-date information on road conditions, especially if recent rain has occurred.

For locals across Utah, Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B offers an quintessential Moab backcountry experience that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. If you're a resident with a robust 4x4 and a desire to truly test your mettle while immersing yourself in one of the most stunning landscapes our state has to offer, this campsite is tailor-made for you. Its unparalleled seclusion, nestled deep within the canyon walls with the soothing sounds of the Green River, provides a profound escape from everyday life. The natural morning shade and ample space contribute to a comfortable stay, even in this rugged environment. More than just a campsite, Hardscrabble Bottom B serves as a gateway to exploring the legendary White Rim Trail, a journey that many Utahns aspire to complete. The sense of accomplishment after navigating Hardscrabble Hill and reaching this stunning spot is immeasurable. It’s a perfect opportunity to truly disconnect, witness incredible night skies free of light pollution, and forge unforgettable memories in the heart of Utah's captivating wilderness. For those who prioritize adventure, solitude, and raw natural beauty, Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B awaits your return.

Hardscrabble Bottom Campground B

Hardscrabble Bottom Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA